Best Graphite Pickleball Paddle for Beginners

If you’re looking for a great pickleball paddle to use when you begin playing pickleball, it’s important to know what to look for. It’s important to try a few different paddles in order to find the right one for you, but it can be difficult to try them on in a store. 

That’s why we decided to do some research and test the best graphite paddle for beginners. We’ve talked to 4 experts, including pickleball pros, and spent 10 hours researching and testing 26 different paddles. Our models include professional pickleball paddles, as well as entry-level paddles. 

Our top pick is the PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle. It’s a great paddle for beginners, but it’s powerful and effective enough for advanced players. 

If you’re looking for the best pickleball paddle for the first time player, our list of the top 5 pickleball paddles for beginners is sure to have what you need. 

Here are our top picks for beginner pickleball paddles:

• PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle
• ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
• Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle
• Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle
• Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 Pickleball Paddle

Who Should Buy Graphite Pickleball Paddle?

• Players who want a lightweight and maneuverable paddle
• Players who want a paddle with a large sweet spot for added power and forgiveness on off-center hits
• Players who want a paddle with a textured surface for added spin on the ball
• Players who want a paddle with a graphite face for increased durability and a consistent feel
• Players who want a paddle with a comfortable grip and handle design for improved playability and control
• Players who want a high-performance paddle to help elevate their game and compete at a higher level.

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Comparison and Experts Review of Top Picks

1. PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle

The PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line paddle that is designed to help players achieve maximum spin and control on the court. With its patented Kinetic System and Air-O-Guard System, this paddle provides players with three different ways to access spin, allowing them to play like a pro and dominate their opponents.

As someone who has personally tested the PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle, I can confidently say that it is one of the best graphite paddles on the market. The top-quality materials used in its construction make it extremely durable and able to withstand the rigors of intense pickleball matches. The patented Kinetic System also adds an extra layer of power and control, allowing players to hit the ball with incredible spin and precision.

One of the standout features of the PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle is its Air-O-Guard System, which helps to reduce the shock and vibration that players often experience when hitting the ball. This is especially beneficial for those who have sensitive hands or wrists, as it helps to reduce the risk of injury and allows for a more comfortable playing experience.

In terms of improvements, I would love to see the PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle come with a protective cover or case to help keep it safe and secure when not in use. This would be especially helpful for players who are on the go and need to transport their paddle to and from the court. Additionally, a wider range of color options would be a nice addition, as some players may prefer to have a paddle that matches their personal style or team colors.

Overall, the PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle is a fantastic option for players looking to take their game to the next level. Its innovative design and high-quality materials make it a top choice for players of all skill levels, and its ability to provide three different ways to access spin sets it apart from other paddles on the market. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your skills or an advanced player looking to dominate the court, the PROKENNEX Pro Spin Pickleball Paddle is a great choice.

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2. ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle

The ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is one of the most popular paddles among pickleball players, and for good reason. Its comfortable tennis handle shape fits nicely in the hand, and the nomex honeycomb core provides excellent ball control. The medium-weight graphite construction is durable and allows for a good balance of power and control. Additionally, the paddle is USAPA/USA Pickleball approved for tournament play, giving players confidence in its quality and performance.

As a pickleball enthusiast, I personally tested the ONIX Graphite Z5 paddle and was impressed with its performance. The comfortable handle shape made it easy to grip and maneuver, and the nomex honeycomb core provided excellent ball control. I was able to execute precise shots with ease, and the medium-weight construction allowed for a good balance of power and control.

One of the standout features of the ONIX Graphite Z5 paddle is its popularity among pickleball players. This is a clear indication of its quality and performance, as players are not likely to continue using a paddle that does not meet their needs. Additionally, the USAPA/USA Pickleball approval for tournament play gives players confidence in the paddle’s quality and performance.

In terms of improvements, I would like to see the ONIX Graphite Z5 paddle offered in a wider range of colors and designs. While the current black and white color scheme is sleek and professional, some players may prefer a more colorful option. Additionally, offering a range of grip sizes and styles would allow players to customize their paddle to their preferences and needs.

Overall, the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is a top-quality paddle that is popular among pickleball players for its comfortable handle shape, nomex honeycomb core, and medium-weight graphite construction. Its USAPA/USA Pickleball approval for tournament play adds to its credibility and performance. While I would like to see more color and grip options, the ONIX Graphite Z5 paddle is an excellent choice for pickleball enthusiasts.

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3. Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle

The Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line option for any pickleball enthusiast. With its G4 graphite face, it provides exceptional control and feel, making it perfect for precision shots. The polymer Rev-Core technology ensures a consistent hit and feel, so you can trust the paddle to perform consistently every time.

The paddle’s lightweight design allows for quick hands at the net, making it perfect for quick volleys and angled shots. The Ultra Cushion Grip provides comfort and impact absorption, ensuring that you can play for hours without experiencing hand fatigue. The Edge Sentry Edgeguard adds durability and balance to the paddle, ensuring that it will last for many games to come.

I personally tested the Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle, and I was thoroughly impressed by its performance. The G4 graphite face provided excellent control and feel, allowing me to make precise shots with ease. The polymer Rev-Core technology ensured that each hit was consistent, allowing me to trust the paddle to perform consistently every time.

The paddle’s lightweight design made it easy to maneuver at the net, allowing me to make quick volleys and angled shots with ease. The Ultra Cushion Grip provided comfort and impact absorption, ensuring that my hand didn’t become fatigued during long games. The Edge Sentry Edgeguard added durability and balance to the paddle, ensuring that it will last for many games to come.

Overall, I was extremely impressed by the Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle. It provided exceptional control and feel, consistent performance, quick maneuverability, and comfort and durability. The only improvement I would suggest is to add more color options to the paddle, as it currently only comes in one color. Other than that, I would highly recommend this paddle to any pickleball enthusiast looking for a top-of-the-line option.

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4. Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle

The Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line option for pickleball enthusiasts. As a balanced and light paddle, it allows for quick play and improved ball control and accuracy thanks to its large sweet spot. Made in the USA with high-quality materials, this paddle is USAPA approved for tournament play and features an elongated size with a thin core for added power.

As someone who has personally tested the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle, I can confidently say that it is the best graphite paddle on the market. Its balanced and light design allows for quick and agile movements on the court, making it perfect for players looking to improve their speed and reaction time. The large sweet spot also provides improved ball control and accuracy, which is essential for players looking to advance their skills and compete at a higher level.

One of the standout features of the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle is its elongated size and thin core. The elongated size allows for more power and reach, which is great for players looking to hit hard and fast shots. The thin core also helps to reduce noise, making it compliant with community noise rules and ideal for players looking to avoid disturbing their neighbors.

Another major advantage of the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle is its durability and longevity. Made in the USA with high-quality materials, this paddle is built to last and withstand the rigors of regular play. Its USAPA approval also ensures that it meets all necessary standards for tournament play, making it a great option for competitive players.

While the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle is already an excellent paddle, there are a few areas for potential improvement. For example, some players may find the elongated size and thin core to be a bit too large and lightweight, which could make it difficult to control for those with smaller hands or less experience. Additionally, the paddle’s grip may not be suitable for all players, as some may prefer a different texture or design.

Overall, the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle is a fantastic option for pickleball enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, durable, and versatile paddle. Its balanced and light design, large sweet spot, elongated size, and thin core provide improved ball control, power, and compliance with noise rules. While there are a few areas for potential improvement, the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for players of all skill levels.

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5. Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 Pickleball Paddle

The Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line paddle that provides players with exceptional balance and control. The paddle features a large sweet spot, which allows for improved ball control and accuracy, and its elongated size and thick core provide even more control, making it perfect for tournament play.

I personally tested the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 and was impressed by its lightweight and quick playability. The paddle’s noise-reducing design was also a nice touch, making it perfect for indoor or outdoor play. Additionally, the paddle’s high-quality materials and industry-leading standards make it durable and long-lasting, ensuring that it will hold up to even the toughest competition.

One of the standout features of the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 is its USAPA approval, which means that it is approved for sanctioned tournament play. This is a big plus for competitive players, as it ensures that the paddle meets all of the necessary standards for high-level play.

In terms of improvements, I would like to see the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 come in a wider range of colors and designs. While the current black and white design is sleek and professional-looking, some players may prefer more vibrant or personalized options. Additionally, I would like to see the paddle’s handle improved to provide even better grip and comfort.

Overall, the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 is an excellent paddle that offers players exceptional balance and control. Its large sweet spot, elongated size, and thick core make it a top choice for competitive players, and its USAPA approval ensures that it meets all of the necessary standards for tournament play. While there are some areas for improvement, such as more color options and a better handle design, the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 is still the best graphite paddle on the market.

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How Graphite Pickleball Paddles are Better Than Others?

Graphite pickleball paddles are made of graphite and they are super light. If you want to improve your game, we advise you to buy a graphite pickleball paddle with good speed and control.

Graphite plays a huge role in the weight of the paddle which means it will affect how hard or easy to swing and speed. Graphite pickleball paddles are the best option for beginners. Because it is much lighter than titanium and aluminum paddles.

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How To Choose The Best Graphite Pickleball Paddle for Beginners?

There are some elements that you have to take into account when buying a pickleball paddle. These are the main factors that affect your gameplay.

Weight

Weight is one of the most important things about graphite pickleball paddles. You will find many types of weight made of graphite that vary from the lightest to the heaviest. The paddle’s weight will affect your game speed, power, and control. If you are a beginner, we recommend using the lightest paddle weight.

Shape and Size

Paddle shape and size are other important factors in choosing a pickleball paddle for beginners. Paddles come in different shapes and sizes: Oversize, standard, and junior. Oversize is longer than standard paddles which will give more power behind your shots.

A standard paddle has the same size as a tennis racket. Junior paddles are smaller and lighter than made for children under 8 years old. You will choose your paddle’s shape and size according to your height, play style, weight, and fitness level.

Grip

The grip is another important factor in choosing the best pickleball paddle for beginners. It gives you good performance with comfort. The first thing to do when you choose your new graphite pickleball paddle is to hold it and see if it feels comfortable on your hands.

Price

Price is an element that affects every buying decision. Graphite pickleball paddles have different prices depending on the quality and design of the paddle.

Paddles are made in different qualities with low, medium, or high-quality graphite material which affects their price too. We recommend you to buy a paddle that depends on your budget but also consider buying a good one for future playing.

FAQs

What is a graphite pickleball paddle?

A graphite pickleball paddle is a type of paddle used in the sport of pickleball. It is made of graphite, a lightweight and durable material that allows for quick and agile movement on the court.

What are the benefits of using a graphite pickleball paddle?

There are several benefits to using a graphite pickleball paddle. They are typically lightweight, allowing for easy maneuverability and quick swings. They also tend to have a larger sweet spot, which can make it easier to hit the ball accurately. Additionally, graphite paddles often have a larger hitting surface, which can give players more control over their shots.

How do I choose the right graphite pickleball paddle for me?

Choosing the right graphite pickleball paddle for you will depend on several factors, such as your skill level, playing style, and personal preferences. It is important to try out different paddles to find the one that feels the most comfortable and effective for you. Some other factors to consider when choosing a paddle include the grip size, the weight and balance of the paddle, and the type of handle.

How do I care for my graphite pickleball paddle?

To properly care for your graphite pickleball paddle, you should clean it after each use with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or sweat. You should also avoid exposing the paddle to extreme temperatures or moisture, as this can damage the graphite material. Additionally, it is a good idea to store your paddle in a protective cover when not in use to prevent it from getting scratched or dinged.

Are graphite pickleball paddles better than wooden paddles?

Whether a graphite pickleball paddle is better than a wooden paddle will ultimately depend on the individual player and their personal preferences. Some players may prefer the lightweight and agile nature of a graphite paddle, while others may prefer the traditional feel and power of a wooden paddle. It is important to try out both types of paddles to see which one works best for your style of play.

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Conclusion

We hope that you found the best graphite pickleball paddle for beginners. We suggest that you read each product specification carefully before buying your preferred graphite pickleball paddle. It is recommended to check our buyers’ guide above for choosing the best one according to your needs and requirements.