
If you want to start pickleball well, choose the Pro Entry Starter Pickleball Paddles Coach Pick from hudef. Many coaches recommend beginner-friendly pickleball paddles like the Onix Z5 or Head Radical Elite for these reasons:
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Power helps you hit the ball far
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A big sweet spot makes it easier to hit
With the right pickleball paddle, you feel more confident and have more fun playing.
Key Takeaways
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Pick the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 if you are new. This paddle has a big sweet spot. It gives you great control. You can learn faster with it.
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Try to get paddles that are light. Light paddles help you move fast. They also keep your arm from getting tired. This makes playing more fun.
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Try out many paddles before you buy one. Find a paddle that feels good in your hand. Make sure the weight and grip fit you. This helps you play better and feel comfortable on the court.
Top Coach Pick
Pro Entry Starter Pickleball Paddles Coach Pick
When you want to start strong in pickleball, you need the right paddle. Many coaches agree that the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is the pro entry starter pickleball paddles coach pick. This paddle appears again and again in the top picks for beginner pickleball paddles. Coaches love it because it helps you learn quickly and play with confidence.
You will notice the difference as soon as you pick up the Paddletek Bantam TS-5. The lightweight design makes it easy to swing. You can react fast and reach for every shot. The paddle uses quality materials, so you get a solid feel with every hit. Beginners often struggle with control, but this paddle gives you the edge. You will find it easier to keep the ball in play and aim your shots.
Coaches say, “The Paddletek Bantam TS-5 helps new players build skills fast. It gives you the control you need and the comfort you want.”
If you want a paddle that grows with you, this is the one. The pro entry starter pickleball paddles coach pick stands out because it offers both forgiveness and performance. You do not have to worry about missing the sweet spot. The paddle’s design helps you hit well, even if you are still learning. You will feel more confident with every game.
Why This Paddle Stands Out
The Paddletek Bantam TS-5 stands out for several reasons. First, it has a large sweet spot. You will hit more successful shots, even if you do not hit the center every time. The paddle’s forgiving nature means you can focus on learning, not just on perfect technique.
Second, the paddle offers excellent control. You can place the ball where you want it. This helps you develop your skills and enjoy the game more. The lightweight build reduces arm fatigue, so you can play longer without discomfort.
Third, the paddle is durable. You will not need to replace it after just a few months. The strong materials hold up to regular play. This makes the pro entry starter pickleball paddles coach pick a smart investment for any beginner.
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Large sweet spot for easy hits
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Lightweight for quick reactions
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Durable materials for long-lasting use
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Superior control for skill building
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Trusted by coaches for new players
If you want to start pickleball with confidence, choose the pro entry starter pickleball paddles coach pick. You will enjoy the game more and improve faster with the right paddle in your hand.
Best Beginner Pickleball Paddles

Quick List of Picks
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Vatic Pro Prism Flash 16mm
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Selkirk SLK HALO Pro XL
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GoSports GS1 Set
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Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle
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Doctor Pickleball Surgical Control
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PBVMURTG Carbon Fiber Paddle
Overview of Each Paddle
You need a good beginner pickleball paddle to learn fast. These paddles help you enjoy every game. Coaches like these paddles for comfort and control. They also give you great value. Every paddle on this list has a big sweet spot. The grip feels nice in your hand. You will notice you miss less and control the ball better.
Paddle Name |
Weight (oz) |
Grip Size |
Core Material |
Best For |
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Vatic Pro Prism Flash 16mm |
7.8-8.2 |
4 1/4” |
Carbon Fiber |
Balance & Durability |
Selkirk SLK HALO Pro XL |
7.6-8.2 |
4 1/4” |
Graphite |
Control & Sweet Spot |
GoSports GS1 Set |
7.5-8.0 |
4 1/4” |
Polypropylene |
Family & Beginners |
Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle |
7.6-8.1 |
4 1/4” |
Polypropylene |
Lightweight Feel |
Doctor Pickleball Surgical Control |
7.9-8.4 |
4 1/4” |
Composite |
Extra Control |
PBVMURTG Carbon Fiber Paddle |
7.6-8.0 |
4 1/4” |
Carbon Fiber |
Value & Performance |
Tip: Pick a paddle with a standard grip size. A midweight paddle helps you control shots. It also keeps your wrist from hurting.
Look at prices before you buy a paddle. This chart shows how much top beginner pickleball paddles cost:

Pick a beginner pickleball paddle that fits your needs. Make sure it matches your budget too. The right paddle helps you play better and have more fun.
Key Features
Sweet Spot & Forgiveness
You want your shots to count. A big sweet spot helps you hit the ball well. Most beginner paddles have a larger sweet zone. This design lets you miss less often. You feel better with every swing. Hudefsport uses honeycomb core and special layers. These make the sweet spot 35% bigger. You get a paddle that helps you play well from the start.
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Bigger sweet spots help new players.
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They make it easier to hit the ball.
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This helps you feel more sure on the court.
Vibration & Comfort
Comfort is important when you play pickleball. You do not want wrist pain or tired joints. Many paddles use special systems to stop vibration. Hudefsport adds three shock layers and gel pads in the handle. These features soak up 72% of the impact. You can play longer and enjoy every game.
Paddle Type |
Key Features |
Best for Beginners? |
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Polypropylene Honeycomb Core |
Light, strong, steady response; 16mm thickness |
Yes |
Solid Foam Core |
Soft feel, big sweet spot, gentle on contact |
Yes |
Vibration Reduction |
Cuts vibration by up to 43%, shock by 20% |
Yes |
Durability
You want your paddle to last a long time. Materials like fiberglass, graphite, and polymer make paddles tough and light. Hudefsport uses titanium coating and special heat methods. These keep your paddle safe from damage and sun. Your paddle will stay strong for years.
Material Type |
Description |
Durability Characteristics |
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Fiberglass |
Fibers pressed with heat and pressure |
Very strong, light |
Graphite |
Hard but can break easily |
Needs edge guard to stay safe |
Polymer |
Plastic, light and cheap |
Coatings help it last longer |
Control vs. Power
You need both control and power to play well. The best paddles give you an even mix. Mid-weight paddles (7.6 to 8.4 ounces) help you swing fast and steady. Polymer honeycomb cores and rough faces help you aim and spin the ball. Hudefsport’s control system helps you place shots and hit hard.
Tip: Pick a paddle with a wide shape and sticky grip. You will see better control and stronger hits.
How to Choose
Assessing Your Needs
You want a pickleball paddle that matches your style and comfort. Start by looking at the basics:
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Core materials and thickness affect how the paddle feels and responds.
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Surface materials change how much spin you can put on the ball.
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Paddle weight decides if you get more power or better control.
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Grip size must fit your hand so you play without pain.
Check your hand size and strength before you buy. Use this table to find your best grip and weight:
Grip Size |
Hand Size (inches) |
Paddle Weight |
Description |
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4.0" |
6.75" or less |
8.0 oz+ |
More power, less maneuverability |
4.5" |
7.5" or more |
7.0-7.5 oz |
More control, faster swings |
Smaller |
Between sizes |
N/A |
Better control, add overgrips |
Most beginner pickleball paddles cost $90-$150. Higher prices often mean better materials and longer life.
Testing Paddles
Try different paddles before you decide. You will notice what feels right for you.
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Test paddle weight to see if you like heavy or light.
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Check reach and sweet spot by swinging both elongated and wide paddles.
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Hit balls in real games—try dinks, volleys, and serves.
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Spin the ball to see how the paddle handles topspin and slice.
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Feel the grip and vibration during play.
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Inspect the build and materials for quality.
Tip: Always test the paddle in a real pickleball game if you can.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these errors when picking your first pickleball paddle:
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Do not buy just because the price is low.
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Skip pro-level paddles—they are not for beginners.
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Make sure the grip and weight fit your hand and arm strength.
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Choose a paddle for your play environment—indoor or outdoor.
Pick the right paddle and you will enjoy pickleball more. You will play better and improve faster.
When to Upgrade
Signs to Look For
You want to keep improving your pickleball game. Your starter paddle helped you learn the basics, but sometimes you need more. Watch for these signs that tell you it is time to upgrade:
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You feel wrist or arm discomfort after playing. Heavy paddles can slow you down and make your technique worse.
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The grip feels slippery or worn out. You struggle to hold the paddle firmly, and your shots lose accuracy.
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Your skills have grown. You want to try new shots, spins, or faster play, but your paddle cannot keep up.
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You notice your paddle looks worn or damaged. Chips, cracks, or faded surfaces mean your paddle does not perform like it used to.
Tip: If you feel limited by your paddle, you deserve an upgrade. A better pickleball paddle helps you play longer and enjoy every match.
Moving Up
You have reached a new level in pickleball. Upgrading your paddle gives you more control, power, and comfort. You can choose a lighter paddle for quick swings or a paddle with advanced grip for better handling. New technology lets you hit with more spin and accuracy.
Take action now. Test different paddles and find one that matches your style. You will notice the difference in your game. Your confidence will grow, and you will have more fun on the court. Do not let an old paddle hold you back. Move up and unlock your full potential in pickleball.
Picking the best paddle begins with what coaches say and knowing what matters most. You need a paddle that works well, has a thick core, and feels good in your hand. The weight should not be too heavy or too light. Try out a few paddles to see which one fits you best. Some budget paddles work just as well as the top ones. The best paddle helps you learn all the skills and have fun. Choose the right paddle so you can play your best from the start!
FAQ
What paddle weight should you choose as a beginner?
Pick a midweight paddle (7.6–8.2 oz). You get better control and less wrist strain. You play longer and improve faster.
How often should you replace your pickleball paddle?
Replace your paddle every 1–2 years. Durable paddles like hudefsport last longer. You keep your performance strong and avoid wear issues.
Does grip size matter for new players?
Yes! Grip size affects comfort and control. Measure your hand before buying. You play better and avoid wrist pain with the right fit.