Best Intermediate Pickleball Paddle: Top Picks for 2024

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Pickleball is a fun and fast-paced game that is gaining popularity across the country. It’s easy to learn, making it a great option for people of all ages and skill levels. One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need to play pickleball is a paddle. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose.

If you’re an intermediate player looking for a new pickleball paddle, there are a few things you should consider before making a purchase. First, you’ll want to think about the weight of the paddle. A heavier paddle can provide more power but may be more difficult to maneuver, while a lighter paddle can be easier to control but may not pack as much of a punch.

Another factor to consider is the material the paddle is made from. Most intermediate pickleball paddles are made from composite materials, which offer a balance of power and control. However, some players prefer paddles made from wood or graphite, which can offer unique benefits.

When choosing an intermediate pickleball paddle, it’s also essential to consider the grip size. A paddle that is too small or too large can make it difficult to control your shots, so it’s important to find a size that feels comfortable in your hand.

We’ll take a closer look at some of the best intermediate pickleball paddles on the market. We’ll consider factors like weight, material, grip size, and price to help you find the perfect paddle for your needs. Whether you’re looking to take your game to the next level or just want to upgrade your equipment, we’ve got you covered.

Best Intermediate Pickleball Paddles

If you’re an intermediate pickleball player, you know that having the right paddle can make all the difference in your game. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best intermediate pickleball paddles on Amazon. Whether you’re looking for control, power, or a balance of both, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below and take your game to the next level.

OXIKEN 10/13/16 mm Pickleball Paddles 2024 USAPA Approved T700 Carbon Fiber Pickle Paddle (CFS), High Grit & Spin, Honeycomb Core, 5.5” Elongated Handle, Anti Slip Sweat Absorbing Grip with Cover Case MAX 13 mm

If you’re an intermediate pickleball player searching for a paddle that can help you take your game to the next level, the OXIKEN 10/13/16 mm Pickleball Paddle might be the right choice for you.

Pros

The carbon friction surface generates unmatched ball spin and defuses your opponent’s spin effortlessly and accurately.
The Polypropylene X24 Core of the racket body provides the best ball cushioning.
The grip is designed with soft artificial leather and sweat-wicking ventilation holes, making it anti-slip, abrasion-resistant, and durable.

Cons

The grip might be too thick and round for some players.
The paddle surface might start flaking after a few months of use.
The grip size might not be accurate.

The OXIKEN paddle features a new Thermoformed Paddles Technology, which improves the structure of the board, making it more compact and resistant to deformation. The Polypropylene X24 Core of the racket body provides excellent ball cushioning, while the carbon friction surface generates unmatched ball spin and defuses your opponent’s spin effortlessly and accurately.

The paddle’s foam material fills the inner cavity of the honeycomb core, increasing the elasticity of the racket body while reducing the vibration transmitted to the handle when hitting the ball, enhancing your experience. The grip is designed with soft artificial leather and sweat-wicking ventilation holes, making it anti-slip, abrasion-resistant, and durable, ensuring that you won’t get fatigued after long-time play.

The OXIKEN pickleball paddle is USAPA approved for international championship pickleball competitions. If you’re enjoying the sport and want to take your game to the next level by competing in tournaments, OXIKEN pickleball paddles have you covered.

The OXIKEN 10/13/16 mm Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for intermediate pickleball players looking for a paddle that can help them take their game to the next level. With its advanced technology, unmatched ball spin, and comfortable grip, this paddle can help you maneuver the game easily and improve your skills.

Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set

Looking for a high-quality and well-balanced pickleball paddle for intermediate players? The Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set is a great option to consider.

Pros

The rough-textured graphite surface provides excellent spin and control.
The lightweight build and well-balanced design offer quick reaction time at the net.
The cushioned perforated contour grip ensures a secure and comfortable grip during play.

Cons

Some players may find the handle length to be too short.
The sweet spot may be smaller than some other intermediate paddles.
The edge guard is low-profile and may not offer as much protection as other paddles.

If you’re an intermediate player looking for a pickleball paddle that offers both power and control, the Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set is a great choice. The rough-textured graphite surface provides excellent spin and control, while the lightweight build and well-balanced design offer quick reaction time at the net. The cushioned perforated contour grip ensures a secure and comfortable grip during play.

However, some players may find the handle length to be too short, and the sweet spot may be smaller than some other intermediate paddles. The edge guard is low-profile and may not offer as much protection as other paddles. The Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set is a great option for intermediate players looking for a high-quality and well-balanced paddle.

HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle

If you’re an intermediate level club pickleball player looking for a paddle that offers great playability, the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is worth considering.

Pros

The Dynamic Power Shape increases the size of the sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball with power and precision.
The thicker OTC honeycomb core offers excellent playability, giving you the control you need to play at your best.
The fiberglass hitting surface is both lightweight and extremely durable, providing a great balance of power and control.

Cons

The paddle has less texture than other HEAD models, so spin abilities may be affected.
The handle may be too short for some players, making it difficult to grip comfortably.
The paddle is slightly heavier than some other intermediate level paddles, which may affect maneuverability for some players.

If you’re an intermediate level club player looking for a paddle that offers great playability, the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is definitely worth considering. The Dynamic Power Shape increases the size of the sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball with power and precision. The thicker OTC honeycomb core offers excellent playability, giving you the control you need to play at your best. The fiberglass hitting surface is both lightweight and extremely durable, providing a great balance of power and control.

However, the paddle has less texture than other HEAD models, so spin abilities may be affected. The handle may be too short for some players, making it difficult to grip comfortably. The paddle is slightly heavier than some other intermediate level paddles, which may affect maneuverability for some players.

The HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is a solid choice for intermediate level club players looking for a paddle that offers great playability and control. If you’re looking for a paddle that can help you take your game to the next level, this is definitely one to consider.

Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line pickleball paddle, the Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is a great option to consider.

Pros

Handcrafted in the USA with the finest materials and proprietary, leading-edge technology
Fiberglass face generates unmatched ball spin and defuses your opponents spin effortlessly and accurately
X5 honeycomb core reduces the amplitude and frequency of vibrational waves, resulting in a smoother feel

Cons

Some players may not like the short handle
Does not come with a cover for the paddle
You cannot choose the paddle weight or grip size

This paddle is perfect for intermediate players who are looking to improve their game. The fiberglass face generates unmatched ball spin, and the X5 honeycomb core reduces the amplitude and frequency of vibrational waves, resulting in a smoother feel. However, some players may not like the short handle, and the paddle does not come with a cover.

If you’re looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle that will help you take your game to the next level, the Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is definitely worth considering.

ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle

If you are an intermediate player looking for a pickleball paddle that offers outstanding ball control and touch, the ONIX Graphite Z5 is a great option for you.

Pros

The honeycomb nomex core and graphite face provide superior ball control and touch.
The widebody shape and large sweet spot make it easier to hit the ball.
The tennis handle shape provides a comfortable grip and great spin and control.

Cons

Some players may find the 7.5-8.2 ounces weight to be too heavy.
The tape on the handle may come off easily.
The blue color may not be everyone’s favorite.

The ONIX Graphite Z5 is the most popular pickleball paddle from ONIX, and for a good reason. The honeycomb nomex core and graphite face give players superior feel of the ball, making it easier to control and place it where they want. The widebody shape and large sweet spot also make it easier to hit the ball, even for intermediate players.

The tennis handle shape of the Z5 provides a comfortable grip and great spin and control during play, ensuring that your game is at its best. Each Z5 paddle is also protected with an edge guard to prevent damage from accidental hits or drops.

However, some players may find the 7.5-8.2 ounces weight to be too heavy, especially if they prefer lighter paddles. The tape on the handle may also come off easily, which can be a minor inconvenience for some players. The blue color may not be everyone’s favorite, but it is a matter of personal preference.

The ONIX Graphite Z5 is a great intermediate pickleball paddle that offers outstanding ball control and touch. If you are looking for a medium-weight graphite paddle with a nomex core that can help you take your game to the next level, the Z5 is definitely worth considering.

KASACA Edgeless Graphite T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles

If you’re an intermediate or advanced player looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle, the KASACA Edgeless Graphite T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is worth considering.

Pros

The edgeless design allows for optimal swing strength and ball control, making it perfect for advanced players.
The honeycomb core with top-quality T700 carbon surface provides exceptional control and allows for more forceful and smooth strokes.
At only 7.8 ounces, the paddle is lightweight and agile, making it perfect for drop shots and staying on top of your game.

Cons

Some users have reported defects with the finishing layer after a few games.
The paddle may not be suitable for beginners due to its advanced features.
The price point may be higher than other intermediate-level paddles on the market.

The KASACA Edgeless Graphite T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is a high-quality option for intermediate and advanced players. The edgeless design allows for optimal swing strength and ball control, while the honeycomb core and T700 carbon surface provide exceptional control and smooth strokes. The paddle is lightweight and agile, making it perfect for drop shots and advanced play.

However, some users have reported defects with the finishing layer after a few games, and the paddle may not be suitable for beginners due to its advanced features. The price point may also be higher than other intermediate-level paddles on the market. If you’re an experienced player looking for a high-quality paddle, the KASACA Edgeless Graphite T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is worth considering.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS Pickleball Paddle

If you’re an intermediate pickleball player looking for a paddle that offers both control and power, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS Pickleball Paddle is a great option to consider.

Pros

The Carbon Abrasion Surface (CAS) technology provides a unique, textured surface for increased spin, making it easier to place the ball accurately.
The hybrid-ply technology offers outstanding control and feel, making it easier to dink and block while still being able to hit powerful drives.
The response polypropylene honeycomb core adds durability and performance, reducing vibration and increasing control.

Cons

At 8.3 ounces, it may feel slightly heavier than some other intermediate paddles.
The elongated handle may take some getting used to if you’re used to a shorter handle.
The white grip tape may show dirt and wear more easily than darker colors.

The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for intermediate players who want a paddle that offers both control and power. The CAS technology provides increased spin, making it easier to place the ball accurately, while the hybrid-ply technology offers outstanding control and feel. The response polypropylene honeycomb core adds durability and performance, reducing vibration and increasing control.

If you’re looking for a paddle that’s lightweight, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS Pickleball Paddle may feel slightly heavier than some other intermediate paddles, but the added weight can also help with power. The elongated handle may take some getting used to if you’re used to a shorter handle, but it can also provide more reach and leverage. The white grip tape may show dirt and wear more easily than darker colors, but it can also help with grip and visibility.

The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for intermediate players who want a paddle that offers both control and power, and the unique features of the CAS technology, hybrid-ply technology, and response polypropylene honeycomb core make it stand out from other intermediate paddles on the market.

Buying Guide

When looking for an intermediate pickleball paddle, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:

Weight

The weight of the paddle is an important factor to consider. A lighter paddle can be easier to maneuver and control, while a heavier paddle can provide more power and stability. It’s important to find a weight that feels comfortable to you and suits your playing style.

Grip

The grip of the paddle is another important factor to consider. A good grip can help prevent slipping and provide better control over the paddle. Look for a grip that feels comfortable in your hand and provides a good amount of traction.

Material

Pickleball paddles can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, composite, and graphite. Each material has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Wood paddles are typically the most affordable, while composite and graphite paddles tend to be more durable and provide better performance.

Shape

Pickleball paddles come in a variety of shapes, including oval, teardrop, and rectangular. The shape of the paddle can affect the balance, sweet spot, and overall feel of the paddle. Consider trying out different shapes to see which one feels best for your playing style.

Core

The core of the paddle can also affect its performance. Paddles can have either a solid or a honeycomb core. Solid core paddles tend to provide more power, while honeycomb core paddles offer more control and a softer feel.

By considering these factors and finding a paddle that suits your playing style, you can improve your game and take your skills to the next level.