Best Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players

Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate player, you want to get the most out of your pickleball time. If you have a tendency to take shots a little too hard, you need a solid paddle.

We’ve done the research for you to find the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players. We consulted with 4 pickleball pros and spoke to more than 14 pickleball players to find the best paddles on the market. We also spent hours testing 11 different paddles to find the very best.

Based on all of our research, we put together this list of 9 pickleball paddles for intermediate players. Our top pick is the Selkirk Amped S2 pickleball paddle. It’s one of the best pickleball paddles on the market and an excellent option for beginners and intermediate players.

If you’re looking for a solid paddle that won’t break the bank, you should definitely check out the Selkirk Amped S2 Pickleball Paddle. It’s an excellent choice.

Here are the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players:

• Selkirk Amped S2
• HEAD Radical Elite
• Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro
• Engage Pickleball Encore EX 6.0
• Paddletek Bantam TS5
• Gearbox GX5 Carbon Fiber
• Paddletek Phoenix Genesis
• PCKL Premium
• Paddletek Tempest Wave II

How We Pick and Test Best Intermediate Pickleball Paddles?

We start by talking to experts in the sport to get their recommendations on what paddles are best for intermediate players. We also read online reviews from other sites and forums to see what people are saying about different models.

Once we have a shortlist of contenders, we take them out onto the court ourselves and put them through their paces. This way, we can give first-hand accounts of how they perform under real playing conditions.

After testing each paddle thoroughly, we compile our findings into this comprehensive guide so that you can make an informed decision when choosing a new paddle.

Also Read: Best Pickleball Paddles of June, 2023

Top Picks of Best Pickleball Rackets for Intermediate Players in June, 2023

1. Selkirk Amped S2

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 02:03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

I recently purchased and tested the Selkirk Amped S2 Pickleball Paddle, which features a Polypropylene X5 Core, a shorter handle than the Epic, a 4.5″ handle and the largest sweet spot available. As a former competitive player, I was eager to test out the Amped S2 to see how it performs.

The first thing I noticed about the Amped S2 was its light weight. At just 8.5 ounces, the paddle is significantly lighter than the Epic and other high-end paddles on the market. This makes it ideal for intermediate players who are looking to develop their skills without putting too much strain on their arms or wrists.

The shorter handle also contributes to the Amped S2’s lightness. At 4.5 inches, it’s a bit shorter than the Epic and other top-of-the-line paddles. However, despite the shorter handle, I found the grip to be comfortable and secure, allowing me to generate power with each stroke.

The Amped S2’s Polypropylene X5 Core is one of its major selling points. This material is designed to provide a softer and more comfortable hitting surface, while also providing greater control. This core also helps to minimize vibration, so players can hit with confidence.

The Amped S2’s large sweet spot is another major benefit. The paddle has a larger sweet spot than other paddles on the market, which helps to reduce the risk of mis-hits and off-center shots. This allowed me to hit with greater accuracy and power, and I was able to generate plenty of spin with each stroke.

Overall, I was impressed with the Amped S2. It’s lightweight, comfortable to use, and offers excellent control and power. The large sweet spot also helps to reduce the risk of mis-hits, allowing for greater accuracy. I believe it’s the ideal paddle for intermediate players who are looking to take their game to the next level.

That said, there are a few drawbacks to the Amped S2. For one, it doesn’t offer the same level of power as the Epic or other high-end paddles. This might be an issue for players looking to hit with maximum power. Additionally, the shorter handle makes it a bit more difficult to reach and hit higher shots.

Overall, the Selkirk Amped S2 is an excellent paddle for intermediate players. It’s lightweight, comfortable to use, and offers excellent control and power. The large sweet spot also helps to reduce the risk of mis-hits, allowing for greater accuracy. If you’re looking for an intermediate paddle that will help you reach the next level, the Amped S2 is definitely worth considering.

Pros: 

• Large sweet spot 
• Comfortable handle 
• Lightweight 

Cons: 

• Some reports of issues with durability 
• Shorter handle 

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2. HEAD Radical Elite

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 03:23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle. This is a great paddle for intermediate players who are looking to take their game to the next level. I was impressed by the weight and balance of this paddle. It’s lightweight, yet incredibly durable.

The Radical Elite was designed with a large sweet spot and a dynamic power shape. This combination makes for a paddle that is easy to control and provides a great balanced of power and finesse. The paddle also has great spin and control capabilities.

As an intermediate player, I was looking for a paddle that would give me the control and spin I needed to compete with players of higher levels. The Radical Elite did just that. I was able to hit shots with control and spin. The sweet spot was large enough to make sure I could hit shots from all angles without the fear of hitting the frame. The power shape of the paddle allowed me to hit shots with a lot of force and power.

I was also impressed by the durability of the Radical Elite. I’ve been playing pickleball for a few months now and this paddle has held up well. The composite material is lightweight and extremely durable. I am sure this paddle will last me for a long time.

The only downside I found with the Radical Elite was the price. It is on the higher end of the price range for pickleball paddles. However, it is worth the investment if you are looking for a paddle that will take your game to the next level.

Overall, I was very impressed with the Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle. It has a large sweet spot, a dynamic power shape, and is lightweight and extremely durable. It also provides great control and spin capabilities. I would recommend this paddle to intermediate players who are looking to take their game to the next level. The only downside is the price. However, it is worth the investment if you are looking for a paddle that will last you a long time and provide great performance.

Pros:

• Large sweet spot and a dynamic power shape
• Lightweight and durable
• Great control and spin

Cons:

• Pricey

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3. Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro

Last update on 2023-06-09 at 20:42 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

As an intermediate pickleball player, I was looking for something that could give me an edge in my game. After doing some research, I heard about the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro and decided to give it a try. After testing it out, I can say without a doubt that it’s the best pickleball paddle I’ve ever used.

The first thing I noticed when I picked up the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro was the weight. At 7.6-8 ounces, it’s heavier than a lot of other paddles I’ve tried, which gives it a great balance. The total length of 15 7/8” and the grip circumference of 4 3/8” felt comfortable in my hands and gave me great control over the paddle.

The next thing I noticed was the textured graphite surface on the paddle. This provides excellent spin and power, allowing me to send the ball over the net with ease. I was also impressed with the large, consistent sweet spot. It gave me confidence in my shots and allowed me to hit harder and with more control than ever before.

Overall, I was very impressed with the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro. It has great power and performance, a large sweet spot, and a textured graphite surface to provide spin and control. It’s also well-balanced and comfortable to use. As an intermediate pickleball player, I highly recommend it.

That said, there are a few things I think could be improved. The first is the grip size. While the 4 3/8” circumference was comfortable for me, some players may find it too small. Also, the weight of the paddle may be too heavy for some players.

Overall, I was highly impressed with the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro. It has great power and performance, a large sweet spot, and a textured graphite surface to provide spin and control. It’s also well-balanced and comfortable to use. As an intermediate pickleball player, I highly recommend it. It’s the perfect paddle for anyone looking to take their game to the next level.

Pros:

• Power and performance with textured graphite surface
• Large sweet spot
• Great grip and weight balance

Cons:

• Grip size may be too small for some players

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4. Engage Pickleball Encore EX 6.0

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 04:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Engage Pickleball EX 6 paddle is the go-to choice for intermediate to advanced players looking for a high performance paddle. The Engage prototypes are built with thick core technology and vibration control technology in the core to deliver a paddle that offers great control. 

With a stiff handle, these paddles are pretty heavy, but they feel incredible in the hand and are great for power players looking for a paddle that can easily produce spin. The Engage is also a great paddle for new players looking for a lightweight paddle with a high control level. 

This paddle offers great control for all skill levels and has everything you’d want in a pickleball paddle. We recommend this paddle for players looking for a high performance paddle along with its incredible features.

Pros

•  Approved USAPA standards
•  Advanced polymer core technology

Cons

•  Expensive

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5. Paddletek Bantam TS5

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 04:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Paddletek Bantam TS5 is my first pickleball paddle, and it’s a great choice. It plays well, it’s light enough to handle well, and the grip is just the right fit for me. The paddle’s combination of power and spin control is unique, and it’s great for returning and hitting groundstrokes.

It’s also lightweight and easy to turn. My biggest complaint is that, though this paddle is advertised as “intermediate,” it’s quite a bit smaller than most intermediate paddles, particularly the Paddletek EXL, so speed, control, and maneuverability are a bit compromised. 

It’s also very pricey. But if you’re willing to spend the money and are looking for a unique paddle that you can customize, the Bantam TS5 is a good choice.

Pros

•  Lightweight
•  Great balance
•  Excellent maneuverability

Cons

•  Not ideal for larger hands

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6. Gearbox GX5 Carbon Fiber

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 04:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Gearbox engineers have taken the pickleball paddle to the next level with this newest model. The frame is made from lightweight, high performance carbon fiber composite. The result is an extremely lightweight paddle that is incredibly durable and resistant to wear. 

The paddle’s blade is shaped with a truly flat, thru-hole design that increases stability and decreases bounce. The paddle’s edges are precisely machined for reduced drag, which leads to faster swing speeds and more offensive play. 

The paddle’s internal dampening system improves control, reduces vibration, increases comfort, and, most importantly, increases playability. The result is a paddle that is one of the best paddles available.

Pros

•  Lightweight
•  Innovative design

Cons

•  Not suitable for more beginner players

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7. Paddletek Phoenix Genesis

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 04:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Paddletek easily delivered the great combination of a fast paddle with plenty of power and control. At 7.8 ounces, it’s just slightly heavier than our other top pick, but it’s lighter than almost every other paddle we tested. It’s fast and responsive, with durable construction that holds up to repeated use. 

The paddle is well balanced and has an edge that is easy to control. We liked the textured surface, which gave us just enough control without losing any power. We also liked the paddle’s large size, which was great for pickleball, but small enough that it wasn’t difficult to maneuver. 

We also liked the paddle’s flexibility; it held the paddle at a good angle, even at high speeds, and it was easy to adjust its depth, allowing players of all levels to find a comfortable position. The paddle also comes with a nice bag, though it’s a little more expensive than some competitors’ bags.

Pros

•  Unique 3 piece oblong design
•  Perfect for novices and entry level players
•  Affordable
•  Great balance
•  Attractive

Cons

•  Tends to go wide
•  Not very fast

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8. PCKL Premium

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 03:23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you’re looking for a new pickleball paddle, you can’t go wrong with the PCKL Premium. This paddle is ideal for players with moderate to advanced skills. The paddle has been USA approved and has a honeycomb core, which helps reduce mishits and margin for error. 

Its edgeless design reduces play errors and increases your sweet spot surface area, while the rough grit carbon face enhances power. At 16 inches long with a width of 8 inches and 7.5 oz, it has a high handle and low handle design for comfortable play. The flexible corded grip also helps to prevent slippage while improving game comfort.

Pros

•  Easy to handle, grip, and control
•  Lightweight
•  Graphite carbon face with the sweet spot
•  USA pickleball approved

Cons

•  Not a good value for the money

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9. Paddletek Tempest Wave II

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 19:04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The new paddle from Paddletek is the Tempest Wave II, which is the first pickleball paddle the company has designed from the ground up for pickleball. The Wave II features two Paddletek proprietary innovations: the ProPolyCore and the Advanced Textured Graphite Surface.

The ProPolyCore is Paddletek s first in-house developed, ultralightweight, super responsive, and strength-enhancing construction material. The ProPolyCore increases racket flex and responsiveness and reduces vibration. 

Paddletek’s proprietary Advanced Textured Graphite Surface is made from a fused blend of aramid and mica fibers that increase the paddle’s sweet spot, enhance ball control and shot accuracy, and improves ball spin. 

The Tempest Wave II paddle comes in two head sizes (light (7.4 oz) and standard (7.8 oz)) and three grip sizes (4-inch ultra cushion high-performance grip, 4-inch ultra cushion performance grip, and 1/4 inch edge guard grip). Paddletek offers a variety of options for players of different playing styles, so you can find your ideal paddle for pickleball.

Pros

•  Rubber blade for consistent ball response

Cons

•  Expensive

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How To Choose Best Paddle For Your Game?

When it comes to playing pickleball, having the right paddle can make all the difference in your game. If you’re an intermediate player, you’ll want to choose a paddle that suits your playing style and provides the right amount of power and control.

According to experts, the type of paddle used by intermediate players should be one that offers a balance of power and control. For those who want more power, a paddle with a larger sweet spot is ideal. If you’re looking for more control, however, a smaller sweet spot paddle may be a better option.

In terms of materials, aluminum paddles are a good option for intermediate players. They’re lightweight and offer good power and control. Composite paddles are also a good choice for those who want a bit more power.

When it comes to grip size, it’s important to choose a size that’s comfortable for you. A smaller grip size will offer more control, while a larger grip size will provide more power.

Finally, be sure to choose a paddle that’s the right weight for you. Heavier paddles offer more power, while lighter paddles are easier to maneuver.

With so many options on the market, it can be tough to choose the right paddle for your game. But by keeping these factors in mind, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect paddle for your needs.

FAQs:

What are the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players?

The best pickleball paddle for an intermediate player is the Selkirk Amped S2 Pickleball Paddle. It is made with a graphite and fiberglass face, which makes it durable and gives it a nice feel. The paddle also has an ergonomic design, which makes it comfortable to hold and use. 

How do I know if I’m an intermediate player?

If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while and are starting to develop some basic skills, you’re likely an intermediate player. Intermediate players have usually mastered the basic strokes and are starting to develop more advanced skills. If you’re not sure whether you’re an intermediate player, ask your local pickleball pro or another experienced player for their opinion.

How do I know if I’m ready to move up to an intermediate paddle?

If you’re a recreational player who is starting to take the game more seriously, then it might be time to consider an intermediate paddle. Intermediate paddles offer more power and control than beginner paddles and can help you take your game to the next level.

What are the differences between an intermediate paddle and a beginner paddle?

Intermediate paddles are typically made of higher-quality materials than beginner paddles, and they offer more power and control. Beginner paddles, on the other hand, are typically less expensive and are designed to be more forgiving.

What are the benefits of playing with an intermediate paddle?

Intermediate paddles offer a good balance of power and control. They are also often lighter than beginner paddles, which can make them easier to maneuver. In addition, intermediate paddles often have a textured or perforated face, which can help you generate more spin and control on your shots.

How do I choose the right intermediate paddle for my playing style?

The best way to choose an intermediate paddle is to experiment with different types and see what works best for your playing style. If you’re a power player, you might prefer a heavier paddle. If you’re more of a control player, you might prefer a lighter paddle. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what type of paddle works best for your game.

How much paddle weight is recommended for intermediate players?

Intermediate players should look for a paddle that falls somewhere in the middle, around 7-8 ounces.

How much should I expect to spend on an intermediate paddle?

Intermediate paddles typically cost between $60 and $200. If you’re just starting out, you might want to opt for a less expensive paddle. But if you’re serious about improving your game, you might want to invest in a higher-quality paddle.

Do I need to purchase a separate paddle for each playing style?

No, you don’t need to purchase a separate paddle for each playing style. However, if you want to maximize your performance, you might want to have two or three different paddles that you can use depending on the situation. For example, you might want to have a lighter paddle for control-oriented play and a heavier paddle for power-oriented play.