Stepping into the world of pickleball for the first time can be exciting and a bit daunting, especially when it comes to finding the right paddle.
As a male writer dedicated to providing the most relevant and supportive advice, I’ve spoken with numerous women pickleball players to bring you a guide that truly fits your beginner’s journey.
Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a universal ‘women’s pickleball paddle.’ Paddles are designed for players’ performance, not gender.
Although some brands market paddles with features targeted at female players, the secret to finding your ideal paddle lies in matching it with your playing style and preferences.
Feeling overwhelmed by so many choices? Don’t worry. This article will guide you through selecting the perfect paddle for your game!
Key Takeaways
- There isn’t a universal ‘women’s pickleball paddle’; paddles are designed for performance, not gender.
- The key to finding the ideal paddle is matching it with your playing style and preferences.
- Consider factors such as paddle weight, grip size, core material, paddle surface, paddle shape, and price when choosing a pickleball paddle.
- Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport with increasing popularity and participation.
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Quick Glance-Top 3 Paddles for Women
Here’s a brief overview of the best pickleball paddles for women:
- Weight: 8.0 oz
- Grip: 4”
- Paddle Length: 15.43″
- Paddle Width: 7.6
- Weight: 7.2-7.7 oz
- Grip: 4.25″
- Paddle Length: 15.75″
- Paddle Width: 8.0
- Weight: 7.5-8.2
- Grip: 4.25″
- Paddle Length: 15.5″
- Paddle Width: 8.125″
How to Choose the Best Pickleball Paddle for Women
When it comes to selecting the best pickleball paddle for women, there are a lot of options to choose from.
You want to make sure you select a comfortable paddle that fits your playing style and helps you perform your best on the court.
Below, I provide a quick overview of the main elements to consider when choosing your ideal pickleball paddle, giving you a snapshot of what to look for.
For more detailed insights on each of these aspects and to make an informed decision that perfectly aligns with your playing needs, be sure to check out my comprehensive guide “How to Choose a Pickleball Paddle”
1. Paddle Weight: Finding Your Perfect Match
- Lightweight Paddles: Ideal for quick, agile plays.
- Midweight Paddles: A versatile choice offering a blend of power and control.
- Heavyweight Paddles: For those who prefer a powerful, forceful game.
2. Grip Size: Ensuring Comfort and Control
- Selecting a grip size that fits your hand perfectly is crucial for comfort and precision in your shots, and it helps prevent strain on your wrist and arm.
3. Core Material: Tailored to Your Style
- Polymer: A balanced choice for a well-rounded game.
- Nomex: For durability and a power-packed performance.
- Aluminum: For players who prioritize finesse and precision.
4. Paddle Surface: Enhancing Your Game’s Dynamics
- Choose from materials like carbon fiber, composite, graphite, or fiberglass to influence your paddle’s spin, speed, and overall responsiveness.
5. Paddle Shape: Complementing Your Playing Strategy
- Explore shapes such as widebody, standard, elongated, blade, or teardrop, each crafted to enhance different aspects of your gameplay.
PROKENNEX Pro Speed II Pickleball Paddle
The Pro Speed II is the best pickleball paddle for women who demand the highest quality craftsmanship and performance.
With its 7-layer coating and complex composite construction, this paddle provides exceptional power, speed, and ball spin potential.
The special soft skin material creates excellent grip and control, while the ProKennex Release epoxy/resin system ensures durability and consistent performance.
The Pro Speed II also features an 8-sided tennis octagon shaped grip for exceptional comfort and control, as well as a replaceable edge guard for added protection.
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line pickleball paddle that can take your game to the next level, look no further than the Pro Speed II.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 8.0oz
- Grip: 4″
- Handle Length: 5”
- Paddle Length: 15.43
- Paddle Width: 7.6″
- Paddle Face: Proprietary 7-layer coating and complex composite, including specially treated soft skin with spin-grab feature, carbon/fiberglass and Prokennex Release epoxy/resin system.
- Paddle Frame: Kinetic System Technology with Carbon Casing
- Core Material: Polypropylene honeycomb matrix with special quiet, high impact resistance polymer
Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle
When looking at pickleball paddles, the Selkirk Epic Amped paddle should be high on your list.
At only 7.6–8oz, this paddle allows players to have quicker hands at the net while maintaining control – perfect for the next generation of Pickleball players.
The Ultra-Comfort Grip material ensures the highest level of comfort, absorbing perspiration and impacts as they travel from the paddle face to the hand.
And with its large sweet spot, ultra-comfortable grip, and irresistible price point, the RallyGraphite Pickleball Paddle is perfect for beginner to intermediate players alike.
The C6-Flex Power Fiberglass Face provides the power and control you need on every play, while the Rev-Core Power Polymer Core gives you the edge you need to win.
Finally, all Selkirk Pickleball paddles are USAPA Tested and Approved for Tournament Play, you can be confident that this paddle will meet all your Pickleball needs.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 7.8-8.2 oz
- Grip Size: 4.25”
- Handle Length: 4.85”
- Paddle Length: 16″
- Paddle Width: 7.85″
- Paddle Face Material: C-6 FlexFibefglass
- Paddle Core Material: Polymer-Rev
ONIX Z5 Graphite Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The Onix Z5 Paddle is another popular choice for players.
The Z5 is a midweight paddle with great power and provides lots of control and ball spin. Plus, its cushioned comfort grip is amazing. Trust me, this is great for long games!
The wide body provides plenty of surface area for making those difficult shots. This makes it much easier for beginners when just learning the game.
What sets the Z5 apart from other beginner pickleball paddles is that this paddle grows with you. Meaning that as you get better, you won’t need to buy a new paddle. This paddle can be used at the intermediate level.
This is perfect because it will save you money which we all like!
With its excellent craftsmanship and superior performance, the ONIX Graphite Z5 is the perfect paddle for new players.
Plus, it comes at a great price and has some of the best user reviews on Amazon along with a limited 1-year warranty.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 7.5-8.2 oz Perfect for beginners!
- Grip: 4.25”
- Handle Length: 5”
- Paddle Length: 15.5″
- Paddle Width: 7.125″
- Paddle Face Material: Graphite
- Paddle Core Material: Nomex
Rally Graphite Pickleball Paddle
Looking for a paddle can be a headache. There are so many options out there!
The Rally Graphite Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for both women and men.
This paddle is made with a textured graphite face and a composite polymer honeycomb core, providing great ball control, placement and spin.
The XL head size minimizes edge guard hits and provides a bigger sweet spot.
The perfect weight of 7.7-8.0 ounces makes this paddle great for all-around performance and players of all levels. Plus, the cushioned grip ensures comfortable and slip-free play.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 7.7-7.9 oz
- Grip Size: 4.25”
- Handle Length: 4.75”
- Paddle Length: 15.68″
- Paddle Width: 8.125″
- Paddle Face Material: Graphite carbon Fiber
- Paddle Core Material: Composite Honeycomb
Niupipo Explorer Pro Pickleball Paddle
The Niupipo Explorer is well deserving of being one of the best all around pickleball paddles on the market.
This paddle provides unrivaled pop and spin, allowing players to hit precise shots with ease.
Designed by top pro player Frank Anthony Davis, this paddle has been used by national champions.
The graphite carbon fiber construction and added grit provide exceptional performance, while the polypropylene honeycomb core makes the paddle very durable.
The ultra-perforated cushion grip adds comfort and tackiness, making the Niupipo Explorer Pro the perfect choice for all players.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 8 oz
- Grip Size: 4.45”
- Handle Length: 4.96”
- Paddle Length: 15.42″
- Paddle Width: 7.87″
- Paddle Face Material: Fiberglass/Graphite
- Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Uteeqe Graphite Pickleball Paddle
The Uteeqe Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a great paddle for women. This is a quality paddle that will last.
Their proprietary polymer technology and premium graphite face is used to create a paddle that’s unstoppable on the court.
You’ll take your game to the next level with the Uteeqe, thanks to its lightweight build and textured surface for excellent ball spin.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 7.8oz
- Grip Size: 4 1/4”
- Handle Length: 5”
- Paddle Length: 15.8″
- Paddle Width: 7.8″
- Paddle Face Material: Graphite
- Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pickleball Paddle
The Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is a high-performance paddle that is perfect for players looking for a quality paddle.
With reduced weight and a textured fiberglass epoxy hybrid, this paddle provides increased speed, control, and maneuverability.
The result is a paddle that is unparalleled in its weight class. The Paddletek Bantam TS-5 also features a comfortable handle that is perfect for gameplay.
The ultra cushion high-track performance grip provides responsive returns and incredible power.
This durable paddle is perfect for those at any skill level.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 7-7.5
- Grip Size: 4.25”
- Handle Length: 5”
- Paddle Length: 15 5/8″
- Paddle Width: 7.75″
- Paddle Face Material: Fiberglass/Epoxy
- Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Prince Response Pro Pickleball Paddle
The Prince Response Pro pickleball paddle is the perfect choice for players who want power and control.
The thick polymer core provides players with a large sweet spot, allowing them to generate a lot of power in every swing.
The soft touch provides a firm grip on the pickleball paddle, making it easy to control direction and speed.
Thanks to the rounded shape, the pickleball paddle is easy to maneuver and gives players a wide range of options when it comes to playing the game.
Whether you’re looking for a competitive edge or just want to have more fun on the court, the Prince Response Pro is the perfect choice.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 7.1-8.3 ounces
- Grip Size: 4 1/8 or 4 3/8
- Handle Length: 5.5″
- Paddle Length: 15 3/4″
- Paddle Width: 8. 1/4″
- Paddle Face Material: Fiberglass with textured UV coating
- Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Pickleball Central Rally Tyro 2
The Rally Tyro 2 is the perfect paddle for beginning pickleball players. It’s made with high-quality materials and has a light weight that makes it easy to maneuver.
The Rally Tyro 2 also has a composite face that is durable and allows you to easily redirect pickleballs.
Plus, the small grip circumference and no-slip feel make it easy to grip and hold onto the paddle.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 6.9-7.2oz
- Grip Size: 4”
- Handle Length: 5”
- Paddle Length: 15.75″
- Paddle Width: 7 7/8″
- Paddle Face Material: Polymer/Fiberglass composite
- Paddle Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb
HEAD Extreme Tour Lite Pickleball Paddle
Looking for a paddle to take to the court and dominate at the net with? Although this is number 10 on this list, it doesn’t mean that it’s not worthy of being the best pickleball paddle for women.
The HEAD Extreme Tour Lightweight Pickleball Paddle will give you the lightweight feel and control that you need! The Teardrop paddle shape will give you control for each shot.
Paddle Specifications
- Paddle Weight: 7.2oz
- Grip Size: 4 1/8”
- Handle Length: 4.85”
- Paddle Length: 16″
- Paddle Width: 7 7/8″
- Paddle Face Material: Graphite
- Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Did You Know?
I’ve witnessed a significant transformation in the sports landscape, with pickleball rising from a little-known activity to widespread prominence.
The 2023 report from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) brings thrilling updates for pickleball fans!
The sport continues to be America’s fastest-growing, with its expansion showing no signs of slowing down.
The year 2022 marked a remarkable surge in pickleball’s participation, which nearly doubled, registering an 85.7% increase from the previous year and an impressive 158.6% growth over the last three years.
This growth can be attributed to various factors, such as the sport’s accessibility, social aspect, and fun nature.
My Final Thoughts on The Best Pickleball Paddle for Women
Navigating the world of pickleball paddles can be a journey, especially when searching for the best pickleball paddle for women. Here’s what we’ve learned:
Unisex Design: Despite the focus on women, remember that pickleball paddles are inherently unisex.
They cater to players of all genders, with the primary considerations being size, weight, and material.
It’s Personal: Every player is unique, and what feels like the best pickleball paddle for one player might not be the top choice for another.
It’s all about aligning with your playing style and preferences.
My Recommendations: Should you lean towards a paddle from my handpicked list, I’m confident in saying it ranks among the best pickleball paddles for women out there.
Each selection is made with care and a deep understanding of the game’s nuances.
In the end, while the quest is to find the perfect paddle, the real joy lies in the thrill of the game and the camaraderie on the court. Play on!
Commonly Asked Questions
In this section, I’ve compiled and answered the most frequent inquiries I receive from players, helping you make informed decisions.
Is there really a difference between pickleball paddles?
Yes, there are indeed significant differences between pickleball paddles, and understanding these differences is key to selecting the right paddle for your game.
The main areas where pickleball paddles vary include:
- Materials: Paddles are made from a variety of materials, each affecting the paddle’s weight, durability, and feel.
- Weight: Paddles range from lightweight (under 7.5 ounces) to heavyweight (over 8.5 ounces).
- Core Type: The core material (polymer, nomex, aluminum) impacts the paddle’s feel and performance.
- Grip Size and Length: The size and length of the paddle’s grip can affect comfort and control. A grip that’s too large or too small for your hand can lead to discomfort or even injury.
- Paddle Shape and Size: The shape of the paddle influences its sweet spot and reach.
- Surface Texture: The texture of the paddle’s surface can influence ball spin and control. Some paddles have a smoother surface for more control, while others have a rougher texture for better spin capabilities.
Is It Better to Have a Lighter or Heavier Pickleball Paddle?
This comes down to a matter of personal preference. A lot of beginners tend to prefer lighter (midweight) paddles because they are easier to swing.
As you become more experienced, you may find that you prefer a heavier paddle because it gives you more power.
If you have tennis elbow or other arm injuries, you may want to try a lighter paddle to help reduce the amount of stress on your arm.
