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With pickleball becoming increasingly popular, it is important to have the right equipment. As technology continues to advance, having the best paddle can make a huge difference in your game. In this article, we will go over the top pickleball paddles of 2023 and what makes them stand out from the rest. We'll discuss their features, materials used in construction, and overall performance. With all of this information you'll be sure to find the perfect paddle for your playing style.
So lets get started
First off our number 1 recommendation is the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16. Now if you want more details about our top pick and the rest on this list read on!
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 is a high-performance pickleball paddle designed for advanced players, developed in partnership with world #1 pickleball player Ben Johns. It features a composite fiberglass surface that provides optimal control and power, while its carbon fiber structure increases stability and durability. It has a medium weight of 7.7 oz and a CFS (Control Flex System) technology that provides excellent touch and control. The Hyperion CFS 16 also features a unique head curvature that creates less drag and increases swing speed, a specialized foam called Hyperfoam Edge Wall that adds weight and stability to the paddle and makes it easier to keep the ball in play. Additionally, JOOLA has a swift version of the paddle, which is designed for aggressive and offensive players who enjoy faster shots. The swift version of the paddle is designed with JOOLA's Swift technology, which makes the paddle faster in hand and your shots stronger than ever.
The Engage Pursuit EX 6.0 is a great pickleball paddle for anyone looking for a combination of control and power. This paddle features a proprietary graphite skin and Control Pro "Black" technology core for impressive performance. The weight range for this paddle is between 7.5-8.3 oz, so you can pick the weight that best suits your playing style. This paddle is also designed for a comfortable grip, so you can enjoy playing for longer periods of time. With the Engage Pursuit EX 6.0, you can expect increased control and power as compared to other paddles in its class.
The Electrum Pro 2 pickleball paddle is an excellent choice for experienced players looking for power and control. It features an 11mm full-cell polymer core, 8-inch paddle width, 16-inch paddle length, and a 5 1/4-inch grip length. The grip circumference measures 4 1/4 inches. The paddle is lightweight and well-balanced, making it great for long, powerful shots. It also has good spin potential and control, allowing you to make accurate shots with precision. The Pro 2 comes with a free Electrum Pro II paddle cover, making it a great value. If you're looking for a powerful and reliable paddle, the Electrum Pro 2 should be at the top of your list.
The JOOLA Solaire CFS 14 Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for those who prefer a standard shaped paddle. The paddle features JOOLA's unique Swift technology to give players supreme speed through the air, allowing for sharp hands at the net. It also features a HyperFoam Edge Wall, which increases paddle stability, combined with a Reactive Polymer Core. The paddle is 16 inches in length and 8 inches in width with a 14mm thickness and a 5.5 inch grip length. This paddle is a great choice for players looking for a combination of power and control.
The PROLITE Bolt Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line option for pickleball players. Made with carbon fiber, this paddle is lightweight and easy to control, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced players. The tacky carbon-fiber textured surface allows for powerful hits and the paddle length (15 1/2) and width (7 3/4) provides more forgiveness on miss hits. This paddle is perfect for aggressive gameplay and comes at an affordable price point. With its combination of power and control, the PROLITE Bolt is a great entry level paddle
The Prince Response Pickleball Paddle is a high-quality option for players looking for a balance of control and power. With a thick core surface and aesthetically pleasing design, this paddle offers exceptional control of the ball. The price is also affordable compared to the Pro version. However, some users report that the handle may be too thin for some players' comfort.
The Diadem Warrior Edge is an excellent pickleball paddle that stands out from the competition. It features a 16mm thick core which is thicker than most paddles, but still slim and maneuverable. It is well balanced and moves easily in your hands, allowing for powerful shots and precise control. The unique Aero edge guard and molded handle provide great grip and stability, and the etched carbon fiber surface ensures maximum spin and power. The paddle is perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. Overall, the Diadem Warrior Edge is an exceptional paddle that will give you an edge on the court.
The Electrum Model E is the second cutting-edge creation from Silicon Valley, featuring excellent durability and balanced construction. It is the go-to paddle for many pros on the PPA and MLP tours. This paddle features an elongated shape and a 16mm core that allows for excellent touch and extended reach at the kitchen. The Model E features a RAW Toray T700 carbon fiber to provide a gritty face surface for excellent spin. The core is made from a single cell of polypropylene honeycomb, providing a large sweet spot and consistency in feel across the paddle. The handle features a moisture resistant genuine leather grip for comfort and feel.
The Diadem Icon is now the best of the best when it comes to molded paddles. You get the firm feeling of a molded paddle, but you also feel the surface of the ball in a way that no other 12mm molded paddle can. It is a great all-court paddle that can be used to attack and defend drives with brute force or to take the game to your opponent with pinpoint accuracy.
The Engage Pursuit MX is a top-of-the-line pickleball paddle that offers a unique blend of power and control. The carbon fiber surface and proprietary graphite skin provide plenty of pop and power on shots, while the black core and foam edgewall technology offer stability and a large sweet spot. The generous 5-3/4 handle is comfortable and allows for double-handed backhands. The paddle is well-balanced for both attacking and control play. However, it is on the heavier side and may not be suitable for all players, and its price point may be higher than some other options on the market. It may take some time to adjust to the extra power and pop on shots if you are not used to it.
The Onix Graphite Z5 is a great pickleball paddle for players of all skill levels. It boasts excellent touch and ball control thanks to its graphite face and Nomex honeycomb core. The wide-body shape provides a large sweet spot for more consistent play, and the paddle handle mimics the shape of a table tennis racquet for added comfort. It's well-balanced in the hand and its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver on the court. The Onix Graphite Z5 is a great choice for players looking for superior control and performance.
The Selkirk Vanguard 2.0 S2 Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line pickleball paddle designed for both experienced and novice players. It features a low-profile, lightweight and durable edge guard technology for a well-balanced, solid paddle. The handle length is 4-1/2" with a medium 4-1/4" circumference, wrapped in Selkirk's moisture-absorbing Geo Grip. This paddle is also equipped with a unique bi-directional, cross-weave carbon fiber technology, providing ultimate consistency, accelerated ball velocity, an extra large sweet spot, and superior spin and power. The broad face of the S2 model gives it the perfect combination of power and control, making it an ideal paddle for all skill levels. With its cutting-edge design and superior performance, the Selkirk Vanguard 2.0 S2 Pickleball Paddle is a must-have for any pickleball enthusiast.
The Selkirk SLK Halo XL Pickleball Paddle is designed to help players dominate on the court, with an elongated shape and handle for increased reach and spin. It features a T700 Raw Carbon Fiber face, a Rev-Core Power Polymer Core, and an SLK Faux Leather Grip. The paddle weighs between 7.6-8.2 ounces and has a handle length of 5.75 inches and a paddle length of 16.4 inches.
If you're just starting out, I highly recommend the SLK Evo Hybrid & Soft. It is lightweight, soft, and comfortable Therefore, it is ideal for beginners who wish to get a head start on their play without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, it is a tough paddle, allowing you to use it repeatedly over many years. The SLK Evo Hybrid & Soft is ideal for golfers players who desire a large sweet spot and a thicker core. The SLK Rev-Soft Core technology absorbs impact to provide players a softer feel while still delivering the necessary court power.
GRUVN's RAW-16H (Hybrid shape) is a high-quality, mid-weight pickleball paddle featuring a premium T700 raw carbon fiber surface and a dynamic, hybrid shape that is approved by USA Pickleball (USAPA) for tournament play. Raw carbon fiber paddles provide a grainy textured surface that allows for a lot of spin and enhances control. The combination of this paddle’s raw surface and the thick 16mm core results in a strong, stable paddle with consistent and accurate shots and more control.
The CRBN 2 16 mm Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for players looking for a reliable paddle that offers good spin and control. The paddle features a T700 carbon fiber face and a polypropylene honeycomb core, which combine to provide an impressive level of spin and control. The paddle is 15.75" long, 8" wide, 16 mm thick, and weighs 7.8-8.1 oz. The handle length is 5.25�, and the handle grip circumference is 4.25". The paddle is USAP approved for tournament play, making it a great choice for competitive players. The CRBN 2 16 mm Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for players who want a reliable paddle that offers good spin and control.
The Selkirk Amped Epic X5 FiberFlex Paddle is the perfect choice for players of all levels. It combines a state-of-the-art FiberFlex Fiberglass face with a thicker Polypropylene X5 Core providing optimal ball cushioning, creating a powerful and balanced paddle. This paddle is lightweight, with a weight range of 7.3-7.8 oz, and comes with a comfortable grip to ensure maximum control. With its bold new graphics, this paddle is sure to make a statement on the court. The Amped Epic X5 FiberFlex Paddle is the ultimate choice for enhancing your game.
A pickleball paddle is made up of several key components that can affect its performance. The following are some of the essential elements to consider when selecting a paddle.
Pickleball paddles are commonly made of four materials: wood, composite, graphite, and aluminum. You could go for a wooden paddle, but unless you're planning on using it as firewood, we don't recommend it. Composite paddles are a popular choice and won't break the bank.
Graphite paddles are for the fancier pickleball players who want to generate the most spin, while aluminum paddles are for those who like to pretend they're playing with a frying pan. We won't judge.
The weight of a paddle is another critical factor to consider when selecting a pickleball paddle. Paddles can weigh anywhere from 6 to 14 ounces, with most players opting for a paddle in the 7 to 9-ounce range. A lighter paddle can provide better control and maneuverability, while a heavier paddle can provide more power.
A comfortable and secure grip is essential for a good pickleball paddle. The grip should be comfortable and provide a non-slip surface. There are two types of grips to consider: cushioned and perforated. Cushioned grips provide a softer, more comfortable grip, while perforated grips allow for more ventilation, reducing sweating.
The shape and size of a pickleball paddle can also impact its performance. Most paddles are oval-shaped, with some having a more teardrop shape. The standard size of a paddle is 8 inches wide by 15.75 inches long. A smaller paddle may provide better control, while a larger paddle can provide more surface area to hit the ball.
The sweet spot is the area on the paddle that provides the most power and control when hitting the ball. The size and location of the sweet spot can vary from paddle to paddle. It's essential to find a paddle with a sweet spot that matches your playing style.
There are several factors to consider when selecting a pickleball paddle that meets your needs. Here are some essential considerations.
Your skill level can impact the type of pickleball paddle you need. Beginners may prefer a heavier paddle with a larger sweet spot, while advanced players may prefer a lighter paddle with a smaller sweet spot.
Your playing style can also impact the type of paddle you need. Players who prefer a more defensive playing style may opt for a lighter paddle with better maneuverability, while those who prefer an aggressive playing style may choose a heavier paddle with more power.
Pickleball paddles can range in price from less than $20 to over $200. It's important to consider your budget when selecting a paddle, but keep in mind that the most expensive option may not always be the best choice for you.
Your personal preferences can also play a role in selecting a pickleball paddle. Consider factors such as color, brand, and paddle design when making your selection.
There are several common mistakes that people make when selecting a pickleball paddle. Avoiding these mistakes can help you select the best paddle for your needs.
Price is an essential consideration when selecting a pickleball paddle, but it should not be the only factor. It's important to consider the other factors we have discussed to ensure that you get a paddle that meets your needs.
Brand recognition can be a powerful influence when selecting a pickleball paddle, but it's not always the best way to choose. It's important to consider the paddle's features and how they match your needs instead of just relying on a brand name.
The weight of a pickleball paddle can impact your performance, so it's essential to consider this factor when selecting a paddle. Make sure you select a paddle that feels comfortable and provides the level of control and power that you need.
In conclusion, the best pickleball paddles in 2023 offer a great combination of performance, comfort and value. Top quality paddles combine advanced technology with comfortable handles and weight distribution that suits your playing style. The best pickleball paddle for you will depend on your budget, level of play and preferences. With the right paddle in hand, the game of pickleball can be taken to a whole new level!
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