Pickleball is a sport that is gaining popularity among all age groups, especially beginners. It is a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong and requires a paddle to play. Here are the Top 4 Pickleball Paddles for Beginners. If you are a beginner and looking for the right pickleball paddle, there are a few things you should consider.The most important factor to consider when buying a pickleball paddle is its weight. As a beginner, you should look for a lightweight paddle that is easy to maneuver. A heavy paddle can cause arm fatigue and affect your gameplay. Another factor to consider is the grip size of the paddle. A grip that is too small or too big can cause discomfort and affect your performance.We spent hours researching and testing various pickleball paddles to identify the top 5 paddles that are perfect for beginners. These paddles are lightweight, have the right grip size, and are designed to help you improve your gameplay. In the next section, we will discuss each paddle in detail and help you choose the right one for your needs.
Top 4 Pickleball Paddles for Beginners
Pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that has been gaining popularity in recent years. As a beginner, choosing the right paddle is crucial to your success on the court. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 pickleball paddles for beginners. Each of these paddles has been carefully selected based on their performance, durability, and affordability. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your gear, these paddles are sure to help you improve your game.
ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
If you’re a beginner looking for a reliable pickleball paddle, the ONIX Graphite Z5 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The graphite face provides excellent touch and ball control, making it perfect for beginner players.
- The widebody shape and 4-1/4″ grip size make it comfortable and easy to handle.
- The paddle is USA Pickleball approved and comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
Cons
- Some players may find the medium-weight (7.5-8.2 oz) to be slightly heavier than they prefer.
- The paddle may not be as durable as some higher-end models.
- The pink color may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
The ONIX Graphite Z5 is a popular choice among beginner pickleball players for good reason. The graphite face provides excellent touch and ball control, while the widebody shape and 4-1/4″ grip size make it comfortable and easy to handle. Additionally, the paddle is USA Pickleball approved and comes with a 1-year limited warranty.However, some players may find the medium-weight (7.5-8.2 oz) to be slightly heavier than they prefer, and the paddle may not be as durable as some higher-end models. Additionally, while the pink color may be a plus for some, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea.Overall, if you’re a beginner looking for a reliable and affordable pickleball paddle, the ONIX Graphite Z5 is definitely worth considering.
SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
If you’re a beginner looking for a lightweight pickleball paddle with a large sweet spot, the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles are a great option.
Pros
- The multilayer face technology provides a good balance of power and control.
- The SX3 honeycomb core absorbs the hit and softens the feel, making it comfortable to play with.
- The ultra-cushion grip is designed for comfort and absorbs both perspiration and impacts.
Cons
- The paddles are on the lighter side, which may not be suitable for players who prefer heavier paddles.
- The grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
- The carry bag may not be durable enough for frequent use.
The SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles feature a multilayer face that combines the power of graphite with the control of fiberglass, providing a good balance of power and control. The SX3 honeycomb core absorbs the hit and softens the feel, making it comfortable to play with. The ultra-cushion grip is designed for comfort and absorbs both perspiration and impacts, allowing you to play without fatigue after long gameplay intervals.One downside of the paddles is their lighter weight, which may not be suitable for players who prefer heavier paddles. Additionally, the grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands. Lastly, the carry bag may not be durable enough for frequent use.Overall, if you’re a beginner looking for a lightweight pickleball paddle with a large sweet spot, the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles are a great option.
Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set
If you’re a beginner looking for a good pickleball paddle set, then the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set is a great option.
Pros
- USAPA approved for sanctioned tournament play
- Improved strength by the honeycomb core
- Ideal balance with graphite carbon fiber
Cons
- Some may find the grip too small
- Not the most durable option
- Some may prefer a heavier paddle
This pickleball paddle set is made of high-quality graphite and honeycomb composition that provides an ideal level of strength and stiffness. It is lightweight and has a widebody shape with a 4.8-inch grip length and 4.25-inch grip circumference, making it comfortable to handle. The perforated, sweat-absorbent, and cushioned grip allows for better paddle control and less fatigue during long play sessions.The Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set is USAPA-approved for sanctioned tournament play, so you can use it in any competition. The honeycomb core of the paddle provides improved strength and energy to spin the balls, making it perfect for beginners to intermediate players. The graphite carbon fiber face and composition provide an ideal balance of control and power hitting, making your shots more accurate.One downside of this pickleball paddle set is that some may find the grip too small, which can make it difficult to hold during gameplay. Additionally, it may not be the most durable option, so you may need to replace it sooner than other models. Lastly, some players may prefer a heavier paddle, which this set is not.Overall, the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set is a great option for beginners looking for a high-quality, lightweight, and comfortable paddle set that is USAPA-approved for sanctioned tournament play.
JoncAye Pickleball-Paddles-Set-of-4
This is a great beginner’s pickleball set that comes with everything you need to get started and enjoy the game with your family and friends.
Pros
- Lightweight paddles that are easy to swing and control.
- Large sweet spot that helps reduce mishits.
- Comes with a pickleball bag and 4 overgrips for replacement.
Cons
- Only comes with 2 outdoor and 2 indoor balls.
- Some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more power.
- The grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
If you’re looking for a complete pickleball set that’s perfect for beginners, the JoncAye Pickleball-Paddles-Set-of-4 is a great option. The paddles are made of top-grade fiberglass, which makes them lightweight and easy to control. The large sweet spot helps reduce mishits, which is especially helpful for beginners. The set comes with a pickleball bag and 4 overgrips for replacement, which is a great value. However, the set only comes with 2 outdoor and 2 indoor balls, so you may need to purchase more if you plan on playing frequently. Some players may also prefer a heavier paddle for more power. Additionally, the grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands. Overall, this is a great starter set that provides everything you need to get started with pickleball.
Buying Guide
When looking for a pickleball paddle, beginners should consider several factors before making a purchase. Here are some key features to keep in mind:
Weight
The weight of a pickleball paddle is an important factor to consider. A lighter paddle is easier to maneuver and control, making it a good choice for beginners. However, a heavier paddle can provide more power and stability, which may be beneficial for some players. It’s important to find a weight that feels comfortable and easy to handle.
Grip Size
The grip size of a pickleball paddle is another important consideration. A grip that is too small can cause discomfort and affect your ability to control the paddle. A grip that is too large can also be uncomfortable and make it difficult to maneuver the paddle. It’s important to find a grip size that feels comfortable and allows you to maintain a secure hold on the paddle.
Material
The material of a pickleball paddle can affect its performance and durability. Common materials include wood, composite, and graphite. Wood paddles are typically less expensive but may not last as long as composite or graphite paddles. Composite paddles offer a good balance of durability and performance, while graphite paddles are lightweight and offer excellent control. It’s important to choose a material that meets your needs and fits your budget.
Shape
The shape of a pickleball paddle can also affect its performance. Paddles with a wider surface area offer more control and a larger sweet spot, while narrower paddles offer more power and speed. It’s important to choose a shape that fits your playing style and skill level.
Price
Price is also an important consideration when choosing a pickleball paddle. While it’s important to choose a paddle that meets your needs, it’s also important to stay within your budget. There are many affordable options available for beginners, but it’s important to choose a paddle that offers good value for the price.In summary, when choosing a pickleball paddle, beginners should consider the weight, grip size, material, shape, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can find a paddle that meets your needs and helps you improve your game.
FAQ
1. What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, played on a rectangular court with a net in the middle. It requires a paddle and a perforated plastic ball and can be played as singles or doubles by players of all ages and skill levels.
2. What factors should I consider when choosing a pickleball paddle as a beginner?
As a beginner, there are a few crucial factors to consider when selecting a pickleball paddle. Firstly, opt for a lightweight paddle that is easy to maneuver, as a heavy paddle may cause arm fatigue and hinder gameplay. Additionally, choose a grip size that comfortably fits your hand, as a poorly-sized grip can lead to discomfort and affect performance.
3. What are the top 5 pickleball paddles for beginners in 2023?
The top 4 pickleball paddles for beginners in 2023, based on their performance, durability, and affordability, are:
- ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
- SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
- Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set
- JoncAye Pickleball-Paddles-Set-of-4
4. Can I use a tennis racket or other paddles for pickleball?
While it is possible to use a tennis racket or other paddles for pickleball, it is not recommended. Pickleball paddles are designed specifically for the sport, offering unique features that optimize performance, control, and ball response. Using other paddles may result in less accurate shots and a less enjoyable experience.
Recommended Pickleball Paddle: ONIX Graphite Z5
Amongst the five featured paddles, the ONIX Graphite Z5 stands out as the best choice for beginners. Its graphite face provides excellent touch and ball control, making it perfect for players just starting in the game. The widebody shape and 4-1/4″ grip size ensure comfort and ease of handling, helping beginners adapt quickly to their gameplay. Additionally, the ONIX Graphite Z5 is USA Pickleball approved and comes with a 1-year limited warranty, providing added peace of mind. Although some players may find the medium-weight slightly heavier than their preference, the advantages in control and touch more than compensate for it. As a reliable and affordable option, the ONIX Graphite Z5 is an excellent investment for any beginner looking to improve their pickleball skills.
