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Swing like a pro, even if it’s your first time.
Photo:Shape / Photo Illustration by Marcus Millán / Photo by Lindsay Peragallo, Sarah Byron, Ed Benjamin
Like thebest pickleball shoes, paddles come in all shapes, sizes, and fun colors and patterns.
Warning: whatever you do, dont call it a racquet.
Fortunately, Shape’s done the work for you.
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Here are the best pickleball paddles for beginners, according to pros, gear experts, and testers.
The set includes four wooden paddles, four balls, and a mesh carrying bag.
These paddles are of average length and width but are slightly heavier than carbon fiber and fiberglass options.
PHOTO: Shape / Alena Kharlamenko
Theyre highly durable and can take a beating, which makes them great for young players and travel.
you could still get a great thwack on the carbon fiber surface without stressing your shoulder or elbow.
The grip is a soft and shock-absorbing tape that minimizes the risk of blisters and wont easily wear down.
That means you dont have to perfectly center the ball on your paddle face to get a powerful pop.
Too often players find themselves with a paddle that can’t keep up with their improvement.
Aside from its broad shape, the paddle is made from durable high-performing materials.
It has a 13 mm core and tapered edges that are aerodynamic and easy to whip through the air.
|Handle Length:5.6 inches |Grip Circumference:4.3 inches
This is a great all-around paddle for all skill levels especially beginners.
The 16 mm paddle is a nice middle ground that offers both power and maneuverability.
The interior is made from high-density foam that reduces shock and feels stable and easy to control.
And at $169.99, it’s a great middle-of-the-road price point.
The paddle is medium weight and has a spin-ready carbon fiber face.
Lemley recommends a 16 mm paddle for most beginners.
This is on the thicker side but will be more forgiving and offer more control, he says.
He also prefers a longer paddle for increased reach across the court and a carbon fiber face.
The gritty paddle texture may assist beginners, adding more control and offering more spin, he says.
Paddle size includes shape and length.
Shape, according to Lemley, is largely about personal preference and aesthetics.
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He suggests that beginners opt for an elongated paddle, which generally measures 16.5 inches by 7.5 inches.
Most beginners have no trouble maneuvering around the court, but injury statistics suggest beginners may overestimate their agility.
An elongated paddle may prevent unnecessary stumbles by giving the player a slight reach advantage, he says.
PHOTO: Shape / Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm
Most players prefer lighter paddles, as theyre easier to maneuver during a long afternoon of play.
People with elbow or wrist injuries should prioritize a lighter paddle to ease the pressure on their joints.
A former collegiate runner for Amherst College, she has run six marathons.
We also consulted with pickleball experts to identify the most important features for beginners and seasoned players to consider.
Paul Lemley is the founder and CEO ofPickleball Union.
John Cowley is the director of vendor relations atPickleball Central.
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