
You want the best progress level up pickleball paddles for easy learning and improvement. Paddles like JOOLA Perseus Pro IV and Selkirk Amped S2 have big sweet spots and feel good to hold. The right pickleball paddle helps you learn better, gives you more control, and has grips that make playing easier and more comfortable. Hudef gives you strong pickleball paddles and grips to help you learn and play well.
Key Takeaways
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Picking the right pickleball paddle helps you learn better. It also makes playing more fun. Find paddles with bigger sweet spots. Good shock absorption helps you control the paddle. It also makes it more comfortable to use.
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As you get better, you should upgrade your paddle. Choose paddles you can change, like grip size or weight. This helps match your new way of playing.
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Look for paddles that give both power and control. Honeycomb cores and textured surfaces help you learn new skills. These features also make the game more enjoyable.
Best Progress Level Up Pickleball Paddles

Top Picks Overview
You want to find the best progress level up pickleball paddles to help you play better and have more fun. Many professional coaches recommend these paddles for players who want to improve fast:
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hudefsport Power Series – T700 Carbon Fiber, E-TPU Foam Core
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JOOLA Magnus 3s – Charged Carbon Surface, Propulsion Core
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Selkirk Vanguard Power Air – QuadFlex Face, Polymer Honeycomb Core
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Engage Pursuit EX – Graphite Surface, Control Pro Core
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Armour Helios – Carbon Fiber Face, Polypropylene Core
Each paddle gives you something special. Some have a bigger sweet spot. Others help you control the ball or last longer. You can pick the best pickleball paddle for your style and needs.
Key Benefits for Advancing Players
When you use the best progress level up pickleball paddles, you notice the difference right away. You get a larger sweet spot, so you hit the ball better even if you miss the center. You feel less vibration in your hand, which means you can play longer without pain. The paddle surface stays strong, so you do not need to buy a new one soon.
Tip: A good paddle helps you learn new skills faster and keeps you excited about playing pickleball.
You want a paddle that gives you control, power, and comfort. The best pickleball paddles help you move from beginner to advanced without feeling stuck. You can trust these paddles to support your progress every step of the way.
What Makes the Best Pickleball Paddle for Progress?
Control and Forgiveness
You want a pickleball paddle that helps you hit the ball where you want. Control paddles give you more precision and let you make softer shots. This is important when you want to learn new skills and improve your touch. If your paddle has forgiveness, you can hit the ball off-center and still get good results. You will notice fewer mistakes and more consistent shots. Paddles with a bigger sweet spot and special core designs help you connect with the ball better. You feel more confident every time you play.
Tip: Try paddles with honeycomb cores or micro-textured surfaces. These features make it easier to control the ball and reduce the impact of mishits.
Upgrade Potential
When you look for a new pickleball paddle, think about how it can help you upgrade your game. Some paddles let you switch grips or add edge guards. You can upgrade your paddle by choosing one with better spin potential or a thicker core for more control. If you want to play faster, pick a lighter paddle. If you want more power, try a heavier one. The right paddle gives you room to upgrade your skills and try new shots. Here’s a quick look at the technical specs that matter most:
Specification Type |
Description |
---|---|
Paddle Type |
Control or power paddles change how you play. |
Paddle Thickness |
Thicker paddles help with control. Thinner ones give more pop. |
Paddle Weight |
Lighter paddles move faster. Heavier paddles hit harder. |
Spin Potential |
Special surfaces help you spin the ball. |
Grip Size |
Different handles fit different hands and styles. |
You can upgrade your paddle as you get better. Pick one that matches your style now and lets you grow as a player.
Best Pickleball Paddles: Detailed Reviews
hudefsport Progress Series
You want a paddle that helps you level up fast. The hudefsport Progress Series stands out for its smart design and strong build. You get a paddle with Kinetic Core Technology, which means you feel more control and power with every shot. The sweet spot is bigger, so you hit the ball well even if you miss the center. The handle feels comfortable and fits most hands. You can play longer because the paddle absorbs shock and reduces vibration. Here’s a quick look at the key specs:
Metric |
Value |
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Weight |
7.8-8.0 oz |
Paddle Dimensions |
Length: 16.06"; Width: 7.90"; Thickness: 14mm or 16mm |
Grip Size |
Length: 4.9"; Circumference: 4 1/8" (14mm), 4 1/4" (16mm) |
Technology |
Kinetic Core Technology |
USAP Approval |
Yes |
Performance Highlights |
Enhanced spin and power; balance of power and control |
User Feedback Highlights |
Excellent control, good handle length, quality build, effective spin, power, and comfort |
Durability |
Long-lasting performance |
Warranty & Return Policy |
Limited lifetime replacement; 30-day return/exchange with shipping covered (US) |
You get a paddle that lasts and helps you play your best. If you want a good composite pickleball paddles option, this series gives you everything you need for progress.
JOOLA Vision CGS 14 mm
If you like control and spin, the JOOLA Vision CGS 14 mm might be your pick. You notice the paddle gives you great spin, but you need to work a bit harder for power. The sweet spot is smaller than some other paddles, so you need to hit the ball more accurately. The paddle is tough and holds up well over time. You get a good grip and a solid feel, but if you want easy power, you might look at other good composite pickleball paddles. This paddle suits players who want to focus on control and spin.
Tip: If you want to improve your spin game, this paddle helps you practice and master those tricky shots.
Pursuit EX 6.0
You want a paddle that feels soft and gives you control. The Pursuit EX 6.0 uses a thicker core, which means you get better shock absorption. You feel less vibration in your arm, so you can play longer without getting tired. The paddle has a raw carbon fiber skin and special layers that help you hold the ball longer. You get more time to aim and control your shots. The Control Pro Black Polymer Core makes the paddle soft and easy to use. Here’s what makes it special:
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Thicker core for shock absorption
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Softer feel for better control
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Raw carbon fiber skin for strong ball interaction
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Surface and core work together for longer ball hold
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Softest core for easy compression and rebound
If you want good composite pickleball paddles that help you control the game, the Pursuit EX 6.0 is a smart choice.
Engage Encore Pro V2.0
You want a paddle that gives you power without breaking the bank. The Engage Encore Pro V2.0 is popular with intermediate players. You get a comfortable grip and a paddle that swings fast. The sweet spot is smaller, so you need to hit the ball just right. The paddle gives you power, but you might notice less spin and control. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Pros |
Cons |
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Impressive power for a budget paddle |
Lack of spin |
Good grip |
Lack of control |
Comfortable handling |
Smaller sweet spot |
Fast swing speed |
Less forgiving during play |
If you want a good composite pickleball paddles option that helps you hit hard, this paddle works well. You might need to practice your aim to get the most out of it.
Good Composite Pickleball Paddles Progress 3X
You want comfort and less arm fatigue. The Progress 3X stands out among good composite pickleball paddles for its three-layer shock absorption system. You get a carbon fiber face, shock-absorbing foam, and a honeycomb core. Gel pads in the handle soak up 70% of vibrations, so your hand and wrist feel better after long games. The flexible edge guards help soften impacts, making the paddle easy to use and gentle on your joints. You can play longer and focus on your game, not your arm. If you want a paddle that keeps you comfortable, this is one of the best good composite pickleball paddles you can choose.
Note: Many players say they feel less tired and more focused when using this paddle.
JOOLA Ben Johns 3S
You want a paddle that gives you control and spin. The JOOLA Ben Johns 3S is made for players who like elongated paddles and two-handed backhands. The grip fits your hand well, and the paddle can handle high RPMs for spinning shots. The 16mm Propulsion Core helps you control the ball and reduces vibration. The Charged Carbon hitting surface makes the paddle tough and gives you lots of spin. Here’s who this paddle suits best:
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Players who want an elongated control paddle
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Players who use two-handed backhands
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Spin-focused players
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Players who want less vibration and more control
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Those who want a durable paddle for long-term use
If you want good composite pickleball paddles that help you master spin and control, this paddle is a top pick.
Comparison Chart: Best Pickleball Paddles
Choosing the right paddle can make your game much better. You want a paddle that feels good in your hand and helps you hit the ball where you want. Some paddles have a large sweet spot, so you do not have to hit the exact center every time. Others help you feel less vibration, which means your arm stays comfortable even after long games. The weight of each paddle also matters. Some players like a lighter paddle for quick moves, while others want a heavier paddle for more power.
Here is a quick look at how the top paddles compare:
Paddle Model |
Sweet Spot Size |
Vibration Absorption |
Durability |
Control |
Weight (oz) |
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hudefsport Pro Series |
Extra Large |
Very High |
Excellent |
High |
7.8-8.0 |
JOOLA Perseus Pro IV |
Large |
High |
Very Good |
High |
7.8-8.2 |
Selkirk Power Air Epic |
Large |
High |
Very Good |
High |
7.7-8.1 |
Engage Pursuit Pro1 Hybrid |
Large |
High |
Excellent |
High |
7.9-8.3 |
Honolulu J2K |
Large |
Medium-High |
Good |
Medium-High |
7.6-8.0 |
Tip: If you want more forgiveness, pick a paddle with a large sweet spot and high vibration absorption. You will notice the difference in comfort and control.
You should also think about the weight. Try a few paddles to see which weight feels best for you. A paddle with a large sweet spot and the right weight can help you play your best.
How to Upgrade Your Pickleball Paddle
Customization Tips
You want your paddle to feel just right. Customizing your paddle can make a big difference in your game. Start with your grip. Try different grips until you find one that feels comfortable and secure. Some players like thick grips, while others prefer thin grips. You can add an overgrip for extra cushion and sweat control. If you want more stability, add weight to the sides of your paddle. This helps reduce twisting and gives you better control. Placing weight at the tip builds power, but it might not stop twisting. Weight near the handle improves maneuverability and keeps your paddle from feeling heavy.
Here’s a quick look at some essential upgrades and how they help:
Customization Option |
Effect on Control and Forgiveness |
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Paddle Weight |
Lighter paddles move faster; heavier ones feel steadier. |
Core Thickness |
Thicker cores help you control the ball and make shots more predictable. |
Material Composition |
Carbon fiber paddles absorb shock and give you more control. |
Paddle Shape |
Standard shapes offer a bigger sweet spot; elongated shapes give you more reach. |
You may need to try a few changes before you find the best setup. That’s how to upgrade a beginner paddle and make it work for you.
When to Switch Paddles
You might wonder when it’s time for an upgrade. Listen to your body and your game. If your grip feels uncomfortable or you notice arm fatigue, it’s time to look for a lighter paddle. Do you have trouble keeping good form or recovering after matches? That means you need a paddle that fits your strength and style. If you have tennis elbow or shoulder pain, switching to a paddle with a softer grip and lighter weight can help. Test different grips and see how your arm feels. Upgrading your paddle can boost your comfort and help you play longer. Remember, the right paddle and grip keep you excited about the game.
Tip: Try new grips and upgrades during practice. You’ll know when your paddle feels perfect.
Good Composite Pickleball Paddles for Progress
Composite vs. Other Materials
When you shop for a new paddle, you may wonder about the differences between composite, graphite, and wood paddles. Composite paddles are lighter than wood and feel more comfortable when you play. They give you a good mix of control and last longer than wood. Graphite paddles are very strong and help you control the ball well. They also last a long time. Wood paddles do not last as long and are harder to control. Here is a table to help you compare them:
Paddle Type |
Control Level |
Durability Level |
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Graphite |
Excellent |
Very Durable |
Composite |
Moderate |
Moderately Durable |
Wood |
Least |
Least Durable |
Tip: If you want a paddle that helps you get better and does not break quickly, composite is a smart pick.
Best Composite Paddle Picks
You want a paddle that fits your style and helps you improve. Experts suggest some composite paddles for players who want to get better. Some paddles give you more power, while others help you control your shots. You can choose a paddle with a rough surface for more spin or one with a soft grip for comfort. Here is a table with top picks and what makes each one special:
Paddle |
Key Features |
Ideal For |
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Paddle A |
Great power and control, comfy grip, rough surface for spin |
Players who want power and steady hits |
Paddle B |
Light, easy to swing, soft grip for comfort |
Players who want control and accurate shots |
Paddle C |
Mix of power and control, sticky grip, works for many styles |
Players who want a paddle for all-around play |
Paddle D |
Best for spin, long handle for soft shots |
Players who like spin and gentle touch shots |
Paddle E |
Strong carbon fiber, heavy head for more power |
Players who want lots of power and a tough paddle |
Note: Try out different paddles to find the one that feels best in your hand. The right paddle can make learning and playing much more enjoyable.
Beginner Pickleball Paddle Choices
Starting pickleball feels exciting, but picking the right paddle can make it even better. As a beginner, you want a paddle that helps you learn the basics and keeps the game fun. Look for a beginner pickleball paddle that gives you control and forgiveness. Control helps you slow the ball down and try new shots. Forgiveness means you can hit the ball off-center and still keep it in play. This makes learning easier and helps you avoid mistakes.
A paddle with a large sweet spot is perfect for a beginner. You will make more consistent contact with the ball, so you feel more confident. Many beginners find that a control-oriented paddle lets them practice drop shots and soft touches. These skills are important as you start playing more games.
Tip: Choose a paddle that feels comfortable in your hand. If it feels good, you will want to play more and improve faster.
Transitioning to Intermediate
Once you feel comfortable with the basics, you might want to try new shots or play faster games. This is when you start moving from beginner to intermediate. You may notice you want more power or spin. At this stage, you can look for a paddle with extra features, like a textured surface for spin or a thicker core for more control.
You do not need to rush. Take your time and see what feels right. Many beginners enjoy trying different paddles as they grow. When you feel ready, upgrading your paddle can help you reach the next level and enjoy the game even more.
You want a paddle that helps you grow as a player. Look for features that match your style and skill. New foam core paddles give you:
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Softer hits that protect your arm
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More spin and control for every shot
Pick the right paddle and watch your game improve!
FAQ
What makes a paddle good for progress?
You want a paddle with a big sweet spot, strong shock absorption, and durable surface. These features help you learn faster and play longer.
How often should you upgrade your pickleball paddle?
You should upgrade your paddle when you notice wear, less control, or more arm pain. Most players switch paddles every 1–2 years.
Can you use a composite paddle for tournaments?
Yes, you can use composite paddles in most tournaments. Just check if your paddle has USAP approval before you play.