If you’re looking for the ideal pickleball paddles, you should consider getting ones made from graphite. Graphite paddles are the most famous kind of paddle, and they work well for players of all skill levels.
Graphite paddles are standard among competitive pickleball players because they are light and can help you control the ball better. They are perfect for players who don’t have a lot of strength but want to be able to play well.
Do you want to know what makes a good pickleball paddle? Or what is the difference between Graphite and Composite paddles? This article covers all of the various features of pickleball paddles and how to choose the best one for you.
Pickleball is a game that’s been around for a while, but the paddles have changed a lot. As pickleball becomes more popular, people are starting to use better equipment. The old wooden paddles are slowly being replaced by new, lighter paddles that perform better.
Best Graphite Pickleball Paddles Reviews
Among the best things about the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro, the paddle is its appearance. The paddle has a simple design with a professional-looking face. It comes in different colors, including green, blue, and red, but the primary color is black.
Some pickleball players prefer paddles with a textured surface. This is because the paddle has better grip, flexibility, and maneuverability. In addition, it gives an extra pop every hit because of the lightweight feature.
The handle is similar to that of a tennis racket. This makes it easy to hold when you are playing. You also have multiple grip options to choose from. You can go for the thin four ⅛ circumferences high tack performance grip or the standard four ⅜ inch ultra cushioning high tack performance grip.
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The Onix Stryker 4 is an excellent paddle for new players and intermediate players. It is made from graphite, which makes it strong and lightweight. It also has a polypropylene construction, which makes it durable.
The Onix Stryker 4 is a lightweight paddle that gives you touch, power, and a large sweet spot. This made it perfect for both beginner and experienced pickleball players.
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The Onix Voyager Pro paddle is an excellent choice for beginners and advanced players. It is designed for high performance and offers excellent control.
This ONIX Voyager Pro is a better version of the Voyager series. It has a new and enhanced design, and its surface is coated with premium material to give you good touch. It also weighs less than the Voyager series, so it’s faster. It weighs 7.8 to 8.2 ounces, and it has a broad 8-¼” width that gives you an excellent sweet spot when hitting the ball.
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The Onix Outbreak Pickleball paddle is another excellent choice if you’re looking for a graphite paddle. This paddle has a polymer core and a graphite face. It also has a new paddle face that many players prefer. The shape of the paddle is standard, and it has a top-heavy feel that some players prefer.
This paddle is made of a standard polymer core, but it is a little bit thicker than other paddles. This makes the paddle stronger and helps it absorb more force when you hit the ball.
One of the latest innovations from Onix is their TeXtreme technology paddle. This paddle has increased stiffness and strength, as well as pinpoint control. However, one disadvantage is that it has a super-thin grip. The handle feels rectangular and edgy in your hands, and you can feel the edges of the handle.
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One of the best features of the Paddletek Tempest Wave II paddle is that it helps you control the ball. It has a soft feel when you hit the ball because of its polymer core construction. This also reduces vibrations. The textured surface of the paddle also helps “pick up” pickleball so you can place it better.
The Tempest Wave II is a mid-weight paddle that is good for people who want to have speedy exchanges at the net without losing power. It has a weight ranging from 7.4 to 7.8 ounces, which is perfect for people who want a good balance between speed and power. Its grip size is five ¼”, more significant than most average paddles, making it perfect for players with large hands.
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This is an excellent paddle for people looking for quality and a traditional wide-body shape. Whether you are new to the game or have been playing for a while, this paddle will help you improve your skills.
The ONIX Z5 graphite paddle is similar to the ONIX Z5 composite paddle. The only difference is that the graphite paddle is a bit lighter, weighing 7.8 ounces instead of 8.8 ounces.
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Gamma Sports has been manufacturing racket sports equipment for over 40 years. They are most well-known for their tennis rackets and strings, but they have also started making pickleball paddles to meet the increasing demand for the sport. The Gamma Neutron 2.0 is one of their newer paddles, and it is designed to give players a lot of power and control.
This Gamma Neutron 2.0 paddle is the lightest and fastest paddle in the Gamma series. It only weighs 7 ounces, making it easy to move quickly at the net. However, it has a small grip size of 4”, making it ideal only for smaller hands.
This paddle is composed of a strong material that gives you power and control. This makes it a good choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
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You Should Consider Pickleball Paddle Shape
The official rules and guidelines for pickleball paddle size state that the combined width and length of the paddle cannot be more than 24 inches, and the length cannot exceed 17 inches. However, paddles come in various styles and combinations of width and length.
- Wide Body: Wide-body paddles are the most common paddle type for playing pickleball. They are 8-inches wide and 16-inches long. These paddles are suitable for most players.
- Oversized: Many paddle manufacturers are now making paddles with shorter handles and longer paddle faces. Oversized paddles are ideal for intermediate to advanced players.
- Elongated: These paddles are narrower, so they have more length. They are for people who are better at playing table tennis.
Price of Paddles
There is a range of prices for pickleball paddles. You can find a paddle that fits your budget and your level of play. If you are worried about spending too much money, remember that a good quality paddle will last several years if you take good care of it.
Paddles can range from around $15 to over $150. The cheaper paddles are not as good as, the more expensive ones.
There are two types of paddles: top-notch graphite paddles and more affordable composite paddles. If you’re a beginner, you should avoid wooden paddles. If you just play pickleball for fun, then a middle-tier composite or graphite paddle will be perfect.
Top 5 Graphite Pickleball Paddles
When choosing your next pickleball paddle, it is important to think about the material it is made from. There are different materials available, like graphite paddles or composite paddles. This guide will look at the benefits of using a graphite paddle and what it can do for your game. We have also reviewed some of the best graphite paddles to decide which paddle is right for you.
When picking a pickleball paddle, you can be sure to get a paddle with a reactive face. Most adult pickleball players choose graphite paddles for this reason. A major advantage of the reactive face is that when you hit the ball, it makes a “pop.” This happens because a thin layer of graphite on the paddle face is built to be very strong and durable. It also helps emphasize playing any pickleball shot – whether it’s a smash, spin shot, or dink.
As we look at the best graphite pickleball paddles, you will see that most of them are in the medium weight range (7.3-8.4 ounces) and have a honeycomb core that makes the paddle face more reactive. This is what makes graphite paddles popular with many pro players.
If you’re thinking about buying a graphite pickleball paddle, it’s a good idea to read our buying guide. But if you want to know the best 5 graphite paddles on the market right now, keep reading.
With the Pro-Lite Magnum Graphite Stealth Paddle, you can get a lighter, slimmer pickleball paddle. This paddle has a graphite paddle face, Nomex Honeycomb core, and an overlapping paddle guard.
Many other graphite paddles are heavier than the Pro-Lite Magnum Stealth Pickleball Paddle. Between 6.6 to 7.5 ounces, the Magnum is lighter than the Onix Z5 by roughly 10 ounces. In addition, the Magnum Stealth is narrower than the Z5 at 7 3/4 inches across the paddle’s face.
This means you hit the ball softly, but you also have a lightweight paddle that is easy to move around on the court. The longer handle of the Magnum Stealth allows you to get a better grip on the ball and cover more ground on the court. This, combined with the light paddle weight, makes it easy to reach for balls in the kitchen and round the net.
The Magnum Stealth is available in three different colors. Our team thinks that it looks great. This paddle is priced at under $100 and is a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight graphite pickleball paddle.
We have the ProKennex Kinetic Pro Speed Pickleball Paddle at number three on our list. Because of the tungsten-filled chambers, it distributes impact more evenly and puts less stress on your joints. The Kinetic Pro has a Polypropylene carbon-reinforced core with Kinetic Tungsten inlays, unlike other graphite pickleball paddles with a Nomex Honeycomb core.
You should buy the ProKennex Kinetic Pro Speed Pickleball Paddle because it uses some of the latest and best technology available today. To lessen the impact on your elbows and wrists when playing with a graphite paddle, tungsten-filled core aids. The ProKennex Kinetic Pro Speed has an average paddle weight of 8.0 ounces. It weighs between 7.9 and 8.2 ounces, so it’s light and easy to carry.
This paddle is good for people who want a lot of control and comfort when playing. The face of the paddle is 7 5/8″ wide, and the grip is 4 7/8″ long. This makes it slightly smaller than the Onix Z5. The paddle also has an extra ‘spin-grab’ that will help you get more curves and spin when playing close to the net or smashing at the back of the court.
Each hue of Kinetic Pro is available in three different varieties. Edgeless pickleball paddles offer a more forgiving hitting surface with a wider “sweet spot.” During the US Open, players, including Steve and Jennifer Dawson utilized the Kinetic Pro.
The Kinetic Pro is more expensive than the Magnum and Z5. But you will get a great paddle that gives you the ability to hit great shots while also protecting your joints in the long term.
The Titan Pro Black Diamon Series paddle is one of the best on the market. It has a large hitting area, a thin edge guard, and a polymer core. This combination makes it just as powerful as paddles made with graphite.
Pickleball players can consider the Titan Pro Black Diamond paddle. Weight varies from 7.6 to 8.3 ounces for this paddle. This weight helps you stay balanced and controlled when playing the game. The paddle’s width is 7 5/8 inches, similar to the Onix Z5 grip length. Finally, the paddle’s edge gives you a low profile and better control.
When you hit the ball off-center, you have more control because of the paddle’s aerodynamic thin edge. Despite the Titan Pro’s polymer core and carbon fiber paddle face, the paddle still has the same ‘pop’ as some of the best graphite pickleball paddles.
The Titan Pro paddle is available in stealth black or five other colors. It is a beautiful paddle to look at, and it will set you apart from other players on the court. The Titan Pro is priced between the Kinetic Pro Speed and the Z5/Magnum, a great option to upgrade your paddle.
The Amarey Graphite Pickleball Paddle is one of the best paddles on the market. It is lightweight and durable, which are both important features. Being lightweight makes it easy to control and makes shots easier.
One of the reasons this paddle is so durable is its high-quality edge guard. The edge guard protects the paddle from damage if hit or hit against something. It should last for quite some time. It also has a good balance between protecting the paddle and not getting in the way. The edge guard is thin enough not to be a problem if you hit the paddle wrong or make a mistake while playing.
You will love the premium handle on this pickleball paddle. This paddle has a perfect balance between size and comfort. For most people, the 4.5-inch grip size will be more than adequate. It’s easy to use and has a natural feel to it. As a result of its sweat-absorbing and cushioning properties, this handle is great for lengthy and tense bouts.
This paddle is good for hitting the ball. The graphite face makes it easy to hit the ball. You will be able to put your shots where you want them to go. This is a good paddle for beginners because it is easy to use and makes the game more fun.
The paddle has a honeycombed polymer core that makes it great for players who want to hit the ball hard. This core gives you a great pop, and the feel of the paddle is also really good. You can rely on this paddle to help you make great shots. The construction of this paddle is top-notch.
A pickleball paddle cover is also included with this paddle. Having this feature makes it much more appealing as a product. This paddle is good for both experienced paddlers and newbies because it offers a lot.
Selkirk is a very famous company for making quality pickleball paddles. This particular paddle is no exception. People looking for a paddle that will give them a great combination of power and control will love this one. Graphite pickleball paddles are popular because they deliver on their promise.
The USAPA has thoroughly examined and approved this pickleball paddle. This indicates a popular choice for professional players and people who compete in competitive pickleball matches. Many professional players all around the world use this particular paddle. It’s simple to tell how well-liked this paddle is by looking at the testimonials.
There’s a lot to love about this paddle, thanks to its wide sweet spot, which Selkirk dubs their innovative “ampped” technology. Easy to hit the ball because of the large sweet spot. This paddle is responsive, so you will have a good experience playing with it.
This paddle has a high-quality X5 polypropylene polymer core. This paddle’s core is thicker than most, which enhances some of the paddle’s characteristics. This paddle has incredible speed and precision. Having a good power game is still possible while still being able to place the ball where you want it to go.
For the majority of players, this pickleball paddle is ideal. You may easily strike the ball with the paddle face. This paddle is a blast because it strikes the perfect balance between force and precision. If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, go no further than this paddle.
Buying Guide For Graphite Pickleball Paddles
Now that you know about some of the best graphite pickleball paddles, there are a few things to keep in mind when you buy your next one.
There are some things you should think about before you buy a paddle. First, you need to decide what material the paddle is made from. You can choose a graphite paddle with a Nomex core or a carbon fiber face which is becoming more popular.
The core of the paddle will impact how the paddle performs as well. The Nomex core is found in the majority of graphite pickleball paddles. However, it’s also possible to find newer models with specific cores that reduce vibrations and noise. However, the paddle’s substance must also be taken into account. Please see our graphite pickleball paddle buying guide for more information.
Material
Pickleball paddles can be made from different materials. The material of a pickleball paddle affects how it bounces the ball.
Here are some of the materials commonly used to design pickleball paddles.
- Polymer:
Polymer pickleball paddles are made with resin and plastic, and they’re lightweight, quiet, and durable. They’re reasonably priced, so you might as well take advantage of them. Polymer paddles are popular for casual matches at clubs or in neighborhoods. However, they aren’t as sturdy as graphite or composite paddles, so they’re not good for professional use.
- Graphite:
A graphite pickleball paddle is good for most matches: casual or professional. It is light and responsive, delivering controlled and balanced shots for a win. If you want to do a lot of drinking, this is the material you should choose. Graphite paddles provide accuracy and a bigger sweet spot, which means you will make more shots.
- Composite:
There are different types of pickleball paddles. Some are made with different materials, like fiberglass, aluminum, polymer surfaces, and UV-resistant vinyl. Composite paddles are usually very durable and are used primarily by professionals. They can be pretty expensive.
- Wood:
Pickleball paddles can be made from different materials, and wooden paddles are the oldest and most straightforward. They are also the most affordable option. However, they may not be as functional as paddles made from other materials. But you can still use them for a fun, casual match. More recent designs may feature wrist straps and better grips for ease of use.
Size of the Paddle
There is no one perfect size for a graphite pickleball paddle. Most players prefer paddles around 15-16 inches long and well-balanced. However, some players like to use shorter or longer paddles that give them more or less hitting surface. Oversized paddles have some benefits (more hitting the surface, playing with your finger/thumb on the paddle face, and more grab/whip when striking the pickleball ball). Still, they are also less aerodynamic and maneuverable on the court.
The ideal size for a graphite pickleball paddle is between 15-16″ long for most people. The paddle should be around 7 1/4 – 8 1/4″ wide. A slimmer paddle will move more smoothly through the air, but a wider paddle will have a bigger sweet spot. If you’re not sure, we recommend getting a paddle that is around 15-16″ long and has a paddle face width of 8″.
If you want to hold the pickleball paddle with two hands, you will need a paddle with a longer handle length. If this is not as important to you, any paddle with a handle length over 4 1/4 inches will work well.
Paddle Weight
Paddle weight is a personal preference. Some people like paddles that are medium weight, which means they weigh between 7.2 and 8.6 ounces. If you want a paddle that is easy to move and swing, then a middleweight paddle is best.
Players who choose lighter-weight paddles usually do so because moving the paddle around makes swing easier. Big-hitters might prefer a heavier paddle because it provides more power when hitting the ball from the back of the court. We recommend buying a middleweight paddle if you don’t have specific requirements.
Deflection
Pickleball paddles should never have a lot of bounce. It can be dangerous, making it harder to hit the ball. Paddles with more bounce will generate more power, but you will need to use less effort to hit the ball.
The downside of using a newer paddle is that you may lose some control over more intricate shots. However, newer paddles have specialized paddle cores that help to reduce the shock when striking the ball. In this way, the graphite paddle face retains the same “pop” while yet allowing you to manage finely balanced shots.
Grip
Using a pickleball paddle with a loose or tight grip influences how well you can hit the ball. Finding the right length for the handle and the right type of grip for the size of your hands is critical. Choosing a paddle with a solid grip is critical to prevent the paddle from slipping during shooting. The optimal grip lengths are found between 4 1/4 and 5 1/4 inches in length. The longer the grip length, the more likely you will play with two hands on the grip.
Edge Guard
Edge guards on pickleball paddles protect the paddle from breaking or chipping. They do this by having a robust edge that prevents damage on hard court surfaces. The downside to an edge-guard is that it can get in the way if you are trying to stretch for a ball, and it catches the edge-guard. This has led many manufacturers to invest in providing edgeless pickleball paddles. Edgeless pickleball paddles give you more hitting area on the paddle but are more susceptible to damage.
If you are looking for a durable paddle that will last you long, pick one with an edge guard. The Titan Pro has a razor-thin edge. The Z5 has an edge guard that only overlaps the paddle by 1/4 inch, which is excellent.
Price
If you are looking for an affordable pickleball paddle, you should check out our guide to cheap pickleball paddles. When you buy a pickleball paddle, it is important to think about its quality and how much money you want. Even if you don’t buy a graphite paddle, more affordable options are still high quality.
There are also more expensive options that can give you the latest technology and innovation for playing pickleball. The average price of a pickleball paddle is about $100, but for the top-of-the-line paddles, you will pay $150-200. If you are a beginner, cheaper alternatives that perform well can be found for $50-60.
To learn more information about the Pickleball Equipment List, visit this link.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right pickleball paddle is essential. Your shoes should fit well and be laced up properly. When you have the right equipment, you will play better and have more fun.
You should always consider two essential things when choosing a paddle: its weight and grip size.
If you’re on a budget or are buying a lot of paddles, then wood is the ideal option. It’s a tried and true option that’ll always get the job done. Wood is more affordable, durable, and accessible.
If you want to play pickleball better but don’t want to spend much money, you should get a composite paddle. Composite paddles are suitable for people who wish to improve their game. They are also affordable.
If you play pickleball competitively, you may want to consider using a graphite paddle. They are the most expensive, but they also perform the best.
Picking the best graphite pickleball paddle might be a challenge. The pace of technological advancement in pickleball paddle design is one of the many factors to consider before making a purchase. We hope this guide helps you make the right decision. If you’re still unsure, go with your gut feeling and get a medium-weighted paddle that feels good in your hand. Make sure it has a balanced grip, width, and price point.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pickleball Paddles Graphite
Graphite is relatively heavier than carbon fiber and less durable. But it is more affordable, so many manufacturers use it. Graphite is stiff, so the ball does not sink into it. This makes it much easier to direct the ball and place it.
A wood paddle core is a good option for beginners because it is less expensive and heavier than other options. However, it doesn’t offer as much playability.
Graphite paddles are a lot stronger than composite paddles. They can take more abuse and last longer. Most players prefer the graphite surface in a battle between graphite and composite surfaces because it is more durable.
These aluminum honeycomb structures make the paddles strong and give players a good feel. Aluminum cores are popular for their outstanding “touch” at the net, giving players an extra edge of maneuverability and ball placement.
Fiberglass paddles are often heavier than graphite paddles. This is because fiberglass paddles have more power. Graphite paddles are considered to have more control or finesse. Both graphite and fiberglass paddles are lightweight and robust.
A composite pickleball paddle is made from a combination of materials. The most common material used is an open-celled honeycomb core. This is covered with one or more face materials that make up the surface that comes in contact with the ball.
Paddles come in different weights. A lighter paddle gives you much more control but less power. On the other hand, a heavier paddle will give you more power but less control. Choosing the proper weight paddle is essential to avoid elbow strain and fatigue. You may want to start with a lightweight paddle and then switch to a heavier one as you build up more strength.
Pickleball paddles that use carbon fiber faces are a good option for players looking for fewer mistakes and more control over their shots. Carbon fiber paddles can take a hard hit shot and return the ball with power, or take speed off and return the ball softly.
This paddle has a polymer core that reduces vibration. The textured graphite surface helps you put the ball where you want it.
There are three types of materials used to make paddles for pickleball – wood, graphite, and composite materials. Wooden paddles are the most traditional option and are also the cheapest. However, they are quite heavy and may be difficult to use over long periods.
There is a lot of variation between pickleball paddles regarding weight. Paddles that are 6 ounces give you more control but less power. Paddles that are 14 ounces will give you more power but less control.
Niupipo is one of the best pickleball manufacturers in the world. They have been designing and selling pickleball paddles and balls for over 20 years. Niupipo specializes in pickleball balls and paddles, making their products some of the most popular.
Fiberglass paddles are heavier than graphite paddles, on average. Fiberglass paddles are more powerful because of this. Graphite paddles are thought to be more precise or controllable. Composite and fiberglass paddles have similar advantages in terms of weight and strength, but each has its advantages.
