Skip to content
PICKLEBALL SPOTS LOGO
  • PADDLESExpand
    • Best Pickleball Paddles
    • Best For Beginners
    • Best for Intermediate Players
    • Best for Advanced Players
    • Best For Spin
    • Bests For Control
    • Best for Power
    • Best Lightweight
  • ShoesExpand
    • Best Pickleball Shoes
    • Best Pickleball Shoes Under $100
    • Best Pickleball Shoes For Narrow Feet
    • Best Pickleball Shoes For Wide Feet
    • Best Running Shoes For Pickleball
  • Buyer Guides
  • Tips & Tricks
  • FAQ
PICKLEBALL SPOTS LOGO
PickleBallSpots

As an independent review site, we may earn a commission when you click on our links.

What is the Best Material for Pickleball Paddles [Detailed Guide]

Posted onMay 30, 2023May 30, 2023

Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that has many people asking: What is the best material for pickleball paddles?

There are many factors to consider when selecting materials, and it’s important to know how these different factors can affect your game.

In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular materials used in pickleball paddles so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Contents
  1. What Is The Best Material For Pickleball Paddles?
  2. How to choose a material for your pickleball paddle?
    • Composite Pickleball Paddles
    • Graphite Pickleball Paddles
    • Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles
  3. What is the difference between composite and graphite pickleball paddles?
  4. Final Words

What Is The Best Material For Pickleball Paddles?

Graphite or carbon fiber paddles are a popular choice for pickleball players. These paddles cost more than the fiberglass ones because they’re stronger and give better control of the ball – which is perfect for those who want to play with finesse rather than power!

Also Read  How Tall Is Jeff Warnick Pickleball

Fiberglass paddles are the cheapest option, but they’re also not very durable and don’t provide any grip on your hand. So for an all-weather paddle that will last you through every season, opt for graphite or carbon fiber instead!

How to choose a material for your pickleball paddle?

Choose Pickleball Paddle

Choosing the right paddle is not an easy task. You can’t just go to a store and pick one up. You need to know your needs and how much experience you have with the game before making a purchase. This blog post will review the different materials (fiberglass, graphite, composite) and give some tips on choosing which material best suits your needs.

Composite Pickleball Paddles

Composite Pickleball Paddles have been around for some time. Still, they’ve now become the preferred choice among players because they’re lighter weight than wooden paddles and more durable than aluminum ones, as well as being cheaper in cost. 

They come in different shapes, too, so you can find the right paddle for your game style! You just might be surprised at how quickly pickleball becomes addicting. 

Also Read  Where Can I Play Pickleball in NYC?

A composite pickleball paddle is a new type of paddle that has been constructed from the old open-celled honeycomb core but with one or more face materials. 

The result is a surface that can either be made to look like wood veneer for those who want their paddles to look traditional and classic, or it could also have texture on it to help reduce slipping out of your hand due to sweatiness during intense moments when you’re playing against someone else.

Bestseller No. 1 Amoron Pickleball Paddles Set Of 2 Usapa Approved, Composite...
AMORON Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 USAPA Approved,...
(172)
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 2 Versix Strike 4F Orange Composite Pickleball Paddle
VERSIX Strike 4F Orange Composite Pickleball...
(36)
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 3 Slk By Selkirk Pickleball Paddles | Featuring A Multilayer...
SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles | Featuring a...
(1214)
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2022-12-03 at 13:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Graphite Pickleball Paddles

In a graphite pickleball paddle, the graphite layer is applied over the top of a core (like Nomex or Poly), adding a specific set of attributes to the paddle. Graphite paddles are durable and can handle intense play without breaking. 

Also Read  Why Do I Keep Missing the Ball in Pickleball?

The thickness, density, stiffness, and flex properties vary with different manufacturers. So it’s important to find one that fits your needs best! For example, graphite paddles are expensive, but they last long because graphite does not wear off like other materials such as plastic. 

They provide good control, too, because their weight and balance have been meticulously designed for pickleball players. In addition to durability, this also means that control never changes based on how much use you get out of them! 

Many of the world’s best players now play with paddles that combine a Graphite Face with a composite core. The graphite face provides durability and control. The composite core is made up of durable materials such as titanium or carbon fiber. This gives players added power—which can be crucial in a rally!

*Tip: don’t play with anything other than Graphite paddles if you want to have fun on the pickleball court.*

Bestseller No. 1 Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle (Graphite Carbon Fiber...
ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle (Graphite...
(4060)
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 2 Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set Of 2 - Graphite Surface With...
Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 - Graphite...
(1801)
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 3 Vufoxt Pickleball Paddles Set Of 2, 99.99% Carbon Fiber,...
VUFOXT Pickleball Paddles Set of 2, 99.99% Carbon...
(407)
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2022-12-10 at 13:09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also Read  How Much Is a Pickleball Franchise?

Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles

Fiberglass has become a popular material in the past few years. Fiberglass paddles tend to have different characteristics that make them stand out and be more versatile than other types of materials. 

For starters, fiberglass is very durable because it’s made from small fibers pressed together under heat and pressure then soaked with resin which hardens into glass-like sheets when exposed to air or water; this means less repair work for you! 

It also makes your paddle lighter, so carrying it around won’t weigh you down on long trips like some heavier wood might do since they are heavy due to being denser than their lightweight counterparts, such as aluminum. 

One of the best things about fiberglass is that it’s not as expensive as other high-end materials such as graphite and carbon, which are usually reserved for professional players or those who can afford them. 

However, this doesn’t mean you should only go with a lower-priced option like fiberglass because even though they’re cheaper than many of their counterparts, there are still plenty of great options out there to choose from, including aluminum if you don’t want to spend much money on your new pickleball paddle.

Bestseller No. 1 Asbocer Fiberglass Surface Pickleball Set, Usapa Approved, 4...
Asbocer Fiberglass Surface Pickleball Set, USAPA...
(336)
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 2 Niupipo Pickleball Paddles, Pickleball Paddles Set Of 2,...
niupipo Pickleball Paddles, Pickleball Paddles Set...
(1467)
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 3 Niupipo Pickleball Paddles, Lightweight Pickleball Rackets...
niupipo Pickleball Paddles, Lightweight Pickleball...
(2836)
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2022-12-03 at 13:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Also Read  Can You Bounce Serve in Pickleball

What is the difference between composite and graphite pickleball paddles?

Composite pickleball paddles are made of a plastic-like material, and graphite is composed of carbon. Composite materials make the paddle lighter than its counterpart but less durable at impact. On the other hand, graphite provides a stiffer feel to your swing and will last longer if you take care not to hit rocks or other hard objects with it too often!

Composites offer speed while being lightweight yet fragile in comparison when compared to graphite which has been known for its durability despite some stiffness during playtime.

Final Words

There’s no right answer to what material is best for your pickleball paddles, but now you know!

The most important thing about the materials used in this type of equipment is that they are durable enough to be able to withstand a lot of play without breaking. 

Materials such as graphite and composite make up these types of products, which can then differ according to additional features like weight or stiffness. 

Also Read  Are Wood Pickleball Paddles Good?

So if you’re looking for something light yet strong, then look into composite pieces. At the same time, graphites will offer a more stiff feel during gameplay despite being less durable at impact than composites. 

There’s no wrong answer when it comes down to the perfect paddle; just find one that suits your needs and style on the court!

  • JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 Pickleball Paddle - Official
    JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 Pickleball Paddle - Official Ben Johns Paddle - USAPA Approved Racket for Tournament Play - Edge to Edge Sweet Spot, Durable Max Spin Surface & Elongated Handle
  • ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle (Graphite Carbon Fiber Face with
    ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle (Graphite Carbon Fiber Face with Rough Texture Surface, Cushion Comfort Grip and Nomex Honeycomb Core for Touch, Control, and Power)
  • SAVITA 20pcs Pickleball Lead Tape, Weighted 3g Lead Tape for
    SAVITA 20pcs Pickleball Lead Tape, Weighted 3g Lead Tape for Pickleball Paddles, Adhesive Lead Tape Pickleball Accessory for Paddle Edge Guard, Increase Power and Swing Speed (Black)
  • GAMMA Sports Compass NeuCore Pickleball Paddle, Graphite Power Surface and
    GAMMA Sports Compass NeuCore Pickleball Paddle, Graphite Power Surface and Honeycomb Grip, Elongated Compass
  • JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle with Textured Carbon Grip Surface Technology
    JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle with Textured Carbon Grip Surface Technology for Maximum Spin and Control with Added Power - Polypropylene Honeycomb Core Pickleball Racket 16mm
  • JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 Pickleball Paddle - Carbon
    JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 Pickleball Paddle - Carbon Abrasion Surface with High Grit & Spin, Sure-Grip Elongated Handle, 16mm Pickle Ball Paddle with Polypropylene Honeycomb Core, USAPA Approved
  • Is Pickleball Easier Than Tennis? A Comparison
  • Why Are Pickleball Paddles So Expensive? [Get The Best Deal]
  • Can You Take a Pickleball Paddle on a Plane? Tips and Guidelines for Traveling with Your Paddle
  • Where Can I Learn Pickleball in Chicago
  • Do Pickleballs Crack in the Cold?
  • Are Tennis Players Good at Pickleball?
  • What Color Should Pickleball Lines Be?
  • Are Pickleball and Tennis Nets the Same Height?
  • Is Pickleball Bad for Knees
  • How Much Is a Pickleball Franchise?
Also Read  Can You Play Pickleball on a Tennis Court
Avatar Of Kevin K. Shaw
Kevin K. Shaw

Kevin is a pickleball coach and former professional player. He’s been playing pickleball for over 10 years and has won multiple championships. He’s also the founder of PickleballSpots.com

Facebook Twitter

Why Trust PickleballSpots?

Our team of experts has years of experience playing Pickleball and testing out the latest products. We know what to look for in a good paddle or pair of shoes, and we’re always on the lookout for the latest and greatest gear. Read more about us!

  • ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle (Graphite Carbon Fiber Face with
    ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle (Graphite Carbon Fiber Face with Rough Texture Surface, Cushion Comfort Grip and Nomex Honeycomb Core for Touch, Control, and Power)
  • CRBN Pickleball Paddle Eraser, Best Carbon Fiber Pickle Ball Racket
    CRBN Pickleball Paddle Eraser, Best Carbon Fiber Pickle Ball Racket Cleaner, Fast & Easy Rubber Bar to Remove Ball Residue, Dirt, & Minor Scrapes/Scratches - Patent Pending
  • JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 Pickleball Paddle - Official
    JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 Pickleball Paddle - Official Ben Johns Paddle - USAPA Approved Racket for Tournament Play - Edge to Edge Sweet Spot, Durable Max Spin Surface & Elongated Handle
  • ULAOUL Pickleball Paddles Set of 4/2, Graphit Pickle Ball Equipment,
    ULAOUL Pickleball Paddles Set of 4/2, Graphit Pickle Ball Equipment, Honeycomb Core Pickleball Rackets, Carry Bag, 4 Balls, Lightweight Pickleball Racquet for Beginners, Professional (Blue)
  • niupipo Pickleball Paddle, USAPA Approved Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddle/Paddles Set,
    niupipo Pickleball Paddle, USAPA Approved Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddle/Paddles Set, Polypropylene Honeycomb Core, Cushion 4.25In Grip, Portable Bag/Paddle Cover, Lightweight Pickleball Racket
  • GAMMA Sports Compass NeuCore Pickleball Paddle, Graphite Power Surface and
    GAMMA Sports Compass NeuCore Pickleball Paddle, Graphite Power Surface and Honeycomb Grip, Elongated Compass

PICKLEBALL SPOTS LOGO

PickleballSpots.com is created by a group of pickleball enthusiasts who wanted to create a one-stop shop for all things pickleball. We aim to provide pickleball players with all the resources they need to improve their game, including pickleball tips, FAQs, buying guides, and product reviews.

  • Email: info@pickleballspots.com
  • Address: 1214 Oak St, Syracuse, NY, 13203, United StatesHours:
  • Customer Service: (212) 555-6789

© 2023 PickleBallSpots

  • Blog
  • About Us
  • Why Trust Us?
  • How We Test?
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact us
  • Sitemap
Scroll to top
  • PADDLES
    • Best Pickleball Paddles
    • Best For Beginners
    • Best for Intermediate Players
    • Best for Advanced Players
    • Best For Spin
    • Bests For Control
    • Best for Power
    • Best Lightweight
  • Shoes
    • Best Pickleball Shoes
    • Best Pickleball Shoes Under $100
    • Best Pickleball Shoes For Narrow Feet
    • Best Pickleball Shoes For Wide Feet
    • Best Running Shoes For Pickleball
  • Buyer Guides
  • Tips & Tricks
  • FAQ
Search