Best Pickleball Paddle Brands in 2025

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Pickleball, a dynamic sport blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has solidified its place as one of the fastest-growing activities worldwide.

In 2024, the United States alone boasted 19.8 million players, with the global pickleball market projected to reach $4.4 billion by 2033, growing at an 11.3% compound annual growth rate (Pickleball Statistics).

This surge in popularity has driven significant advancements in equipment, particularly pickleball paddles, which are critical to a player’s performance.

Unlike tennis rackets, pickleball paddles have a solid, flat surface, and choosing the right one depends on factors like weight, grip, core material, and playing style.

This article, updated from its 2019 version, highlights the top pickleball paddle brands of 2025, explores key features to consider, and reflects on the sport’s continued growth across all demographics.

Why Choose the Right Paddle?

The right pickleball paddle can elevate your game by enhancing control, power, and comfort. A well-suited paddle aligns with your skill level and playing style, whether you prioritize quick, precise shots or powerful smashes. Key considerations include:

  • Weight: Lightweight paddles (7.5-8 oz) offer maneuverability and control, ideal for beginners or players focused on finesse. Heavier paddles (8.5-9 oz) provide more power, suited for aggressive players.
  • Core Material: The core affects the paddle’s feel and performance. Honeycomb polymer and polypropylene cores balance power and control, while solid polymer cores emphasize durability.
  • Surface Material: Carbon fiber surfaces are lightweight and spin-friendly, fiberglass offers durability, and graphite provides a responsive feel.
  • Shape: Standard shapes are versatile, elongated shapes boost power, wide-body shapes are forgiving for beginners, and quad shapes offer stability.
  • Grip: Ergonomic, sweat-absorbing grips ensure comfort during extended play.
  • Technology: Features like textured surfaces for spin, edge guards for protection, and vibration dampening for reduced arm fatigue are now standard in high-end paddles.

With these factors in mind, let’s explore the top pickleball paddle brands dominating the market in 2025.

Top Pickleball Paddle Brands in 2025

The pickleball industry has evolved significantly since 2019, with new brands emerging and established ones refining their offerings.

Below is a curated list of the top 10 pickleball paddle brands for 2025, based on our testing, expert reviews, player feedback, and market trends.

1. Selkirk

  • Overview: Selkirk is a leading brand known for its high-performance paddles used by professionals and recreational players alike. Their commitment to innovation has kept them at the forefront of the industry.
  • Top Models:
    • SLK Evo Power 2.0: Best for power, with a carbon fiber surface and polymer core.
    • LUXX Control Air Epic: Excels in control, ideal for precision players.
    • AMPED Pro Air – Invikta: A pro-favorite for its balance of power and touch.
  • Key Features: Carbon fiber surfaces, honeycomb polymer cores, and advanced grip technology for comfort.
  • Best For: Players of all levels seeking premium performance.
  • Community Impact: Selkirk supports pickleball growth through sponsorships and community programs.

2. JOOLA

  • Overview: JOOLA has risen to prominence with innovative designs and endorsements from top players like Ben Johns and tennis legend Andre Agassi.
  • Top Models:
    • Perseus Pro IV: Best for power, featuring a carbon grip surface for spin.
    • Ben Johns Hyperion: A pro-level paddle with excellent control and power.
    • Andre Agassi Edge: Offers a unique tapered shape for leverage.
  • Key Features: Carbon Grip Surface (CGS), honeycomb polymer cores, and elongated shapes for enhanced power.
  • Best For: Competitive players prioritizing power and spin.
  • Community Impact: JOOLA sponsors tournaments and promotes pickleball globally.

3. Six Zero

  • Overview: Six Zero has quickly gained recognition for its well-balanced paddles, with the Double Black Diamond Control named the best all-around paddle of 2025 by Pickleball Warehouse.
  • Top Models:
    • Double Black Diamond Control: Balances power, spin, and control.
  • Key Features: Carbon fiber surface, polymer core, and standard shape for versatility.
  • Best For: Intermediate to advanced players seeking a do-it-all paddle.
  • Community Impact: Six Zero is a newer brand focused on performance and player feedback.

4. Engage Pickleball

  • Overview: A mainstay from the 2019 list, Engage remains a trusted brand with a focus on quality craftsmanship and customer service. Their paddles are used by beginners and pros alike.
  • Top Models:
    • Encore Pro V2.0: Ideal for beginners, with a forgiving fiberglass surface.
    • Aero | Raw Toray T700: Designed for advanced players, offering superior control.
  • Key Features: Fiberglass and carbon fiber surfaces, polymer cores, and ergonomic grips.
  • Best For: Beginners and recreational players.
  • Community Impact: Engage organizes tournaments and donates paddles to schools and communities, supporting pickleball’s growth.

5. Pickleball Apes

  • Overview: Known for their distinctive designs and performance, Pickleball Apes has carved a niche with paddles that combine style and substance.
  • Top Models:
    • Pulse V: Wide-body for forgiveness, great for beginners.
    • Pro Line Energy: Elongated for power, suited for intermediate players.
  • Key Features: Graphite surfaces, honeycomb polymer cores, and eye-catching aesthetics.
  • Best For: Players who want a unique paddle with solid performance.
  • Community Impact: Pickleball Apes engages with players through social media and community events.

6. Vatic Pro

  • Overview: Vatic Pro has gained traction for its high-quality paddles at competitive prices, with the PRISM V7 standing out in 2025 reviews.
  • Top Models:
    • PRISM V7: Balances power and control with a carbon fiber surface.
  • Key Features: Performance honeycomb core, carbon fiber surface, and standard shape.
  • Best For: Intermediate players seeking value and performance.
  • Community Impact: Vatic Pro focuses on accessibility, offering affordable high-end paddles.

7. CRBN

  • Overview: CRBN is celebrated for its innovative TruFoam core technology, which enhances touch and feel without sacrificing power.
  • Top Models:
    • TruFoam Genesis: Offers elite control and vibration dampening.
  • Key Features: TruFoam polypropylene core, carbon fiber surface, and advanced construction.
  • Best For: Advanced players prioritizing control and feel.
  • Community Impact: CRBN supports professional players and tournaments.

8. Gearbox

  • Overview: Gearbox is a go-to brand for power-focused players, with paddles designed to deliver hard-hitting shots.
  • Top Models:
    • Pro Ultimate Power 14 mm: Best for power, with a quad shape for stability.
  • Key Features: Carbon fiber construction, thick core for power, and quad shape.
  • Best For: Aggressive players who dominate with power.
  • Community Impact: Gearbox sponsors regional tournaments and grassroots initiatives.

9. Gamma

  • Overview: Gamma offers excellent value, combining performance with affordability, making it a favorite for budget-conscious players.
  • Top Models:
    • Fusion Fashion: A stylish paddle with solid performance.
  • Key Features: Textured fiberglass surface, honeycomb polymer core, and standard shape.
  • Best For: Players seeking quality on a budget.
  • Community Impact: Gamma supports community programs and youth pickleball.

10. Onix

  • Overview: While less prominent in 2025 reviews compared to 2019, Onix remains a reliable brand with a legacy of quality paddles used by professionals.
  • Top Models:
    • Z5: A best-seller known for durability and performance.
  • Key Features: Fiberglass surfaces, patented Fusion and Ribtec cores, and standard shape.
  • Best For: Players who value durability and a proven design.
  • Community Impact: Onix supports professional players and national tournaments.

Notes on 2019 Brands

  • Prolite: Once a pioneer in composite paddles, Prolite is less mentioned in 2025 reviews, suggesting it may have been surpassed by newer brands.
  • ARD (Advanced Recreation Design): ARD’s focus on quality was notable in 2019, but it does not appear in current top lists.
  • Amarey: Known for graphite paddles in 2019, Amarey is absent from 2025 reviews, indicating a potential decline in market presence.
BrandTop ModelBest ForKey FeaturesPrice Range
SelkirkSLK Evo Power 2.0All levelsCarbon fiber, polymer core$100-$200
JOOLAPerseus Pro IVCompetitive playersCarbon Grip Surface, honeycomb core$200-$300
Six ZeroDouble Black Diamond ControlIntermediate/AdvancedCarbon fiber, polymer core$150-$200
EngageEncore Pro V2.0Beginners/RecreationalFiberglass, polymer core$80-$150
Pickleball ApesPro Line EnergyIntermediateGraphite, honeycomb core$100-$150
Vatic ProPRISM V7IntermediateCarbon fiber, honeycomb core$80-$120
CRBNTruFoam GenesisAdvancedTruFoam core, carbon fiber$150-$200
GearboxPro Ultimate Power 14 mmPower playersCarbon fiber, quad shape$100-$200
GammaFusion FashionBudget-consciousFiberglass, honeycomb core$50-$100
OnixZ5Durable performanceFiberglass, Fusion/Ribtec core$80-$150

Key Features to Look for in a Paddle

When selecting a pickleball paddle in 2025, consider the following features to ensure it matches your playing style and needs:

  • Core Material:
    • Honeycomb Polymer: Balances power and control, common in brands like Selkirk and JOOLA.
    • Polypropylene Honeycomb: Enhances touch and feel, used by CRBN and Vatic Pro.
    • Solid Polymer: Offers durability, found in some Engage models.
  • Surface Material:
    • Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and spin-friendly, ideal for advanced players (e.g., Six Zero, JOOLA).
    • Fiberglass: Durable and forgiving, great for beginners (e.g., Engage, Gamma).
    • Graphite: Responsive and lightweight, used by Pickleball Apes.
  • Shape:
    • Standard: Versatile for all players (e.g., Vatic Pro PRISM V7).
    • Elongated: Boosts power, preferred by competitive players (e.g., JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion).
    • Wide-Body: Forgiving for beginners (e.g., Pickleball Apes Pulse V).
    • Quad: Stable for power shots (e.g., Gearbox Pro Ultimate Power).
  • Weight:
    • Lightweight (7.5-8 oz): Enhances control and quick reactions, ideal for finesse players.
    • Midweight (8-8.5 oz): Balances power and control, versatile for most players.
    • Heavy (8.5-9 oz): Maximizes power, suited for aggressive players.
  • Grip:
    • Look for cushioned, sweat-absorbing grips to prevent blisters and ensure comfort during long matches. Brands like Selkirk and Engage prioritize ergonomic designs.
  • Technology:
    • Textured Surfaces: Enhance spin, common in JOOLA and Six Zero paddles.
    • Edge Guards: Protect paddles from wear, standard in most 2025 models.
    • Vibration Dampening: Reduces arm fatigue, featured in CRBN and Selkirk paddles.

The Continued Growth of Pickleball

Pickleball’s appeal lies in its accessibility, low physical demand, and social nature, making it a favorite across all age groups.

In 2024, the U.S. had 19.8 million players, with the 25-34 age group emerging as the largest segment, debunking the myth that pickleball is only for retirees (Pickleball Statistics).

Globally, the sport is projected to grow at a 15.3% CAGR, reaching a market value of $9.1 billion by 2034 (Pickleball Market).

In Canada, participation increased 57% from 2022 to 2025, with 1.57 million players (Pickleball Canada).

Infrastructure has kept pace, with over 68,000 known courts in the U.S. by 2025, including 18,455 new courts added in 2024 (USA Pickleball).

Tournaments are also on the rise, with USA Pickleball sanctioning 142 events in 2024, alongside 26 PPA and 20 APP tournaments.

This growth reflects pickleball’s mainstream status and its appeal to players of all skill levels and backgrounds.

Conclusion

As the sport continues to grow, choosing the right paddle is essential for maximizing enjoyment and performance.

In 2025, brands like Selkirk, JOOLA, Six Zero, Engage, and Pickleball Apes lead the market with innovative designs and high-quality materials.

Whether you’re a beginner picking up a paddle for the first time or a pro competing in tournaments, there’s a paddle tailored to your needs.

With its affordability, ease of play, and social appeal, pickleball is poised for even greater growth in the years ahead. Explore the brands and features highlighted here, and find the paddle that will help you shine on the court.

Additional Resources

BEST PICKLE PADDLES BRAND In 2019

Engage

A well known and most preferred brand based in the USA which manufacturers pickleball paddles is Engage. You will find beginners to seasoned players using paddles of this brand.

Engage focuses on the workmanship and quality when making every paddle. They have proper procedures and quality controls in place. Hence they are able to produce paddles that are technologically advanced that come along with a good warranty and guarantee excellent customer service.

The designing process involves thorough and rigorous testing. This helps ensure that the paddle being designed will be durable, survive the powerful shots and serve long term. All the paddles manufactured by Engage comply with USAPA strict guidelines. They are approved and listed for tournament plays that are sanctioned.

This brand helps this sport to grow apart from focusing on the quality of the paddles manufactured. They organize tournaments and also give away 5% of the revenues earned to local schools to encourage students to play this game. Apart from this they also donate pickleball paddles to many local communities. Everything is done at their own factory, right from designing to the final production. Each and every paddle made by them are manufactured in the United States. You can check our Engage Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle Review.

Prolite

The composite paddle was a revolution in the pickleball industry. It was a new innovation that made a difference to the pickleball sport.

Though the company name was different before, their commitment to producing new products using the best materials has not changed. They have remained true to their promise. The goals are very clear at PROLITE.

The paddles manufactured are keeping in mind the different types of players that will use them. Only the best materials are used to make these and they come along with a great warranty. Their customer service is remarkable. This brand always works towards thinking and being different than their competitors. They have a unique identity which shows in the look and feel of their products.

PROLITE are genuine ambassadors of the pickleball sport. They give back to the community in different ways. At all levels, this sport is taught through various clinics that are free. They also sponsor most of the grassroots clubs in the USA. Many state and small regional tournaments are backed by them, and they donate gears to various veteran programs, schools, and other good causes. Apart from all this they also help in growing this sport internationally.

Onix

Onix Sports, Inc specializes in making pickleball equipment. Onix unlike other paddle manufacturing companies only manufacturer’s pickleball paddles, balls, and nets. It does not focus on producing other racket game equipment.

Their paddles are used all throughout the country by professional players. Onix continuously keeps advancing its paddle design and technology to provide the highest level of gear in the pickleball market. Two of their most known paddle cores that are patent-pending are Fusion and Ribtec.

This brand’s gear is used and promoted by most of the professional players of pickleball. You will find their paddles being used at national tournaments and at pickleball courts in different parts of the USA. This confirms that they are preferred by the topmost players as they trust their paddles.

The Onix team includes has many best pickleball players like Byron Freso, Erik Gertler, Marcus Luke, Roxanne Pierce, Madon Ford, and Suzee Anderson to name among the few. These all use the Onix paddles which are supposed to be the best in the market. One of their paddles that have been their number one best seller since a while now is the Onix Z5. Its Z logo is easily noticeable on the court.

ARD

ARD stands for Advanced Recreation Design.  It provides inspirational and innovative recreation equipment year after year. They have spent around 42 months in designing and producing these kinds of pickleball paddles. Their one and only goal have been to make a paddle of the finest quality that can help the players play with ease. They have spared no expense to provide the players with a paddle with the best finishing and that uses the best quality of materials and adhesives, and innovative design.

ARD cannot guarantee that all players using their manufactured paddles will definitely win. However, they do guarantee that in case of a defeat or failure, it will never be because of the paddles made by them.  It truly believes that one must have fun while playing this game.

Amarey

A quality brand that the manufacturer’s graphite paddles are Amarey.  The face of the paddle is made of graphite. This guarantees durability and strength. Its performance is guaranteed by its excellent ergonomic design. This brand focuses on the handles of the paddles a lot. It knows that the grip has to be perfect to let the player play effectively and for a longer period. Their paddles offer a grip that is firm ensuring the delivery of powerful shots.

The edge has a protective guard which saves the paddle from being damaged or worn out. The design helps players make accurate shots most of the time. Thus beating and shocking their opponents every time. It is lightweight and easy to use. The inner core has a honeycomb design that provides more strength to the paddle. Increased strength is also offered by the fiberglass sheets that are durable. It is one of the finest paddles in the world and is perfect for intermediate players and beginners. This type of paddle provides excellent control and touch.

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