Ever wondered what secret weapon the pickleball pros use to dominate the court? The answer lies in their choice of paddle.
- The right paddle matters: A great pickleball paddle can unlock your full potential, giving you the power, control, and precision you need to play like a champion.
- Ready to find out which paddles the best players in the world rely on? Let’s dive in and explore the top pro pickleball paddles!
What pickleball paddles do professional Pickleball players prefer?
- Pros often opt for elongated paddles. The extra length provides more reach for those tough shots and dinks at the net.
- They tend to go for heavier paddles (around 8+ ounces). This adds power to hard drives and put-aways, but requires a bit more finesse on those soft touch shots.
- Material-wise, pros lean toward raw carbon fiber surfaces – less forgiveness, but a fantastic combination of power and spin potential.
What Pros Look For
- Power vs. Control: Pros often go for power paddles, sacrificing a bit of finesse for those hard-hitting smashes. However, some prefer control paddles for precise shot placement.
- Materials: Graphite and carbon fiber are the top choices for their strong, lightweight construction.
- Shape: Elongated shapes provide more reach, while the traditional wide-body shape gives a bigger sweet spot.
- Weight: Pros handle heavier paddles (around 8oz) for stability and power, but some prefer lighter options for faster reaction times.
Popular Pro Pickleball Paddles
- Selkirk Vanguard Power Air: A favorite for its raw power and large sweet spot.
- Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro: Popular with Ben Johns, known for excellent control and touch.
- Engage Pursuit MX 6.0: Offers a good blend of power and control.
- CRBN 1X: Its elongated shape and textured surface generate awesome spin.
- Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16: Ben Johns’ signature paddle, all about power and aggressive play.
Important Notes:
- Player styles matter: A paddle that’s amazing for one pro might not suit another due to playing style differences.
- The market is always changing: New paddle technology is constantly emerging, so pros adapt their choices. Research the most up-to-date “pro favorites” for the latest info.
Which pickleball brands are popular among pros?
The popular pickleball paddle brands among the pros, and what makes each special:
Selkirk: A mainstay in the pro scene, known for innovation and top-tier paddles. Engage: You’ll see lots of Engage paddles, as they’re popular for their power and control. Paddletek: Known for both their traditional shapes and the unique elongated Tempest Wave Pro. Joola: While more focused on the recreational scene, the Ben Johns Hyperion paddle puts them solidly in pro territory.
- Selkirk: Well-respected for their innovative technologies (like their Vanguard line) and top-notch performance. Many pros love them for the balanced blend of power and control.
- Joola: This brand surged in pro popularity with the signing of Ben Johns, one of the biggest stars in pickleball. Their paddles are known for excellent spin potential and a focus on power.
- Paddletek: A classic, established brand, offering a wide range of paddles to suit different playing styles. Pros appreciate their consistency and reliability.
- Engage: If you see players with really snappy dinks and resets, they might be using an Engage paddle. They’re known for a soft, responsive feel ideal for touch shots.
- Gearbox: This brand focuses on innovative paddle shapes and materials. Pros who prioritize a large sweet spot and raw power sometimes opt for Gearbox.
Important to note: Pro sponsorship plays a big role, so just because a pro uses a certain brand doesn’t always mean it’s objectively the best paddle out there.
What are the characteristics of the Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta?
- Elongated shape: Adds extra reach, which is key for the quick volleys and reactions needed by pro players.
- Power Air technology: A unique, edgeless design that provides some serious power without sacrificing a decent-sized sweet spot.
- Raw Carbon Fiber: This is the surface preference for lots of pros, giving a great blend of spin and power potential.
Why is the Dura Fast 40 Pickleball favored by professionals?
- The Holes: It has 40 precisely drilled holes, meeting tournament regulations and creating a balanced flight for less wind resistance.
- Durability: The name says it all. Pro matches are hard on equipment, and the Dura Fast 40 can take a beating and keep performing consistently.
- The Feel: Some players just swear by the feel of a Dura Fast 40. It has a good amount of pop, but not in a way that feels wildly unpredictable.
The best pickleball paddles give you an edge, but it’s about finding the right fit.
- While the pros provide inspiration, remember that comfort and playing style heavily influence your ideal paddle choice.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment! Research paddles, read reviews, and try different options to find your perfect match.