The Best Pickleball Paddles of 2023

Hey there, pickleballers! Looking for an upgrade to take your game to the next level? Well, grab your paddle and get ready, because I’ve rounded up the hottest pickleball paddle picks just for you.

From power hitters to finesse players, I’ve got the perfect paddle for every kind of pickleballer. So let’s dive in and make a smashing choice together…

---

My Top Pickleball Paddle Picks

• Best Overall Pickleball Paddle: Niupipo Voyager Pro Pickleball Paddle
• Best Pro Level Paddle: JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Pickleball Paddle
• Most Powerful Paddle: Selkirk Vanguard Pickleball Paddle
• Best Budget Paddle: Niupipo Explorer Pickleball Paddle
• Best Paddle for Beginners: PCKL Launch Series Pickleball Paddle
• Best Color Options: Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle

---

Best Overall Pickleball Paddle

1. Niupipo Voyager Pro Pickleball Paddle

Let me tell you, pickleballers, I have found the holy grail of pickleball paddles – the Niupipo Voyager Pro. This bad boy has completely upped my game to a whole new level, and I can’t wait to share all the incredible features that make it a game-changer for any pickleball player.

First off, let’s talk about the shape of this paddle. The Voyager Pro is elongated and extended, which means it gives me that extra reach to comfortably get to balls on any part of the court. I don’t have to strain or contort my body anymore, and let me tell you, my back thanks me for it. Plus, the longer surface area of the paddle means a larger sweet spot, so I’m hitting clean and commanding groundstrokes like a boss.

But what really sets the Voyager Pro apart is its honeycomb core. This little beauty strikes the perfect balance between power and control. When I make contact with the ball, I feel that satisfying pop and I know it’s going exactly where I want it to. And let’s not forget about the graphite carbon fiber and added grit face. Not only does it give me that pro game feel, but it also grips the ball better, allowing me to apply wicked spin. Trust me, your opponents won’t know what hit them.

Now here’s the kicker – the Voyager Pro is USA approved for sanctioned tournament play. That means it meets all the standards for size, weight, design, you name it. So whether you’re competing in the World Pickleball Championships or just throwing down at your local community center, this paddle is the real deal.

Lastly, let’s talk about the size and weight of the Voyager Pro. It’s longer than your average pickleball paddle, but don’t let that scare you. It’s actually lightweight and perfectly balanced, making it a dream to play with. Plus, the grip is just right, giving me that comfortable and secure hold I need to dominate on the court.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the Niupipo Voyager Pro Pickleball Paddle. See the Niupipo Voyager Pro Pickleball Paddle

---

Best Pro Level Paddle

2. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Pickleball Paddle

As the official paddle sponsor of world #1 pickleball player Ben Johns and the PPA Tour, JOOLA has once again proven its expertise in creating top-quality equipment. This collaboration with Ben Johns has resulted in a pickleball paddle that offers aggressive and offensive players every technological advantage they need to excel in the game.

One of the standout features of this paddle is the carbon friction surface (CFS) technology. This advanced surface, made from durable Carbon-Flex5, provides unmatched spin and power. Whether you’re executing a powerful serve or a spin shot, the CFS technology helps to enhance your game and keep your opponents guessing.

The Hyperfoam edge wall is another feature that sets this paddle apart. By injecting specialized foam into the perimeter of the paddle, JOOLA has increased the sweet spot for consistent edge-to-edge performance. This not only improves the power and stability of your shots but also adds comfort to your gameplay.

The reactive polypropylene honeycomb core is also worth mentioning. Specially tuned for high-level players, this core maximizes the consistency of the bounce and feel necessary for every shot. Additionally, it helps to reduce vibrations, ensuring a comfortable playing experience even during intense matches.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Pickleball Paddle. See the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Pickleball Paddle

---

Most Powerful Paddle

3. Selkirk Vanguard Pickleball Paddle

One of the standout features of the Selkirk Vanguard Pickleball Paddle is its QuadFlex 4 Layer Hybrid Face. This innovation allows for stiffness in all directions, resulting in enhanced control, power, and an exceptional feel. Whether you are a novice or an experienced player, the paddle’s ability to provide both touch and power is truly remarkable. The responsiveness of the paddle’s face ensures that every shot feels effortless and precise.

Another aspect that sets the Selkirk Vanguard Pickleball Paddle apart is its incorporation of FlexFoam Perimeter and 360° Proto Molding technologies. These advancements contribute to increased durability, a larger sweet spot, and decreased vibrations upon contact with the ball. By reducing unwanted vibrations, this paddle allows for greater accuracy and consistency in your shots.

In terms of design, the Selkirk Vanguard Pickleball Paddle has a traditional shape with a long handle and a large hitting area. This design offers a perfect balance of power and control, allowing you to create powerful shots without sacrificing accuracy. The larger hitting area provides a more forgiving sweet spot, ensuring that even off-center hits have a better chance of success.

Finally, the fact that the Selkirk Vanguard Pickleball Paddle is USAPA approved for tournament play is a testament to its quality and performance. Whether you’re competing in national or international events, you can trust that this paddle meets the highest standards for competitive play.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the Selkirk Vanguard Pickleball Paddle. See the Selkirk Vanguard Pickleball Paddle

---

Best Budget Paddle

4. Niupipo Explorer Pickleball Paddle

If you’re on a budget, I 100% recommend the Niupipo Explorer Pickleball Paddle! It packs some of the features found in high end paddles, at a fraction of the price.

The materials used in this Niupipo pickleball paddle are truly impressive. It is made of Polypropylene Honeycomb Core material, which is known for its high density and hardness. This means that the paddle will perform well over a longer period of time, and the durability is further enhanced by the fiberglass surface. I appreciate that this paddle greatly reduces ball deflection, allowing for better control and accuracy in my shots. With the Niupipo pickleball paddle, I feel confident that I can withstand any challenge on the court.

The grip of this paddle is another feature that I absolutely love. The moisture-wicking, anti-skid fabric along with the air holes provide excellent grip control and touch. The handle length and grip circumference are also perfectly designed, giving me enough room for quick hand switches. I appreciate the attention to detail in providing a comfortable and secure grip, as it greatly enhances my performance on the court. The edge guard is another bonus that adds to the strength and durability of the paddle.

The wide-body shape of the Niupipo pickleball paddle is a big plus for me. It provides a larger hitting surface and a larger sweet spot, which means that I have more room for error and a higher chance of making solid contact with the ball. The dimensions of the paddle are also ideal, and the weight strikes the perfect balance between finesse and power. I can enjoy extended play without feeling fatigued, which is a huge benefit.

Lastly, I appreciate that this pickleball paddle comes with a protective cover. The zippered cover helps maintain the coloring and core of the paddle when it’s not in use, prolonging its lifespan.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the Niupipo Explorer Pickleball Paddle. See the Niupipo Explorer Pickleball Paddle

---

Best Paddle for Beginners

5. PCKL Launch Series Pickleball Paddle

One of the things I love most about the PCKL Launch Series Pickleball Paddle is its versatility. It is designed to provide all-around consistency, blending power, control, and feel into one paddle. Perfect for players who are just starting out, and haven’t yet honed their game!

The fiberglass face with a massive sweet-spot is another standout feature. This paddle offers added forgiveness and reduced mishits, allowing for more accurate and controlled shots. The polypropylene honeycomb core further enhances consistency and provides a generous sweet-spot, ensuring that every shot feels solid and satisfying.

Comfort is also a key feature of this paddle. The Comfort Grip is designed to provide maximum cushioning and shock absorption. This not only enhances the overall feel of the paddle but also helps to reduce fatigue during long matches. Additionally, the grip is sweat-resistant, ensuring that your hands stay dry and secure even during intense and sweaty matches.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that the PCKL Launch Series Pickleball Paddle is USA Pickleball approved. With a paddle length of 16 inches and a width of 8 inches, it meets the official size standards. This means that you can confidently use this paddle in official pickleball competitions without any issues.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the PCKL Launch Series Pickleball Paddle. See the PCKL Launch Series Pickleball Paddle

---

Best Color Options

6. Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle

ONIX is known as the leading manufacturer of performance pickleball paddles, and if you’ve spent any time on the courts you have DEFINITELY seen the Z5 paddle in play.

The Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is the most popular paddle in the ONIX line, and I can see why. It has outstanding touch and control, making it the ultimate pickleball racket for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced. This means that no matter where I am in my pickleball journey, I can rely on this paddle to enhance my game.

The tennis handle shape of the Z5 is another feature that I love. It mimics the handle shape of a tennis racket, which not only makes it comfortable to use but also provides great spin and control during play. This ensures that my game is always at its best and allows me to make precise shots with ease. Additionally, each Z5 pickleball paddle is protected with an edge guard, adding durability and longevity to the paddle.

The nomex honeycomb core of the ONIX Z5 paddle is another reason why I love this product. It provides amazing ball control, which is essential for any player looking to improve their game. The medium-weight graphite paddle adds to the perfect balance of the paddle, weighing between 7.5-8.2 ounces.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle. See the Onix Z5 Pickleball Paddle

---

7. CRBN 1 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

I really like the CRBN 1 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle for many reasons. First and foremost, the paddle’s construction using raw T700 carbon fiber face and a honeycomb polypropylene core is a game-changer. The carbon fiber face provides exceptional spin and a large sweet spot, allowing me to put more spin on my shots and have a higher chance of hitting the ball with precision. This aspect alone has significantly improved my overall performance on the court.

The paddle’s weight is also ideal for my playing style. Weighing an average of 8.0 ounces, it offers a perfect balance of stability and maneuverability. This is particularly beneficial when I’m at the net, as it enables me to efficiently block and return hard-hit balls. I feel confident in my shots and can quickly react to fast-paced plays without sacrificing control.

Another standout feature is the paddle’s elongated shape. This design allows for excellent court coverage, enabling me to reach those hard-to-reach shots effortlessly. Additionally, the extra length on the handle is a game-changer for my two-handed backhand drive. It provides secure handling and enhances my overall stroke power and accuracy.

The CRBN 1 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle offers customization options with its 13mm or 16mm core variations. The 13mm core is perfect for players seeking power, while the 16mm core provides a softer feel around the net. This versatility caters to a wide range of playing styles and preferences, ensuring that every player can find their perfect fit.

Lastly, the paddle’s design is sleek and understated. Rather than focusing on elaborate aesthetics, CRBN has prioritized performance, which is precisely what I love about this product. With its minimalist design, the paddle exudes a sense of professionalism and seriousness, setting the stage for competitive play.

To top it off, the inclusion of a Neoprene Paddle Cover with each CRBN Paddle is a great bonus. It adds an extra layer of protection and ensures the longevity of the paddle.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the CRBN 1 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle. See the CRBN 1 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

---

8. XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

The XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle’s innovative use of carbon fiber in the paddle’s face and core sets it apart from other paddles in the industry. This state-of-the-art technology provides optimal ball cushioning, allowing for a comfortable and controlled playing experience. The carbon fiber surface also generates unparalleled ball spin, giving me a competitive edge and allowing me to effortlessly counteract my opponents’ spin.

One of the standout features of this paddle is the XS28 Honeycomb Core. This cutting-edge polypropylene core is designed to deliver consistent speed and a smoother feel. It reduces the amplitude and frequency of vibrational waves, ensuring that every shot feels solid and controlled. Whether I’m executing powerful smashes or delicate dinks, I can rely on the XS28 Honeycomb Core to provide a consistent and reliable performance.

Another reason why I love this paddle is its USAPA approval. It has been rigorously tested and approved by the United States of America Pickleball Association for tournament play at both US and international events. This gives me peace of mind, knowing that I am using a paddle that meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. It’s great to have a paddle that I can confidently use in competitive play.

The superior edge guard on the XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is another feature that I greatly appreciate. It offers high durability, protecting both the hitting surface and the core against damage from the court. Despite its exceptional durability, the edge guard remains slim enough to reduce mishits. This gives me added confidence in my shots, knowing that the paddle is well-protected without compromising on performance.

Lastly, the reactive polypropylene honeycomb core of this paddle adds consistency to every shot. It has been specially tuned for high-level players, ensuring that the bounce and feel are optimized for maximum precision and control. The reduced vibration also enhances the overall playing experience, making every shot feel smooth and effortless.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle. See the XS XSPAK Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

---

9. Paddletek Tempest Wave II Pickleball Paddle

The Tempest Wave II paddle prioritizes precision and speed, making it an ideal choice for intermediate and advanced players. The textured graphite surface allows for easy ball placement, giving players the ability to accurately control the direction and trajectory of each shot.

Another standout feature of this paddle is its power and performance. Designed for professional play, the Tempest Wave II delivers the power needed to win at the highest levels. It features a large, consistent sweet spot that adds finesse to every shot, while the balanced weight increases speed and maneuverability. Whether you’re playing an intense match or trying to outsmart your opponent with strategic shots, this paddle is up to the task.

The Tempest PolyCore technology in this paddle is also worth mentioning. The textured graphite surface not only enhances control, but it also dampens vibrations, reducing the impact on players’ hands and arms. This not only improves comfort during gameplay but also allows for a more consistent and controlled performance.

Finally, the performance grip of the Tempest Wave II adds to its overall appeal. Equipped with an ultra-cushion high track grip and an ⅛” edged shock guard, this paddle ensures a secure and comfortable grip. The grip circumference of 4 1/4” and grip length of 5 1/4” make it suitable for a wide range of adult players.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the Paddletek Tempest Wave II Pickleball Paddle. See the Paddletek Tempest Wave II Pickleball Paddle

---

10. Nicol Pickleball P-One Paddle

The Nicol Pickleball P-One Paddle features an aerodynamic curve with a scientifically designed curvature not only increases swing speed but also reduces drag. This means that players can enjoy greater control and more efficient swings, allowing them to make precise shots with ease. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, this feature can greatly enhance your overall performance on the court.

Another impressive feature of this paddle is its frosted carbon fiber surface. The special textured layering on top of the carbon fiber twill weave paddle face provides improved spin, control, and power. This means that players can deliver powerful shots with greater precision, making it easier to outmaneuver opponents and score points during gameplay.

The elongated paddle face of the Nicol Pickleball P-One Paddle is also worth mentioning. This design provides increased reach for aggressive play, allowing players to cover more ground and make shots from a greater distance. Additionally, the elongated paddle face provides greater leverage for powerful shots, generating more speed and spin on the ball. It’s no wonder that many advanced and professional players prefer this paddle design for its exceptional performance and versatility.

The grip of the Nicol Pickleball P-One Paddle is another feature that stands out. Designed with perforations and anti-slip ridges, it provides a secure and optimal hold during gameplay. The enhanced shock absorption properties of the grip also help to minimize the impact on the hand and wrist, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury. With this paddle, players can maintain a confident and comfortable grip, even during intense matches.

Lastly, the edge armor of the Nicol Pickleball P-One Paddle is made from a durable, high-quality material that is more resistant to wear and tear. This ensures the longevity and durability of the paddle, allowing players to enjoy its exceptional performance for a longer period of time. The edge armor also provides added protection, reducing the risk of chipping or damage, even during intense gameplay.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the Nicol Pickleball P-One Paddle. See the Nicol Pickleball P-One Paddle

---

What to Look For in a Pickleball Paddle

So, you’ve decided to dive into the wonderful world of pickleball paddles, huh? Great choice, my fellow pickleballer! But before you start swinging your way to victory, let’s talk about what you should look for when buying the perfect paddle. Here are my tried and true tips to help you make the best decision.

1. Weight Matters, My Friend

When it comes to pickleball paddles, weight matters. Now, I’m not saying you should worry about losing weight or anything (I mean, who am I to talk?), but the weight of your paddle can greatly impact your game. Lighter paddles offer more maneuverability and control, while heavier ones tend to have more power. The choice here ultimately boils down to your play style and preferences. So, pick a paddle weight that feels like an extension of your arm, allowing you to gracefully dominate the court without straining your biceps.

2. Grip It and Rip It

No, I’m not talking about your favorite potato chip brand’s tagline. I’m talking about the grip on your pickleball paddle. Trust me when I say that a solid grip is the key to maintaining control and avoiding paddle slippage mid-swing. Look for a paddle with a grip that feels comfortable and secure in your hand. Overgrips can also come in handy if you want to customize the paddle to fit your unique playing style or if you’re just a sucker for fun patterns.

3. Material Matters, Too

Pickleball paddles come in various materials, each with its own pros and cons. The most common ones you’ll come across are graphite, composite, and wood. Graphite paddles are lightweight and offer excellent control, while composite paddles combine different materials for a balance of power and control. Wood paddles, on the other hand, are the OGs of pickleball and provide a classic, satisfying feel. When choosing the material, consider your skill level, playing style, and budget. Remember, my friend, the right material can make all the difference on the court!

4. Budget-Friendly Options Exist

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: pickleball paddles can be pricey. But fear not, my fellow pickleballer on a budget! There are plenty of affordable options out there that still pack a punch. Sure, they might lack some of the fancy bells and whistles, but don’t let that discourage you. As long as the paddle meets your basic requirements and feels comfortable in your hands, it can be a game-changer. So, shop within your means and know that a pickleball paddle doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg (unless you’re playing really intense pickleball, then be prepared for a few bumps and bruises).

Conclusion

Well, my pickleball-loving amigos, we’ve reached the end of this roundup review. Remember, finding the perfect pickleball paddle is a lot like finding your soulmate (okay, maybe not that dramatic, but you get my point). It’s about finding the one that feels right, supports your playing style, and doesn’t break the bank. So, use the knowledge I’ve shared with you, do some research, and get ready to smash those pickleballs with style and finesse! Happy pickleballing!

Back to Our Top Pickleball Paddle Picks for 2023 or Shop Our Top Choice: Niupipo Voyager Pro Pickleball Paddle