Unleash Your Spin Game with the Best Pickleball Paddles!

When it comes to pickleball paddles, the options are endless. They are available in countless styles and shapes, making it difficult to choose the one that matches all your unique needs. And if you don’t want to shell out for a set all at once, Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services exist, to help you pay over time but still enjoy your game now.

We’ve researched some of the best pickleball paddles for you. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate player, or seasoned pro, you’ll find the perfect pickleball paddle in this list.

Best Pickleball Paddles: Our List

Here’s our list of the best pickleball paddles that money can buy. Read each product carefully to make sure that you opt for the one that suits you the best.

Helium Pickleball Paddle: Best for Kids

The Helium Pickleball Paddle is an extremely affordable product that’s specially designed for kids under 12 years of age. It comes with a smaller grip size that’s perfect for smaller hands to get started with the game. Additionally, it’s also seriously lightweight, making it easy for kids to handle and control on the court.

While it’s lightweight, it doesn’t mean it’s not durable. It features a composite graphite surface and a high polymer honeycomb core, which are the same materials that the company uses to manufacture its standard-sized paddles.

Specs

• Shape: Standard
• Handle Length: Not provided
• Grip Size: 4 inches
• Weight: 6 ounces
• Core Material: Polypropylene honeycomb
• Surface Material: Carbon fiber

Pros

• Specially designed for kids
• Comes with a drawstring bag
• Large paddle face
• Affordable price tag
• ‎2-year manufacturer replacement warranty

Cons

• Might not be the best option for kids with larger hands

Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddle: Most Budget-Friendly Option

Newbies should consider purchasing an affordable beginner paddle before investing in a higher-end model once they’ve developed their skills. Not only will it help them save money but it’ll also allow them to learn the right way to handle the paddle. That’s where the Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddle comes into place. It’s actually a set of two pickleball paddles that also includes four pickleballs and a convenient carry bag.

The paddles are made of 7-ply wood, specifically maple, and they can withstand a pretty aggressive game-play and still provide reliable performance. They also have a cushion grip with a wrist strap to ensure a secure and comfortable hold. It allows you to play for extended periods without discomfort.

Specs

• Shape: Standard
• Handle Length: 5.5 inches
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Weight: 10 ounces
• Core Material: 7-ply Maple
• Surface Material: 7-ply Maple

Pros

• Sturdy and durable
• Extremely budget friendly
• Comes with a wrist strap
• Four pickleballs and a carry bag included in the package
• Great option for beginners

Cons

• Gets scratches easily

ONIX Graphite Z5: Best All-Rounder

When it comes to all-around performance, the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is a popular choice for players of all skill levels. It’s designed to provide the player with excellent touch and control, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced players.

The Graphite Z5 Paddle has a widebody tennis handle shape that provides comfort and exceptional spin during play (don’t you want to leave the other players with an open mouth?). It features a Nomex honeycomb core and a medium-weight graphite surface that delivers fantastic ball control and is easy to maneuver on the court. Another great feature of this paddle is that it meets the USAPA/USA Pickleball requirements and is approved for official tournament play, so you know it’s the real deal.

Specs

• Shape: Widebody
• Handle Length: 5 inches
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Weight: 8.16 ounces
• Core Material: Nomex honeycomb core
• Surface Material: Graphite

Pros

• Great value for money
• Widebody shape, making it good for players of all skill levels
• Large sweet spot
• Great touch and ball control

Cons

• Nomex core is loud
• Not as durable as premium-quality pickleball paddles

Paddletek Tempest Wave II: Best for Intermediate Players

If you’re an intermediate player or play pickleball casually with your friends, you can go with the Paddletek Tempest Wave II. It offers great control and touch, allowing you to execute strategic shorts with ease. The textured graphite surface provides excellent ball placement, allowing you to precisely position each shot. The weight of the paddle is also balanced which offers increased maneuverability and speed. In addition, the large sweet spot also helps you make powerful shots whenever needed.

We also liked the paddle’s textured graphite surface that not only reduces weight but also dampens vibrations, providing you with a comfortable and controlled feel during game play. Lastly, it’s equipped with a performance grip, ensuring a secure and durable hold that enhances your overall performance.

Specs

• Shape: Standard
• Handle Length: 5.25 inches
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Weight: 7.4 – 7.8 ounces
• Core Material: Carbon fiber and polymer
• Surface Material: Carbon fiber

Pros

• Great control and touch
• Great option for intermediate players
• Advanced paddle with superior feel
• Performance grip

Cons

• Higher-end price point
• Can get scratched easily

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion: Best for Advanced Players

If you’re an advanced player and want to dominate the game, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion pickleball paddle could be the best option. It’s a lightweight, perfectly balanced, and durable product that comes with high strength for faster reactions and more power.

The textured surface of this paddle is made of carbon fiber that offers an increased amount of spin. Plus, the reactive polypropylene honeycomb core adds consistency to the bounce and feels amazing with every shot. It also minimizes vibration for better control and reduces fatigue for longer play.

Another great feature of this pickleball paddle is its HyperFoam Edge perimeter Wall. It adds weight and stability while increasing the sweet spot for consistent edge-to-edge performance. Lastly, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion features a carbon-forged handle that provides maximum flex for additional power and comfort.

Specs

• Shape: Standard
• Handle Length: 5.5 inches
• Grip Size: 4.25 inches
• Weight: 7.9 ounces
• Core Material: Polymer composite honeycomb
• Surface Material: Carbon-flex 5

Pros

• Lightweight and durable
• Carbon-forged handle for power and comfort
• Hyperfoam edge wall for an increased sweet spot
• Reduced vibration and fatigue
• Consistent Bounce and Feel

Cons

• Very expensive

Best Pickleball Paddles: Buying Guide

We’ve done the research and considered what we believe are the most important factors to consider while buying a pickleball paddle. It should help you choose the best product based on your unique needs.

Materials

The material of a pickleball paddle is a crucial factor that impacts its performance. There are many materials that companies use to make pickleball paddles, including wood, polymer, graphite, carbon fiberglass, and composite.

If you’re a beginner, you should consider paddles made of wood, fiberglass, or polymer because they offer decent performance at a reasonable price. But if you’re a seasoned or intermediate player, you can go with graphite or composite. They’re a bit more expensive than other materials but offer enhanced performance.

Skill Level

Choosing a paddle that matches your skill level is essential. It’s ideal to select a paddle that can grow with you as your skills progress. For beginners, we recommend Amazin’ Aces pickleball paddle. Intermediate players will find ONIX Graphite Z5 or Paddletek Tempest Wave II suitable, while advanced players can consider JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion.

Weight

The weight of a pickleball paddle significantly affects performance. Lighter paddles provide more control and maneuverability, while heavier ones offer more power, so it may be a trade-off, but you can find your sweet spot.

Paddles are typically classified into the following three weight classes:

• Light: less than 7 ounces
• Medium: between 7 and 8 ounces
• Heavy: over 8 ounces

Most beginners and casual players use medium-weight paddles. Heavy paddles deliver increased power and reduced vibration, while lighter paddles offer less power but greater maneuverability. We recommend you choose the heaviest paddle you can easily handle, as it provides stability and enables better accuracy.

Handle Length and Grip

Pickleball paddle handles vary in length, and the right length depends on your playing style. A longer handle is suitable for players who prefer a two-handed backhand. To determine the right handle length for you, measure from the lowest crease in your palm to the top of your ring finger using a ruler.

Additionally, paddle handles are covered with different grip materials. The comfort of the grip is crucial, and personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the best grip. If the grip is too small, you need to grip the paddle harder, which causes fatigue. But if the grip is too large, it’ll make it challenging to hold the paddle and limit wrist motion.

Surface Area

Paddle surface area is another important consideration. Paddles with a larger surface area generally have a bigger sweet spot, which many players prefer. However, it’s important to ensure that the paddle stays within the regulation size, as per USA Pickleball standards, which state that a paddle cannot exceed 17 inches in length.

Elongated paddles offer better reach but may have a smaller sweet spot due to their narrower shape. If you’re a beginner, you should stick to standard-size paddles, as they strike a balance between reach and sweet spot size.

Good BNPL Options For Pickleball Paddles

LutherSales

When it comes to choosing a Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) service, it’s a significant decision, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. It’s crucial to pick a company that’s reputable and trustworthy. LutherSales, with over five decades of experience, has earned a stellar reputation in this regard. Their service is known for its simplicity, affordability, and welcoming approach. Over the years, they’ve been a reliable choice for consumers, offering affordable payment plans and a diverse range of products, including portable air conditioners available on their website.

We’ve found LutherSales to offer a user-friendly experience, with straightforward and generous approvals for applicants. LutherSales definitely is ahead of the pack, thanks to their longstanding presence in the financial industry and their extensive product selection. Among the numerous BNPL companies, LutherSales truly stands out due to their accessible credit terms and their helpful team.

Pros

Flexible credit plans with extended pay off times
A review of your credit history isn’t necessary
A quick application process
In-house customer service
A vast array of big brands and quality products

Cons

Requires proof of employment of at least a year
Out of stock occasionally

Afterpay

Exploring different choices for your purchase? Afterpay emerges as a popular pick for those in search of a convenient payment solution. While they offer a decent selection of portable air conditioners, it’s important to be aware that their credit requirements can be somewhat stricter than other alternatives. The advantage, however, lies in Afterpay’s ability to help you acquire a high-quality portable air conditioner without straining your budget. What sets them apart is their policy of not charging interest or fees, unless a payment is missed. This practical approach makes Afterpay an appealing method to acquire your desired air conditioner.

With a solid track record of assisting customers in obtaining the items they want, Afterpay stands as a reliable choice for those considering a buy now, pay later service. Though their range of options may be somewhat limited, it’s certainly worth considering for your purchase.

Pros

No interest on your loan unless you miss a payment
No credit history report check
Instant approval

Cons

Interest as high as 25% can be charged in case of late payment
A limited choice of repayment schedules
Many major stores are do not allow the use of Afterpay

MDG Finance

MDG Finance is a notable player in the area of flexible payment choices. They specialize in providing credit solutions that align with your budget, granting customers a spending cap of up to $3,000. This opens doors to a diverse array of favorite brands, allowing you to make purchases now and pay later through manageable plans. It’s essential to keep in mind that MDG Finance does carry slightly higher interest rates compared to some competitors. While this may not be ideal for those seeking a fee-free experience, MDG Finance offers a compelling option when you consider the broader benefits. Their commitment lies in simplifying your financial journey and lightening the load on your wallet.

Pros

Relatively flexible repayment plan
Credit limits up to $3000
Low installment payments that fit your budget

Cons

Many reported delays in product deliveries
Some high interest rates on products

FlexShopper

When considering a unique Buy Now Pay Later service, Flexshopper deserves attention. What sets them apart is their rent-to-own feature, allowing customers to gradually acquire products over a period typically spanning 12 months or less. While this shorter payment duration might feel fast for some, it can be an efficient way for others to swiftly own their desired air conditioner.

Flexshopper boasts a decent product selection and a straightforward sign-up process. However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that they impose lower credit limits and require weekly payments to avoid extra charges. This can be a concern, particularly in unexpected situations where a payment may be missed. Nevertheless, for many, Flexshopper serves as a convenient option in the realm of Buy Now Pay Later services. It’s worth exploring if their approach aligns with your needs and preferences.

Pros

Affordable weekly payments, as low as $4 for some items
A credit spending limit of up to $2,500

Cons

You are limited to items only on the FlexShopper website
The longer you extend your payments, the m

Final Words For Pickleball Players

When it comes to the best pickleball paddles, there are numerous options available that cater to different playing styles and skill levels. Whether you prioritize power, control, spin, or a balance of all factors, there is a pickleball paddle out there that can help you take your game to the next level. The key is to find a paddle that suits your needs and enhances your performance on the court.

We hope this has helped you find the best pickleball paddle that meets your playing style and preferences.

BNPL Central is advertiser-supported: we may earn compensation from the products and offers mentioned in this article. However, any expressed opinions are our own and are not influenced by any compensation offered or taken. Read our full disclosure here.