The right pickleball paddle depends on how you move on the court and the kind of shots you prefer. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to consider:

• Core thickness. A 16mm for control and softer touch, 14mm or thinner for power and quicker ball release
• Weight. Lightweight paddles offer faster movement, while midweight adds stability
• Grip size. Smaller grips help with wrist action, longer handle length supports two-handed shots
• Paddle shape. Standard shapes for balance, elongated pickleball paddle for reach and spin
• Material. Carbon fiber for control and spin, fiberglass for pop, graphite for finesse

To narrow it down, you can take this quick paddle quiz and find the gear that fits your game.

Outdoor pickleball comes with more wear and exposure, so you'll want a paddle that’s built for durability and a surface that handles sun and wind well. A carbon fiber face or fiberglass surface adds both strength and spin. You’ll also want to pair it with outdoor-ready pickleball balls and solid court shoes for grip and support on rougher court surfaces in Cardiff and nearby areas.

Yes. Thicker paddles (like 16mm) absorb more impact and give you better control and touch, especially for soft shots or dinking near the net. Thinner paddles (like 14mm) are lighter and offer more pop off the face, which helps if you like fast-paced games or aggressive drives.

At Get2Eleven, we carry pickleball paddles in a wide range of thicknesses, from 10mm up to 20mm so you can find one that matches your playing style. You can browse our thicker paddles for better control or look into thinner paddles for extra power to find what matches your style.

Elongated pickleball paddles are a good fit for players who want more reach on the court or prefer two-handed shots. The extra length helps with blocking fast drives, covering wider angles, and adding spin. Some players also find elongated shapes offer a more powerful swing because of the extended paddle surface. A popular pick for added reach and spin is the CRBN 1 TF Trufoam Genesis Elongated, which offers a lightweight build, carbon fiber face, and solid control.

Handle length and grip size directly affect comfort, control, and how your shots come off the paddle. A longer handle allows for two-handed backhands and better leverage on drives. A shorter handle gives more wrist flexibility and quick response near the net. As for grips, smaller sizes give you more control and spin, while larger grips add stability and reduce strain. If you’re adjusting your paddle feel, check out our grips and paddle accessories to improve comfort without replacing the whole paddle.

Beginner paddles are usually lighter, easier to swing, and designed with a larger sweet spot to help you make cleaner contact. They often have wide-body shapes and midweight builds to balance power and control. Advanced paddles, on the other hand, feature carbon fiber faces, tighter sweet spots, and more responsive touch for better shot placement and spin.

If you're starting out, look for control-based paddles like the Selkirk LUXX Control Air - Epic. For more aggressive play, something like the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion Pro IV 14mm offers speed and power for experienced pickleball players. Explore the paddle features by skill level to see which series fits your style.

Yes, carbon fiber paddles are favored for their control, consistency, and ability to add spin. The rigid surface lets the ball stay on the paddle a split second longer, helping you place shots and add rotation. Compared to fiberglass, carbon fiber offers a softer feel and more precision. Graphite is quick and lightweight, but it may not provide the same touch or durability.

If you're looking at pro-level designs, the Ben Johns Hyperion Pro IV features a raw carbon fiber surface, making it a strong option for players who rely on control and spin during fast-paced games.

If you're ready to start playing pickleball more regularly, expect to spend around $80 to $180 for a paddle built to last. Entry-level paddles tend to focus on comfort and a larger sweet spot, while advanced models use carbon fiber or a polypropylene honeycomb core for more control and durability. The right choice depends on how often you play and the type of paddle feel you prefer.

To explore pickleball accessories and gear by budget, browse our paddle options in different price ranges or take a look at our budget paddles under $100 if you’re just getting started.

The most common paddle cores are polymer (often a polypropylene honeycomb core), aluminum, and nomex. Polymer cores are popular because they balance touch and power, reduce vibration, and suit all skill levels. Honeycomb cores offer strength without adding too much weight, giving you a reliable paddle surface for different shot types. If you want to understand how paddle materials and cores work together, this guide on common paddle core types like polypropylene honeycomb core breaks it down in a simple way.

Yes, some paddle brands are especially popular among local pickleball players for their performance, feel, and durability. Joola, Selkirk, and Gearbox are often the top choice for players in San Diego County looking to improve their game with trusted paddle series, carbon fiber surfaces, and pro-level design. 

If you're planning to shop for new gear, you can explore paddles series from Joola, Selkirk, and Gearbox and more brands to compare features based on your skill level, handle length, and swing style. These brands are designed for players who take the sports seriously and want gear that holds up through regular play.

If you're starting to play pickleball more often, grip condition is something to watch. A worn grip can affect control and comfort. Most pickleball players replace grips every few months, especially if playing in warm weather or multiple times per week. New grips and paddle accessories are easy to install and help you stay covered during fast-paced matches.

As for the paddle, most last between 6 and 12 months depending on your style and how often you play the sport. If your paddle starts feeling dull or the surface shows wear, that’s a sign it's time to upgrade for a more consistent and fun game.

Yes, we deliver pickleball paddles in Cardiff-by-the-Sea and nearby areas. You can place your order through our website, add your favorite pickleball accessories, balls, shoes, and new products to your cart, and have everything shipped quickly to your door.

We carry a wide variety of paddles collection, including models approved by USA Pickleball, so you're ready to play at any level. If you’d like to try paddles in-person, stop by our store at 875 Santa Fe Dr, Encinitas, CA, where you can feel the grip, test the weight, and get help finding the paddle that fits your game.