Last updated on April 2, 2024
Pickleball has achieved something that other racquet sports, such as tennis, squash, racquetball, and badminton, have not been able to achieve. The game has won the hearts and minds of nearly nine million Americans, many of whom have never picked up a racquet or paddle until now. The money has followed. Players happily drop hundreds of dollars on pickleball paddles, balls, peripheral gear, and associated facilities and services.
To say that the pickleball industry has grown would be an understatement. The global pickleball market is projected to expand from $65 billion in 2022 to $155 billion by 2033.
Not bad for a sport that started as a backyard recreational game!
The elite world of pickleball paddles is best displayed in professional pickleball leagues such as the PPA, MLP, and APP. The pros’ favorite brands and models represent the gold standard in pickleball paddles. High-end pickleball paddles often come with price tags steeper than what you would pay for a top-of-the-line tennis or squash racquet. While most pickleball players are happy with paddles that fall in the $50-$100 range, there is clearly a market for paddles that top the $250 price point.
If you are curious about the brands and models of pickleball paddles preferred by some of the pros, this post explores some of the leading ones. Please note that the pickleball paddles used by the pros are subject to change due to evolving preferences and sponsorship deals.
Disclosure: Racquet Social participates in Amazon’s affiliate advertising program and may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. The prices and ratings included in this post are subject to change over time.
Selkirk
When it comes to high-end pickleball paddles, Selkirk is arguably the best-recognized brand. Selkirk Sport is a family-owned business headquartered in Hayden, Idaho. According to the company, they produce their entire range of pickleball paddles in-house within the United States. Selkirk offers a wide selection of designs, models, and colors, positioned towards the higher end of the price spectrum, catering more to intermediate and advanced players. The company has established a solid reputation through its effective marketing strategies and high-profile sponsorships. Three of the top professional players who use Selkirk paddles are shown below.
Catherine Parenteau: Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta
Jack Sock: Luxx Control Air
Dylan Frazier: Selkirk Labs Project 002
Other Selkirk pros you may recognize include Paris Todd, James Ignatowich, and Collin Shick.
| Selkirk Luxx Control Air Invikta - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8 - 8.1 oz (Midweight) |
| Height | 16.45 inches |
| Width | 7.5 inches |
| Thickness | 20mm |
| Grip/Handle Length | 5.35 inches |
| Grip Size | 4 1/4 inches |
| Core Material | Thickset Honeycomb |
| Surface | Florek Carbon Fiber |
- The newest paddle in the Selkirk line.
- More durable spin surface.
- Exceptional power and feel.
Paddletek
Paddletek specializes in producing a range of top-of-the-line pickleball paddles used by some of the most prominent names in the professional pickleball landscape. The company sponsors Anna Leigh Waters, the top-ranked female pickleball professional currently active. She is widely recognized as one of the most successful pickleball pros in the game. Paddletek is a family-owned business founded in 2011 in Scottsdale, Arizona, that has since relocated to Niles, Michigan.
Anna Leigh Waters: Paddletek Bantam ALW-C
Leigh Waters: Paddletek Phoenix Genesis
Adam Stone, Irina Tereschenko, and Andrea Koop are other pros who use Paddletek pickleball paddles.
| Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 14 mm - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.5 - 7.8 oz (Lightweight/Midweight) |
| Height | 15 5/8 inches |
| Width | 7 3/4 inches |
| Thickness | 14.3 mm |
| Handle Length | 5 inches |
| Grip Size | 4 3/8 inches (Standard), 4 1/8 inches (Thin) |
| Core Material | High Grade Polymer Composite Honeycomb |
| Surface | Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber |
- Carbon Fiber Surface for enhanced Spin.
- In collaboration with National Champion Anna Leigh Waters.
- Combines power and style, elevating your game.
Joola
A well-known brand in the table tennis industry, Joola is relatively new in the pickleball paddle business. Joola made headlines when they signed Ben Johns, the world’s top-ranked male pickleball player who was the face of Franklin Paddles until then. Joola has since made significant strides on the pro circuit and among club players. Originally a German brand, Joola (pronounced Yoola) is now an American-owned business based in Rockville, Maryland.
The recent signing of Tyson McGuffin, one of the more recognized pros in the pickleball business, is a big win for Joola.
Ben Johns: JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16
Tyson McGuffin: Yet to be announced.
Anna Bright: Anna Bright Scorpeus CFS 14
Simone Jardim, Collin Johns, and Brooke Buckner are also part of the Joola Pro team.
| JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16 - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8 – 8.2 oz (Midweight) |
| Height | 16.5 inches |
| Width | 7.5 inches |
| Thickness | 16 mm |
| Handle Length | 5.5 inches |
| Grip Size | 4 1/4 inches |
| Core Material | Reactive Polymer Honeycomb |
| Surface | Carbon Friction |
- Ben Johns Signature Pickleball Paddle.
- Suitable for aggressive, offensive players.
- Crisp feel with greater energy return.
Onix
Onix’s reputation stems from its innovative designs and the broad range of paddles suitable for players of all skill levels. From advanced to intermediate and recreational players, Onix offers a diverse selection of paddles. Their Z5 Graphite is a popular choice among club players. However, Onix also manufactures paddles used by professional players such as Lucy Kovalova, a former number-one female Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour player. Onix is based in Evansville, Indiana, crafting high-quality paddles, balls, and accessories since 2005.
Lucy Kovalova: Onix Evoke Premier Pro RAW Carbon Fiber
Callie Smith: Onix Evoke Premier Raw Carbon Fiber
Matt Wright: Onix Evoke Premier Pro RAW Carbon Fiber
Other pros that use Onix pickleball paddles include Shelby Bates, Eli Bertram, and Matthew Boyett.
| ONIX Evoke Premier Raw Carbon 16 - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Average Weight | 7.75-8.25 oz |
| Height | 16.0 inches |
| Width | 8.0 inches |
| Thickness | 16 mm |
| Grip/Handle Length | 5.35 inches |
| Grip Size | 4 1/8 inches |
| Core Material | Polypropylene Honeycomb |
| Surface | Raw Carbon |
- Raw carbon fiber surface for increased spin and control.
- One-piece construction for stability and durability
- Premium perforated grip for increased comfort and tackiness.
Engage
Engage, a pure-play pickleball company is a prominent sponsor of professional players. The company proudly states that its entire paddle lineup undergoes start-to-finish production in the United States, though certain lower-priced Omega paddles from Engage might be produced overseas. Jessie Irvine, a highly-ranked player in the sport, is perhaps the most recognized pro who plays with Engage paddles. The other pickleball pros sponsored by Engage include Yates Johnson, Hunter Johnson, and Darrian Young.
Jessie Irvine: Engage Pursuit Pro MX Raw T700 Carbon Fiber
Dekel Bar: Engage Pursuit Pro MX Raw T700 Carbon Fiber
| Engage Pursuit Pro MX Raw T700 Carbon Fiber - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.1 – 8.5 oz (Standard) / 7.7 – 8.0 oz (Lite) |
| Height | 16.5 inches |
| Width | 7.5 inches |
| Thickness | 5/8 inches (~16mm) |
| Grip/Handle Length | 5.75 inches |
| Grip Size | 4 3/8 inches |
| Core Material | Control Pro Black Polymer |
| Surface | T700 Carbon Fiber |
- RAW T700 Carbon Fiber Surface for unmatched spin.
- Counter Balance Construction for quicker hand speed and less fatigue.
- Improved force distribution.
Franklin
Headquartered in Stoughton, Massachusetts, sporting goods company Franklin Sports has been manufacturing high-quality sports equipment for over 75 years. Franklin has a well-established presence in various sports, such as boxing, football, basketball, and baseball. In recent years, Franklin Sports has gained recognition for producing superior-quality pickleball paddles. Their “Signature” series was popularized by the number one-ranked pickleball professional Ben Johns before he switched sponsors.
JW Johnson, a top pickleball professional with demonstrated success in Pro Men’s Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles, uses Franklin paddles.
JW Johnson: FS Tour Paddle Series Dynasty 16MM.
Hayden Patriquin: FS Tour Paddle Series Dynasty 14MM
| FS Tour Paddle Series Dynasty 16MM - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.5 – 8.8 oz (Midweight) |
| Height | 16.5 inches |
| Width | 7.5 inches |
| Thickness | 16mm |
| Grip/Handle Length | 5.6 inches |
| Grip Size | 4 1/4 inches |
| Core Material | Polypropylene Honeycomb |
- Pro Tour Paddle
- Textured paddle surface for increased spin and precise shot-making
- Enhanced sweet spot for perfect balance between control and power
ProXR
Sports-grip technology company ProXR LLC is based in St. Louis, Missouri. ProXR has branched out into the rapidly growing sport of pickleball from its MLB and NHL roots. In its short history with pickleball, ProXR has managed to win over some of the top professional players in the world. No. 3 ranked men’s pro singles player Zane Navratil and the No. 1 Women’s Senior Pro Doubles player Beth Bellamy are now sponsored by ProXR.
It’s worth noting that ProXR is one of the few paddle manufacturers that produces pickleball paddles with 6-inch handles.
Zane Navaratil: Zane Navaratil Signature Carbon 6” handle.
Connor Garnett: Connor Garnett Signature 6” handle.
Beth Bellamy: Beth Bellamy Diamond Series
ProXr’s Pro Corner includes Mari Humberg, Andre Mick, and Carlos Di Laura.
| ProXR Zane Navratil Paddle - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.2 oz (Midweight) |
| Height | 16.5 inches |
| Width | 7.25 inches |
| Thickness | 14mm |
| Grip/Handle Length | 6 inches (extra-long handle) |
| Grip Size | 4 inches |
| Core Material | Polypropylene Honeycomb |
| Surface | T700 Ultra-Raw Carbon |
- Designed for Zana Navratil’s game.
- Standard-shaped paddle with 6″ handle length.
- Unmatched spin from anywhere on the court.
Vulcan
Vulcan is an Arkansas-based company that has been in business since 2015 and manufactures baseball, softball, tennis, and pickleball products. In case you weren’t aware, effective January 2024, Vulcan has become the official ball supplier of the PPA Tour. Vulcan sponsors several professional players, including Jay Devilliers, a top-10 pickleball pro with a tennis background.
Tyler Loong, Corrine Carr, and Dean Petty are also Vulcan’s pro team members.
Jay Devilliers: Vulcan V740MAX
| Vulcan V740 MAX - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.1 – 8.5 oz (Midweight) |
| Height | 16 1/2 inches |
| Width | 7 1/2 inches |
| Thickness | 16mm |
| Grip/Handle Length | 5 1/2 inches |
| Grip Size | 4 1/4 inches |
| Core Material | StateraCore |
| Surface Material | V-Skin (Carbon-Glass Thermoplastic) |
- Thicker 16 mm ZEP9™ core
- Added power with a 5-1/2” extended handle.
- Grip circumference: 4 1/4″
CRBN
Garrett Gosselin, an American pickleball pro turned entrepreneur, founded CRBN in 2020. CRBN paddles have gained popularity among pros and club players. Typically used by advanced players, CRBN paddles are on the higher end of the price spectrum. CRBN appears to have overcome past setbacks that saw USAPA banning some of their paddle brands for not conforming to approved specs. CRBN sponsors Thomas Wilson, a top-5 mixed doubles pro pickleball player.
Thomas Wilson: Paddle: CRBN 1X Power Series
| CRBN 1X Power Series Elongated | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8 – 8.1 oz (Midweight) |
| Height | 16.5 inches |
| Width | 7.25 inches |
| Thickness | 14mm and 16mm options available |
| Grip/Handle Length | 5.5 inches |
| Grip Size | 4.25 inches |
| Core Material | Polypropylene Honeycomb |
| Surface Material | T700 Toray Carbon Fiber |
- Redesigned internal composition for an expanded sweet spot.
- Perfect balance of power and control.
- Elongated Unibody Design for responsiveness and durability
Volair
Volair, the Texas-based company, is another entrant in the pickleball paddle business. Julian Arnold, a college tennis player who switched to pro pickleball, is a promoter and uses Volair paddles. You can see the list of pros sponsored by Volair here.
| Volair Mach 1 Forza Pickleball Paddle - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Specification | Value |
| Average Weight | 8.2 oz (Midweight) |
| Paddle Length | 16.5 in |
| Paddle Width | 7.5 in |
| Thickness | 16 mm |
| Handle Length | 5.5 in |
| Grip Circumference | 4.125 in |
| Core Material | Polypropylene Honeycomb |
| Paddle Face Material | Raw T700 Carbon Fiber |
Gamma
Perhaps best known for their tennis strings, grips, and ball hoppers, Gamma Sports is a Pittsburgh-based company that produces pickleball paddles designed for players of all levels. Gamma makes high-quality paddles with materials such as graphite and fiberglass. Gamma paddles are available in various shapes and sizes to suit different playing styles and skill levels. Brendon Long, a top-30 pickleball pro, plays with Gamma paddles. Other Gamma Pros include Megan Fudge, Sarah Ansboury, and Ryler Deheart.
| Gamma Airbender Pickleball Paddle - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Specification | Value |
| Average Weight | ≈ 8.3 ounces (without included Shockbuster) |
| Height | 16-1/2 inches |
| Width | 7-3/8 inches |
| Thickness | 16mm / 5/8" |
| Grip/Handle Length | 5-3/8 inches |
| Grip Size | 4-1/8 inches |
| Core Material | Polymer Honeycomb |
| Face Material | Toray T700 Raw Carbon Fiber |
You can see Gamma’s Pro Team here.
Head
Initially launched as an alpine ski-manufacturing company, Head is headquartered in Austria. Head is a major supplier of racquets, sports accessories, and pickleball paddles and markets paddles for players of all levels. Head pickleball paddles are popular with the pros and club players since they are a well-recognized brand readily available in most sporting goods stores.
Canadian Steve Deakin, a top-30 singles player, is sponsored by Head.
Steve Deakin: Head Gravity Tour
| Head Gravity Tour - Key Specs | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8 oz (Midweight) |
| Height | 15.75 inches |
| Width | 8.1 inches |
| Thickness | 14mm |
| Grip/Handle Length | 4.25 inches |
| Grip Size | 4 1/8 inches |
| Core Material | Foamed Core |
| Surface | Hybrid Hitting Surface (Carbon and Fiberglass) |
The boom in the number of pricey pickleball paddles would indicate that some players believe that the right equipment can make a difference to their game. While higher-priced paddles may offer small advantages in performance, the player’s skill remains the most critical factor in the game.
If you are going to splurge on a pickleball paddle, why not pick one of the pro favorites? If you are concerned about overspending, check out this post titled, Pickleball Paddles: How to Find the Right One Without Overpaying.
Please share your experiences in the comments below, if you have used any of these pickleball paddles. Also, are there other paddles that should make this list? Let us know.
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