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What is a good pickleball paddle?
A good pickleball paddle is one that fits your game. The things that matter most:
- Weight: most paddles are 7.6–8.5 oz. Lighter paddles are quicker at the kitchen. Heavier ones are more stable and drive harder but tire the arm faster.
- Core thickness: 16mm feels softer, with more control and a bigger sweet spot. 13–14mm feels crisper, with more pop.
- Face: raw or textured carbon faces grab the ball for spin. Fiberglass faces feel softer and often cost less.
- Shape: widebody is the most forgiving, elongated gives reach and leverage, and hybrid sits in between.
- Grip size: a handle that's too big or too small can strain your forearm. Most are about 4.125–4.25 in around.
- Approval: for sanctioned tournaments, choose a paddle on USA Pickleball's approved equipment list.
Every paddle in our paddle finder
The quiz picks from these current models. Prices are list prices from each brand's own website, checked Nov 4, 2026.
| Paddle | Price | Weight | Core | Shapes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selkirk SLK Valkyrie | $80 | 7.9–8.1 oz | 16mm polypropylene honeycomb | Widebody |
| Selkirk SLK Geo | $100 | 7.8–8.1 oz | 14mm polypropylene honeycomb | Widebody / Elongated |
| Selkirk SLK Dauntless | $150 | 7.7–8.1 oz | 16mm PureFoam (foam core) | Widebody / Elongated |
| Selkirk SLK ERA Power | $200 | 8.0–8.3 oz (WB) / 7.9–8.4 oz (elongated) | 16mm polypropylene + EVA foam ring | Widebody / Elongated |
| Six Zero Quartz 15mm | $75 | 7.9 oz (±10 g) | 15mm polypropylene | Standard |
| Six Zero Sapphire 13mm | $99 | 7.9 oz (±10 g) | 13mm honeycomb polymer | Elongated |
| Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control 16mm | $180 | 8.0–8.2 oz (also 7.7–7.9 light / 8.3–8.5 pro) | 16mm honeycomb polymer | Hybrid |
| Six Zero Black Diamond Power | $180 | 8.1 oz ±0.2 (pro 8.4 oz) | 14mm or 16mm honeycomb polymer | Hybrid |
| Six Zero Coral 16mm | $200 | 8.0–8.3 oz | 16mm foam (Propulsion Core) | Hybrid / Elongated / Widebody |
| Six Zero Coral 16mm Lightweight | $200 | 7.6–7.9 oz | 16mm foam (Propulsion Core) | Hybrid / Widebody |
| JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16mm | $159.95 | 8.4 oz | 16mm thermoformed | Elongated |
Specs are the manufacturers' published figures. Individual paddles vary, and brands update models and prices often. Always check the product page before you buy. DinkCalc is not affiliated with Selkirk, Six Zero or JOOLA.
Paddle FAQ
What is a good pickleball paddle for beginners?
A forgiving widebody or standard-shape paddle, about 7.8–8.1 oz with a 16mm core, is a safe start. You don't need to spend more than about $75–$100 until you know your style.
Should I get a power or control paddle?
Most players, especially beginners and intermediates, win more points with control: consistent dinks, drops and resets. Power paddles suit players who already have a reliable soft game and want more put-away speed.
What does core thickness do?
Thicker cores (16mm) generally feel softer and more controlled and have a bigger sweet spot. Thinner cores (13–14mm) feel crisper and poppier, with more power but less forgiveness.
What grip size do I need?
Most paddles come in about 4.125–4.25 in. If you're between sizes, pick the smaller one. You can build a grip up with an overgrip, but you can't make one thinner.
Are expensive pickleball paddles worth it?
Premium paddles ($150–$250+) usually add newer face materials, foam cores and better durability. Those differences matter more as your skill grows. Beginners usually get more value from lessons and a solid $75–$100 paddle.
Want to know your level first? Try the pickleball rating calculator.