
You want a pickleball paddle that gives you an edge in tournaments. Top players reach for paddles from hudef, Joola, Selkirk, and Paddletek. Check out the table below to see which brands pros pick most:
Paddle Brand |
Number of Pros |
---|---|
Joola |
13 |
Selkirk |
11 |
Paddletek |
10 |
Franklin |
Fewer |
CRBN |
Fewer |
Electrum |
Fewer |
The right pickleball paddles match your skill level and playing style. Good Tournament Competition Pickleball Rackets help you control power, spin, and comfort. You need a paddle that fits your hand and your game.
Key Takeaways
-
Pick a paddle that fits your skill level. If you are new, use a middleweight paddle. It gives you both power and control.
-
Find paddles with USA Pickleball certification. This means your paddle is good for tournaments. You will not have problems on game day.
-
Think about grip size and weight choices. A grip that feels good helps you play better. It also helps you control the paddle.
Best Pickleball Paddles
Best Overall Pickleball Paddle
You want a great pickleball paddle for tournaments. The paddle should feel good in your hand. It should help you control the ball and score points. The JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16 is a top choice. Its carbon friction surface lets you spin the ball well. The honeycomb polymer core gives you strong hits. The grip is soft and comfy. You can play longer without hurting your wrist.
Here are some top picks for the best overall pickleball paddle:
Paddle Name |
Weight |
Core Material |
Face Material |
Grip Size |
Standout Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16 |
8.0 oz |
Reactive Honeycomb Polymer |
Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) |
4 1/4 inches |
Great spin, tough carbon fiber face, comfy grip. |
Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta |
7.9-8.4 oz |
X5 Honeycomb Polymer |
Hybrid Carbon + Fiberglass |
4 1/4 inches |
Strong shots, more spin, long handle for two hands. |
Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pro |
7.8-8.4 oz |
Bantam PolyCore |
Textured Fiberglass Epoxy |
4 3/8 inches |
Good mix of power and touch, comfy grip, lasts long. |
CRBN 2X Power Series |
7.8-8.3 oz |
Polypropylene Honeycomb |
Carbon Fiber |
4 1/8 inches |
Light and easy to move, better spin. |
Engage Pursuit MX 6.0 |
7.9-8.3 oz |
Control Pro Black Polymer |
Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber |
4 1/4 inches |
Lasts long, works well all around, great spin, strong hits. |
If you want a paddle that does everything, these are good choices. You can pick one that fits your style. Some are better for power, some for spin, and some for control.
Best Pickleball Rackets for Competition
In tournaments, you need rackets that follow strict rules. USA Pickleball certification is important. Officials look for a mark, an approved list, and the right size. If your paddle is not certified, you cannot use it in matches.
Feature |
USAP |
UPA-A |
---|---|---|
Scope |
All sanctioned tournaments |
Professional events only |
Testing Focus |
General compliance |
Power, spin, durability |
Required For |
Tournament play |
Pro competitions (PPA/MLP) |
Tip: Always check for the USAP mark before you play. This helps you avoid problems on game day.
Here are some top rackets for competition:
Paddle Name |
Key Features |
Price |
---|---|---|
Six Zero Double Black Diamond |
Good for all courts, easy to use, long reach |
$179.99 ($162 with code PBEFFECT) |
Body Helix Flik F1 |
Fast, light, very strong power |
$190 ($171 with code PBEFFECT) |
Gearbox GX2 Power |
Balanced power, feels great |
$280 ($252 with code PBEFFECT) |
JOOLA Pro IV |
Quick, strong spin, fast hands |
$279.95 (No discount code available) |
Selkirk Labs Boomstik |
Loud, stiff, big power, strong spin, lasts long |
$333 (code INF-BRADYONU for gift card) |
Franklin C45 Dynasty |
Pros like it, JW Johnson won gold with it |
$229.99 at Pickleball Central |
Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX |
Long handle for power and spin, good for singles |
$249.99 at Pickleball Central |

Prices are different for each paddle. Some cost more because they use special materials and new technology. If you want a cheaper paddle, look for a honeycomb core and a tough face. These paddles work well and do not cost too much.
Notable Brands and Models
There are many great pickleball paddle brands. Top brands include hudefsport, JOOLA, Selkirk, CRBN, Engage, and Paddletek. These brands use new ideas to help you play better.
Here are some brands and models you should know:
-
Selkirk Sport: Fancy paddles like Amped and Prime.
-
JOOLA: Light and accurate paddles.
-
Paddletek: First to use polymer cores.
-
Onix: Tough paddles for serious games.
-
Engage: Paddles made for better performance.
-
Gearbox: Carbon fiber paddles for top players.
-
Franklin Sports: Good value for all players.
-
ProKennex: Made to help prevent injuries.
-
Adidas: Light paddles with good designs.
-
Wilson: Uses composite cores and rough surfaces.
You also see models like Chorus Shapeshifter Series, Selkirk LUXX With Infinigrit, Vatic Pro Prism Flash 16mm, and Volair Mach 2 Forza 16mm get good reviews. These paddles give you power, control, and spin.
Pro players help design their paddles. They want paddles with the right feel and spin. You can trust these picks because top players use them.
If you are new to pickleball, you may want a paddle for beginners. Look for a paddle with a big sweet spot and a soft grip. This helps you learn faster and have fun.
There are lots of choices for pickleball paddles. Try different ones to see what you like. The right paddle can help you play better.
Key Features
Sweet Spot & Forgiveness
You want a pickleball paddle that helps you hit well. Even if you do not hit the center, you want good results. The sweet spot is the best part of the paddle for power and control. If the sweet spot is small, you lose power and miss more shots. Many paddles use honeycomb cores and widebody shapes. These make the sweet spot bigger. You can play with more confidence and fix mistakes faster.
Paddle Feature |
Sweet Spot Impact |
---|---|
Widebody Shape |
Larger sweet spot |
Polymer Core |
More forgiveness |
Textured Surface |
Enhanced ball control |
A paddle with a polymer core helps you miss less. You get better control and make fewer errors.
Vibration & Comfort
Long pickleball games can make your arm tired. Some paddles shake a lot and hurt your hand or wrist. This can cause pain or even injury. Hudefsport uses three layers to absorb shock and gel in the handle. You feel 72% less vibration than with regular paddles. Other brands like Selkirk and JOOLA use foam and edge guards. You feel more comfortable and can play longer without pain.
Tip: Pick a paddle with shock absorption if you want less wrist and elbow pain.
Durability & Surface
You want your pickleball paddle to last many games. Some paddles break down fast, but top brands use strong coatings and tough materials. For example, Selkirk’s InfiniGrit surface makes paddles last three times longer. Hudefsport uses titanium alloy coatings and special manufacturing. Your paddle stays strong and works well, even after thousands of hits.
Control & Spin
Control and spin help you win in pickleball. New paddles use micro-textured surfaces and rough patterns. These features let you add topspin, backspin, or sidespin. You get better ball control and can trick your opponent. Some paddles, like the Helios Khione, use AmpGrit technology to hold the ball longer. Your shots become more accurate and powerful.
Power vs. Control

Power Paddles
Do you love smashing the ball past your opponent? Power paddles help you do just that. These paddles have a harder core and often weigh a bit more. You get a strong bounce and fast shots. The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV stands out for advanced players who want big power, high spin, and a large sweet spot. The Holbrook Power Pro also gives you serious force and spin, perfect for aggressive play in a competition. Power paddles work best if you like to drive the ball hard and finish points quickly.
-
Harder core for more speed
-
Heavier weight for stronger hits
-
Less dwell time, so the ball leaves the paddle fast
-
Great for players who attack
Control Paddles
If you want to place the ball exactly where you want, control paddles are your best friend. These paddles feel softer and lighter. You get more touch and can move the paddle quickly at the net. Control paddles help you with soft shots, dinks, and tricky spins. Many top players in pickleball tournaments use these paddles for their accuracy.
Paddle Model |
Key Features |
---|---|
Selkirk LUXX Control Air Epic |
Florek Carbon Fiber face, thick honeycomb core, ProSpin+ texture, anti-torque tech for less vibration |
CRBN 2X Power Series |
14mm core, unibody carbon fiber, foam-injected edge walls for less vibration |
-
Softer core for better placement
-
Lighter weight for quick moves
-
More dwell time for spin and control
Balance for Tournaments
Most players in pickleball competition want both power and control. You can find a paddle that gives you a mix of both. Look for paddles weighing between 7.5 and 8.5 ounces. This weight helps you swing fast but still hit hard. Carbon fiber faces improve your aim and control. Textured surfaces help you spin the ball. A bigger sweet spot and the right grip size make your paddle feel just right.
Tip: Try different paddles to see what feels best for your game. The right balance can help you win more matches and enjoy pickleball even more.
Choosing Good Tournament Competition Pickleball Rackets
By Skill Level
Picking the right paddle for tournaments starts with your skill level. If you are new to pickleball, you want a middleweight paddle. This type gives you a mix of power and control. You can learn faster and play longer. If you play from the baseline and love strong shots, try a heavier paddle. You will hit the ball harder and keep your opponent back. If you like quick moves near the net, a lightweight paddle helps you control spin and place your shots.
-
Middleweight paddles work best for beginners.
-
Heavy paddles boost power for advanced players.
-
Lightweight paddles help with control and spin.
By Playing Style
Your playing style matters when you choose good tournament competition pickleball rackets. If you play with finesse and focus on shot placement, look for paddles with balanced weight and textured surfaces. These features help you control the ball and add spin. If you want more power, pick a sturdy paddle with a solid core. Materials and manufacturing change how a paddle feels and lasts. You can match your paddle to your style for better results.
-
Textured surfaces help with spin and control.
-
Sturdy paddles give you more power.
-
Paddle weight and balance affect your gameplay.
Customization Tips
You can customize your paddle to fit your hand and style. Try different grip sizes and handle shapes. A good grip spreads pressure and keeps your hand comfortable. The right grip size helps you control the paddle and hit better shots. If the grip is too big, you lose power. If it is too small, you cannot hit hard. You can also adjust the weight for more power or easier moves.
Customization Aspect |
Description |
---|---|
Weight |
Change weight for power or maneuverability. |
Grip |
Pick grip size and material for comfort and control. |
Handle Shape |
Try different shapes for better handling. |
Materials |
Choose materials for performance and feel. |
Tip: Test several paddles before you buy. You will find the best fit for your hand and your game. Good tournament competition pickleball rackets should feel natural and help you play your best.
Maintenance & Injury Prevention
Paddle Care
Taking care of your pickleball paddle helps you play better and keeps your gear in top shape. After each game, wipe your paddle with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat. Never soak your paddle in water or use harsh cleaners. These can damage the surface and reduce grip. Store your paddle in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it in your car or outside, where heat or cold can cause cracks. Use a paddle cover or bag to protect it from bumps and scratches. Check your paddle often for deep scratches, loose grips, or cracks in the edge guard. These small checks help you spot problems before they get worse.
Tip: Clean your pickleball paddle with a microfiber cloth or a Magic Eraser for best results.
When to Replace
Even the best pickleball paddle will not last forever. If you play for fun, you might replace your paddle every 1 to 2 years. If you play pickleball tournaments or practice every day, you may need a new paddle every 6 to 12 months. Advanced players sometimes change paddles every 1-3 months to keep their game sharp. Look for signs like worn surfaces, loose grips, or changes in how your paddle feels. These mean it is time for a new one.
Usage Type |
Replacement Frequency |
---|---|
Recreational |
1 to 2 years |
Competitive (daily) |
6 to 12 months |
Preventing Injuries
Pickleball is fun, but you want to stay safe. Warm up with stretches and light jogging before you play. Stretch your shoulders, legs, and wrists. Drink water to stay hydrated. Wear shoes that support your feet and consider wrist or elbow braces if you need extra support. Choose a paddle with vibration control and a comfortable grip. This helps prevent tennis elbow and reduces arm strain. Middle-weight paddles are great for balancing control and comfort. Always listen to your body and take breaks if you feel pain.
-
Warm up and cool down every time you play
-
Use a paddle with shock absorption and the right grip size
-
Replace your paddle if it feels worn or causes discomfort
You have many great options for tournament pickleball paddles.
-
Core materials boost power and durability.
-
Grip size keeps you comfortable.
-
Matching your paddle to your style helps you play better.
Think about your skill level and how you play. High-quality paddles improve power, control, and spin. Ask yourself what style fits you best before you choose.
FAQ
What makes a pickleball paddle tournament-approved?
You need a paddle with a USA Pickleball (USAP) certification mark. Officials check for this before matches. Always look for the USAP stamp.
How do I know when to replace my paddle?
If your paddle feels dead, has cracks, or the grip feels loose, it is time for a new one. You want your paddle to feel solid.
Can I customize my paddle for better performance?
Yes! You can change the grip size, add overgrips, or adjust the weight. Try different setups until your paddle feels perfect for your hand.