Pickleball is like mini tennis that people of all ages can play because you are not running all over the court. It is a game that can be played both indoors and outdoors.
Instead of a stringed racket, players are using a flat surface paddle. Pickleball is a single-player game or a double-player game.
There are serving rules (underhand only) and scoring rules with the best two out of three games being played and some games can be won with a score of 15 or 21 points. As in tennis, the key equipment is the pickleball paddle.
Pickleball paddles are purchased based on their aerodynamic lightweight structure, speed, and strong grip to keep an edge over your opponent.
Product | Details | Rating |
|---|---|---|
OUR #1 RATED  AMAREY Pickleball Paddle | 4.5 out of 5 | |
 Amazin' Aces Pickleball Paddle | 4.5 out of 5 | |
 Niupipo Pickleball Paddles | 4.5 out of 5 | |
 GAMMA 2.0 Pickleball Paddles | 4 out of 5 | |
 Kanga Wood Pickleball Paddle | 4 out of 5 |
The paddles also feature a shorter, sweat absorbent handle than a tennis racquet. The pickleball game also features balls that are made from strong plastic with holes throughout.
Paddles are available in three categories: graphite, wood, and composite. The paddles in each category are exceptionally colorful and they all feature unique designs. Many paddles can also be customized.
Pickleball tournaments are held throughout the U.S. and internationally, perhaps we should include it in the Olympics. Until then, pick out some pickleball paddles from below and let's play!
We've reviewed the top 10 best pickleball paddles on the market in 2021.
Diller Pickleball Paddle
The Diller brand name is known by Picklers because it is one of the original makers from the original 1965 paddle makers. The Diller paddle is made from strong hardwood were you can feel its sweetspot in its 7-inch wide frame.
The Diller paddle only weighs 10 ounces and its handle features a medium sized thick grip that feels good in your hands. It retains it's secure cushion and ribbing grip for all levels.
The Diller paddle is loved by new players due to its durability at this level. The Diller is approved by the USAPA organization.
PROS
CONS
Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle
The Upstreet Graphite Pickleball Paddle features a strong, layered polypropylene core with a honeycomb structured technology that stands for strength and durability. The Upstreet honeycomb core gives players a sound resistant spin in the game.
Upstreet is a top quality mid-priced graphite paddle that performs very well with its extra weight (nearly 9 ounces). The extra weight as a graphite paddle stands for better power, especially when players are hitting a stroke from the backcourt.
Professional paddle players enjoy the power behind the Upstreet, but when entering USAPA games, it is not met with the greatest approval.
PROS
CONS
Flybold Pickleball Paddle
The Flybold paddle is great for all level pickleball players. The Flybold is created for balance, power, backhand drive, and it handles very well during the carry control.
The paddle is made from a honeycombed graphite core which stands for a quiet play and long-lasting plays.
The Flybold paddle weighs up to 8+ ounces and its cushioned absorbent handle is a little over 4 inches long for better wrist and hand power.
The Flybold Pickleball Paddle also features rugged padded edges for low ground shots. Flybold is USAPA approved.
PROS
CONS
Apollo Pickleball Paddle
The Apollo Pickleball Paddle is made with quality and affordability in its graphite design. Apollo features a scientific poly-honeycomb protective edge guard that gives it a lightweight feel.
Apollo is an excellent brand for players of all skill levels, especially when players are consistent in their lobs, volleys, and dinks. This means that the Apollo gives you great ball control.
Your overhead slams are helped by the Apollo carbon fiber scratch resistant face and its 4”+ circumference grip. It is approved by USAPA for its power and accuracy.
PROS
CONS
Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
The Onix Graphite Z5 paddle is a popular tool where it counts in the pickleball games. When the pickleball server yells 'Pickle' get ready to raise your Z5 with its ergonomic design that represents power, speed, and ball control.
Its colorful Z5 logo, graphite face, and its strong Nomex honeycomb technology give players a sweetspot feel of the ball. The total absorbent paddle weight is over 7 ounces. It has a nice wide body shape that works for beginners and tournament players. It is USAPA approved.
PROS
CONS
Kanga Wood Pickleball Paddle
Hop on board the pickleball paddle brand with your own Kanga Wood and its famous Kangaroo logo. The Kanga Wood paddle is known for its balance and weight that does not tire out your wrist action during your passing shots.
The Kanga paddle is made of high quality multi-ply white maple wood weighing in at a little over10 ounces. Not only will you smile at this fun looking paddle, but you will also enjoy its light, comfortable grip handle, and its strong 7” paddle design.
Beginners, intermediaries, and professional pickleball players will all enjoy approaching your shot with Kanga. It is USAPA approved.
PROS
CONS
GAMMA 2.0 Pickleball Paddles
The GAMMA 2.0 pickleball paddle is the newly revised paddle from the former Gamma 1.0 classic racket. GAMMA 2.0 is made with a quality aluminum honeycomb graphite design. It contains a fiberglass face that stands for power, balance, and speed.
Each 2.0 paddle is created with an aramid (strong synthetic fiber) honeycomb grip that will make each strong follow-through count. The GAMMA weighs only 7 ounces and all of it is well balanced.
All levels of pickleball players will enjoy this paddle due to its comfortable handling even if you are playing a long match.
PROS
CONS
Niupipo Pickleball Paddles
You must have the right pickleball paddle to play well and you receive that quality in the Niupipo Pickleball Paddles. Graphite durability and long-lasting is this paddle's middle name.
The Niupipo pickleball paddle meets USAPA specifications and is made from tough durable materials. Niupipo is created with quality to ensure power, comfort, beauty and long-lasting tournament games where you can put it away on the court.
With its 4+ inches, your paddle grip is built for optimum gripping and well cushioned for long plays, eliminating arm fatigue. The Niupipo gives players a sophisticated players logo design that looks good on the Pickledome.
PROS
CONS
Amazin' Aces Pickleball Paddle
Amazin' Aces is at the top of the wood-inspired pickleball paddles. Amazin' Aces features a sleek carbon face design with great durability for beginners and intermediate players.
It features the best in plywood material made up of maple for its core strength. The Amazin' Aces paddle grip is made of polyurethane with reliable ribbing for long-lasting control.
The Amazin' Aces pickleball paddles are a favorite on the court when players are performing volleys, slams, and lots of dinks.
Its edge guard protects the paddle from ground strikes while maintaining its overall integrity. Amazin' Aces is USAPA approved.
PROS
CONS
AMAREY Pickleball Paddle
The AMAREY pickleball paddle is part of the great honeycomb polymer technology. This technology allows for a lightweight, well balanced, and durable game paddle. The face of the AMAREY is made of quality graphite core.
It is the best choice for pickleball players who love this game and who enter into many tournaments around the country. It typifies the pickleball paddle perforated and sweat absorbent cushion grip handles.
Groundstrokes are no problem for the top quality edge guard that surrounds the AMAREY. Meets USAPA specifications which means there will be no dings or dents.
PROS
CONS
Which Pickleball Paddle Should You Buy?
With design, coloring, reliability, and long playing time, how do you choose the right pickleball paddle for your game? The pickleball game combines paddle style games, including tennis, into this one sport.
Since its creation over 50 years ago, pickleball is fast becoming the best indoor/outdoor games anywhere. The key features for most picklers (avid fans) include weight, grip size, and material. When you are in a brick-n-mortar sports shop, try several paddles for comfort.
If you are a beginner, start with the light wood models. As you become more proficient, choose one of the composite or graphite styles. You will be glad you did!
Lauren Gamble is an author, mompreneur, co-founder of Naturally Made Essentials. She is on a mission to help thousands of women across the world achieve a healthy, happy lifestyle through teaching natural health practices.
