Pickleball paddles come in different shapes that affect reach, maneuverability, and control. A widebody paddle offers a larger sweet spot and better forgiveness, making it ideal for beginner or casual players. An elongated pickleball paddle extends reach and supports two-handed play, which appeals to players looking for more power or coverage at the net.

Factors like weight, materials, and shape all influence how a paddle performs. You can learn more about how shape and specs affect play in this guide on pickleball paddle characteristics, or find a match through our paddle quiz based on your play style and skill level.

Most modern paddles use a polypropylene honeycomb core, which balances durability with responsiveness. Thicker cores, like 16mm, tend to absorb more impact and help with softer shots, giving you better control. Thinner cores respond faster, adding pop to every swing, but they offer less forgiveness on mishits.

Paddles in the 16mm paddle collection are commonly used by players who prioritize feel, touch, and control at the net. The right core can make a big difference in how the paddle reacts under pressure.

The surface material of your paddle affects spin, power, and control. Carbon fiber paddles are known for stiffness, durability, and increased precision, making them popular among players who like a controlled, consistent response. In contrast, fiberglass paddles tend to offer more power and flex on contact, which helps generate speed on shots.

If you're deciding between the two, understanding how paddle materials affect performance can help narrow your choice based on your goals and preferred playing style.

Thicker paddles are a go-to for players who want more control, spin, and a softer feel on contact. A 16mm polypropylene honeycomb core is one of the most common choices because it helps absorb impact and makes it easier to place shots with precision. These paddles also reduce vibration, which is useful for softer resets and dink-heavy games. One standout example is the Selkirk LUXX Control Air – Invikta – InfiniGrit, a 16mm paddle designed for consistent spin, feel, and control.

We carry a wide range of paddle thicknesses, including 13mm, 14mm, and 16mm models for players looking to dial in their balance of touch and power.

The weight of a pickleball paddle can shift how it plays. Lightweight paddles (under 7.5 oz) offer faster reactions and easier maneuverability, which is helpful at the net or for players recovering from injuries. Midweight paddles (around 7.6–8.3 oz) offer a good balance of power and control, making them suitable for most skill levels. Heavier paddles provide more power but may reduce hand speed or cause fatigue over time.

Some paddles like the GRUVN LAZR-16X fall into the midweight category and are built to give players a consistent sweet spot and strong mix of speed and control. If you're comparing shapes, feel, and swing weight, the GRUVN paddle review highlights how their construction and materials are designed for balance and all-around performance.

Grip size and handle length affect how stable the paddle feels and how much wrist action you can use. A standard grip is usually around 4.25 inches in circumference, which fits most players. Smaller grips allow for more wrist movement and quicker flicks, while larger grips offer added stability for blocking or dinking. Handle length also matters — longer handles are ideal for players who hit two-handed backhands or want more leverage.

Our paddle collection includes a wide range of grip sizes and shapes, from short handles for single-handed finesse to longer options for players who need extra reach and support for power shots.

The main difference between a 14mm and a 16mm paddle is how they balance power and control. A 14mm paddle is thinner and gives you a faster, more powerful response, which is useful for aggressive players or those who like to take quick shots at the net. On the other hand, a 16mm paddle has a thicker polypropylene honeycomb core that softens the feel, increases spin, and offers better control for resets and defensive play.

For outdoor courts in Leucadia, where wind and pace can vary, many pickleball players prefer the added stability and sweet spot of a 16mm paddle. Models like the Selkirk LUXX Control Air – Invikta are designed with touch and consistency in mind, while something like the Joola Perseus Pro IV 14mm suits players who want speed and quick reactions.

Most pickleball paddles range from around $90 to $250, depending on the brand, materials, and features. Entry-level paddles made with basic cores and synthetic surfaces are more affordable but may offer less control and wear out faster. Higher-end paddles use carbon fiber, textured faces, or layered cores to improve durability, spin, and overall feel on the court.

In our paddles collection, you’ll find a variety of options across that price range, including new products from brands like Apes, Enagge, and Diadem. If you're just starting to play pickleball, there are also bundle sets available that can help you get started with the right gear without overspending.

Yes, the best paddles for beginners focus on control, comfort, and ease of handling. Look for paddles with a wider face, balanced weight, and a standard grip size to help you build consistency. A polypropylene honeycomb core is also helpful for absorbing vibration and giving you a smooth feel while learning proper technique. For example, the Ronbus Ripple V2 R2 Wide Body is a forgiving paddle with a larger sweet spot, making it ideal for new players who are just starting to play pickleball regularly.

Both Joola and Selkirk make high-performance paddles trusted by pickleball players at the intermediate and pro level, but they differ slightly in feel and playing style.

Selkirk paddles are often preferred for their control-focused designs, textured faces, and long-term durability. They’re popular among players who value consistency, touch, and balanced performance.

Joola paddles, especially from the Gen 3 line, tend to offer more power, advanced materials, and newer innovations designed for players who like to attack and finish points quickly. If you're still developing your playstyle, either brand is a solid choice — it often comes down to how the paddle feels in your hand.

Yes, like any piece of pickleball equipment, paddles can wear down with regular play. Over time, you might notice a weaker sweet spot, a duller feel on contact, or reduced spin on the ball. If your paddle starts sounding hollow or you see cracks around the edge or surface, it could be losing performance.

How quickly this happens depends on how often you play, the materials used, and your hitting style. Paddles with carbon fiber faces or thicker cores tend to last longer, but even high-end models can wear down after months of frequent play. Many players rotate their gear once a year to keep their touch and power consistent.

As you start playing more regularly, the grip on your pickleball paddle can wear down from sweat, friction, and repeated use just like in many other sports. If your paddle starts to slip or feel less secure, it’s probably time to replace the grip. For most pickleball players, refreshing the grip every few months helps maintain comfort and control, especially during longer rallies or warmer days on outdoor courts in Leucadia.

Explore our products and you’ll find a range of pickleball accessories designed to improve your handle feel without needing a whole new paddle. Regripping is a simple, low-cost way to keep your gear game-ready and reduce strain on your wrist during longer matches.

Yes, if you're looking for pickleball paddles near you and you're in the Leucadia or North County San Diego area, you’re in luck. We offer both online shopping and in-person service through our shop located at 875 Santa Fe Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024. You'll find a wide selection of paddles, pickleball accessories, balls, bags, and shoes with gear available from top brands like Selkirk, Gearbox, CRBN, and more.

You can shop paddles online or visit us in person to see what’s in stock. If you're not sure what paddle fits your skill level or playing style, you can also take our paddle quiz, which helps narrow down options based on how you like to play pickleball.