In this article, we will take you through our pickleball paddle reviews and provide you with information on the important specifications for these types of products. We’ll give you a few options for the best pickleball paddle on the market and our criteria for ranking according to online pickleball paddle reviews and our experience.
The primary features we will focus on when presenting our list of the best pickleball paddle choices include weight, length, power, affordability, and how much control each item offers. We’ll let you know what the best features are and what pros and cons we find for each paddle.
6. Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle
If you’re looking for one of the most affordable graphite pickleball paddles around, Upstreet provides you with one of the best pickleball paddle options in this category. The polypropylene core will provide you with a decent amount of control over the paddle and reduce impact vibrations as well.
Many users are particularly fond of the long handle that gives a bit of extra space for larger hands but accommodates small hands just as easily. Some users note that it is relatively narrow but still provides adequate sweet spot space.
5. AKISANA – P2 Pickleball Paddle – Graphite / Carbon Fiber Face
This product is perhaps the best pickleball paddle you can choose if you want a highly versatile paddle that works for all skill levels. The graphite face provides the ball with traction for superior accuracy, power, and control in indoor and outdoor environments.
Users like the low weight on the item which allows them a great degree of control on both powerful swings and soft touches. Other have commented on the durability of the item and note that it is very hard-wearing. In very few cases, some users noted chipping at the edges of this paddle.
4. Engage Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle, Red Fade
This paddle earns a spot on our best pickleball paddle list thanks to user comments regarding its power and control. Many pickleball players find that the surface of the paddle is textured just right for gaining more spin on the ball than other paddles and offering a large amount of control over the ball itself.
Grip size and overall width specifications are notably absent here, which may be an issue with some players.
3. flybold Pickleball Paddle
This pickleball paddle from “flybold” gives you a good mix of power and control at an affordable price point. The cushioning on the grip absorbs moisture and its circumference allows you to control your spins, power swings, and hand changes.
Most users describe this item as one of the best pickleball paddles on the market if you want a paddle with power, touch, control, and spin that is suitable across all skill levels.
2. Pickle-Ball, Inc. Vortex 2.0 Pickleball Paddle
This paddle utilizes composite materials and a vinyl surface to provide you with increased control over the ball. The textured face allows for maximum traction when the ball connects with the paddle. A contoured, rubberized grip gives you comfort as it absorbs moisture. Rubber padding around the edges protects the paddle from hits to the ground. According to our research, it’s the second best pickleball paddle on the market in 2018.
1. Kanga Wood Pickleball Paddle & Bundles
This is, according to our research, the best pickleball paddle you’ll find for beginners, community sporting events, or family outings. It comes as a single paddle or as a set with one or two paddles and with indoor balls. The wide wood face offers a decent amount of control for starting players. These paddles weigh slightly more than most sets, but beginners may find this change helpful.
Some users report that the grip on the handles can peel as packaging is being removed.
Interested in some of the best pickleball paddle sets instead? Check out our rundown of the best-rated pickleball sets and their usability, durability, and affordability, or the best Onix pickleball paddles you could get this year!
Conclusion
Choosing the right pickleball paddle for your needs is a matter of getting one that fits your hand, gives you enough control to move the ball where you need it, and provides you with enough power on the swing to send the ball over the net. Feel free to comment on our list of best pickleball paddle options in 2018 and give us your thoughts.
Great list of pickleball paddles to review. I cannot base an opinion that I have on anything because I don’t have any pickleball paddles. Though I am looking into it because I need to get some exercise. I will see which one I decide to go with.
Hello, Jimmy, and thanks for your visit! That’s right, you should start from somewhere at some point, and any of these models by Akisana, Upstreet, and others can easily guide you to the Pickleball world. Also, follow our Facebook page to stay tuned to the latest guides and pickleball product reviews!
Any of the pickleball paddles that are made with graphite are automatically going to get a high rating from me. You can’t use a better material than graphite, and if anyone wants to respectfully disagree with me, then I welcome them to it.
Hell noo! Kris we couldn’t agree more! Graphite is amazing for any racket! Still, we’re partial to having old wooden ones around – they ALSO make for good decor!
Wooden paddles are only good for decoration because the graphite ones are the best, and I don’t know of anyone who could really disagree with that. Graphite is as strong as iron, and wood is not, and that is a scientific fact.
Hi Jordan – wood is great for paddles. It’s true that graphite is good, but wood is an affordable option that also compensates with a weight that just feels better in your hand. It comes down to everyone’s preference