The views expressed in this article are those of the authors. The methodology used to determine the best pickleball paddle brands is based on what the top 25 players in the world use.
When I started playing pickleball regularly, I wanted to purchase a better paddle from the best brand. So, I searched, “Who’s the number one player in the world?” and something to the extent of, “what pickleball paddles do the pros use?“
From there, I purchased the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16mm.
Purchasing that paddle started my obsession with pickleball paddles. I now own 30 – 50 pickleball paddles, created a pickleball paddle quiz to help people find the best paddle, and test new paddles almost every week. For example, I just tested the Mark OneX, and my next paddle is the Volair Forza Mach 2, followed by Bread and Butter paddles and Engage.
Understanding How The Best Brands Were Scored
Because I test so many paddles, I know which paddles are good. That said, I believe the best brands are a combination of what the best players play with and some hidden brands that do not have the marketing dollars of the larger players.
Thus, the following ranks are primarily based on an algorithm I created based on what pickleball paddles the top 25 men and women pickleball players use in tournaments. Because, frankly, the pros know what the best brands are. Yes, they get paid for sponsorships, but pros will not partner with a bad brand.
Also, these ratings will change as the top players change, which I believe is important as brands constantly change. Also, I added my favorite brands that didn’t make the list in the honorable mentions below.
Now, many of these paddles are quite expensive, so you may check these pickleball paddle discount codes before making a purchase to discount the overall price.
The Best Brands List
Let’s go through each of the brands one by one in the top 15 pickleball paddle brands.
1. Selkirk (194 points)
Selkirk is a leader in pickleball paddles and is known for its innovative technologies and high-quality materials. I love how they have various project paddles that they put in players’ hands to test extensively. For example, the Selkirk Labs Project 003 is currently the 3rd most expensive paddle in the world.
I love how they use carbon fiber and a unique polymer core to enhance performance. Currently, the 6-8th top ranked players in the world are Selkirk sponsored.
Their paddles, like the Amped and Vanguard series, range from $100 to over $200. Selkirk caters to all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. They also offer a lifetime warranty, which shows confidence in their durability. I currently only have one Selkirk paddle from the Costco pickleball paddle set, but it’s a great paddle at a fantastic price.
With a focus on control and power, Selkirk paddles are often seen in the hands of top players.
2. Joola (178 points)
Joola, originally known for table tennis, has made a big splash in pickleball. Their paddles, like the Ben Johns Hyperion series, blend control and spin perfectly. In addition, the Ben Johns Gold Perseus Limited to 100 is currently the most expensive pickleball paddle in the world. It retailed at $999, but you may not be able to find it less than $2,000 now.
Joola’s other paddles typically cost between $100 and $230. Joola paddles are designed for players who demand precision and balance.
The brand focuses on advanced technology, such as carbon fiber and textured surfaces, to enhance ball control. I currently own 2 Joola paddles, and one of the paddles is one of the best intermediate pickleball paddles.
Joola’s paddles are perfect for players looking to improve their finesse game.
3. Paddletek (53 points)
Paddletek is all about performance and reliability. Their paddles, such as the Tempest Wave Pro, are built for consistency and control. Paddletek sponsors Anna Leigh Waters, the top woman’s pickleball player in the world.
I’ve noticed that their prices range from $80 to $180, making them accessible to a wide range of players.
Paddletek uses proprietary polymer cores and textured faces to optimize spin and touch. They also offer a variety of designs, so you can pick one that suits your style.
Paddletek is a go-to brand for players who value stability and precision on the court.
4. Franklin (34 points)
Franklin is widely recognized for its affordability and accessibility in pickleball. I like that their paddles, such as the Ben Johns Signature Paddle, offer good value without sacrificing quality.
Prices range from $40 to $100, making them great for beginners and casual players. Franklin’s paddles are designed to be lightweight and easy to handle, focusing on a balanced game.
Personally, I like the Franklin pilot paddle, but I absolutely do not like my other Franklin pickleball paddle.
Their X-40 ball is also the best outdoor pickleball ball for its durability and playability, showing their broader commitment to the sport.
5. Volair (28 points)
Volair is a brand that targets advanced players with high-performance paddles. They emphasize power and precision, making them ideal for aggressive play styles. I currently own the Volair Forza Mach 2, and it’s a fantastic paddle. I won 4-0 recently in a match with that paddle against opponents that J generally swap wins.
I’ve seen their paddles priced between $150 and $250, reflecting their premium positioning.
Volair uses advanced materials, like carbon fiber and specialized cores, to deliver superior performance. Their sleek designs and vibrant colors also make a statement on the court.
Volair paddles are for players who want to stand out both in play and style.
6. ProXR (25 points)
ProXR stands out with its unique ergonomic handle design, which I find improves grip and control during play.
Their paddles range from $100 to $200, catering to players who prioritize comfort. ProXR focuses on enhancing maneuverability and shot accuracy.
They use high-quality materials like carbon fiber and advanced core technologies to boost performance. The brand is popular among players who experience wrist or hand fatigue, thanks to their specialized handle that reduces strain.
7. Lunar (23 points)
While Lunar doesn’t really have much of a website yet, two top 25 women pickleball players use their paddles.
Lunar paddles are crafted with Toray T-700 raw carbon fiber surfaces and honeycomb polymer cores, offering a blend of control and power.
I appreciate their attention to design, as they offer paddles in various sizes and colors. Priced around $170, Lunar paddles appeal to those who want both style and function.
They are ideal for players who value aesthetics but don’t want to compromise on technical performance. Lunar paddles are great for those looking to elevate their game with a unique and reliable paddle.
8. Six Zero (22 points)
Six Zero focuses on sleek, affordable paddles that are perfect for beginners and intermediate players. I own the Six Zero Double Black Diamond, and it’s a solid choice.
Their paddles usually range from $50 to $150. I like that they prioritize ease of use, making their paddles lightweight and balanced.
Six Zero paddles are great for casual players who want a dependable paddle without spending too much. They offer simple designs with an emphasis on functionality, making them a practical choice for those just starting out in pickleball.
9. Babolat (16 points)
Babolat brings its tennis expertise to pickleball with paddles designed for power and control. Their paddles, priced from $60 to $150, are known for their solid construction and responsiveness.
I’ve found that Babolat paddles are great for players transitioning from tennis, as they offer a familiar feel. T
he brand uses quality materials and ergonomic designs to help players achieve better performance on the court. Babolat’s paddles cater to a wide range of players, from beginners to seasoned pros.
10. Holbrook (15 points)
Holbrook Pickleball offers a range of paddles designed for all levels of play. Their collections include the Pro, Performance, and Sport series, catering from beginners to advanced players.
Prices vary, with the Pro Series paddles like the Power Pro typically around $150, and other models available for under $100. Holbrook focuses on innovation, style, and providing paddles that balance power and control.
They are a family-owned company committed to high-quality products that enhance gameplay across different playing styles.
11. CRBN (12 points)
CRBN specializes in carbon fiber paddles that offer a lightweight and responsive feel. Its currently the best pickleball paddle material while many manufacturers are testing blends to maximize playability.
Their paddles are priced around $180 to $200, targeting advanced players who need precision.
I find CRBN paddles great for spin and control, thanks to their textured surfaces. The brand focuses on delivering high-performance paddles that cater to competitive play. CRBN’s minimalist design is also appealing, making them stand out without being overly flashy.
They are perfect for players looking for a sleek, high-quality paddle.
12. Vulcan (12 points)
Vulcan offers a wide range of paddles that cater to all levels, from casual to competitive play.
Their paddles range from $70 to $150, with a focus on vibrant designs and performance. I like how Vulcan uses advanced materials like carbon fiber and polymer cores to enhance power and control.
Their paddles are known for being lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them a popular choice among players looking for both style and functionality. Vulcan paddles are versatile and reliable.
13. Ace (11 points)
Ace Pickleball is known for its premium paddles featuring 3.5 Gen OmniCore technology for enhanced power and control.
Paddles like the Spade and Diamond are popular, especially for players transitioning from tennis. Prices typically range from $150 to $250.
I appreciate Ace’s focus on carbon fiber construction and ergonomic handles, which help boost performance. Their paddles are designed for players who demand a mix of power and finesse, making them a strong choice for competitive play.
14, Adidas (9 points)
Adidas brings its global sports brand reputation to pickleball with paddles designed for both beginners and advanced players. Their paddles range from $60 to $150, focusing on balance and ease of use.
I like how Adidas incorporates familiar sports technologies into their paddles, offering a comfortable transition for players coming from other sports.
Their paddles are durable and provide good control, making them a reliable choice for players at any skill level.
15. Proton (9 points)
Proton specializes in high-performance pickleball paddles with a focus on advanced materials like raw carbon.
Their paddles, such as the Series One and Series Three, are priced around $250 to $280. Proton targets players looking for durability and power in their game.
Their collection includes not just paddles, but also apparel and accessories designed to support a professional playing experience.
Let’s go through the honorable mentions.
Honorable Mentions
As I have tested so many paddles, I would say that these paddles deserve to be in the top brands list, and I thoroughly expect them to be in the future.
1. Vatic Pro
Vatic Pro is at the top of the honorable mentions list.
While Vatic Pro sponsors none of the top 25 players in the World, the company has sponsored up and coming pros, so it may be just a matter of time until it reaches the top 15 brands list.
I appreciate that Vatic Pro provides a generous discount code, so I own both the 14mm and 16mm Vatic Pro Prism Flash, which I use extensively.
I appreciate the quality of the paddle at a price under $100.
2. Head
Head is one of the biggest tennis brands, but I still believe it has a ways to go for pickleball. For example, Roscoe Bellamy is the only Head sponsored professional player that ranks in the top 25 players in both men and women that are sponsored by the company.
In addition, I own the Head extreme elite pickleball paddle, and it’s not one of my favorites.
That said, I still believe that Head will move up in the list, which is why I give it the honorable mention category for now.
Conclusion
The 15 best pickleball paddle brands consistently use research and development to keep them ahead of the competition. For better or for worse, many of these brands have a lot of money, so they market heavily.
I am excited to see new entrants into the top brand category, and will plan to update this article regularly.