The Best Pickleball Paddles in 2025, Explained Simply
Looking for the best pickleball paddle? We tested the top models across all styles so you don’t have to guess.
Updated May 2025
What Makes a Great Pickleball Paddle?
The right paddle should match how you play, and make your game better. Here’s what to look for:
Core Materials: Polymer (aka honeycomb) is the standard for control and feel. Nomex is firmer and louder. Aluminum is lightweight but less common nowadays.
Surface: Raw carbon fiber is now the go to for spin and control. Fiberglass adds pop but can be harder to control. Some advanced paddles use hybrid weaves or triaxial carbon for balance.
Weight: Light paddles (7.2–7.6 oz) feel faster and are easier on joints. Midweight (7.8–8.4 oz) gives you a balanced blend. Heavier paddles (8.5+ oz) bring power but can wear you down.
Shape, Grip, and Sweet Spot: Elongated shapes = more reach. Wide-body = forgiveness. Longer handles = room for two-handed shots. And a larger sweet spot makes everything easier.
USAPA Approved: If you’re playing tournaments, make sure the paddle is USAPA-legal. Most paddles here are.
👉 Want a shortcut? Check out the best pickleball paddles for spin, beginners, and intermediate players.
Best Pickleball Paddles by Category
🏆 Best Overall Paddle – JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV
- ✅ Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) + Charged Carbon Fiber for elite spin
- ✅ Available in 14mm (pop) or 16mm (control)
- ✅ Comfortable grip and huge sweet spot
- ❌ Expensive — not for casuals
This is JOOLA’s flagship paddle and it lives up to the hype. Built with the pro in mind (literally — it’s Ben Johns’ paddle), the Perseus Pro IV delivers serious power, precision, and spin. It’s a paddle you can grow into — or dominate with now.
🔁 Best Paddle for Spin – CRBN 1X / 2X Series
- ✅ Raw T700 Carbon Fiber face for max grip
- ✅ Comes in elongated (1X) or widebody (2X) shapes
- ✅ Thick core = control, pop, spin
- ❌ Raw feel may be harsh for beginners
CRBN continues to crush it in the spin category. Whether you prefer a longer shape for power or wider for forgiveness, both 1X and 2X deliver deadly spin with strong baseline play and soft resets. If you value control + grit, this is your paddle.
→ Want more spin paddles? Check our full Spin Guide.
👶 Best Beginner Paddle – Selkirk SLK Halo Max
- ✅ Raw carbon face at an accessible price
- ✅ Comes in Power (13mm) or Control (16mm) core
- ✅ Big sweet spot, soft feel, trusted brand
- ❌ Less explosive than pro models
This is the easiest raw carbon paddle to recommend for new players. You still get modern tech and performance, but without the stiffness or high price. If you’re just learning, it’s the perfect upgrade paddle.
→ Want more beginner picks? Check our Beginner Guide.
⚡ Best Paddle for Intermediate Players – Six Zero Double Black Diamond
- ✅ Raw Toray carbon face with great spin + feel
- ✅ Thermoformed, soft 16mm core for control
- ✅ Edgeless design = fast hands + big sweet spot
- ❌ Edgeless paddles can get scuffed easily
Six Zero’s DBD hits that perfect mid-tier sweet spot — it plays like a premium paddle, but feels smooth and controlled even for non-pros. It’s especially great for players transitioning out of starter paddles and looking to level up their soft game.
→ Want more intermediate picks? Check our Intermediate Guide.
💸 Best Budget Paddle (Under $100) – Vatic Pro Prism Flash
- ✅ Raw Toray T700 face for elite spin at a low price
- ✅ Comes in 14mm or 16mm core thickness
- ✅ Plays like a $180 paddle
- ❌ Smaller sweet spot than top-tier models
This paddle’s been called “the best value in carbon paddles” — and for good reason. It delivers performance that rivals high-end brands for under $100. If you’re on a budget but still want legit spin and touch, this one’s a no-brainer.
👨👩👧👦 Best Paddle Set (Family or Doubles) – Diadem Edge 18K Power Max
- ✅ Triaxial carbon fiber surface = crazy spin
- ✅ Wide-body design with a large, forgiving sweet spot
- ✅ Plush 16mm core and consistent feel
- ❌ Wide shape isn’t the fastest in hand
While it’s not technically a set, this paddle is a great option for families or casual players sharing gear. It’s easy to swing, has a huge sweet spot, and makes drop shots feel effortless — all while offering top tier spin and durability.
Paddle Recommendations by Player Type
Beginners: Look for paddles with a large sweet spot, soft feel, and good forgiveness. Avoid stiff, pop-heavy paddles at first.
Intermediates: Choose based on how you’re evolving — if you want better control, go 16mm. If you want more drive, try 14mm or thermoformed.
Power Players: You’ll want raw carbon or carbon-hybrid paddles with a firm core and elongated shape for extra drive.
Spin-Focused Players: Prioritize raw carbon fiber faces, textured surfaces, and thicker cores to maximize grip and dwell time.
Budget Buyers: Raw carbon is more accessible than ever. You can now find great paddles under $100 without major sacrifice.
How to Choose YOUR Ideal Paddle
Ask yourself:
- Do you play singles or doubles more? (Singles = power. Doubles = touch.)
- Are you winning with placement or speed? (Placement = thicker core. Speed = thinner core.)
- Do you want to grow into one paddle or plan to upgrade later?
If you’re not sure, pick something versatile. Midweight, raw carbon face, and around 16mm thickness is a great starting point for most.