The Best Pickleball Racquets For a Better Game

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Welcome to ThinkVail – shop our list of the best pickleball racquets featuring ProLite, Onix, Gamma, Encore, Wilson, Prince, Selkirk & more.

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in North America, including here in Vail, Colorado. As the game matures, pickleball paddles continue to improve and incorporate new, innovative technological advances to improve your game. Use this list to find the best pickleball racquets for you, based on your ability and style of play.


PADDLE WEIGHT

The weight of the pickleball racquet (or paddle) is MOST important. Paddles range in weight from 6 ounces (lightweight paddles) to 14-ounces (heavy paddles).

Lighter paddles give you more maneuverability and allow you to react to the ball quicker. They are also preferred for precise aim and carefully placed dink shots. Lighter paddles are also recommended if you suffer from tennis elbow or any other elbow injury.

Heavier paddles offer increased power to your shots, and can increase the force of your drive.

For beginners, its best to start with a mid-weight paddle (7.3 – 8.4 oz).


PADDLE GRIP

How you grip the racquet handle is also very important. You can always increase the size by adding an overgrip to your paddle handle but there is no way to decrease the grip size, so if in doubt buy a smaller size (⅛ to ¼ smaller) and add an overgrip layer to reach the desired size.

Most paddles come with standard grips from 4 to 4 ½ inches. If you have small hands you will want approximately a 4″ inch grip, medium hands 4 1/4″ inch grip and large hands will want a 4 1/2″ inch grip.


CORE OPTIONS

  • Polymer a blend of performance plastics that is very popular because it is soft, quiet, has a lot of touch and offers a lot of control. Quietest of the bunch, perfect for gated communities or homeowner associations, where noise is an issue.
  • Nomex a cardboard-like material that adds power to your shots but is louder and harder than other materials
  • Aluminum softer than Nomex but still adds a lot of power as well as precision to your shots. It can also be a loud and it has a tendency to dent.

HITTING SURFACE

  • Graphite a graphite face provides a glossy, smooth surface that creates the much-sought-after pickleball “pop” as the ball flies off the paddle.
  • Fiberglass a fiberglass surface usually has a textured face that enhances top and back spins while reducing air resistance. Texture gives the paddle its “bite” or “grab” to give the ball spin.
  • Composite a composite face also makes it easier to spin the ball and insures a quieter hit.
  • Bonded a chemically bonded surface that lays over the surface of the paddle to give it extra touch and playablity.

PADDLE SHAPE

  • Normal The common classic pickleball paddle is a “wide body” paddle that measures approximately 8 inches wide by 15¾ inches long (20.32 cm x 40 cm).
  • Oversize Oversize paddles add length to the face and shorten the length of the handle, keeping the total length of the paddle the same and within USAPA regulation.
  • Elongated Reduces the face width while increasing the paddle length to up to 17” which is the maximum paddle length allowed by the USAPA. This type of paddle is for a more experienced players looking for added reach.

HANDLE LENGTH

Most handles are between 4-5″ inches in length. Paddles with a longer handle may shorten the paddle face to keep overall paddle length within USAPA size and weight requirements. Elongated paddle faces will have shorter handles.

A longer handle may provide better overall paddle balance and reduce head heaviness it is also preferred if you incorporate a two handed backswing in your play.

See Also: Where to Play Pickleball in Vail, Colorado


Best Pickleball Racquets


#1 Best Pickleball Racquets – ProLite Crush

The ProLite Crush crushes the competition for best spin on the ball, thanks to its innovative SPINtac face.

  • Paddle’s core is made of QuadCore polymer honeycomb cell technology
  • The composite, lightly textured hitting surface is made of durable SPINtac fiberglass panels for enhanced spin control
  • Exclusive ProLite MicroEdge guard protects the paddle
  • Medium Grip Tack and CushionGrip means the paddle won’t slip and less hand fatigue.
  • Approved for quiet zone, noise restricted communities
  • USAPA approved
  • Made in the USA
  • Available in 3 different patterns and a variety of weight sizes
  • Wide body design with a large sweet spot
  • Stylish graphics are paired with a contrasting, colored grip in a small size.
  • Mid-weight: average: 7.6 ounces/ range: 7.4 – 7.8 ounces
  • Grip circumference: 4 1/8″ perfect for smaller hands
  • Handle Length: 5 1/2
  • Paddle Length: 15
  • 1-year warranty for manufacturer’s defects, materials or workmanship, and a 1 year “no dead spot” warranty.

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#2 Best Pickleball Racquets – Onix Outbreak

Onix Outbreak is the ideal pickleball paddle when you want improved performance, stronger play and maximum precision.

  • Paddle is made with Polypropylene honeycomb core has great touch and lots of shock absorbing power.
  • The graphite hitting surface is reinforced with TeXtreme Technology to increase the stiffness and strength of the face while delivering pinpoint accuracy.
  • Wide body design with a large sweet spot
  • Paddle Dimensions: 15 1/2″ L x 8 1/8″ W x 1 3/8″ H Medium-Weight: 7.8 – 8.2 oz.
  • Grip circumference: 4 1/8″ perfect for smaller hands
  • Handle Length: 5 1/2
  • Has an Edge Guard
  • USAPA approved.
  • Available in Red and Blue
  • 1 year manufacturer warranty

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#3 Best Pickleball Racquets – Gamma Needle

For experienced players looking for additional reach, this elongated paddle fits the bill beautifully.

  • This polymer paddle is made of Sensa Poly Core Technology for enhanced feel
  • The textured graphite hitting surface increases ball bite
  • Elongated head shape extends the length of the paddle for extended reach
  • Medium Weight: Just 7.6 oz for swift reaction in the kitchen
  • Grip Size: 4 ⅛ inches
  • Handle Length: 4.25 inch is shorter than most conventional, wide body paddles.
  • Honeycomb Cushion Grip handle is extra tacky for less slippage and more comfort and the honeycomb design wicks sweat like a boss.
  • USAPA approved
  • 1 year limited warranty
  • For more experienced players
  • Available in a variety of colors

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#4 Best Pickleball Racquets – Wilson Echo Energy

Wilson is a leader in the tennis world so, of course, it only makes sense that they would dominate the pickleball world as well.

  • PolyCore-X features polypropylene honeycomb core that dampens vibrations for superior feel.
  • Clear Spin TCH induces enhanced spin for added control with circle-patterned spin technology on the paddle surface
  • Shock Stop Dampening Bumper Guard protects your paddle
  • Cushioned, perforated grip wicks moisture and reduces fatigue.
  • Medium weight: 7.65 ounces on average
  • USAPA approved
  • Made in the USA
  • Paddle is 8 1/8″ W x 15 1/2″ L
  • Grip Size: 4 1/4″
  • Handle Length: 5 inches

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#5 Best Pickleball Racquets – Engage Encore Pro

When you are ready to take your game to the next level, the Engage Encore Pro is the paddle to do it. Encore is all about control and ball placement.

  • This paddle has a specialized Polypropylene / Polymer honeycomb core.
  • The hitting surface is made of an innovative fiberglass with a specialized skin that maximizes the allowed limits of ‘surface roughness.
  • The core and the face work together for ControlPro™ Technology
  • MidWeight: 7.8 – 8.3 oz
  • Size: 15 1/2″ long x 8 1/8″ wide
  • Grip: 4 1/4″
  • Large sweet spot
  • Color: Black, Red, Purple and Green
  • USAPA approved
  • Optimized to meet stringent community noise requirements.
  • Engineered to maximize the amount of time the ball stays on the paddle, enabling a soft feel.
  • Ideal whether you hit ‘hard’ or ‘soft’.
  • Weight varies because paddles are made by hand and the grip is hand wrapped.

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#6 Best Pickleball Racquets – Selkirk Amped Paddle

The Selkirk Amped is all about combining BOTH power and control.  When you don’t want to compromise, this paddle gives you the best of both worlds.

  • Paddle’s core is made of X5 polypropylene polymer that is thicker and designed to increase power and control
  • The FiberFlex face is a fiberglass hitting surface.
  • USAPA approved for tournaments
  • Used by more than 200 sponsored professional and ranked players worldwide.
  • Large sweet spot.
  • Mid-weight paddle averages: 7.9-8.3oz
  • Long handle 5.25″ inches
  • Recommended for playing singles.
  • Available in a variety of colors
  • Made in the USA
  • Family-owned company
  • Recommended for beginners & intermediate players with no prior racquet/paddle sport experience.
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Available in 5 Sizes: Epic, S2, Omni, Maxima, and INVIKTA

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#7 Best Pickleball Racquets – Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Set

This is a great, complete set for budget-minded beginners just getting into the game. Lots of value for your buck with this high-quality pickleball set.

  • This budget-friendly pickleball set boasts paddles with a honeycomb polymer core for a soft feel.
  • The graphite (carbon) hitting surface gives you that satisfying “pop” when you hit the ball
  • This set includes two premium graphite pickleball paddles, four pickle balls, and a mesh bag for carrying and storing of your pickle balls. Everything you need to hit the court!
  • Paddles combine cutting-edge technology, premium-grade materials, & expert craftsmanship.
  • Mid-weight racquet weighs 8.3 oz
  • Includes an edge guard to protect the paddle
  • 1 year warranty
  • Classic wide body design has a large sweet-spot
  • Premium, hand-stitched contour grip guarantees comfort
  • Free E-book “The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Pickleball” is included and contains rules, strategies and tips.
  • Ideal for beginners to intermediates
  • The Amazin’ Aces Classic Graphite paddle set was named “Top Pick” by GeekWrapped

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#8 Best Pickleball Racquets – Gamma 2.0Neutron

Not just one amazing paddle but choose from the entire GAMMA lineup of pickleball paddles including the Atomic, Phaser, Micron, Neutron and Voltage

  • The Neutron paddle, like the entire line of top rated paddles boasts an Aramid honeycomb core
  • The hitting surface is textured fiberglass
  • Lightweight 7.0 oz paddle
  • Flush edge guard protects your paddle and creates a 30% larger hitting surface
  • Pick any paddle in this line that suits your skill level to boost your play on the court
  • 4” Honey Cushion grip is soft, comfortable and absorbs sweat
  • USAPA approved.
  • 1 year warranty
  • Additional Gamma 2.0 paddles in this line include the Atomic, Phaser, Micron, Neutron and Voltage

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#9 Best Pickleball Racquets – Prince Response Pro

Prince has been a leader in the tennis industry for years and are now in the pickleball game. Features the signature Prince thicker handle

  • The Prince Response Pro has a 9/16″ extra thick Polymer Honeycomb core that powers up your stroke
  • The hitting surface is made of Textured UV Coated Fiberglass
  • This paddle features a new revolutionary shape that increases the sweet spot and reduces vibration
  • Available in two weight options: Light 7.1-7.6 or Standard 7.7-8.1
  • Available in two grip circumference options: 4 1/8” or 4 3/8”
  • Extra long grip length of 5.5”
  • Paddle measures: 8 ¼” W x 15 ¾”L
  • USAPA approved

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#10 Best Pickleball Racquets – Rally Meister Wood Paddle

Looking for a fun, high quality, classic paddle for pickleball play?  You found it with the Rally Meister, the only wood pickleball paddle on this list.

  • This set includes 4 Rally Meister durable wood pickleball paddles + 6 pickleballs
  • Solid wood core is made from 7-ply alternating grain of white maple, these wood pickleball paddles are lightweight, strong and durable.
  • Safety wrist straps are great for young player just learning and for storing or hanging.
  • High quality, cushion grip with ribbing wicks moisture so your hands stay dry
  • Lightweight compared to other wood paddles but still in the heavyweight category for contemporary paddles (9.5-10.5 oz),
  • Perfect for beginners and family fun!
  • Awesome value and affordable price.
  • USAPA approved
  • Available in single paddle, a 2-pack of paddles with 4 balls or a 4-pack with 6 balls
  • 1-year manufacturer’s guarantee.
  • Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″ (Medium)
  • Handle Length: 5.5”
  • Paddle Measurements: 7″ W x 15.5”L

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Comments

Have you been searching for pickleball racquets for you and your family ? If so, we hope you found this article about the best pickleball racquets helpful. We have touched on some of our favorites but we would love to know your favorites. Please tell us about your experience in the comments below.

In addition, we diligently research all information for our articles but still we are probably leaving out something important or circumstances may have changed since publishing so please provide any tips or info that you feel others should know.

We would love to hear your thoughts, comments and stories.



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  • Thank you for this wonderfully informative post about pickleball racquets.  I am hosting a family reunion and am looking for fun, unique outdoor games for my family to play when we congregate, this looks PERFECT.  I have never heard of Pickleball but it looks like it would be fun for kids and adults.  I think I am going to get two sets of the Rally Meister Wood Paddle Sets as it includes the balls and I will also get a couple of nets and spray paint the lines on our lawn.  Do you know the rules of the game or where I can find more info?

    • Hi Leanne, that sounds like a great idea!  Your family will love pickleball and the Rally Meister Paddles and Ball Set are inexpensive but very durable so perfect for kids.  Yes you can find a video about How to Play Pickleball on the post Where to Play Pickleball in Vail, Colorado, it is the first video.  You can also just google "Pickleball Rules" for more info.  Have a wonderful family reunion! 

  • Thanks for this list of the best pickleball racquets, pretty much all of these paddles are awesome.  However, I have been playing for a few years now and I am looking to improve my reach (and my game) so I think I want the elongated Gamma Needle paddle. I don't know if it will be my regular paddle but I would like to be able to utilize it when the competition gets tough and I need a little extra help. I expect it will take a few times till it feels comfortable, especially the with the shorter handle, but I am excited to add this paddle to my "arsenal".

    • Thank you for your nice comments about the Best Pickleball Racquet List. Yes, welcome to the world of oversized paddles, or “blade” style paddles, these racquets are very popular, particularly if you are a singles players. The elongated Gamma Needle paddle will give you that extra bit of reach you are looking for.

  • Great post about the best pickleball racquets.  I have been demo-ing different Prolite paddles at a local pickleball court in my condo complex.  I like this brand and my favorite is the Prolite Crush.  I am  a relative newbie to the game and only been playing for about 6 months, but I like how the racquet feels in the hand as well as the balance and weight of the paddle. I think I am ready to pull the trigger and purchase this paddle, I have been borrowing friends paddles or demoing paddles since I started because I didn't know exactly what I wanted or needed in a paddle, but this one seems to fit the bill for me.

    • Hi Touhidur, I am so happy to hear that the post The Year's Best Best Pickleball Racquets has helped you.  The Prolite Crush is a really good racquet. You can really put some good spin on the ball with it, it is lightweight and has a warranty against dead spots for 1 year, and best of all it's approved for noise-restricted communities, so you won't upset your neighbors, it's a great paddle, enjoy!

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