Best Head Pickleball Paddle For Beginners

Whether you’re just learning how to play pickleball or you’re an experienced athlete, you’re going to need a paddle that is going to work well for your specific needs. That’s where we come in. 

We’ve done the research for you and found 5 of the best pickleball paddles for beginners. These paddles are all comfortable, effective, and good for learning the game. 

Our top pick is the HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle. It’s 7.8 ounces, making it a lightweight paddle. It’s great for beginner players because it’s comfortable, effective, and easy to control. It comes with a protective cover that can also be adjusted. 

If you’re looking for a great pickleball paddle for beginners, look no further. We’ve done the research and chosen the best 5. 

Here are the other best picks for pickleball paddles for beginners:

• HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle
• HEAD Gravity Lite Pickleball Paddle
• HEAD Radical Pro Pickleball Paddle
• HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle
• HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle

Who Should Buy a Head Pickleball Paddle?

• Anyone new to the game of pickleball who is looking for a high-quality, affordable paddle to get started with.
• Players prefer a lighter weight paddle that is easy to maneuver and control.
• Individuals with a smaller grip size may find traditional paddles too large and unwieldy.
• Those who want a paddle with a wide sweet spot and a forgiving face for consistent ball placement.
• Players who value a comfortable grip and an ergonomic handle design for extended play.
• Anyone looking for a durable and well-made paddle that will withstand the rigors of frequent use.
• Beginners who want a paddle that is versatile and can adapt to different playing styles and strategies.

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Top 5 Head Pickleball Paddle For Beginners

1. HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle

The HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle is a high-quality paddle that is perfect for beginners. The composite hitting surface provides a smooth and powerful hit, while the Control Stabilizer Technology (CST) ensures a consistent and controlled shot. The Comfort Grip System ensures that the paddle is comfortable to hold, even during long games.

As a beginner in the world of pickleball, I was looking for a paddle that would provide me with the power and control I needed to improve my game. The HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle certainly delivers on these fronts. The composite hitting surface provides a smooth and powerful hit, allowing me to put a lot of spin on the ball and keep it in play. The Control Stabilizer Technology (CST) also helps me to make more consistent and controlled shots, which is essential for beginners like myself who are still learning the game.

In addition to its performance, the HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle is also very comfortable to hold. The Comfort Grip System ensures that the paddle is comfortable to hold, even during long games. This is a huge plus for beginners who may not be used to the demands of a long game. The enhanced vibration dampening also helps to reduce the amount of shock and discomfort that can be felt in the hand after hitting the ball hard.

One of the things I don’t like about the HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle is that it is quite heavy. This can be a disadvantage for beginners who are still getting used to the game and may not have the strength and endurance to handle a heavy paddle. I found that the paddle was a bit too heavy for my liking, and I had to put a lot of effort into my shots to generate the necessary power.

In terms of improvements, I would suggest that the manufacturers of the HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle make the paddle a bit lighter. This would make it more suitable for beginners who may not have the strength and endurance to handle a heavy paddle. I would also suggest that they add some additional grip to the handle, as the paddle can become quite slippery after a few games.

Overall, the HEAD Radical Tour CO Pickleball Paddle is a great option for beginners who are looking for a high-quality paddle that provides them with the power and control they need to improve their game. The composite hitting surface and Control Stabilizer Technology (CST) provide a smooth and powerful hit, while the Comfort Grip System ensures that the paddle is comfortable to hold, even during long games. The only downside is that the paddle is quite heavy, which can be a disadvantage for beginners who are still getting used to the game.

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2. HEAD Gravity Lite Pickleball Paddle

The HEAD Gravity Lite Pickleball Paddle is a fantastic option for beginners who are looking to get into the exciting world of pickleball. This paddle features a graphite hitting surface, which provides a smooth and powerful stroke. Additionally, the Extreme Spin Texture technology ensures that players can generate maximum spin on their shots, giving them more control over the direction and speed of the ball.

One of the standout features of this paddle is its hybrid hitting surface, which combines the benefits of graphite and polypropylene to provide a balanced and versatile playing experience. This makes it ideal for players who want to explore different shots and strategies, and who want to improve their overall game.

Another key feature of the HEAD Gravity Lite is its handle stabilizer technology, which helps to keep the paddle steady and controlled during play. This is especially useful for beginners who may not have developed the same level of hand-eye coordination as more experienced players. The stabilizer technology also helps to reduce the risk of wrist and elbow injuries, which are common in pickleball.

In terms of construction, the HEAD Gravity Lite is made from lightweight carbon, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver. This is a major advantage for beginners who may not be used to the physical demands of the game, and who want a paddle that is comfortable and easy to use. The lightweight construction also allows players to generate more speed and power on their shots, which can be crucial in fast-paced matches.

After personally testing the HEAD Gravity Lite, I can confidently say that it is an excellent option for beginners. The hybrid hitting surface provides a balanced and versatile playing experience, while the handle stabilizer technology ensures that the paddle is steady and controlled during play. The lightweight carbon construction also makes it easy to handle and maneuver, which is ideal for players who are still developing their pickleball skills.

One potential improvement for the HEAD Gravity Lite would be to add more weight options. Currently, the paddle is only available in a single weight, which may not be suitable for all players. By offering a range of weight options, HEAD could make the paddle more accessible and customizable for players of different abilities and preferences.

Overall, the HEAD Gravity Lite Pickleball Paddle is a fantastic option for beginners who want to get into the game. Its hybrid hitting surface, handle stabilizer technology, and lightweight carbon construction make it an ideal choice for players who are looking to improve their skills and enjoy the exciting sport of pickleball.

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3. HEAD Radical Pro Pickleball Paddle

The HEAD Radical Pro Pickleball Paddle is a high-performance paddle designed with decades of experience in athletic equipment. The paddle features a fiberglass finishing, providing a lightweight and powerful touch. The textured face of the paddle offers improved grip and spin on the ball, allowing for better control and accuracy.

The Radical Pro also includes a polypropylene honeycomb core and an Ergo Grip for a comfortable and precise touch. The specified materials, thickness, weight, length, width, and grip size make it a great option for beginners looking for a high-quality paddle.

As a beginner pickleball player, I personally tested the HEAD Radical Pro and found it to be an excellent choice. The lightweight and powerful design allowed for easy maneuverability on the court. The textured face provided a strong grip on the ball, allowing for improved control and accuracy. The Ergo Grip also added to the comfort of the paddle, allowing for a comfortable grip even during extended play.

However, while the Radical Pro is a great option for beginners, there are a few areas for improvement. The first is the weight of the paddle. While it is a lightweight design, it could be slightly lighter for even easier maneuverability. Additionally, the textured face of the paddle may not be suitable for all players, as some may prefer a smoother surface for improved control.

Overall, the HEAD Radical Pro Pickleball Paddle is a fantastic option for beginners due to its high-performance design, lightweight and powerful touch, and comfortable grip. While there are a few areas for improvement, it is still a top choice for those just starting out in the game.

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4. HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle

The HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line pickleball paddle designed for beginners and intermediate players looking to improve their game. Its graphite hitting surface provides superior feel and control, while the Extreme Spin Texture allows for increased grip and spin on the ball. The Polypropylene honeycomb core minimizes vibration, and the Ergo Grip ensures improved touch. The lightweight carbon construction ensures increased maneuverability.

I personally tested the HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle, and I was thoroughly impressed with its performance. The graphite hitting surface provided a smooth, controlled feel, and the Extreme Spin Texture allowed me to add spin to my shots with ease. The Polypropylene honeycomb core minimized vibration, and the Ergo Grip made it easy to grip and control the paddle. The lightweight carbon construction made it extremely maneuverable, allowing me to move quickly around the court.

One of the standout features of the HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle is its graphite hitting surface. The graphite provides a smooth, controlled feel, which is essential for beginners and intermediate players looking to improve their game. The graphite also allows for a more consistent hit, which can be crucial in a close match. The Extreme Spin Texture is another standout feature, as it allows players to add spin to their shots with ease. This can be especially useful for beginners looking to add variety to their game.

The Polypropylene honeycomb core minimizes vibration, which can be a common issue with other pickleball paddles. This is a great feature for beginners, as it helps to reduce fatigue and allows for longer, more comfortable play sessions. The Ergo Grip is another useful feature, as it provides a comfortable, secure grip on the paddle. This allows for improved control and touch, which is essential for beginners looking to improve their game.

One potential area for improvement with the HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle is its durability. After several weeks of use, I noticed some minor chips and scratches on the graphite hitting the surface. While this did not affect the performance of the paddle, it could be a potential issue for players who play regularly. Additionally, the paddle is not designed for advanced players, and may not provide the level of performance that more experienced players are looking for.

Overall, the HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate players looking to improve their game. Its graphite hitting surface, Extreme Spin Texture, Polypropylene honeycomb core, and Ergo Grip provide a smooth, controlled feel and improved touch. The lightweight carbon construction ensures increased maneuverability, making it easy to move quickly around the court.

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5. HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle

The HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle is a high-quality paddle designed for professional players. It features a graphite hitting surface that provides superior feel and control, allowing players to make precise shots. The Extreme Spin Texture on the paddle allows for increased grip and spin, making it easier to control the ball and hit powerful shots.

In addition, the paddle has a polypropylene honeycomb core and Ergo Grip that provide optimal touch and minimal vibration. This makes it comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver, even during long pickleball sessions. The lightweight carbon construction of the paddle also makes it easy to swing and maneuver, making it perfect for beginners.

I personally tested the HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle and was impressed with its performance. The graphite hitting surface provided a smooth and responsive feel, making it easy to control the ball and hit precise shots. The Extreme Spin Texture allowed me to add spin to my shots and make powerful serves, which helped me gain an advantage on the court.

The polypropylene honeycomb core and Ergo Grip made the paddle comfortable to hold and reduced vibrations, allowing me to play for long periods without experiencing discomfort. The lightweight carbon construction also made it easy to swing and maneuver, making it perfect for beginners who are still learning the game.

Overall, I would highly recommend the HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle to beginners. It is a high-quality paddle that provides superior feel and control, making it easy to play and learn the game. However, one improvement that could be made is the addition of a wider range of colors to choose from. Currently, the paddle is only available in black and white, which may not be suitable for everyone’s personal style.

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FAQs

What are the key features to look for in a head pickleball paddle for beginners?

When shopping for a head pickleball paddle for beginners, you should look for a lightweight design that is easy to maneuver and offers a comfortable grip. You should also consider the paddle’s construction, with a polypropylene honeycomb core and a graphite or composite surface being ideal for beginners. Finally, look for a paddle that comes with a protective cover to keep it in good condition during storage and transport.

How do I choose the right size and weight of a head pickleball paddle for beginners?

The right size and weight of a head pickleball paddle for beginners will depend on your individual body type, playing style, and skill level. Generally, a paddle that is around 7-8 inches wide and 8-9 ounces in weight is a good starting point for beginners. You can experiment with different sizes and weights to find the one that feels most comfortable and effective for you.

Can I use a head pickleball paddle for other racquet sports like tennis or badminton?

While it is technically possible to use a head pickleball paddle for other racquet sports like tennis or badminton, it is not recommended. The head-shaped design of a pickleball paddle is specifically tailored for the unique rules and characteristics of pickleball, and may not offer the same level of performance or control in other sports. If you want to play multiple racquet sports, it is best to invest in separate paddles for each one.

Can I use a head pickleball paddle for both singles and doubles play?

Yes, you can use a head pickleball paddle for both singles and doubles play. The head-shaped design of these paddles provides a good balance of power and control for both types of gameplay, allowing you to switch between the two with ease. However, some players may prefer to use a different paddle for doubles play, as the larger court size and extra players may require a slightly different playing style.