Looking for the best pickleball gifts this holiday season? Whether you’re shopping for a beginner, a rising 4.0 competitor, or that friend who suddenly thinks they’re going pro after Thanksgiving open play… this is the definitive list.
At Get2Eleven, we test every paddle extensively — long rallies, pressure points, touch drills, pro-level feedback, and head-to-head comparisons. This curated list represents the top-performing pickleball paddles on the market right now, ranked by power, control, forgiveness, durability, and on-court feel.
Many of these models qualify for savings at checkout using our Get2Eleven discount code: LOVEPICKLE.
This list is updated monthly as new paddles hit our demo wall and outperform expectations.
Let’s get into the top 10.
1. JOOLA Pro IV Series
The reigning champion of 2025.
Since its release in March, the JOOLA Pro IV has dominated competitive play thanks to its enhanced stability and flex. The throat-area high-density foam inserts allow the paddle to load and release energy more efficiently, resulting in the perfect blend of forgiveness, power, and dwell time.
Why it’s a top holiday pick:
- Universally strong performance for all play styles
- Noticeably improved feel and control compared to earlier JOOLA models
- Ideal upgrade paddle for 3.5–5.0 players
2. Six Zero Black Opal
A true advanced-player weapon.
The Black Opal delivers explosive power through its 14mm floating foam core, which feels incredible when you hit the sweet spot. Spin potential and shot-shaping are elite, especially for players with quick, whippy strokes.
Why it ranks so high:
- Designed for aggressive 4.5 & 5.0 players
- Massive upside if you master the sweet spot
- One of the most powerful paddles released in 2025
3. Gearbox GX2 Power Hybrid 16mm
Gearbox continues to push innovation, and the GX2 Power Hybrid 16mm is one of the most consistent paddles of the year.
Its SST 2.0 CarbonRibCore creates a stable, energy-efficient frame with a forgiving sweet spot and surprisingly soft touch.
Best for:
- Players wanting stability + controlled power
- Smooth resets, reliable blocks, and confident drives
- Those who prefer a 16mm feel without losing pop
4. JOOLA 3S Dual Series
The beloved 3S Series now features dual certification (USAP + UPA), finally making it tournament-legal for every amateur player. Even though the tech is not brand-new, this paddle remains the choice of many JOOLA-signed pros.
Why it’s still a top seller:
- Proven performance at all skill levels
- Signature 3S spin & shape
- Updated colorways make it a favorite holiday gift
5. Franklin C45 Dynasty (16mm)
The chosen paddle of JW Johnson and Hayden Patriquin, the C45 Dynasty offers a long, aerodynamic shape designed for spin and reach.
Singles players especially love this model.
Why players love it:
- Excellent spin generation
- Long shape = more leverage and more power
- Great for attacking players who want pinpoint accuracy
6. Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX
Paddletek came roaring back in 2024, and the TKO-CX quickly established itself as a top performer. With its extra-long handle, the paddle is perfect for the modern game where two-handed backhands dominate.
Highlights:
- Extra-long handle = more whip and more spin
- Natural choice for singles specialists
- Firm, connected feel through the ball
7. Selkirk Labs Project Boomstik Elongated
Selkirk’s Boomstik blends major power with their signature Infinigrit spin surface. The foam core delivers explosive drives, though its firm, poppy feel takes time to adapt to.
Why it makes the Top 10:
- Big power & big spin
- High-performance paddle for experienced hitters
- Excellent for aggressive counterpunchers
8. Luzz Pro 4 Inferno
The Inferno lives up to its name with a 100% foam core and one of the hottest power profiles we’ve tested. This paddle can absolutely crush third-shot drives.
Buyer notes:
- Perfect for players who want maximum power
- Requires a learning curve for soft-touch control
- Great for athletic intermediates and strong advanced players
9. CRBN TruFoam Waves 4 Hybrid
CRBN’s TruFoam Waves 4 incorporates a full-foam core that adds both power and consistency over the original Genesis line. A strong option for players who want a well-rounded, modern paddle.
Why it’s a holiday standout:
- Slight power bump over previous CRBN foam models
- Solid forgiveness and stability
- Great all-around option for 3.5–4.5 players
10. Honolulu J2NF
A hybrid-shape paddle that offers great pop, reliable control, and a comfortable feel. It’s a strong choice for players who want a balanced setup without committing to extreme tech on either end of the spectrum.
Why it makes the list:
- Easy to use
- Good mix of power and control
- Attractive price point for gifting
🎁 Holiday Shopping Tip
Most of these paddles qualify for savings at checkout using code “LOVEPICKLE” on Get2Eleven.com.
Perfect for gifting, upgrading, or treating yourself heading into 2026.
🎄 Final Thoughts
The pickleball paddle space is evolving faster than ever — more foam cores, better carbon faces, new shapes, and increasingly specialized tech. At Get2Eleven, we test everything so you can buy with confidence.
Whether you're shopping for a beginner or a seasoned 5.0, this list is the definitive Top 10 for December 2025.
If you want help picking the perfect paddle for your game, just ask — we’ll guide you like a pro.