Best Pickleball Paddles 2025: As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, many players—both new and experienced—are looking for the best equipment to improve their game. Fitness experts and professional players have shared their top picks for the best pickleball paddles in 2025, all approved by USA Pickleball.
Why Pickleball Paddles Matter
Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that blends tennis, ping pong, and badminton. Players need a paddle to play. It’s smaller than a tennis racket, larger than a ping pong paddle, and used with a light plastic ball. The right paddle can boost control, power, and comfort on the court.
Kollins Ezekh, a certified personal trainer and life coach, says, “[Pickleball] is competitive, social, and a great workout that’s easier on the joints than something like tennis or basketball.”
Top Paddles to Try in 2025
Selkirk Sport Amped Control Pickleball Paddle
This paddle is great for players at all levels. It has the largest sweet spot in the Selkirk line, making it easier to hit strong and controlled shots. Both Tyson McGuffin and Catherine Parenteau, professional players and Skechers Pickleball Athletes, use Selkirk paddles.
Budget-Friendly Set for New Players
For beginners who want value, a two-paddle set with balls, tape, and a case is a top choice. It has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon and includes many features of high-end paddles, such as a cushioned grip and edge guard.
Joola Essentials Performance Paddle
This paddle is designed for new players. Jim White, R.D.N., ACSM EX-P, and owner of Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios, recommends Joola for all levels. He says, “Beginners should start with a recreation paddle because they are cheaper, lighter, easier to control, and more forgiving with a larger hitting zone.”
Selkirk Sport Vanguard Power Air Invikta Paddle
This paddle is built for strong players. Kollins Ezekh says, “This paddle has a perfect mix of power and control. It’s super lightweight, and the sweet spot feels massive—especially when I’m trying to be aggressive at the net. I’ve tried others, but this one gives me the most confidence mid-rally.”
Vatic Pro Prism Flash Paddle
Made with foam-injected walls, this paddle helps with shot placement and reset control. It offers a soft yet powerful feel with an elongated handle for better grip and comfort.
Head Radical Elite Paddle
Ideal for intermediate players, this paddle has a larger sweet spot for added power. It’s built with a fiberglass surface and ergonomic foam handle to help players grow their skills.
Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 Paddle
Designed with Ben Johns, the world’s top pickleball player, this paddle provides a good mix of power and control. Its curved head boosts swing speed, and the large sweet spot adds power. The anti-slip grip ensures comfort during play.
Franklin Sports Pro Paddle
Lightweight and built for serious play, this paddle has a textured surface for spin and vibration control. It comes in two core sizes and allows for two-handed shots thanks to its long handle.
Friday Pickleball Paddle
Suitable for all levels, this paddle features a carbon fiber surface and foam-injected sides. It has a large sweet spot for better control and spin. Its sleek design comes in many fun colors and patterns.
Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV Paddle
This high-end paddle is another design by Ben Johns. Jim White recommends it for advanced players. It features TechFlex Power tech, flexible design, and strong weight balance. “Everyone is different, so try as many paddles as you can to see what you like and what works for you,” says Catherine Parenteau.
What to Know Before Buying
Experts say picking the right paddle depends on your skill and comfort.
Tyson McGuffin says, “More experienced players may want to try something that has more power, spin, a small hit zone, and maybe is a little tougher to play with.”
“If you’re a beginner, you should start with a paddle that’s marked as a recreation paddle because they are cheaper, lighter, easier to control, and more forgiving with a larger hitting zone,” adds Jim White.
Tyson McGuffin also suggests sticking to a brand you like. “Each paddle manufacturer generally puts a stamp on their product by the grip, weight distribution, and overall feel.”
Trying a paddle is key. Catherine Parenteau says, “My number one recommendation when shopping for a paddle is to demo it… Everyone is different, so try as many paddles as you can to see what you like and what works for you.”
What Makes a Paddle Special?
Catherine Parenteau explains that a paddle is larger than a ping pong paddle but smaller than a tennis racket. “The combined length and width of a paddle cannot exceed 24 inches.”
Tyson McGuffin adds, “The shape of the paddle can allow swing speed to be slow or fast based on the overall shape. Materials play a big part in the whole build of the paddle and how soft or stiff the paddle will be, and weight distribution can allow for more power or less.”
Tennis rackets and ping pong paddles can’t be used in place of pickleball paddles because they’re not designed for the sport’s unique needs.
News in Brief: Best Pickleball Paddles 2025
Top athletes and trainers shared their top 10 pickleball paddle picks for 2025. These paddles, used by pros like Tyson McGuffin and Ben Johns, offer options for all skill levels. Experts say beginners should choose lighter, easier-to-use paddles, while advanced players can try paddles with more power and control.