The best pickleball paddles for intermediate players are designed to balance power and control, making them ideal for players with some experience who want to improve their skills.
There are a few critical factors to consider when looking for the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players.
The weight of the paddle, the size of the sweet spot, and the materials used to make the paddle are all important factors to consider.
A paddle that is too heavy can be difficult to maneuver, while a paddle with a small sweet spot can make hitting the ball accurately difficult.
The materials used to make the paddle can affect its durability and overall performance.
At the end of this article, you’ll better understand what to look for in a pickleball paddle and which are best for intermediate players.
Best Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players
As avid pickleball players ourselves, we know the importance of having the right paddle for your skill level.
For intermediate players, having a paddle that offers a balance of control and power is key to taking your game to the Paddles, next level.
Following extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players. These paddles have been chosen based on their performance, durability, and overall value.
1. Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2
The Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 is ideal if you are looking for a paddle with a middle ground between power and control.
The rough-textured surface of the paddle provides excellent spin and a large sweet spot for better hits, while the lightweight build and well-balanced design make it easy to swing and react quickly on the net.
The minutely raised, cushioned ribs and the perforated surface of the grip provide a secure and comfortable grip during play.
Some players may find the handle-bottom design to be too specialized, and the slim edge guard may not provide enough protection against ground impact for some players.
The Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 remains an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality paddle that perfectly balances power and control.
Pros
- The rough-textured surface provides excellent spin and a large sweet spot for better hits.
- The lightweight build and well-balanced design make it easy to swing and react quickly at the net.
- The minutely raised, cushioned ribs and perforated surface of the grip provide secure and comfortable grip during play.
Cons
- Some players may find the handle-bottom design to be too specialized.
- The slim edge guard may not provide enough protection against ground impact for some players.
- The paddle may not be suitable for advanced players who require specific features for their playing style.
2. ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
The ONIX Graphite Z5 is an excellent option if you are an intermediate pickleball player in search of a paddle that provides you with both power and control.
The ONIX Graphite Z5 is the most popular paddle in the Onix line, and for good reason. Its graphite face and nomex core give players a superior feel of the ball, making it perfect for those striving for amazing ball control.
The paddle’s Widebody shape is great for beginner- to advanced-level players with its large sweet spot.
The Z5 paddle is perfect for the player who is looking for the outstanding ball control of a nomex paddle in a medium-weight graphite paddle.
The ONIX Graphite Z5’s tennis racket-shaped handle makes it comfortable to use and provides great spin and control. Each Z5 pickleball paddle is protected with an edge guard, ensuring long-lasting durability.
While some players may find the handle to be too thin, the paddle’s lightweight design allows for quick and easy maneuverability on the court.
However, the paddle may only suit players who prefer lighter paddles. The paddle is on the pricier side compared to other intermediate-level paddles.
Pros
- It mimics the handle shape of a tennis racket, making it comfortable to use and providing great spin and control during play.
- The graphite face and Nomex core give players a superior feel of the ball, making it perfect for those striving for amazing ball control.
- WITH ITS LARGE SWEET SPOT, the Z5 paddle is perfect for beginners through advanced-level players.
Cons
- Some players may find the handle to be too thin.
- The paddle is on the pricier side compared to other intermediate-level paddles.
- The paddle may not be suitable for players who prefer heavier paddles.
3. JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddles
The JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddles Set is a fantastic choice for any intermediate pickleball player searching for a multipurpose paddle.
The JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddles Set is USAPA-approved and has a generous sweet spot and forgiving touch, making it ideal for players moving towards more competitive play.
The set includes two paddles, two balls, and a carry bag, making it an excellent gift for friends and family who want to get into the game.
One of the standout features of this paddle set is the advanced engineering, reinforced fiberglass layers, and Response Polypropylene Honeycomb core that combine to create a paddle set with extra pop.
The Sure-Grip technology offers a perforated anti-slip ridge grip, reducing moisture from the handle’s surface for an enhanced grip and increased shock absorption.
While the JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddles Set might not perform as well as ultra-premium paddles, it’s high quality for its price point.
Some users find it too light, and thicker paddles might provide more power, but overall, it’s an excellent choice for intermediate players looking for a versatile paddle.
Pros
- Designed for all skill levels
- Includes two paddles, two balls, and a carry bag
- Advanced engineering for extra pop
Cons
- Might not perform as well as ultra-premium paddles
- Some users find it too light
- Thicker paddles might provide more power
4. JoncAye Pickleball Set
If you’re an intermediate player looking for a budget-friendly pickleball set, the JoncAye Pickleball Set might be a great option for you.
The JoncAye Pickleball Set is a great option for intermediate players looking for a budget-friendly set with everything they need to get started.
The paddles are lightweight and made of high-quality materials, which makes them easy to maneuver and provides better ball control.
However, there may be better options for advanced players who are looking for more power, and the balls included in the set may not be of the highest quality.
Pros
- The set comes with everything you need to get started, including two graphite pickleball paddles, four pickleballs (two indoor and two outdoor), a mesh ball bag, two additional over-grips, and a carry bag.
- The paddles are lightweight, weighing only 8 oz, which makes them easy to maneuver and reduces the risk of wrist or shoulder strain.
- The paddle face is made of premium graphite carbon fiber, which provides better ball control and a larger sweet spot to reduce mishits.
Cons
- While the paddles are suitable for intermediate players, they may not be the best option for advanced players who are looking for more power.
- Some users have reported that the balls included in the set are not of the highest quality and may not last very long.
- The grip size of 4.25 inches may not be comfortable for players with larger hands.
5. Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set
The Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set is ideal for intermediate players looking for a high-quality paddle set.
The graphite carbon fiber face and graphite-honeycomb composition provide ideal strength and stiffness with a surprisingly lightweight honeycomb core that makes it easier to spin the balls.
The perforated, sweat-absorbent, and cushioned grip also allows for a better paddle grip, even during long play sessions.
One potential downside of the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle Set is that some users may find the grip size to be too small or too large for their hands.
The included bag may also not be as durable as some users would like. The set only comes with four pickleballs, which may not be enough for some players.
Pros
- The honeycomb core provides improved strength and energy, making it easier to spin the balls
- The graphite carbon fiber face and graphite-honeycomb composition provide an ideal level of strength and stiffness with a surprisingly lightweight
- The perforated, sweat-absorbent, and cushioned grip allows for a better paddle grip, even during long play sessions
Cons
- Some users may find the grip size to be too small or too large for their hands
- The included bag may not be as durable as some users would like
- The set only comes with four pickleballs, which may not be enough for some players
6. PCKL Premium Pickleball Paddle Racket
The PCKL Premium Pickleball Paddle Racket is designed to help avid players improve their power while maintaining shot consistency from both the baseline and the kitchen line.
The USA Pickleball-approved paddle is 16 inches long and 8 inches wide, making it suitable for players of all skill levels.
In terms of performance, the edgeless design helps reduce mishits and increase the sweet-spot surface area, which is crucial for maintaining shot consistency.
The rough-grit graphite carbon face provides enhanced spin and optimum power, while the polypropylene core offers impeccable feel. The corded grip is cushioned and ridged to reduce slip and improve in-game comfort.
However, the 7.5-ounce weight of the paddle may be too much for some players, limiting their agility.
It may also take some time for some players to get used to the sweet spot being smaller than they were anticipating. Finally, the paddle’s durability can be compromised because its edges are prone to chipping under heavy use.
Pros
- The edgeless design helps reduce mishits and increase the sweet-spot surface area, improving your overall shot consistency.
- The rough-grit graphite carbon face provides enhanced spin and optimum power, while the polypropylene core offers impeccable feel.
- The corded grip is cushioned and ridged to reduce slip and improve in-game comfort.
Cons
- Some players may find the paddle a bit heavy at 7.5 ounces.
- The sweet spot may be smaller than expected for some players.
- The edges can chip easily with frequent use.
7. SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
The SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles are designed for comfort, balance, and affordability with the latest paddle technology.
The multilayer face technology combines the power of Graphite with the control of Fiberglass, while the SX3 honeycomb core yields a large sweet spot for constant speed.
The ultra-cushion grip material absorbs both perspiration and impacts, allowing you to play without fatigue after long gameplay intervals.
The SLK Neo paddles are beautifully balanced between lightweight paddles and medium-weight paddles, weighing only 7.5 oz for each paddle, making them perfect for the next generation of Pickleball players.
The set includes both Red and Blue SLK Neo pickleball paddles, four indoor and outdoor pickleball balls, and a rigid carry bag to protect your paddles when you’re on the go.
Pros
- The multilayer face technology combines the power of Graphite with the control of Fiberglass for a balanced indoor and outdoor performance.
- The SX3 honeycomb core yields a large sweet spot for constant speed while absorbing the hit and softening the feel.
- The ultra-cushion grip material absorbs both perspiration and impact, allowing you to play without fatigue after long gameplay intervals.
Cons
- Some players may find the 4.25″ grip circumference too small or too large for their hands.
- The lightweight may not suit players who prefer heavier paddles.
- The rigid carry bag may not be spacious enough for other pickleball accessories.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best pickleball paddle for intermediate players, there are several factors to consider. We have compiled a list of the most important features to look for when selecting a paddle.
Weight
The weight of a paddle is a crucial factor to consider. The ideal weight for an intermediate player is between 7.5 and 8.5 ounces. A lighter paddle will provide more control and maneuverability, while a heavier paddle will offer more power and stability.
Grip Size
The grip size of a paddle is also important to consider. A grip that is too small or too large can lead to discomfort and affect your performance.
The ideal grip size allows you to comfortably hold the paddle with a relaxed grip without over-gripping or straining your hand.
Material
Paddle material affects durability, power, and control. Intermediate players prefer composite paddles for their power, control, and durability. Depending on their style, some players prefer graphite or wood paddles.
Shape
The shape of a paddle can also affect its performance. Most intermediate players prefer a paddle with a wider face, providing a more prominent sweet spot and power. However, some players may prefer a narrower face for increased control and maneuverability.
Core
The core of a paddle can affect its power and control. Most intermediate players prefer paddles with a polymer core, as they balance power and control.
However, some players may prefer paddles with a foam or aluminum core, depending on their playing style and preferences.
When choosing a pickleball paddle for intermediate players, it is important to consider the weight, grip size, material, shape, and core.
By considering these factors, you can select a paddle that suits your playing style and preferences and helps you improve your game.
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