How to choose a pickleball paddle
By the PaddleBag team · Updated October 1, 2026
There are hundreds of paddles, but only a handful of specs really change how one plays. Here's what each spec means so you can pick a paddle that fits your game.
Weight
- Light (roughly under 7.5 oz): fast hands and easy on the arm, but less plow-through and more twist on off-center hits.
- Mid-weight (about 7.5–8.2 oz): the best balance of power and control for most players.
- Heavy (over 8.2 oz): more power and stability, but slower at the net and harder on the elbow.
Core thickness: 13–14mm vs 16mm
Thicker cores (16mm) feel softer, absorb pace, and give a bigger, more forgiving sweet spot — great for control and the soft game. Thinner cores (13–14mm) feel crisper and poppier, adding power at the cost of some control.
Not sure? Start with 16mm. It's the most popular core thickness among PaddleBag players.
Shape
- Standard (wider): the biggest sweet spot and most forgiving — a great default.
- Elongated: extra reach and leverage for power and singles, with a narrower sweet spot.
- Hybrid: in between — some reach with a reasonable sweet spot.
Approved paddles can't be longer than 17 inches, and length plus width can't exceed 24 inches.
Face material and spin
Fiberglass faces tend to feel poppier, while carbon fiber (especially raw carbon) faces give more control and grip on the ball for spin. Texture wears down over time, so heavy spin players replace paddles more often.
Grip size
Most grips are 4 to 4.5 inches around. If you're between sizes, go smaller — you can always add an overgrip, but you can't make a grip thinner.
Budget and tournament approval
You don't need a flagship paddle to improve. Mid-range paddles often rate as well as premium ones with our players. If you plan to play sanctioned tournaments, check that the paddle is on the USA Pickleball approved list.
FAQ
Is a 13mm or 16mm pickleball paddle better?
16mm paddles offer more control, a softer feel, and a bigger sweet spot. 13–14mm paddles are poppier and add power. Most beginners and control players do best with 16mm.
What weight pickleball paddle should I get?
A mid-weight paddle (about 7.5–8.2 oz) suits most players. Go lighter for faster hands or arm comfort, heavier for more power and stability.
How much should I spend on my first pickleball paddle?
You don't need a premium paddle to start. Many paddles under ₱10,000 are rated highly by PaddleBag players — see our best-under-budget lists.