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10 Best Pickleball Paddle For Kids 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Niupipo Pickleball Paddles, Parent, Child Pickleball Set, USAPA Approved Pickleball Paddles 4 Pack, 4 Balls, 1 Pickleball Bag, Fiberglass, Lightweight Pickleball Paddle

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,398
Grip Size
Material

Most important from
10814 reviews

Grip Size
The handle size is perfect for small hands, making it great for both kids and adults.
Material
The paddles are durable and seem like they will last a long time.

The Niupipo Pickleball Paddles set is a versatile choice for families looking to enjoy pickleball together. It includes two adult paddles and two junior paddles, making it suitable for both adults and kids, which is a definite strength. The paddles are made of fiberglass and feature a lightweight design, weighing 7.62 ounces for adults and 6.35 ounces for kids. This lightweight nature helps prevent fatigue during play, a big bonus for longer games. Plus, the wide body shape offers a larger hitting surface, enhancing the playing experience for beginners and more skilled players alike.

On the grip side, these paddles come with a comfortable, sweat-absorbent grip that feels good during play. The grip size of 4.5 inches fits well for most hands, making transitions between hits easier. Another highlight is the USAPA approval, ensuring that these paddles meet the standards for official play.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the fiberglass material provides a good amount of power, it may not have the same level of control that some more advanced players seek in higher-end paddles. Additionally, while the set is designed for kids, young players may still find the junior paddles slightly heavy depending on their size and strength. The inclusion of a carry bag and multiple balls makes this set family-friendly, but the performance can vary based on individual play styles and expectations. The Niupipo Pickleball Paddles set is a wonderful choice for families and kids, especially those just starting in pickleball, but might not satisfy the needs of competitive players looking for more specialized equipment.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,398
Grip Size
Material

Most important from
10814 reviews

Grip Size
The handle size is perfect for small hands, making it great for both kids and adults.
Material
The paddles are durable and seem like they will last a long time.
#2

Kids Pickleball Paddle - Magical Unicorn Design | Lightweight Fiberglass Paddle for Children Under 12 (Only 0.37 lbs) | Small Grip for Easy Handling | Junior Youth Paddle for Boys & Girls

Rating
9.4
Weight

Most important from
71 reviews

Weight
Though slightly heavier than expected for very young players, the paddle is still a fun and cute choice for starting pickleball adventures.

This kids' pickleball paddle, featuring a magical unicorn design, is specifically tailored for young players under 12. Weighing only 0.37 lbs, it's extremely lightweight, making it perfect for children who are just starting to learn the game. The small grip size of 4 inches in circumference and 4.25 inches in length is ideal for little hands, ensuring easy handling and a comfortable swing. Made from durable fiberglass with a honeycomb core, this paddle offers a good balance of control and durability, which is crucial for beginners who play both indoors and outdoors.

The whimsical unicorn design is engaging for kids, potentially boosting their interest in the sport. It’s marketed as a beginner's paddle, making it suitable for first-time players looking to develop skills like hand-eye coordination and reflexes. Additionally, the paddle's dimensions—13.8 inches in length and 7 inches in width—are well-suited for toddlers and pre-teens, ensuring they can manage the paddle without feeling overwhelmed.

On the downside, while it's perfect for beginners, more advanced young players might eventually outgrow its capabilities as they develop more strength and skill. Also, the whimsical design, while attractive to many, might not appeal to every child, limiting its broad appeal solely based on aesthetics. However, for those who do enjoy the design, it serves as a delightful gift option, especially for unicorn-loving kids. The paddle’s construction and ease of use make it a viable choice for playful practice in diverse settings like backyards, parks, or school playgrounds.

Rating
9.4
Weight

Most important from
71 reviews

Weight
Though slightly heavier than expected for very young players, the paddle is still a fun and cute choice for starting pickleball adventures.
#3

JOOLA Kids Pickleball Paddle - Megalodon Shark Edition - Youth Pickleball Paddle for Children - Lightweight Pickle Ball Racket with Small Grip, Pro Style 12mm Polymer Core & Fiberglass Face

Rating
9.1
Weight
Paddle Shape

Most important from
662 reviews

Weight
It's very lightweight and easy to hold, making it perfect for young children.
Paddle Shape
Great size for children, ensuring they can play comfortably with their parents.

The JOOLA Kids Pickleball Paddle, particularly the Megalodon Shark Edition, is designed specifically for children aged 4 to 14, making it a great choice for young beginners. One of its standout features is its lightweight design at just 0.49 pounds, which helps kids swing it comfortably without feeling fatigued. The smaller grip size of 4.75 inches is tailored for little hands, allowing for better control and increased swing speed. The paddle is crafted with a honeycomb polymer core and a fiberglass face, offering a good balance of durability and performance that mirrors more professional paddles, which is fantastic for kids learning the game.

The colorful Megalodon design can engage kids and make pickleball more appealing, encouraging them to play and be active.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. While the paddle is lightweight and great for beginners, it might not perform as well for more advanced young players as they improve their skills. Additionally, the smaller grip size may limit usage for older kids nearing the upper age range. For families with multiple children or varying skill levels, this paddle may quickly become outgrown if a child develops a strong interest in the sport.

The JOOLA Megalodon Shark Paddle is an excellent entry-level option for children wanting to explore pickleball. Its thoughtful design features cater well to young beginners, fostering a love for the game while ensuring they have the right equipment to start. However, it may not be the best long-term investment for those who expect rapid skill advancement.

Rating
9.1
Weight
Paddle Shape

Most important from
662 reviews

Weight
It's very lightweight and easy to hold, making it perfect for young children.
Paddle Shape
Great size for children, ensuring they can play comfortably with their parents.

Buying Guide for the Best Pickleball Paddle For Kids

Choosing the right pickleball paddle for kids is essential to ensure they enjoy the game and develop their skills effectively. The right paddle can make a significant difference in their performance and comfort while playing. When selecting a paddle, consider factors such as weight, grip size, material, and paddle shape. These specifications will help you find a paddle that suits your child's needs and enhances their playing experience.
WeightThe weight of a pickleball paddle is crucial because it affects how easy it is for a child to maneuver the paddle and how much control they have over their shots. Paddles generally range from light (6-7 ounces), medium (7-8 ounces), to heavy (8-9 ounces). For kids, a lighter paddle is usually better as it is easier to handle and reduces the risk of arm fatigue. If your child is younger or smaller, opt for a paddle on the lighter side. As they grow and develop more strength, they can transition to a medium-weight paddle.
Grip SizeGrip size refers to the circumference of the paddle handle and is important for comfort and control. A grip that is too large or too small can make it difficult for a child to hold the paddle properly and can lead to discomfort or even injury. Grip sizes typically range from 4 inches to 4.5 inches. For kids, a smaller grip size (around 4 inches) is usually more suitable as it allows them to hold the paddle securely and comfortably. To determine the right grip size, have your child hold the paddle and check if there is enough space to fit their index finger between their fingers and palm.
MaterialPickleball paddles are made from various materials, including wood, composite, and graphite. The material affects the paddle's weight, durability, and performance. Wooden paddles are heavier and less expensive but may not offer the best performance for kids. Composite paddles are a good middle ground, offering a balance of weight, durability, and cost. Graphite paddles are lightweight and provide excellent control and power but are usually more expensive. For kids, a composite paddle is often a good choice as it offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
Paddle ShapeThe shape of the paddle can influence the playing experience. Paddles come in different shapes, such as standard, elongated, and wide-body. Standard paddles are the most common and provide a good balance of control and power. Elongated paddles offer a longer reach but may have a smaller sweet spot, making them less forgiving for beginners. Wide-body paddles have a larger sweet spot, which can be beneficial for kids as it makes it easier to hit the ball accurately. For most kids, a standard or wide-body paddle is a good choice as it provides a good mix of control and ease of use.

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