How To Choose a Pickleball Paddle (And the Top 10 You Should Try in 2025)

Pickleball isn’t just a sport—it’s an experience. Maybe you’re stepping onto the court for the very first time, or maybe you’ve been chasing that competitive edge for a while now. Either way, there’s one piece of gear that can completely change the way you play: your paddle.

Your paddle isn’t just another accessory—it’s an extension of you. The right one can give you more control, add power to your shots, and make every swing feel effortless. The wrong one? It can hold you back and keep you from playing at your full potential.

With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel stuck or second-guess your choice. That’s why I put this guide together—to make it simple. I’ll walk you through the key things you need to know and share my top 10 paddle picks for 2025. No matter your skill level, playing style, or budget, you’ll find something that feels like it was made just for you.

Ready? Let’s find the paddle that’s going to help you play your best game yet.

What to Consider When Choosing a Pickleball Paddle

1. Material

• Wood: Affordable, durable, and heavier. A good choice for beginners, casual play, or kids.
• Composite: Offers a balanced blend of power and control. Medium weight with a textured surface for improved spin.
• Graphite/Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and highly precise. Preferred by advanced and competitive players.

2. Weight

• Lightweight (6.5 – 7.2 oz): Maximizes control and finesse; easier on the joints.
• Midweight (7.3 – 8.4 oz): Versatile and balanced; suitable for most players.
• Heavyweight (8.5 oz and above): Provides extra power but reduces control; ideal for power hitters.

3. Grip Size

Choose based on hand size and playing style:

• Small (4 – 4.25”): Enhances wrist action and spin.
• Medium (4.25 – 4.5”): Most commonly used size.
• Large (4.5” and above): Provides more stability for larger hands.

4. Paddle Shape

• Standard/Widebody: Forgiving sweet spot—ideal for beginners.
• Elongated: Increases reach and power but sacrifices forgiveness.
• Hybrid: Combines control and reach—excellent for intermediate players.

5. Core Type

• Nomex: Hard, loud, and powerful.
• Aluminum: Lightweight with an emphasis on control.
• Polymer (most common): Quiet, soft feel with well-rounded performance.

Recommendation: These paddle types are widely available (including on Amazon) and are well-rated by players of all skill levels. The right choice depends on your playing style, experience level, and comfort preferences.

🏓 Top 10 Pickleball Paddles on Amazon – Summary Table

#	Paddle	Best For	Weight	Price Range	Amazon Link
1	JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16mm	Spin & control (intermediate–advanced)	8.4 oz		Buy Now
2	SLK Evo 2.0 Control XL	Budget-friendly control	7.6–8.2 oz		Buy Now
3	Onix Z5 Graphite	All-around & recreational play	7.5–8.2 oz		Buy Now
4	Tempest Wave Pro	Precision & soft touch	7.6–8 oz		Buy Now
5	Franklin Ben Johns Signature	Performance on a budget	7.5–8.0 oz		Buy Now
6	HEAD Radical Elite	Beginners & casual play	8.1 oz		Buy Now
7	Selkirk Amped Epic X5	Comfort & control	7.3–8.4 oz		Buy Now
8	Niupipo Graphite Paddle Set	Beginners & family play	~8 oz		Buy Now
9	DGYGO	Power players on a budget	7.9 oz		Buy Now
10	Amazin’ Aces Classic	New/casual players	8.3 oz		Buy Now

Choosing the right pickleball paddle can significantly improve your game, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player. The key factors to consider include material, weight, grip size, shape, and core type. Lighter paddles offer better control and quicker maneuverability, while heavier ones deliver more power.

To make your paddle shopping easier, we’ve handpicked 10 of the best pickleball paddles available on Amazon in 2025—covering a range of prices, skill levels, and styles.

From elite paddles like the JOOLA Hyperion (favored by pros) to budget-friendly beginner sets like Niupipo, there’s something here for every player. All options are USAPA-approved, well-reviewed, and ready to ship via Amazon.