Best Pickleball Paddles in 2024 - Top 5 Pickleball Paddle You Need to Have

As pickleball is concentrated mostly in the United States at the moment, when we compile the list of the top pickleball paddles in 2024, we use the US market as a benchmark. These paddles are considered the best because of their quality, popularity and performance. So, here we go:

1) Selkirk Vanguard Power Air - Epic

Best For: Power, Spin, and Versatility
Weight: 218g - 230g
Surface Material: Hybrid Blend of Fiberglass and Carbon Fiber
Paddle Length: 40cm
Paddle Width: 20cm
Handle Length: 13cm
Core Thickness: 13mm

Key Features:

1. Power and Spin: The paddle features a QuadFlex 4 Layer Hybrid face, a blend of two layers of Fiberflex and two layers of Quantum+ carbon, for effortless power and control. This material helps players achieve a consistent and powerful hit while maintaining precision.

2. Advanced Engineering Technology: Vanguard Power Air includes the 360° Proto Molding for power and consistent sweetspot: Engineered to provide 360 degree composite coverage, using a proprietary high pressure manufacturing process, 360° Proto Molding technology generates ultimate power, while delivering a consistent feel on every play.

3. Throatflex: Designed to generate maximum flex when you connect with the ball, the new ThoatFlex open throat design extends dwell time on the paddle and enhances power play, for unparalleled consistency

4. Air Dynamic Throat: Offers quicker swing speed: Developed in Selkirk Labs with Project 002 and fine-tuned to provide maximum flex, the Air Dynamic Throat is now larger and even closer to the handle, offering optimal air flow and improved ball control.

Why It’s One of the Best

The Selkirk Vanguard Power Air has been praised for its all-around performance, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of players. Whether you’re an aggressive player who likes to hit powerful smashes or someone who prefers to outmaneuver opponents with spin and precision, this paddle can adapt to your needs. Its blend of cutting-edge materials and thoughtful design make it a top pick in the 2024 market.

If you're looking for the best Selkirk paddle to elevate your game, the Vanguard Power Air is a standout option that won't disappoint.

2) Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16

Best For: Control, Spin, and Precision
Weight: 238g
Surface Material: Carbon Friction
Paddle Length: 42cm
Paddle Width: 19cm
Handle Length: 14cm
Core Thickness: 16mm

Key Features:

1. Co-Designed by Ben Johns: This paddle is co-designed by the world’s #1 pickleball player, Ben Johns. It’s manufactured according to his playing style, which emphasizes control, precision, and a balanced combination of power and spin. This ensures that the paddle meets the high standards of professional play.

2. Carbon Friction Surface (CFS): The Carbon Friction Surface is engineered to enhance spin, giving players an edge in placing their shots exactly where they want them to be. The textured surface grips the ball better, allowing for more spin and control during play.

3. Reactive Polymer Honeycomb Core: The core of the paddle is made from a reactive polymer honeycomb material, which provides excellent feedback and a soft feel. This core dampens vibrations, reducing the risk of injury and making the paddle more comfortable to use during extended play.

4. Aero-Dyanamic Head: The paddle features an Aero-Curve design that increases swing speed by reducing air resistance. This makes it easy for players to make quick shots that overwhelm their opponents.

5. Ergonomic Handle: The handle is designed for comfort, with a cushioned grip that absorbs moisture and provides a non-slip hold. This feature is particularly beneficial for players who play long matches or those in humid conditions.

Why It’s One of the Best in 2024:

The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 is celebrated for its precise control and ability to generate spin, which are critical for advanced players who need to place their shots with accuracy. If you are looking for a paddle that offers superior control, spin potential, and a professional-grade feel, the Hyperion CFS 16 isa good paddle to consider

3) Engage Pursuit MX

Best For: Power, Control and Spin
Weight: 201g - 235g
Surface Material: Proprietary Omni-directional friction based Graphite
Paddle Length: 42cm
Paddle Width: 19cm
Handle Length: 14.6cm
Core Thickness: 13mm

Key Features:

1. Friction-based Graphite Surface: The Engage Pursuit MX features a textured graphite face, which is excellent for generating spin. The textured surface grips the ball better, allowing players to put more spin on their shots, making it harder for opponents to predict and return them effectively.

2. Versatility: The paddle is suitable for a wide range of playing styles, making it a great choice for both all-around players and those who focus on specific aspects of the game, such as spin or power.
   
   

3. Comfort and Control: The combination of the polymer core and ergonomic grip provides a comfortable playing experience, reducing the strain on the arm and allowing for precise control over each shot.Vibration Control Technology

4. Vibration Control Technology: Ensures minimal impact on players' arm and maximum comfort, especially during long rallies and when games are dragged out.

Why It’s One of the Best in 2024:

The Engage Pursuit MX is an excellent choice for players who want a paddle that delivers a strong performance in all aspects of the game. Its ability to balance power, spin, and control, combined with its durability and comfort, makes it one of the top options available. Whether you’re a competitive player or someone looking to elevate your game, the Pursuit MX offers the features needed to succeed on the court.

4) Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro-C

Best For: Spin, Control and Forgiveness
Weight: 221g - 232g
Surface Material: PT- 700 Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber
Paddle Length: 40cm
Paddle Width: 20cm
Handle Length: 13cm
Core Thickness: 14mm

Key Features:

1. Precision and Control: The Tempest Wave Pro is known for its exceptional control and precision, making it ideal for strategic players who focus on ball placement rather than raw power. Its design allows players to hit accurate shots consistently, giving them a tactical advantage during gameplay.

2. Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber: Generates exceptional spin, giving players the ability to add more spin to their shots. This is useful for players who rely on spins and drop shots to outmaneuver their opponents.

3. Smart Response Technology: Paddletek’s Smart Response Technology optimizes the core to provide a responsive and controlled feel. This technology helps players maintain a balance between power and touch, ensuring that the paddle adapts well to different types of shots.

4. Edged Shock Guard: The paddle features a specialized edge guard that protects the paddle without adding unnecessary weight. This design element maintains the paddle’s durability while allowing for a larger sweet spot.

5. Large Sweet Spot: The paddle has a large sweet spot, which increases forgiveness on off-center hits. This feature is particularly beneficial for players looking to improve their accuracy and consistency.

Why It’s One of the Best in 2024:

The Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro is hailed for its ability to deliver precision and control, making it a top choice for players who prioritize touch and accuracy over power. Its Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber and Smart Response Technology make it an excellent paddle for those who want to dominate the game with strategy and finesse.

Whether you’re an intermediate player looking to refine your skills or an advanced player seeking a paddle that offers a high level of control, the Tempest Wave Pro is one the best Paddletek paddle to consider in 2024.

5) Onix Graphite Z5

Best For: Touch and Control
Weight: 213g - 232g
Surface Material: Graphite
Paddle Length: 39cm
Paddle Width: 21cm
Handle Length: 13cm

Key Features:

1. Excellent Control and Feel: The Onix Graphite Z5 features a graphite face, which provides exceptional touch and control. This makes it easier for players to place shots precisely where they want them, whether they’re executing soft dinks at the net or powerful drives from the baseline. The graphite surface offers a responsive feel, allowing for greater finesse and shot placement accuracy.

2. Nomex Honeycomb Core: The paddle’s core is made from a Nomex honeycomb material, which provides a solid, consistent feel. The Nomex core is known for offering a good mix of power and control, making the Z5 versatile enough for a variety of playing styles. It’s firm and provides a noticeable pop, allowing players to hit hard when needed, while also offering enough control for soft shots.

3. Tennis Handle Shape: Mimics the handle shape of a tennis racket with a flared, wood handle, providing great spin and control

4. Edge Guard: The paddle features a specialized edge guard that protects the paddle without adding unnecessary weight. This allows players to dive for shots without much worry.

5. Wide Body Shape: This feature extends the width of an oversized paddle shape for the largest sweet spot, giving you extra forgiveness on off-center shots

Why It’s One of the Best in 2024:

The Onix Graphite Z5 is extremely popular because it offers a perfect combination of control, power, and versatility at an affordable price point. Its large sweet spot, lightweight design, and widebody shape make it ideal for a wide range of players, from beginners to advanced competitors. The comfort and durability of the paddle also contribute to its lasting appeal. If you’re looking for a well-rounded paddle that delivers performance without breaking the bank, the Onix Graphite Z5 is a fantastic choice.