The best way to choose a paddle is to try them! Ask your fellow pickleball players if you can test your paddle. Try different weights and sizes of handles. When you find a paddle that feels good and balanced in your hand, try to find out the weight of that racket. If you don't have access to a variety of paddles to test, our Paddle Guide can be a helpful tool to narrow down your choices.

Your first paddle should be a classic pickleball paddle shape. You can add special paddles once you have a great classic paddle in your bag. The classic paddle is about 19.7 to 20.3 centimeters wide and 39.4 to 40 centimeters long. Most of the paddles we sell are classic paddles.

Fiberglass paddles often weigh slightly more than graphite paddles. Because they are slightly heavier than graphite paddles, fiberglass paddles are considered more powerful. Graphite paddles are considered more controlled or more sensitive. Both graphite and fiberglass paddles are lightweight and strong. There is a general perception that graphite paddles are better, but no one has investigated if there is a difference in how the ball bounces off a graphite vs fiberglass paddle.

You will find edge reinforcement around the edges on most composite paddles. Edge reinforcement ensures paddle integrity and provides coverage for the open honeycomb interior. Without an overlapping edge reinforcement there is a risk that the paddle
is delaminated and ruined. When a paddle is delaminated, the paddle surface pulls away from the honeycomb interior, destroying the paddle.

Are you looking for more power? Choose a heavier or super heavy paddle. Strength has everything to do with weight. The heavier the paddle, the more power you have. Here you will find the power paddles.

Choose a light or medium weight paddle with a smaller paddle head size. Control is about maneuverability and quick reactions. Be lightning fast with a lighter, smaller paddle. Here you will find the control paddles.

How long a paddle lasts depends on how you take care of it and how often you play. Top players who play daily typically expect a graphite or composite paddle to be replaced after about a year. For people who play a few times a week, a paddle should last around three years. Wooden paddles are extremely durable and will last for many years.

All paddles have a kind of "sweet spot" in the center of the face, regardless of the dimensions, like a tennis racquet, baseball bat or table tennis bat. It's a matter of physics, nothing else. The key is hitting the center of the paddle, which takes practice and coordination.

Paddles are not made specifically for indoor or outdoor play. Balls are made specifically for indoor or outdoor use, but not paddle.

Paddles are not made specifically for men or women. Paddles are gender neutral.

Former tennis or squash players often like a paddle with a longer grip. The longer handle allows two-handed backhand play and more space for quick hand changes.