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I grew up in the Villages, Florida meaning I’ve been playing pickleball for around 18 years or so, beginning when I was 7.
Growing up with the recreation center paddles really made me appreciate anything that wasn’t those paddles.
So when I got my first paddle, long before pickleball being popular and many options available, it was a $12 paddle from Walmart (the Pro Kadima Pickle Pro) that now holds a ton of sentimental value, despite not being the greatest paddle in the world. That said, it still better than the recreation center paddles though.
That said, with so many years of experience playing pickleball, I knew it was time to put together a list of best pickleball paddles for women.
The Best Women’s Paddles Characteristics
The best pickleball paddles for women are both extremely playable paddles, but have amazing design elements. For example, I noticed that Recess pickleball paddles have one of the best designed paddles, but I would not play regularly with them on the courts.
When I look for a great paddle for women, I am looking for the following characteristics:
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Generally lightweight range (7.0 – 7.8 ounces)
- Grip sizes between 4” to 4.25” in circumference
- Carbon fiber material
- Control orientated paddles
I’ll show the top picks for women’s paddles across five categories: Best Overall, Best Design, Best Budget, and Runner-Ups, to help you find the perfect paddle.
Let’s go through the list.
1. Best Overall Paddle: Pink Holbrook Mav Pro 2.0 Pickleball Paddle
The Pink Holbrook Mav Pro 2.0 Pickleball Paddle takes the top spot for best overall women’s paddle, and it’s easy to see why. It is an extremely cute pink paddle, and is very playable.
Not only does it come in a clean looking jet Black or popping Pink, but it’s also designed to deliver on all fronts including power, control, and spin.
The carbon fiber face increases power and allows for easy spin, while the honeycomb core improves control, which is necessary for playing your best and learning more skills!
I’m convinced that women looking to balance power with precision, this paddle won’t disappoint.
One of the best parts about this is that it only weighs 7.8lbs meaning it’s light enough for fast swings but sturdy enough to preserve control, which is crucial for women who want to make precise shots without sacrificing power.
I know my hand tends to start to cramp after just a couple hours but this grip circumference is small enough and comfortable enough to keep the hand cramps away.
Though it’s more geared toward advanced players, the Mav Pro 2.0 can grow with you, improving your skills and making it easier to master those tricky spin shots or smash those powerful returns.
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2. Best Designed Paddle for Women: Recess Pickleball Paddles
The Recess pickleball paddles have some of the best designed paddles for women, but you can find in my comprehensive review that I was not pleased with the playability.
That said, in terms of designs, the Recess pickleball paddles takes the cake. I mean, check out these designs.
The brand has plenty of cute pink paddles and other beautiful designs. I used to think that Friday pickleball had the best designs, but taht was before I met the Recess pickleball paddles.
In addition, when unboxing the Recess pickleball paddles, you will find the paddles have a beautiful clothe paddles that has the logo. The box was flimsy, but I don’t judge a paddle by it’s box quality.
While the recess pickleball brand has created an amazingly designed paddle, I continue to hope that future versions of this paddle will have better playability, so it can move up the ranks.
3. Runner Up Design Paddle: SLK EVO Power XL
To me, the SLK EVO Power XL takes the crown for best runner up designed paddle. It’s got three awesome color choices but Oasis is by far the coolest in my opinion. This paddle is about way more than looking cool though, so let’s dive into the playability and specs.
The CarbonFusion carbon fiber surface boosts both power and control, which makes dominating domination on the court feel easier than ever. I love that it’s 7.8 ounces meaning it’s light and agile but still got the power to back it up.
I think the 4.25-inch grip circumference is perfect for women’s hands, ensuring a comfortable and secure hold. Doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, this paddle will not only boost your game with its control and responsiveness but also turn heads on the court with its design.
4. Best Budget Women’s Paddle: Vulcan V510 Blade Pickleball Paddle
Next up we’ve got the Vulcan V510 Blade Pickleball Paddle. Lowkey a steal at $39.99, it’s an insane value for women who want a lightweight, responsive paddle that maintains excellent control.
Staying between 7.2-7.6 ounces, this paddle is super fast when swinging but just heavy enough to where you don’t lose that control which makes it great for those looking to master spin and precision.
My hands are on the bigger size but anyone with smaller hands will appreciate the 4-inch grip circumference which would be really easy to grasp no matter how long you’re playing. It’s got a honeycomb core and a carbon fiber surface which I think makes the V510 Blade provide nice durability, power, and control, providing you the freedom to place shots with accuracy even with spin.
Whether you’re a beginner testing the waters or an experienced player seeking a reliable, affordable backup paddle, this is a versatile choice that won’t let you down.
5. Runner-Up Best Women’s Paddle: Monarch Jelly Bean Pickleball Paddle in Royal Burst Color
For our Runner-Up I think the Monarch Jelly Bean Pickleball Paddle in Royal Burst Color deserves the spot given that it offers a great balance of control and power, much like the Holbrook from earlier.
It’s got two layers of carbon fiber, which helps boost power which makes it perfect for women who like to have full control over their shots while still packing a punch.
Weighing 7.9 ounces, it’s light enough for quick handling, but due to its increased weight can still provide that power you don’t want to be lacking. The 4.125-inch grip circumference ensures maximum comfort for most women, yes even me with my big hands.
One thing I don’t love is the sweet spot is average, which can make it harder to hit on off-center shots, but overall, the Monarch Jelly Bean offers great versatility with impressive power, responsiveness, and spin. It’s a solid option for players who want a balanced paddle that acclimates to different styles.
6. Honorable Mention Design Paddle: SLK EVO Control, XL, Magenta Mirage
I think the Runner-Up Design Paddle has got to be the SLK EVO Control, XL, Magenta Mirage.
With a bit of a more refined design, this paddle has a little more control than its sibling, the EVO Power which I love! I have no problems with power so I need a paddle with more control like this one.
The spin between the two paddles more or less stays the same; however, I think the improved sweet spot and the focus on control make it a great choice for women who prefer a more precise, controlled style of play.
It’s also only 7.6 ounces, so again, great power and control balance. The 4.25-inch grip circumference offers comfort and a secure fit, ensuring long hours of play without discomfort. Like I said, I need more control but if you’re a player that needs the extra boost of power then this might be more limiting.
That said, the SLK EVO Control, XL is perfect for those focused on accuracy, finesse, and a touch of style on the court.
Conclusion
My Pro Kadima Pickle Pro has a grip circumference of just 3.25”, is extremely lightweight and has a wooden frame. Overall, it was a great starter paddle for anyone looking to learn without the price commitment but anyone other than a beginner might find it frustrating at times.
That’s why it was time that I put together this article covering the best pickleball paddles for women.
The best paddles have the following characteristics: 1) Aesthetically pleasing design 2) Generally lightweight range (7.0 – 7.8 ounces) 3) Grip sizes between 4” to 4.25” in circumference 4) Carbon fiber material and 5) Control orientated paddles
These paddles maintain key components that can improve your game almost immediately.
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