Best Fiberglass Face Pickleball Paddles — Pop & Easy Power (2025)
Updated September 2025
Pickleball has officially gone carbon crazy. Everywhere you look it’s “raw carbon,” “thermoformed edges,” and “gritty spin.” But here’s the thing: fiberglass isn’t dead. In fact, it still shines in one very important area, easy power.
If you’ve ever wished your paddle gave you a little more pop without needing a perfect swing, a fiberglass paddle might be exactly what you need. They’ve got that trampoline effect, they’re usually more forgiving on mishits, and they’re often friendlier on the wallet.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best fiberglass pickleball paddles of 2025, why fiberglass still matters in the carbon era, and how to get the most out of your paddle without burning it out too fast.
Fiberglass vs. Carbon — What’s the Real Difference?
Let’s keep it simple:
- Fiberglass = pop and forgiveness. The face flexes more, giving you an instant boost in power. The sweet spot tends to feel wider, and mishits aren’t as punishing.
- Carbon = spin and precision. Carbon faces grip the ball better, which creates more spin, control, and consistency in fast rallies.
The only trade off here is that fiberglass faces don’t always last as long as raw carbon when you’re grinding five matches a week. They can wear faster, but if you’re a casual player, or you just want the satisfaction of effortless drives, fiberglass can feel like cheating (in the best way).
Best Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles of 2025
Here are the standouts this year, some timeless classics, some modern hybrids, all delivering that signature fiberglass pop.
#1 Best Overall — ONIX Z5 Composite
ONIX Z5 Composite
- Why It’s Here: The ONIX Z5 Composite is basically the godfather of fiberglass paddles. It’s been around forever, and you’ll still see it on courts all across the country. The combination of a fiberglass face and Nomex honeycomb core gives it a loud, punchy feel. You don’t finesse with this thing, you swing, and it delivers.
- Specs:
- Weight: ~8.0oz+
- Fiberglass face
- Nomex honeycomb core
Selkirk SLK Evo Hybrid
- Why It’s Here: Selkirk brought fiberglass into the modern age with the SLK Evo Hybrid. It pairs a composite fiberglass face with a softer polymer core, creating a paddle that feels forgiving but still packs a poppy punch. It’s often marketed to newer players, but plenty of seasoned rec players love the comfort.
- Specs:
- Weight: 7.6–8.0oz
- Fiberglass composite face
- Polymer Rev-Core+
HEAD Radical Elite
- Why It’s Here: If fiberglass paddles had a “loud personality,” the HEAD Radical Elite would be it. This paddle gives you instant, booming contact, and it’s dressed up in bold colors that match its vibe. It’s not the most advanced paddle on the list, but it’s affordable and it works.
- Specs:
- Weight: ~8.1oz
- Fiberglass face
- Polypropylene honeycomb core
Gamma Micron 5.0
- Why It’s Here: Gamma put their handle and grip tech into a fiberglass build with the Micron 2.0. Unlike some older fiberglass paddles that feel clunky, this one is lighter and balanced. The face still gives you that trampoline effect, but the design feels smoother overall.
- Specs:
- Weight: ~7.9oz
- Fiberglass face
- Composite core
Paddletek Phoenix Genesis Composite
- Why It’s Here: Paddletek makes premium paddles, and the Phoenix Genesis Composite is their fiberglass offering. It feels sturdier than most budget fiberglass models, so you get more life out of it. It doesn’t hit as hard as an ONIX Z5, but it gives you a nice balance of power and refinement.
- Specs:
- Weight: 7.8–8.1oz
- Fiberglass face
- Polymer honeycomb core
Tips for Playing with Fiberglass
If you’ve never used a fiberglass paddle, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Let the paddle do the work. You don’t need to swing out of your shoes, the face gives you extra pop.
- Play for placement. Fiberglass adds power, but if you over muscle, your shots may sail.
- Rotate if you’re a grinder. If you’re on the court four or five times a week, consider alternating with a carbon paddle for durability.
- Protect it. Edge guards, paddle covers, and a quick wipe after play can extend the life of a fiberglass face.
Final Thoughts: Pop, Fun, and Forgiveness
Fiberglass paddles might not dominate headlines like raw carbon, but they still give players what most people actually want, easy power, a big sweet spot, and a fun, forgiving feel.
If you want a modern option that’s beginner friendly, grab the Selkirk SLK Evo Hybrid. If you want the classic “hit hard, hear it pop” paddle, the ONIX Z5 Composite is still a legend. And if you want fiberglass feel in a longer-lasting package, the Paddletek Phoenix Genesis Composite is a smart pick.
At the end of the day, pickleball should be fun, and fiberglass paddles deliver exactly that.
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FAQ
Are fiberglass pickleball paddles good for beginners?
Yes. They’re forgiving, powerful, and often cheaper, making them a perfect entry point.
Do fiberglass paddles break faster?
They can wear quicker with daily use, especially under competitive play. But for rec players, they can last years.
Which is better: fiberglass or carbon?
Neither is “better.” Fiberglass = pop and forgiveness. Carbon = spin and control. It comes down to playstyle.
Are fiberglass paddles powerful?
Definitely. Fiberglass has a trampoline like effect, giving your shots more punch with less effort.
Why are carbon paddles more popular now?
Competitive players chase spin and precision, which carbon delivers. But fiberglass is still loved for pure fun and lively contact.
