Pickleball Paddles for Beginners: Get Ahead of the Game from the Start

Pickleball's popularity is exploding, and it's easy to see why. It’s a sport that’s fun and accessible for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. But as any experienced pickleballer will tell you, having the right paddle makes all the difference. For beginners, choosing the perfect paddle can be daunting with so many options available. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the process and find the ideal paddle to get you started.

The Weight of the Matter

Paddle weight is a crucial factor, especially for beginners. The weight affects how you control the ball, generate power, and move around the court. The average pickleball paddle weighs 8.0 ounces. This is a good weight to start with. Many people, as they get more advanced, will stick with the stock weight of their paddle, but with lead and tungsten tape, you can always add weight to your paddle.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to add a little weight to your paddle, no matter your skill level. Even a small amount of lead tape in the right spot will increase the sweet spot and control, and provide forgiveness on off-center hits.

Grip Size: Comfort and Control

A comfortable and secure grip is key for a beginner. A grip that’s too small will result in a lack of control, and a grip that’s too large will cause hand fatigue and discomfort. Pickleball paddles come in a few grip sizes depending on the core thickness of the paddle, so choose one that feels natural and allows you to hold it relaxed but firm.

13mm and 14mm paddles, which are common core thicknesses for power paddles, have a handle circumference of 4.125 inches. 16mm paddles have a grip circumference of 4.25 inches. But some brands like Gearbox will have different measurements depending on the design of the paddle. For example, Gearbox has 14mm and 16mm paddles both with 4-inch circumference handles.

Core Material: The Heart of the Paddle

The core material affects the performance of the paddle, its power, control, and feel.

• Polypropylene Honeycomb: Lightweight and control-oriented, polypropylene honeycomb cores are perfect for beginners. They are easy to maneuver and precise in shot placement, great for developing touch and finesse. Polypropylene honeycomb allows for foam and other perimeter technology to be added so you can enhance the paddle without changing most of the core material.
• Nomex: While more powerful and responsive, Nomex cores are stiffer and require more advanced technique to get the most out of them. But nowadays, fewer and fewer paddles are made with Nomex cores.

Core Thickness: Finding the Balance

Paddle core thickness also matters. Thicker cores (16mm and above) are more control and forgiveness-oriented, great for beginners who are still developing their skills. Thinner cores (less than 14mm) are power and pop-oriented, for players who like to play aggressively.

Price: Quality over Cost

While budget options are tempting, invest in a quality paddle that will support your growth as a player. A good paddle will give you a better playing experience, last longer, and save you money in the long run. Beginners often buy a cheap paddle and soon after find out it’s harder to learn with and less fun to play with.

The Performance Paddle Advantage

Many beginners start with a cheap entry-level paddle and soon outgrow its limitations. This can lead to frustration and having to re-learn the feel of a new paddle as they progress. Instead, start with a mid-range or even a high-performance paddle that has a balance of power, control, and feel. This investment will pay off as you develop your skills and enjoy the game more from the start.

Beginners who learn with a higher-performance paddle will have an easier time adjusting to new paddles as they progress their game.

Bottom Line

Choosing the right pickleball paddle is a big decision for beginners. By understanding the factors involved and considering your own needs and preferences, you can find the right paddle for you. Remember, a good paddle is an investment in your enjoyment and success on the court. So take the time to research, try out different options, and find the paddle that feels like an extension of your arm, ready to help you unleash your full potential on the pickleball court!