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10 Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Selkirk Sport SLK Atlas Max Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 | Raw Carbon Fiber Face & Rev-Control Polymer Core | Complete Pickleball Set with 2 Pickle Ball Rackets, 3 Hybrid+ Balls, and SLK Sling Bag

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,323
Weight
Grip Size
Shape

Most important from
4160 reviews

Weight
This is a fantastic beginner set! The paddles are durable and very lightweight, making the game much easier to play.
Grip Size
The grip is perfect, and the control and ease of the paddle is everything a beginner needs.
Shape
The handles have a great grip even when your hands get sweaty, and the surface area gives you a good range to hit the balls.

The 2025 SLK by Selkirk Atlas Max Pickleball Paddle Bundle is tailored for beginners and recreational players seeking a reliable paddle set. One of its standout features is the Raw Carbon Fiber Face, which enhances control and spin, making it easier for beginners to connect with the ball and improve their game. The paddles weigh around 8 oz, striking a nice balance that provides power without causing fatigue, which is essential for new players still developing their skills.

The Rev-Control Polymer Honeycomb Core offers a large sweet spot, allowing for more forgiving hits—ideal for beginners who might struggle with precision. The addition of Raw Spin Technology further aids in producing spin, helping players to learn strategic shot placement.

In terms of grip size, the 4 1/8 inches option is suitable for most adult hands, helping players maintain a comfortable hold during play. The complete set includes two paddles, three Hybrid+ balls, and a handy SLK Sling Bag, making it a great value for those just starting out. The SLK Atlas Max Bundle is an excellent choice for beginners looking to enjoy pickleball without overspending, providing them with the necessary tools to enhance their skills while ensuring a fun experience on the court.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,323
Weight
Grip Size
Shape

Most important from
4160 reviews

Weight
This is a fantastic beginner set! The paddles are durable and very lightweight, making the game much easier to play.
Grip Size
The grip is perfect, and the control and ease of the paddle is everything a beginner needs.
Shape
The handles have a great grip even when your hands get sweaty, and the surface area gives you a good range to hit the balls.
#2

SLK Neo by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles | Featuring a Multilayer Fiberglass and Graphite Pickleball Face | SX3 Honeycomb Core | Designed in The USA for Traction and Stability

Rating
10.0
Weight
Grip Size
Shape

Most important from
4160 reviews

Weight
A fantastic beginner set with durable, lightweight paddles that make the game much easier to play.
Grip Size
The grip is perfect, providing excellent control and ease, which is everything a beginner needs.
Shape
Great grip even when hands get sweaty, with a surface area that offers good range for hitting the ball.

The SLK Neo by Selkirk is a solid choice for beginner pickleball players looking to enhance their game. Weighing in at just 7.5 ounces, this paddle strikes a good balance between lightweight and medium-weight paddles, making it easy to handle for prolonged play. The combination of a multilayer fiberglass and graphite paddle face provides good control, and the SX4 polymer core contributes to both a larger sweet spot and a softer feel, which is great for learning and improving skills.

One of the standout features is the SpinFlex textured surface, which helps with spin consistency and ball control, giving beginners a better chance to develop their techniques. Additionally, the ultra-cushion grip is designed to absorb sweat and impact, ensuring comfort during longer game sessions, which is essential for those just getting into the sport.

While the SLK Neo is USAPA approved for tournament play, beginners might find some aspects a bit advanced as they are still learning the basics of the game. The paddle’s price point might also be higher than some entry-level paddles, potentially making it less accessible for new players on a budget.

Rating
10.0
Weight
Grip Size
Shape

Most important from
4160 reviews

Weight
A fantastic beginner set with durable, lightweight paddles that make the game much easier to play.
Grip Size
The grip is perfect, providing excellent control and ease, which is everything a beginner needs.
Shape
Great grip even when hands get sweaty, with a surface area that offers good range for hitting the ball.
#3

Pickleball Paddles, USAPA Approved Fiberglass Surface Pickleball Paddles Set with Pickleball Rackets, Paddle Cover, Grip Tapes, for Beginners & Pros

This MTEN pickleball paddle set is well-suited for beginners thanks to its thoughtfully balanced specs. It weighs around 7.78 to 7.8 ounces, placing it in the medium weight category, which offers a good mix of control and power without feeling too heavy or too light. The grip size of 4.57 inches is comfortable and designed to support wrist movement and spin, helping new players develop better technique. The paddle's face is made from fiberglass, which is durable and provides good rotational control, while the polypropylene honeycomb core helps reduce vibrations and deliver a stable ball strike.

This combination gives players more confidence in their shots and less fatigue in the hand. The paddle’s wide shape increases the sweet spot, making it easier for beginners to hit effective shots. Additionally, it comes with a paddle cover and extra grip tapes, which is great for maintaining the paddle over time.

While the paddle is labeled for all skill levels and USAPA approved for tournaments, some advanced players might prefer paddles with different materials or weight preferences for more specialized play. For beginners and casual players, this paddle offers a solid balance of comfort, power, and durability at a reasonable price.

Buying Guide for the Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners

Choosing the right pickleball paddle is crucial for beginners as it can significantly impact your game and overall experience. The right paddle will help you develop your skills, improve your control, and enjoy the game more. When selecting a pickleball paddle, consider factors such as weight, grip size, material, and shape. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best paddle for your needs.
WeightThe weight of a pickleball paddle is one of the most important factors to consider. Paddles generally range from 6 to 14 ounces. Lighter paddles (6-8 ounces) are easier to maneuver and can help with quick reactions and control, making them ideal for beginners. Medium-weight paddles (8-10 ounces) offer a balance between power and control, suitable for players who want a bit more power without sacrificing too much control. Heavier paddles (10-14 ounces) provide more power but can be harder to control and may cause fatigue more quickly. Beginners should start with a lighter paddle to develop their skills and avoid strain.
Grip SizeThe grip size of a pickleball paddle affects your comfort and control. Grip sizes typically range from 4 to 4.5 inches in circumference. A smaller grip (4-4.25 inches) allows for more wrist action, which can enhance control and spin. A larger grip (4.5 inches) provides more stability and can reduce the risk of injury, but may limit wrist movement. To find the right grip size, measure the distance from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. Beginners should choose a grip size that feels comfortable and secure in their hand to ensure better control and reduce the risk of injury.
MaterialPickleball paddles are made from various materials, including wood, composite, and graphite. Wooden paddles are the most affordable and durable but are also the heaviest, which can be challenging for beginners. Composite paddles are lighter and offer a good balance of power and control, making them a popular choice for beginners. Graphite paddles are the lightest and provide excellent control and power, but they are also the most expensive. Beginners should consider starting with a composite paddle for a good mix of performance and affordability.
ShapeThe shape of a pickleball paddle can affect its performance. Standard paddles have a traditional shape with a balanced length and width, providing a good mix of power and control. Elongated paddles are longer and narrower, offering more reach and power but less control. Wide-body paddles are shorter and wider, providing a larger sweet spot and more control, which can be beneficial for beginners. Beginners should opt for a standard or wide-body paddle to maximize control and develop their skills.

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