What weight paddle should a beginner use?

Most beginners do well with a midweight paddle between 7.3 and 8.0 ounces. This range offers a good balance of control and power without fatiguing your arm.

How much should I spend on my first paddle?

You can get a quality beginner paddle for $60-$100. Avoid very cheap paddles under $30 as they often lack proper construction, but you don't need to spend $200+ when starting out.

Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners in 2025

Choosing your first pickleball paddle can feel overwhelming with hundreds of options on the market. The good news? You don’t need the most expensive paddle to play well. Here’s what to look for.

What Makes a Good Beginner Paddle?

The best beginner paddles share a few key traits:

Forgiving sweet spot — A wider face and polymer core help mishits still go where you want.
Midweight (7.3–8.0 oz) — Heavy enough for power, light enough to maneuver at the net.
Standard grip length — Around 5.25 inches fits most hand sizes comfortably.

Our Top Picks

1. Selkirk SLK Evo Soft

The SLK Evo Soft is our top pick for beginners who want to develop good habits early. The soft polymer core encourages controlled dinking and resets rather than just blasting the ball. At under $80, it’s hard to beat.

2. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS

If you want a paddle you can grow into, the Hyperion CFS is worth the extra investment. The carbon fiber surface generates excellent spin, and the elongated shape gives you extra reach. Many intermediate players still use this paddle in tournaments.

How to Choose

Start by thinking about your playing style. Do you prefer to stay at the kitchen line and play a soft game? Go with a control-oriented paddle. Like to drive the ball from the baseline? A slightly heavier paddle with a stiffer face will serve you better.

Either way, get out on the court and start playing — your paddle matters far less than your footwork in the first year.