As any Pickleball player knows, having the right paddle can make all the difference in your game. If you’re an advanced player looking to take your game to the next level, you’ll need a paddle that’s up to the challenge.
In this article, I’ll take a look at some of the best Pickleball paddles for advanced players on the market today. I’ll also give you some tips on what to look for when choosing a paddle, so you can be sure you’re getting the one that’s right for you. With the right paddle in hand, you’ll be ready to take your game to new heights.
I have tested a lot of pickleball paddles in my day, and the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle definitely tops my list. It’s perfect for skilled players who need a little extra force to hit the ball with power and control.
Plus, it’s very durable, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking after a few uses. Definitely worth the investment!
List of Best Pickleball Paddles for Advanced Players
My list of the best pickleball paddles for advanced players includes paddles made from a variety of materials, in different weights and grip sizes, so that you can find the perfect paddle for your needs.
So if you are looking for a paddle that will give you an edge over your opponents, check out my list of the best pickleball paddles for experienced players.
Franklin Sports Pro
Paddletek Phoenix Genesis
PROKENNEX Pro Speed II
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01. Franklin Sports Pro – Overall Best Pickleball Paddles for Advanced Players
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Reasons to Buy
- Outstanding control and spin capabilities
- Large sweet spot
- Extra textured surface for added spin and control
- USAPA Approved for all skill levels
- Lightweight and maneuverable
Reasons to Avoid
- The ball does not bounce as well off this paddle as it does off my old one.
If you’re a pro pickleball player, or if you’re just looking for an edge on the competition, you’ll want to check out the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle. In my testing, I found that this best pickleball paddle for advanced players had great control and spin capabilities, thanks to its 13mm polypropylene core and carbon fiber face.
Exceptional Control and Spin
It also has a large sweet spot, which makes it easier to hit the ball with precision. And finally, the extra textured surface helps to add even more spin and control. For these reasons, the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is my top pick.
In-Depth Study and Approval
I have conducted an in-depth study of the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball paddle and skill level players. The paddle is USAPA Approved for all skill levels of players.
The handle length is 4.9,” and the weight is 7.5 – 7.8 oz. The MaxGrit surface coating provides a maximum grip while the paddle is in play. The paddle also has a unique shape that provides an enlarged sweet spot for hitting the ball.
Expert’s Opinion
I have been using the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle for a few weeks now, and I really like it. It is light enough that I can control it well, and dinking is great with it.
I can maneuver around the court easily with it, and the very long handle has made it easy for me to get into the correct hand position for all of my shots. Ball control is nice with this paddle, and I am able to make angled shots easily.
Smashing is also great with this paddle, although I have had one little issue. The ball does not bounce as well off this paddle as it does off my old one. Other than that, I think this is a great paddle, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a new one.
02. Paddletek Phoenix Genesis – Best for Large Sweet Spot for Leading Players
Reasons to Buy
- Large sweet spot
- Great power and control
- Torsion vibration control for reduced vibration
- Extra textured surface for added grip
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Reasons to Avoid
- None that I could find!
The Paddletek Phoenix Genesis Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for a progressive player. The sweet spot is large, and the paddle is very responsive. You will use this paddle if you want to reduce shock and have more control.
Advanced Construction for Optimal Performance
The paddle has a polymer composite honeycomb core and ⅛” edge shock guard. The Paddle length is 15 ⅝,” and the width is 7 ¾”. This is a great choice for a serious player.
The Paddletek Phoenix Genesis Pickleball Paddle is an excellent option for players looking for power and control. The face of the paddle is made from a fiberglass and epoxy hybrid, which gives it extra strength and durability.
Enhanced Grip for Precision Shots
The extra texture on the face also provides more grip, giving you greater control over your shots.
The paddle is 7.4-7.8 ounces, making it easy to handle, and has Torsion Vibration Control to reduce vibration. This makes it easier to grip the paddle when hitting hard shots.
Overall, the Paddletek Phoenix Genesis is a great choice for players who want a powerful and easy-to-handle paddle.
Expert’s Opinion
I wanted to add more power to my game without losing control, and the Paddletek Phoenix Genesis Pickleball Paddle definitely helped me do that.
I get a great connection with the ball, and I can really slam it without fear of hitting the ball too hard and going off the court. I’m also able to put a lot of topspin on the ball, which makes it more challenging for my opponents to return.
I recommend this best professional pickleball paddle to anyone looking to add more power to their game without sacrificing control. It also works great for small hands.
03. PROKENNEX Pro Speed II – Best for Extra Pace and Touch
Reasons to Buy
- Ideal for players who like to hit the ball hard
- Offers great arm and elbow protection
- Helps to distribute the impact of hits evenly
- Features a tungsten-filled honeycomb core
- Has a large sweet spot
- It is light and easy to maneuver
Reasons to Avoid
- Some users have complained about the small grip
- May develop minor nicks on the paddle’s edge over time
The PROKENNEX Pro Speed II is one of the most popular pickleball paddles for advanced players. It is specially designed to protect your arm and elbow from vibrations, and its tungsten-filled chambers help to distribute the impact of hits evenly.
Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
The paddle’s polypropylene honeycomb core provides a high level of impact resistance, making it ideal for players who like to hit the ball hard.
Additionally, the honeycomb structure gives the paddle a larger sweet spot, making it easier to generate pace and touch. If you’re looking for a paddle that will help you take your game to the next level, the PROKENNEX Pro Speed II is a great option.
Ideal Choice for Pro Level Players
The PROKENNEX Pro Speed II Pickleball Paddle is a top choice for pro level players. This paddle provides excellent power and control with a seven-layer composite and graphite face.
The edge less design gives minor nicks on paddle edges, but it is not a big issue, while the small grip makes it easy to hold on to the ball. This paddle also weighs just 7.9 and 8.0 ounces, making it easy to maneuver.
As a result, the PROKENNEX Pro Speed II is an excellent choice for any professional pickleball player.
Expert’s Opinion
I recently decided to give the PROKENNEX Pro Speed II Pickleball Paddle a try, and I am so glad I did! With this paddle, I can hit the balls right where I want them to go. I can also hit some amazing angles and make deep shots.
On top of that, I can easily grip the paddle, so I always have exceptional control. As a result, I have been having fewer mishits. Overall, I am very happy with this paddle, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a new paddle.
04. Niupipo Explorer Pro Pickleball Paddle
Reasons to Buy
- Large sweet spot
- Good control
- Easy to spin the ball
- Comfortable grip
Reasons to Avoid
- The Grips Size is Small
The Niupipo Explorer Pro Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line paddle that is approved by the USA Pickleball Association. The paddle is 16 inches long and 8 inches wide, with a graphite carbon fiber surface that provides exceptional control and ball spin.
Exceptional Core Design
The paddle also features a polypropylene honeycomb core that ensures maximum power and durability.
This paddle can take a heavy beating and still perform at a high level, making it an excellent choice for serious pickleball players. If you’re looking for a paddle that can help you take your game to the next level, the Niupipo Explorer Pro is the paddle for you.
Gain the Competitive Edge
Thanks to its superior construction and performance, the Niupipo Explorer Pro is sure to give you the edge you need to win.
The Niupipo Explorer Pro Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line paddle designed for experts. It features an ultra perforated cushion grip for comfort and control, and its thick construction makes it durable enough to withstand vigorous play.
Additionally, the medium size is perfect for those who want a paddle that’s not too big or too small.
Expert’s Opinion
I have been playing with the Niupipo Explorer Pro Pickleball Paddle over the last week, and I find that it has a large sweet spot, and I am able to spin the ball a bit easier. I also like the shape of the handle, which fits my hand better.
I find that I am able to control my shots much better with this paddle. Overall, I would definitely recommend this paddle to anyone looking for an upgrade.
05. Gamma Sports 505 – Elongated Paddle for Expert Players
Reasons to Buy
- USAPA approved
- NeuCore technology makes the paddle 25% thicker than traditional cores
- An elongated shape provides more surface area for hitting
- Textured surface helps add spin to the ball
- 5-1/4″ long handle provides a comfortable grip for two-handed backhands
Reasons to Avoid
- Maybe you would need to put lead tape to increase the weight
The Gamma Sports 505 Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for professional and expert players who are looking for a quality paddle under $160.
This paddle is USAPA approved and features NeuCore technology, which makes it 25% thicker than traditional paddle cores. This results in a more responsive and controlled paddle that is also powerful.
Enhanced Performance
The elongated shape of the paddle provides more surface area for hitting, and the textured surface helps add spin to the ball. The 5-1/4″ long handle provides a comfortable grip for two-handed backhands. Overall, this is a great paddle for anyone who wants power, control, and spin at an affordable price.
Expert’s Opinion
I personally have used this paddle, and I can say that it is an excellent paddle for advanced players and those wanting to bring their dinking game to the next level.
I was trying to find a paddle that would help me with my baseline drives and backhands with ease, and I found it with this paddle. If you are looking for a great all-around Pickleball paddle, I would highly recommend the Gamma Sports 505.
06. ESPER TE-1776 – Best for Spin
Reasons to Buy
- Generates good spin
- Very comfortable to use
- Offers more control than power
- Sweat-absorbent grip
- Slim edge guard for protection
- Soft beveled edge for reduced mishits
Reasons to Avoid
- It May not have enough power for some advanced players.
The ESPER TE-1776 is a high-performance pickleball paddle that has been designed to provide optimal power and control.
Enhanced Grip and Spin
The texture graphite surface provides extra grip for enhanced ball control, and the graphene molding technology helps to create a faster spin.
The extra surface area also gives you more power to control the ball’s direction. The USAPA-approved paddle is also highly maneuverable and well-balanced, making it easy to play.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, the ESPER TE-1776 is an excellent option for anyone looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle.
Lightweight and Maneuverable
With a weight of only 7.8 ounces, it is easy to control and maneuver on the court. The paddle also has a sweat-absorbent grip that helps keep your hands dry during intense games.
The slim edge guard provides protection against impacts, while the soft beveled edge helps reduce mishits.
Expert’s Opinion
I enjoy playing pickleball with the ESPER TE-1776 paddle. I like the control and comfort it offers, and I can generate a fair amount of spin depending on my speed.
I also appreciate that it offers more finesse than power, allowing me to control my dinks and drops better. And if I really want to go for it, I can generate some crazy backspin!
I’m very pleased with this paddle and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good all-around option.
07. Rally Tyro 2 – USAPA & IFP Paddle for Skilled Level Players
Reasons to Buy
- USAPA and IFP Approved
- Polypropylene Honeycomb Core for vibration dampening
- Polycarbonate face for control and touch
- Medium-weight paddle with a good balance of power and control
Reasons to Avoid
- A bit noisy compared to other paddles
The Rally Tyro 2 Pickleball Paddle is a good choice for advanced and professional players. It is USAPA and IFP Approved, meaning it meets all the standards for sanctioned tournaments.
Polypropylene Honeycomb Core for Vibration Dampening
The Polypropylene Honeycomb Core provides good vibration dampening, while the Polycarbonate face gives you reasonable control and touch. The medium-weight paddle weighs 7.7-8.0 oz and has a good balance of power and control.
Overall, this is an excellent paddle for players who are looking for a good mix of power and control.
Long Handle and Wide Face for Reach
With a long handle and wide face, it offers plenty of reach for making those challenging shots. The balance of the paddle is also superb, making it easier to control difficult hits.
Plus, the cushion grip provides exceptional comfort, even when your hands are sweating. And if that’s not enough, the construction of the paddle is designed to resist wear and tear, so you can enjoy playing for years to come.
Expert’s Opinion
I’ve had the Rally Tyro 2 Pickleball Paddle for about a month now and have played with it in a variety of settings – from recreational games with friends to more competitive games at the local club.
Overall, I’m really happy with it and think it’s a great paddle for ping pong, tennis, and racquetball players.
In terms of performance, I think my serves go where I want them to go, and I’ve been able to generate a lot of power. I also like that the ball seems to bounce more freely off the large sweet spot.
On the negative side, it is a bit noisier than some of the other advanced pickleball paddles I’ve tried, but that’s not a big deal. Overall, I would recommend this paddle to anyone who is looking for a good all-around paddle.
08. Paddletek Bantam EX-L – Powerful Paddle for Modern Players
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent spin
- Good control
- Thick polymer core
- Large sweet spot
- Comfortable grip
- Perfect weight and length for serious players
Reasons to Avoid
- Some players may find the paddle to be too heavy
The Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pickleball Paddle is a high-quality paddle with good spin and control. The thick polymer core and velvet-textured polycarbonate surface provide a great sweet spot, while the paddle’s length and weight offer power and control.
Ideal for Serious Pickleball Players
This paddle is an excellent choice for serious pickleball players who are looking for a high-performance paddle that can help them take their game to the next level.
Exceptional Spin, Control, and Sweet Spot
With its excellent spin, control, and sweet spot, the Paddletek Bantam EX-L is sure to provide an enjoyable and competitive pickleball experience.
Expert’s Opinion
I have been playing with the Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pickleball Paddle for a while now, and I have to say that I am really impressed. I feel like I have more control over the ball when I am using this paddle, and I can generate a lot of power without having to swing too hard. The grip is also right for me – not too slippery, but not too sticky.
I would definitely recommend this paddle to anyone who is looking for a great all-around option. Personally, I think it’s one of the best paddles for advanced players on the market right now.
How to Choose Best Pickleball Paddles for Skilled Players
When it comes to choosing the best pickleball paddles for skilled players, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
Weight
The weight of the paddle is important. A heavier paddle will have more power behind it, making it ideal for those who like to play an aggressive game. However, a lighter paddle is easier to control and can be more maneuverable, making it a better choice for those who want greater control over their shots.
Size of The Paddle
The size of the paddle is also important. A larger paddle offers a larger sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball with power. However, a smaller paddle is more maneuverable and easier to control.
Material
The material of the paddle is also important. Graphite paddles are very lightweight and offer excellent power, but they can be more expensive. Composite paddles are a bit heavier but offer good power and durability. Wooden paddles are the heaviest but offer great power and control.
Shape & Balance Point
The shape and balance point of the paddle are also important. A paddle with a wide body and a low balance point will offer more power, while a paddle with a narrow body and a high balance point will be more maneuverable.
A Deep Dive into Advanced Paddle Technologies
Now, we will explore the latest paddle technologies and innovations designed to cater to the needs of advanced players, covering core materials, surface textures, and edge guard designs.
Additionally, we’ll gain insights from professional pickleball players who understand the significance of these advancements.
The Core of the Matter
One of the key elements that sets advanced pickleball paddles apart is the core material. Advanced paddles commonly feature two primary core options:
- Polymer Core: Polymer cores are well-regarded for their exceptional power and reduced vibration upon ball impact. These cores provide a solid feel and are often favored by players who appreciate a more forceful playstyle. Professional player Ben Johns, for instance, notes that he prefers paddles with a polymer core, highlighting their responsiveness and consistent performance.
- Nomex Core: Nomex, a honeycomb-like material, is another popular choice, especially among advanced players. Nomex cores offer enhanced control and touch, making them ideal for players who rely on finesse and precision. Top players such as Simone Jardim have spoken about their preference for Nomex-cored paddles, praising the balance and control they provide.
Surface Textures: Spin and Control
Surface textures have a significant impact on how a paddle interacts with the ball. Advanced paddles often incorporate various textures, including:
- Rough Textures: Rough-textured paddles, such as those featuring a grit or sandpaper-like surface, enhance spin potential. These surfaces help players impart more spin on the ball, allowing for greater control and placement. Players like Tyson McGuffin have praised such textures for their ability to create precise shots with spin.
- Smooth Textures: Paddles with smoother surfaces provide exceptional ball contact and control. Smooth textures are favored by players who value consistency and touch. Professional players like Lucy Kovalova appreciate the soft touch and predictability that smooth-textured paddles offer.
Edge Guard Designs: Protection and Durability
Edge guards are not only about paddle protection but also about optimizing the playing experience. Advanced players often look for specific edge guard designs:
- Edgeless Design: Some advanced paddles feature an edgeless design, which means they have no protective edge guard. This design increases the effective paddle surface area, making it easier to reach balls and minimizing the risk of mishits. Players who enjoy aggressive, power-based play find edgeless paddles to be a preferred choice.
- Durable Edge Guards: For players who prioritize durability and longevity, paddles with robust edge guards are a must. These guards protect the paddle from damage and ensure it retains its structural integrity even after intense play. Professional players like Kyle Yates, known for their aggressive style, often favor paddles with reinforced edge guards.
Pro Picks: What the Pros Use – Advanced Player Paddle Choices
Professional pickleball players are known for their exceptional skills, and their choice of paddle can be a critical factor in their success on the court.
These elite athletes often select paddles that match their playing style, delivering the power, control, and touch they need to dominate in high-stakes matches.
Now, we’ll take a close look at the paddle choices of professional pickleball players, providing insights into why they prefer specific models and the advantages these paddles offer.
Simone Jardim: Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pro
Preferred Paddle: Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pro
Playing Style: Simone Jardim, one of the most accomplished pickleball players, favors a paddle that offers an ideal balance between power and control.
Her choice, the Paddletek Bantam EX-L Pro, features a Nomex honeycomb core and a smooth surface texture. This combination allows her to maintain precision and touch while having enough power to finish points.
She appreciates the paddle’s reliable consistency and touch, which suits her aggressive yet controlled style of play.
Ben Johns: Franklin Ben Johns Signature Paddle
Preferred Paddle: Franklin Ben Johns Signature Paddle
Playing Style: Ben Johns, known for his versatility on the court, opts for the Franklin Ben Johns Signature Paddle. This paddle boasts a polymer core and a rough surface texture, providing both power and spin.
Ben’s playing style is marked by his ability to hit powerful drives and control the net game with ease.
The paddle’s design complements his aggressive and dynamic playstyle, allowing him to switch between control and power shots as needed.
Lucy Kovalova: Selkirk Vanguard Hybrid
Preferred Paddle: Selkirk Vanguard Hybrid
Playing Style: Lucy Kovalova, with her consistent and precise play, chooses the Selkirk Vanguard Hybrid as her preferred paddle.
This paddle is recognized for its polymer core and smooth surface texture, enabling exceptional touch and ball control.
Lucy relies on her paddle’s predictability to maintain her level of play during intense rallies and strategic dinking exchanges. The paddle’s design aligns perfectly with her finesse-based style.
Kyle Yates: Engage Poach Icon
Preferred Paddle: Engage Poach Icon
Playing Style: Kyle Yates is known for his aggressive playstyle, featuring powerful drives and quick net exchanges.
His choice, the Engage Poach Icon, comes equipped with a polymer core and an edge guard design to withstand the rigors of his high-impact game.
This paddle provides him with the durability needed to execute his power-driven shots without concerns about wear and tear.
Tyson McGuffin: Selkirk Invikta
Preferred Paddle: Selkirk Invikta
Playing Style: Tyson McGuffin, a pro player renowned for his aggressive style and strong drives, favors the Selkirk Invikta. This paddle features a polymer core and a rough surface texture, allowing Tyson to generate incredible spin and control.
The combination of power and spin aligns with his playing style, making it easier to keep his opponents on their heels with powerful drives and spin-laden shots.
Insights into Paddle Selection
Professional pickleball players emphasize a crucial aspect of their paddle choice – it must align with their playing style. Each of these top athletes has unique strengths and preferences, and they select paddles that enhance those characteristics.
The choice of core material, surface texture, and edge guard design varies from player to player, showcasing the diversity of options available to advanced players.
Whether it’s the balance of power and control, the need for durability in aggressive play, or the preference for spin and touch, these pros have found paddles that complement their skills.
Conclusion:
Overall, the best pickleball paddles for advanced players are those that offer a good balance of power and control. Paddles that are too lightweight can be challenging to control, while those that are too heavy can be difficult to maneuver.
The size of the paddle is also important – a larger one offers more power but can be challenging to control, while a smaller one is more maneuverable but may not have as much power.
The material of the paddle is also a factor – graphite paddles are very lightweight and offer excellent power, but they can be more expensive. Composite paddles are a bit heavier but offer good power and durability.
Wooden paddles are the heaviest but offer great power and control. Ultimately, it is up to the player to decide which type of paddle is best for their playing style.
