Top Pickleball Paddles for Intermediates in 2024

Pickleball is a popular racquet sport that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, played on a smaller court. The game is easy to learn, making it a great activity for people of all ages. One of the essential components of this game is the paddle. A good pickleball paddle can make a significant difference in your gameplay, and if you are an intermediate player, you need to find the right one to take your skills to the next level.

When shopping for pickleball paddles, there are a few things you should consider. The weight, grip size, and material of the paddle are essential factors to keep in mind. A paddle that is too heavy or too light can affect your swing and accuracy. The grip size should fit your hand comfortably, allowing you to maintain control over the paddle. The material of the paddle can also affect the power and control of your shots.

We spent hours researching and testing various pickleball paddles to identify the top ones for intermediate players. Our goal was to find paddles that provide the perfect balance of power and control, while also being comfortable to use. In this article, we will review the top pickleball paddles for intermediates to help you find the right one for your needs.

Top Pickleball Paddles for Intermediates

We have researched and tested various pickleball paddles to bring you a roundup of the best options for intermediate players. Whether you’re looking for a paddle that offers power, control, or a balance of both, we’ve got you covered. Our list includes paddles from top brands in the industry, each with its unique features and benefits. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best pickleball paddles for intermediates.

HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle

We highly recommend the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle for intermediate players due to its excellent feel and ample power.

Pros

• The fiberglass finish provides excellent feel and ample power for competitive players.
• The paddle is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
• The design details, such as the polypropylene honeycomb core and Ergo Grip, make for a perfect touch every time with minimal vibration.

Cons

• The paddle has less texture than other HEAD models, so spin abilities may be affected.
• The sweet spot is more limited compared to other paddles.
• The paddle does not come with a cover.

We were impressed with the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle’s performance on the court. The fiberglass finish provided a great feel and ample power, making it an excellent option for intermediate players. The paddle was lightweight and easy to maneuver, which allowed us to move quickly around the court. The polypropylene honeycomb core and Ergo Grip also made for a perfect touch every time with minimal vibration.

However, we did notice that the paddle has less texture than other HEAD models, which may affect spin abilities. Additionally, the sweet spot is more limited compared to other paddles, so players may need to adjust their playing style accordingly. Lastly, we were disappointed that the paddle did not come with a cover.

Overall, we believe that the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for intermediate players who are looking for a lightweight and powerful paddle.

Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set

If you’re an intermediate player looking for a well-balanced and textured pickleball paddle that combines power and control, the Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set is the perfect choice.

Pros

• The rough-textured graphite surface offers excellent spin, while the large sweet spot ensures better hits.
• The cushioned perforated contour grip provides a secure and comfortable hold during play.
• The low-profile edge guard and specialized bottom design offer extra protection and durability.

Cons

• The medium grip size may not be suitable for players with larger hands.
• The paddle is relatively lightweight, which may take some getting used to for players used to heavier paddles.
• The price point may be higher than some other intermediate-level paddles on the market.

We recently had the opportunity to try out the Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set, and we were impressed with its performance on the court. The rough-textured graphite surface provided excellent spin, allowing us to hit shots with precision and accuracy. The cushioned perforated contour grip was comfortable to hold, even during long matches, and we appreciated the low-profile edge guard and specialized bottom design, which offered extra protection and durability.

While the medium grip size worked well for us, players with larger hands may find it too small. Additionally, the paddle’s relatively lightweight build may take some getting used to for players used to heavier paddles. However, we found that the paddle’s well-balanced design and excellent spin capabilities more than made up for any minor drawbacks.

Overall, we highly recommend the Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set for intermediate players looking for a high-quality paddle that combines power and control. It may be a bit pricier than some other intermediate-level paddles on the market, but we believe the quality and performance make it worth the investment.

ONIX Graphite Z5 Graphite Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles

If you are an intermediate pickleball player looking for a medium-weight graphite paddle, the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The nomex honeycomb core gives you amazing ball control.
• The graphite face provides superior feel of the ball.
• The tennis handle shape is comfortable to use and provides great spin and control.

Cons

• Some players may prefer a heavier paddle for more power.
• The edge guard may wear off over time.
• The handle may be too thin for some players.

We recently had the opportunity to try out the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle and were impressed with its performance. The paddle strikes a perfect balance between power and speed, making it suitable for a wide range of players. We found that the large sweet spot on the Widebody shape allowed us to hit the ball with ease and control.

The nomex honeycomb core is a standout feature of this paddle, providing excellent ball control that allowed us to place shots with precision. The graphite face also gave us superior feel of the ball, allowing us to execute shots with confidence.

We appreciated the tennis handle shape of the paddle, which was comfortable to use and provided great spin and control during play. The edge guard also provided protection for the paddle, ensuring that it would last for a long time.

Overall, we would recommend the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle to intermediate players looking for a medium-weight graphite paddle that provides excellent ball control and feel.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best pickleball paddle for intermediates, there are several factors to consider. We recommend taking the following features into account when making your decision:

Weight

The weight of a pickleball paddle is an important factor to consider. A lighter paddle is typically easier to maneuver and provides greater control, while a heavier paddle can generate more power. However, a heavier paddle may also cause fatigue more quickly, so it’s important to find a weight that feels comfortable for you.

Grip

The grip of a pickleball paddle is another key feature to consider. A good grip will provide comfort and prevent slipping during gameplay. Look for a grip that feels comfortable in your hand and provides a secure hold. Some players prefer a cushioned grip, while others prefer a firmer feel.

Material

The material of a pickleball paddle can affect its durability, power, and control. Common materials include wood, graphite, and composite materials. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose a material that suits your playing style and needs.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of a pickleball paddle can also impact your gameplay. A larger paddle may provide a larger sweet spot, while a smaller paddle may offer greater maneuverability. The shape of the paddle can also affect its balance and weight distribution. Consider your playing style and preferences when choosing the size and shape of your paddle.

Overall, choosing the best pickleball paddle for intermediates requires careful consideration of several key features. By taking the time to research and test different options, you can find a paddle that feels comfortable and helps you improve your game.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some top-rated pickleball paddles for intermediate players?

As an intermediate player, you want a paddle that offers a good balance of power and control. Some of the top-rated pickleball paddles for intermediate players include the Selkirk Amped S2, the Onix Z5, and the Paddletek Tempest Wave.

What should I look for in a pickleball paddle as an intermediate player?

As an intermediate player, you should look for a paddle that suits your style of play. Consider the weight, grip size, and materials used in the construction of the paddle. Look for a paddle that offers a good balance of power and control, and that is comfortable to use for extended periods.

Are there any pickleball paddles designed specifically for intermediate players?

While there are no pickleball paddles designed specifically for intermediate players, there are paddles that are better suited to the needs of intermediate players. Look for paddles that offer a good balance of power and control, and that are comfortable to use for extended periods.

What are some popular brands of pickleball paddles for intermediate players?

Some of the most popular brands of pickleball paddles for intermediate players include Selkirk, Onix, and Paddletek. These brands offer a range of paddles that are well-suited to the needs of intermediate players.

How do I choose the right weight and grip size for my pickleball paddle as an intermediate player?

The weight and grip size of your pickleball paddle can have a significant impact on your performance. As an intermediate player, you should look for a paddle that is comfortable to use and that offers a good balance of power and control. Consider your playing style and personal preferences when choosing the weight and grip size of your paddle.

What are some affordable options for high-quality pickleball paddles for intermediate players?

There are many affordable options for high-quality pickleball paddles for intermediate players. Look for paddles that offer a good balance of power and control, and that are comfortable to use for extended periods. Some affordable options include the Selkirk Prime, the Onix Graphite Z5, and the Paddletek Element.