Pickleball has become increasingly popular.
It’s a game that’s easy for beginners to pick up, and players can quickly enhance their skills.
With the growing interest in pickleball, hundreds of companies have entered the market, each claiming to have paddles with innovative technology that can improve your game.
However, you don’t need a paddle made of advanced materials created by aerospace engineers. In reality, you may not even require an expensive paddle.
Think of pickleball paddles like basketball shoes: Just as the most expensive pair won’t make you jump like LeBron James, buying a premium paddle won’t instantly make you play like a pro.
We conducted tests on eight paddles to determine the top choice for someone seeking their first high-quality paddle. After evaluating factors such as grip, power, weight, and control, we recommend the Paddletek Bantam EX-L.
Our recommendation
This paddle excels whether you’re delivering soft, short shots near the net or powerful strokes from the baseline, making most shots feel accurate and effortless.
The Paddletek Bantam EX-L has remained a top choice due to its blend of power and control.
It caters to aggressive players seeking to enhance their finesse without compromising power.
Moreover, it suits precision-oriented players looking to add some extra pop to their shots.
The Bantam EX-L is well-balanced and a solid choice for practicing advanced techniques such as adding spin.
Also a great option
This lightweight paddle is easy to maneuver and control, although the short handle may make mastering other shots more challenging.
The Engage Encore Pro paddle’s broad head aids in ball placement, and it offers superior control compared to many other models we tested. While slightly lighter than our top pick, it still delivers significant power.
However, despite the handle being labeled as 5 inches long (the same as our top pick), some testers felt it played as if it were shorter.
Budget-friendly option
This set of lightweight, comfortable paddles is ideal for beginners and can quickly elevate your game.
Although we didn’t test these Panel Sound paddles with our panel, this set has endured two summers of casual play and is USA Pickleball certified, indicating suitability for competitive play.
We recommend this set for complete novices who may play occasionally or wish to have a reliable set for social gatherings without making a hefty investment in a premium paddle.
