The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Buying a Pickleball Paddle
By Jason Maynard — April 2025
“Which Paddle Should I Buy?” Here’s the Truth No One’s Telling You
I still remember the first paddle I bought. It was on sale for $49. Looked sleek. Felt pretty good in my hand. And for the first few games? It was great. But a few weeks in, I started noticing something:
- My shots weren’t landing where I aimed.
- I had to swing harder to get the same power.
- And weirdly, my elbow started aching after long sessions.
I shrugged it off. Maybe I just needed to practice more.
But the more I played — and the more paddles I tried — the more I realized: your paddle matters.
It’s not just gear. It’s your partner every point, every rally, every win (or loss). So I wrote this guide not just to list “the best paddles of 2025,” but to walk you through exactly how to choose the right one — based on real-world experience from someone who’s tested dozens of them in tournaments and rec play alike.
This isn’t a copy-paste product roundup. It’s everything I wish I knew when I started.
Why Your Paddle Choice Matters
Your paddle is more than just equipment — it’s your connection to every shot. The wrong paddle can hold you back, while the right one makes your game feel effortless.
A good paddle can:
- Reduce mishits and improve consistency
- Help you add spin and control
- Give you better feel on dinks and resets
- Prevent fatigue and strain during long games
If you’ve ever thought, “What’s the best pickleball paddle for me?” — you’re already on the right path.
TLDR
Shop the Spartus Olympus on Amazon
Shop the Six Zero Black Diamond from their website
Shop the JOOLA Perseus 3S on Amazon
Shop the Onix Graphite Z5 on Amazon
🧭 Start Here: What Actually Matters When Choosing a Paddle
Let’s skip the fluff. Here are the 6 factors that actually affect how a paddle performs:
1. Skill Level & Play Style
- Beginners want forgiveness, comfort, and control.
- Intermediates may lean into spin, quick hands, or power shots.
- Advanced players look for feel, balance, and precision.
(Insert graphic: Skill Level vs. Paddle Feature Priority)
2. Core Thickness
- 13mm or less = more pop/power, smaller sweet spot
- 14mm = balanced
- 16mm+ = softer feel, better for resets & control
3. Face Material
- Fiberglass = power, pop, affordability
- Carbon fiber (raw) = spin, control, premium feel
4. Weight
- Light (7.0–7.5 oz) = fast hands, less fatigue
- Mid (7.6–8.3 oz) = ideal for most players
- Heavy (8.4+ oz) = power, but risk of arm strain
5. Grip Size & Handle Length
- Smaller grip = more wrist motion (good for spin)
- Longer handle = better for two-handed backhands
6. Vibration Dampening & Comfort
If your paddle feels “clangy” or your joints hurt after games… it’s time to upgrade.
🧑🎾 Which Paddle Is Right for You? It Depends on Who You Are
No two players are the same — and neither are their paddles. Instead of trying to find a “best paddle” for everyone, think about who you are on the court.
🎯 Not sure which paddle is right for you?
👉 Take the “Find Your Perfect Paddle” quiz — it takes less than 60 seconds and gives you a custom match based on your skill level, play style, and goals.
Click here to take the quiz.
👟 The Brand-New Beginner
You’ve just picked up a paddle for the first time. You’re learning scoring, trying to remember where to stand, and you’re not yet sure if this is a hobby or a full-blown obsession.
- Prioritize comfort and forgiveness
- Look for a paddle with a wide face, soft core, and reasonable price
- Skip the flashy tech (for now)
→ Best picks: Onix Z5, Head Radical Elite
🔁 The Rec League Regular
You’re playing twice a week, maybe more. You understand the kitchen, have some touch shots, and you’re starting to think about your paddle’s performance.
- You’ll want better feel, spin, and durability
- Consider investing in mid-range carbon paddles
→ Best picks: Six Zero Quartz, Tangerine Santorini, Rift 1 Pro
💥 The Power Hitter
You hit hard, play fast, and love putting the ball away. If you’re constantly driving and attacking, you need a paddle that can keep up.
- Look for stiffer faces, thermoformed builds, and responsive cores
→ Best picks: Bread & Butter The Filth, CRBN 3X, JOOLA Perseus 3S
🎯 The Control Artist
You live for resets, dinks, and drops. Your goal is to outlast, not overpower. Spin and placement are your strengths.
- Go for a thick-core, raw carbon paddle with a large sweet spot
→ Best pick: Rift 1 Pro
🧗 The Climber (3.5+ with Tournament Goals)
You’re watching match footage, drilling regularly, and chasing a rating goal. You need gear that won’t hold you back.
- Look for high-performance builds that offer control and spin, but won’t punish your hand speed
→ Best picks: Rift 1 Pro, JOOLA Perseus 3S, Six Zero Quartz
🔍 Top 7 Pickleball Paddles in 2025 — Tested & Reviewed
I’ve tested these paddles across rec games, tournament play, drilling sessions, and side-by-side comparisons. Here’s what stands out:
🏆 Best Overall: Rift 1 Pro
- Face: Raw T700 carbon fiber
- Core: 16mm polypropylene
- Weight: 7.9 oz
- Feel: Balanced, smooth, and confidence-boosting
It’s the paddle I built after trying everything else. Designed for spin, touch, and versatility. It doesn’t feel “too advanced” for new players, but it holds up at 4.0+ and beyond. If you want one paddle to grow with, this is it.
This paddle hits that rare sweet spot of being beginner-friendly without feeling limiting as you get better. The control is top-tier for resets and dinks, while the spin you can generate with the raw carbon face is as good as anything out there. It’s light enough to keep your hands quick, but never feels flimsy. I’ve had players message me after switching saying it just “feels right” in their hand — and that’s exactly the vibe we aimed for.
💪 Best for Power: Spartus Olympus
Buy the Spartus Olympus on Amazon
- Face: T700 Carbon Fiber
- Core: 14mm Ascension Core™
- Weight: 8.0 oz
One of the best values in the power category right now. Big pop, large sweet spot, and a thermoformed design that doesn’t break the bank.
The Spartus Olympus feels like a sleeper hit. It delivers impressive power for drives and overheads, but still has enough softness for resets once you get used to the timing. You’ll notice the crisp response off the face almost immediately — it feels bouncy without being wild. At under $150, it’s punching way above its weight class.
Players upgrading from budget fiberglass paddles will feel the difference. Only downside? Slightly heavier than some hybrids, but manageable for most players.
🌀 Best for Spin: Six Zero Black Diamond
Buy the Six Zero Black Diamond from The Web
- Face: Raw textured T300 carbon
- Core: Polypropylene honeycomb
- Weight: 7.9 oz
Ridiculous spin potential — if you like shaping your shots, this is your tool. Also a sleek look.
This paddle feels like it was engineered with topspin in mind. You can feel the bite when brushing up on the ball, especially on serves and drops. It has a slightly more flexible feel than some others in this category, which may take a few games to adjust to, but once you do, the precision becomes addictive. Best for players who like to paint lines, reset with ease, and out-maneuver their opponents with angles.
Warning: not as durable as some premium builds.
💸 Best Under $100: Head Radical Elite
Buy the Head Radical Elite on Amazon
- Face: Fiberglass
- Core: 13mm polymer core
- Weight: 8.1 oz
A surprisingly good option at this price point. Solid control, decent sweet spot, and comfortable grip.
This is one of the few paddles under $100 that doesn’t feel like a toy. It has a reliable feel, absorbs shock well, and gives beginners something they can use consistently without outgrowing it after a few sessions. While it lacks the pop of higher-end paddles, its ergonomic grip and wide body make it ideal for players just getting the hang of footwork and timing.
If you’re new or on a budget, it’ll get the job done.
🥇 Best for Beginners: Onix Graphite Z5
Buy the Onix Graphite Z5 on Amazon
- Face: Graphite
- Core: Nomex
- Weight: 7.9 oz
Lightweight, great value, and a big fanbase. Solid pick if you’re getting into the game and want consistency without overthinking gear.
What makes the Z5 stand out is its combination of simplicity and effectiveness. It’s got a broad hitting surface and a weight that gives new players confidence without wearing out their wrist. The Nomex core is louder and more reactive than polymer paddles, but that can be helpful for beginners learning how to time shots. I’ve handed this paddle to countless first-timers, and they always say the same thing: “This just feels easy.”
Handle is a bit short. Better for players with compact swings.
🎨 Best Looking: Tangerine Santorini
Buy the Tangerine Santorini on Amazon
- Face: Fiberglass
- Core: Polypropylene
- Weight: 7.6 oz
This one turns heads. Beautiful design, surprisingly solid performance. Just don’t expect tour-level precision.
If fashion matters to you as much as function, this paddle nails both. It has a soft, plush feel and a longer handle that works great for players transitioning from tennis. Despite the fun aesthetic, it holds up decently well in rec games — especially in the hands of all-around players who value comfort and court presence. Great gift paddle, or backup for style-forward ballers.
A perfect “fun” paddle that still plays well.
🔥 Best for Competitive Play: JOOLA Perseus 3S
Buy the JOOLA Perseus 3S on Amazon
- Face: Charged carbon
- Core: Proprietary “propulsion” tech
- Weight: 8.0 oz
Pro-level weapon — amazing spin, pop, and feel. If you’re climbing the ranks and want every edge possible, this paddle delivers.
The Perseus 3S is JOOLA’s answer to players who don’t want to compromise. The paddle feels incredibly stable, even under pressure. You get a huge sweet spot, advanced surface traction, and the added bonus of tech integration via NFC chip (though it’s more of a gimmick unless you’re a stat junkie). For 4.0+ players looking to upgrade or aspiring tournament competitors, it’s a true contender. Just be ready for the price tag.
Steep price, but it earns its spot.
💡 Honorable Mention: CRBN 3X Power Series A
Buy the CRBN 3X Power Series A on Amazon
- Face: Charged carbon
- Core: Proprietary “propulsion” tech
- Weight: 8.0 oz
serious contender if you’re after raw spin and touch with just enough firepower. The CRBN 3X line offers insane surface grit and an elongated shape great for reach and singles. Expect a learning curve if you’re coming from fiberglass, but if you’ve got the control, this paddle rewards it.
❓ Common Questions About Pickleball Paddles (FAQ Section)
Are expensive paddles really worth it?
Yes — but only if you’re playing regularly. A $200 paddle won’t magically make you a better player, but it can reduce arm fatigue, improve spin and touch, and last much longer than cheaper options. If you’re hitting the courts more than once a week, a quality paddle is worth the upgrade.
What’s the difference between fiberglass and carbon fiber paddles?
Fiberglass paddles typically provide more pop and power, while raw carbon fiber paddles offer more spin and control. If you’re a finesse player or love resets and dinks, go carbon. If you’re all about speed and drives, fiberglass might be more your style.
What is thermoforming in a paddle, and does it matter?
Thermoforming is a process that fuses the edge of the paddle together for durability and consistency. It often results in more power, a larger sweet spot, and a firmer feel. You’ll see this tech in a lot of pro-level paddles, but it’s not essential for beginners.
Can a paddle actually help prevent injury?
Definitely. The wrong weight, grip size, or material can strain your wrist, elbow, or shoulder over time. A paddle with a thicker core and vibration-dampening materials can help reduce joint pain — especially if you’re playing long matches or multiple days a week.
How often should I replace my paddle?
Most good paddles will last 1–3 years depending on how often you play. If your paddle feels dead (less pop), you hear a duller sound, or you’re noticing mishits that weren’t happening before — it might be time for a new one.
🔎 How to Test If a Paddle Is Right for You
You can read specs and reviews all day — but the best way to know if a paddle is right for you is to put it in your hand and feel how it plays. Here’s a quick field test checklist I recommend to players:
🖐️ 1. Grip Comfort
Hold it like you’re about to return serve. Is your grip relaxed, or do you feel tension in your wrist or forearm? A paddle that feels good in your hand is a strong start.
🎾 2. Drop Test
Do a few soft dinks and drops near the net. A good paddle will give you feedback without feeling too bouncy or dead. You should feel in control, not like you’re guessing every time.
🚀 3. Power Swing Test
Take some full-speed drives. Do you feel confident putting the ball away? Or are you swinging harder than you should to get results? Watch how it reacts on off-center hits.
🔄 4. Reset and Block Test
Try some resets at the kitchen and blocks at the net. How stable is it against pace? A paddle with a large sweet spot will help you stay consistent under pressure.
🧠 5. Listen to Your Arm
After 30 minutes, do you feel tightness in your wrist, elbow, or shoulder? That’s your body telling you the paddle may be too heavy, too stiff, or not dampening enough vibration.
No paddle is perfect for everyone — but if it helps your game and feels natural in your hand, you’re on the right track.
🧠 Bonus: Paddle Trends to Watch in 2025
The paddle landscape is changing fast — and staying ahead of the trends can give you an edge (or at least help you make a smarter buying decision). Here are a few shifts we’re seeing across the industry:
🧪 Thermoformed Construction Goes Mainstream
What used to be a premium, pro-only feature is now popping up in more mid-tier paddles. Thermoforming increases paddle durability, stability, and pop by fusing the outer layers together. If you like a crisp feel and large sweet spot, keep your eye on thermoformed models.
📐 Elongated & Hybrid Shapes Are In
Traditional widebody paddles are still great for control, but more brands are pushing elongated or hybrid shapes that add reach and leverage — especially helpful for singles or two-handed backhands.
🎮 Tech-Integrated Paddles
Paddles like the JOOLA Perseus are leading the charge with built-in NFC chips that sync with training apps. Is it necessary? Not really. But expect more “smart” paddle features to pop up in 2025.
💨 Lighter Builds, Higher Swing Speeds
More brands are experimenting with lighter materials that don’t sacrifice power. Expect new designs to push the balance between hand speed and stability.
🧤 Ergonomics & Comfort Get More Attention
In response to the rise of injuries (tennis elbow, wrist pain, shoulder fatigue), expect more brands to invest in ergonomic handles, cushioned grips, and vibration-dampening core tech.
2025 might just be the year where pickleball paddles get smarter, lighter, and more tailored to how you actually play.
🧠 Final Advice: Choose the Paddle That Makes You Love the Game
You don’t need a $200 paddle to enjoy pickleball. But the right paddle can unlock your game in ways that surprise you.
If you:
- Want one paddle to grow with → Try the Rift 1 Pro
- Crave spin or control → Go for raw carbon
- Want bang-for-buck → Check out the Z5 or Radical Elite
Whatever you do, pick a paddle that makes you want to hit the courts again tomorrow. That’s the best sign you’ve got the right one.
Still not sure which one fits you? Take our paddle quiz or message us. We’ll help you find your fit — even if it’s not ours.
Let’s grow the game the right way.
— Jason
