Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners

The Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners Players in 2024: Smash the Ball with Confidence!

Are you ready to dive into the fastest-growing sport in America? Pickleball is taking courts by storm, but beginning players know a great paddle can make all the difference between totally rocking game night or getting stuck chasing balls. 

Lucky for you, I called up my pickleball guru buddy Danielle in New Buffalo to get the inside scoop on the best paddles for beginner players in 2024. With her daughter just starting to play and recommendations from the local pickleball crew, she’s tried all the hot new gear so you don’t have to!

In this epic guide, I’ll serve up reviews for 7 awesome pickleball paddles perfect for beginners and share Danielle’s top tips for choosing the right one. Get ready to find your new partner in pickleball crime and start smashing that ball!

Pickleball Paddle Buying Guide for New Players!

Before we dig into the paddle reviews, let’s quickly cover what you should look for when buying your first pickleball paddle. Danielle shared her top 3 tips:

1. Weight – Look for a lightweight paddle around 7.5  ounces. Heavier paddles can tire out your arm quicker.

2. Grip Size – Make sure the grip circumference fits your hand size. The paddle should feel secure but not tight. 

3. Materials – Fiberglass or polymer composite paddles provide nice balance at an affordable price for beginners. 

Keep these factors in mind as we check out the top-rated pickleball paddle options for new players in 2024!

Here is the Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners

After testing tons of beginner paddles with her daughter, here are Danielle’s top recommendations:

1. Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle

Kicking off our list is the Onix Graphite Z5, selected by Danielle as the best overall pickleball paddle for new players. Backed by pickleball legend Ben Johns, the Z5 balances power, control, and affordability. 

The graphite face and polymer honeycomb core generate nice pop without jarring your arm. At 7.8 ounces, the lightweight design reduces fatigue yet still provides stability for solid shots. An edge guard protects the rim from chips and dings during games and storage.

While Onix offers cheaper basic paddles, the Z5’s quality materials make it a notch above other beginner options. The cushioned grip feels comfortable even in extended play. It’s easy to see why the Z5 is one of the best-selling paddles for recreational and tournament play.

Standout Features:

• Graphite hitting surface with polymer core
• Weighs 7.8 oz – ideal for beginner control  
• Cushioned grip and edge guard for durability
• Mid-price range paddle trusted by beginners

2. HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle

When Danielle’s daughter complained of mishitting balls during jam-packed family games, they knew it was time to upgrade to the HEAD Radical Elite. This lightweight paddle emphasizes power in each hit to avoid frustrating flubbed shots.

The Radical Elite generates its punchy pops from the polymer face, fiberglass frame, and carbon fiber shaft. An oversized sweet spot really ramps up the power for beginners still honing accurate hits. Its foam grip stays comfy even when rallies run long.

While advanced players may seek more control, the Radical Elite gives beginners the power boost they need to wage pickleball battle with confidence. Its affordable price and 1-year warranty make it easy to upgrade from basic starter paddles too.

Standout Features:

• Polymer face and fiberglass frame enable power
• Large sweet spot for off-center hits
• Foam grip with wrist lanyard 
• Light 8.1 oz weight won’t tire your arm

3. Engage Pickleball Omega Evolution Extreme X

If you value precision shots over raw power, Engage’s Omega Evolution Extreme X should be on your short list. The Extreme X thrilled Danielle with its high level of control for accurate placement.

The Extreme X truly lives up to its name with an extra-textured carbon fiber face that bites into pickleballs for heavy topspin. The paddle feels very balanced at 7.7 ounces. Though not as powerful as composite options, you can finesse dinks and drop shots with ease.

Danielle suggests the Extreme X for beginners who prioritize control over driving power. The lively response lets you confidently return pacey shots with spin. Just bring some muscle on drives for best results.

Standout Features:

• Textured carbon fiber face adds control and spin
• Traditional head shape offers nice balance
• Responsive feel great for touch shots  
• Not as powerful as composites

4. SLK Evo Power XL 2.0 Pickleball Paddle

^{Photography by Amazon}

The Evo Power XL 2.0 from Selkirk stood out to Danielle for its incredibly comfortable grip perfect for extended games or tourney days. The cushioned X5 core reduces vibration and hand fatigue.

Remember when Benjamin Johns talked about comfortable grips in paddles? This is what he meant. It’s so comfy; it’s like holding hands with a cloud. Perfect for tennis players who are pickleball-curious.

Weighing in at 7.8 ounces, the Evo Power XL 2.0 feels very similar to holding a tennis racket. This makes it a great transition paddle for tennis players diving into pickleball. The grip truly seals the deal for comfort.

Standout Features:  

• Cushioned X5 core minimizes vibration
• Fiberglass surface balanced for control
• Familiar pickleball paddle size and shape
• Ideal grip size and contouring 

5. Niupipo MX-07 Pickleball Paddle

Niupipo designed the MX-07 specifically with beginners in mind, maximizing comfort to allow new players to hone skills without pain. The ergonomic grip helps reduce elbow and shoulder strain during games.

At 7.7 ounces, the paddle feels light yet stable. The polymer honeycomb core generates decent power without compromising control. An edge guard protects the paddle for the inevitable tumbles and drops.

The MX-07 delivers reliable performance with added comfort features to minimize fatigue. This helps you focus on improving strategy instead of arm soreness. This paddle is like Miracle Hangover Cures for your arm too.

Standout Features:

• Contoured grip reduces arm strain 
• Weighs just 7.7 oz for easy mobility
• Polymer honeycomb core balances power 
• Edge guard for extra durability

6. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS

Designed with input from pickleball champ Ben Johns, the Hyperion CFS packs a powerful spin punch for aggressive players. Its carbon fiber surface paired with a unique elongated handle shape lets you whip wicked topspin drives. 

Danielle suggests the Hyperion CFS for beginners looking to develop an aggressive spin and power-based play style. The paddle does weigh in on the heavier side at 8.4 ounces, so be prepared for some muscle. But the pop on shots is truly unparalleled.

Just keep in mind the Hyperion CFS sacrifices some control and finesse. The elongated shape also takes some adjustment coming from traditional pickleball paddles. But serious spinners will love its power.

Standout Features:  

• Carbon fiber face generates spin and pop
• Unique elongated paddle shape 
• Better fit for aggressive playing styles
• Heavier at 8.4 oz with smaller sweet spot

7. Recess Pickleball Paddle

Let’s wrap up with a bit of fun! While performance comes first, Danielle knows the excitement of repping a stylish paddle on the court. If you want to add some flair to your game, Recess paddles offer vibrant colors and patterns with quality construction. 

The fiberglass face and polymer core provide a well-balanced, user-friendly feel. While Recess won’t match the pop of high-end carbon fiber paddles, it lets beginners practice the basics in style. The faux leather cushioned grip keeps hands comfy all game long too.

So go ahead, give your paddle game some personality! The Recess line offers a budget-friendly way to look as good as you’ll play.

Standout Features:  

• Eye-catching color combinations and graphics   
• Fiberglass face with polymer honeycomb core
• Cushioned faux leather grip
• Affordable price for stylish paddle

People Also Asked Questions about the Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners:

What makes a pickleball paddle suitable for beginners?

Beginner-friendly best pickleball paddles typically have a lightweight design for better control, a comfortable grip size, and a balanced construction to facilitate easy learning. Look for paddles that offer a good mix of power and control to enhance your game as you start.

How do I choose the right weight for a beginner pickleball paddle?

For beginners, it’s generally recommended to go for a lightweight paddle, typically in the range of 7.0 to 8.4 ounces. A lighter paddle helps prevent early fatigue and allows for better maneuverability as you learn and practice different shots.

What grip size should I look for in a beginner best pickleball paddle?

The grip circumference should match the size of your hand. A secure but not overly tight grip is essential. Beginners often find comfort in mid-sized grips, but it’s crucial to test different sizes to find what feels best for you.

Are there specific materials I should look for in a beginner pickleball paddle?

Fiberglass or polymer composite paddles are ideal for beginners. These materials provide a good balance of power, control, and durability without breaking the bank. They offer a forgiving feel, making it easier for new players to get accustomed to the game.

Do I need a specific paddle for indoor and outdoor pickleball?

While some paddles are designed for both indoor and outdoor play, it’s essential to consider where you’ll be playing more frequently. Indoor balls tend to behave differently than outdoor ones, so choosing a paddle that aligns with your primary playing environment can enhance your overall experience.

Conclusion

Hopefully, these reviews of Danielle’s favorite beginner paddles provide helpful guidance as you select your new partner on the pickleball courts. Trust me, finding the perfect gear makes all the difference chasing down those pesky plastic balls! 

The sport’s addicting fun for all ages will have you hooked in no time. Just get ready to see pickleball paddles become a permanent fixture in your home, car, and tennis bag—speaking from experience here. 

So, whether you’re playing near New Buffalo or in your own backyard, remember to have fun, keep the ball in play, and don’t step on the kitchen line – that’s a pickleball no-no! And if you ever feel lost, just think, “What would a pickleball paddle maker do?” They’d probably tell you to pick a paddle, get out there, and have a blast! and welcome to your newest obsession!