How to Choose a Pickleball Paddle
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Start with skill and budget
Beginners should usually stay under $100–$150 unless they already know they will play several times a week. Intermediate players can justify premium paddles when they can describe a specific need: more control, more power, or more spin.
Decide control vs power
If your misses sail long, prioritize control and thicker cores. If you can already keep the ball in and want more put-away pace, look at power-leaning carbon paddles.
Specs that actually matter
Thickness affects feel and pop. Weight affects hand speed and fatigue. Shape affects reach and forgiveness. Surface material affects spin potential and durability profile.
Paddles to consider
Franklin Sports
Signature Pro 16mm
A widely available fiberglass 16mm paddle that makes sense as a first real upgrade for recreational players.
- Beginners upgrading from a starter paddle
- Players shopping around or under $100
- Recreational players who want a forgiving fiberglass face
Approx. $70–$100
Paddletek
Bantam TS-5
A lightweight fiberglass-hybrid paddle from Paddletek—best framed as a hand-speed / value pick, not a thick-core carbon control paddle.
- Players who want a truly lightweight paddle
- Recreational players seeking faster hands at the kitchen
- Shoppers who want a reputable sub-$100 all-court option
Approx. $80–$100
Selkirk
LUXX Control Air Epic
A thicker-core Selkirk control paddle for intermediate players who want soft, precise playability more than raw pace.
- Players prioritizing soft hands and reset consistency
- Intermediate players who win points with placement over pace
- Anyone comparing thicker control builds to standard 16mm paddles
Approx. $200–$280
FAQ
Troxgo Editors
Research & editorial
We research manufacturer specs, compare paddles against consistent criteria, and explain who each product actually makes sense for—without fabricated “we tested it” claims.
Published 2026-03-20 · Updated 2026-03-20
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