Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners: 2025 Buyer’s Guide
By Rift Pickleball — April 2025
So you’ve caught the pickleball bug — welcome to the club. Now it’s time to get your first paddle, but there’s just one problem: how do you know which one to buy?
There are hundreds of paddles out there, with prices ranging from $30 to over $250. Some promise power, others spin, and a few just leave you confused. That’s why we created this guide — to walk you through the best pickleball paddles for beginners, explain what to look for, and help you find the perfect paddle for your budget and playing style.
Why Choosing the Right Beginner Paddle Matters
A beginner-friendly paddle helps you:
- Build consistent technique
- Improve accuracy and control
- Avoid wrist/elbow pain from bad vibrations
- Actually enjoy the game — and keep playing
If you start with the wrong paddle, your learning curve will be steeper. But the right one? It can feel like an instant upgrade to your game.
What Makes a Paddle Great for Beginners?
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but the best beginner paddles usually share these traits:
✅ Large Sweet Spot
More surface area means fewer mishits. Look for widebody shapes or rounded edges.
✅ Soft or Mid-Firm Core
Paddles with polymer cores (usually 14–16mm thick) are more forgiving and easier on your joints.
✅ Lighter Weight (7.5–8.2 oz)
Easier to control and quicker at the net, without tiring your arm.
✅ Comfortable Grip Size
For most new players, a 4.25” grip is the sweet spot. It fits most hands and allows for spin.
✅ Affordable, But Not Cheap
You don’t need to spend $200 — but it’s worth skipping the $30 Amazon specials. A paddle in the $80–$150 range often offers way better value.
Beginner Paddle Price Guide: What to Expect
Note: More expensive paddles usually offer better balance, materials, and durability. They aren’t necessary to start — but if you plan to play 2+ times per week, they’re a smart long-term investment.
Why the Rift 1 Pro Belongs on This List
You might wonder why a paddle over $150 makes our beginner list. Here’s the deal:
The Rift 1 Pro is ideal for newer players who want to skip the $70-$100 learning curve and jump right into something tournament-grade — without the stiffness or harsh feel of some pro paddles.
What makes it stand out:
- Raw carbon surface = real spin, even with beginner mechanics
- Soft polymer core = consistent dinks and drops
- Midweight range = not too heavy, not too light
- Grip and comfort = easy to hold, even for long sessions
If you’re the type of person who would rather buy one great paddle than upgrade in six months — the Rift 1 Pro is it.
How to Choose Based on Your Style
If You’re a Total Beginner:
- Look for a wide paddle face and a soft feel
- Don’t obsess over spin or power yet — focus on comfort and consistency
If You’ve Played a Few Times:
- Get a slightly firmer paddle with better feedback
- Start exploring different grip shapes and weights
If You’re Hooked and Want to Improve Fast:
- Consider a mid-tier to premium carbon paddle like the Rift 1 Pro
- Look for paddles with a 16mm core and USAP certification
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re searching for the best pickleball paddles for beginners, the key is not to overthink it — but also don’t go too cheap. The right paddle should feel like a partner that helps you learn, not something you have to fight.
You can’t go wrong with any of the paddles on this list. But if you want the best mix of quality, comfort, and long-term value — the Rift 1 Pro is the one we’d recommend.
Pickleball is more fun when your gear feels right. Your paddle is your starting point — choose one that makes you excited to hit the court.
Explore more beginner-friendly gear at riftpickleball.com
