Best Pickleball Paddle for Women

an image of a woman swinging your pickleball paddle

You’re on a quest for the perfect pickleball paddle, aren’t you?

One that’s specially designed for women, offering the perfect balance of weight, control, and power.

Well, you’re in luck!

We’ve compiled a list of the best pickleball paddles tailored to your needs.

So buckle up, you’re about to discover the ideal companion for your pickleball adventures.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered!

What Women Should look for in a Paddle

When selecting a paddle, consider factors such as grip thickness, paddle weight, your experience level, and the material of the paddle.

A comfortable grip thickness and suitable weight can enhance your control and reduce fatigue during the game.

Moreover, your experience level and the paddle material can greatly influence your performance, so choose wisely.

Grip Thickness

You’re often better off choosing a pickleball paddle with a thin grip, offering more control for smaller hands typically associated with women. The grip thickness can often be a deciding factor when it comes to comfort and control during gameplay.

However, it’s not just about the size; it’s about finding what feels right for you. So, when shopping for your perfect paddle, consider the following:

  • Thin grips, which are excellent for more precision and control
  • Standard grips, if comfort is your top priority and you have larger hands
  • The balance between grip comfort and control, which will vary from player to player
  • Personal preference, because ultimately, the best grip is the one that feels right in your hand

Paddle Weight

It’s essential to know that most women prefer lightweight paddles, which are 7.3 ounces or lighter, as they offer better control and ease of use. This category of paddle weight is ideal for those who value agility and quick responses over power in their pickleball games.

However, paddle weights vary, and it’s crucial to understand your playing style before making a decision. Middleweight paddles, ranging from 7.3 to 8.4 ounces, strike a balance between control and power, and could be a good fit for versatile players.

Meanwhile, heavyweight paddles, 8.5 ounces or heavier, are favored by those who prioritize power and driving force in their play.

Experience Level

As a player, you’ll need a paddle that matches your experience level, and whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a design out there for you. At JustPaddles, we categorize paddles into four levels based on experience.

  • Youth Paddles: Ideal for younger players just starting out.
  • Beginner Paddles: Best suited for those new to the game, providing easy handling and control.
  • Intermediate Paddles: The perfect balance between beginner and pro paddles, recommended for most players for its blend of control and power.
  • Professional Paddles: Considered the best on the market, offering high performance for pro players.

Material

Both the core material and the surface texture of your paddle play crucial roles, so don’t overlook either aspect when making your choice. Polymer honeycomb cores, for example, are highly praised for their durability and responsiveness. They’re lightweight, aiding in maneuverability, and they offer a solid, consistent hit, crucial for maintaining control in play.

The surface texture, too, impacts the paddle’s performance significantly. A textured surface increases the friction between the ball and the paddle, allowing you to introduce more spin into your shots. This can give you an edge in your game, making your shots more unpredictable and challenging for your opponents.

JOOLA Simone Jardim Hyperion CFS 16mm Heavyweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

You’ll certainly appreciate the power and control that the JOOLA Simone Jardim Hyperion CFS 16mm Heavyweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle provides, due to its unique blend of carbon friction surface and response honeycomb polymer core. This paddle is a testament to the evolution of pickleball technology. Crafted for a legend like Simone Jardim, it incorporates everything a player needs for a competitive game.

Here are some of the features you can enjoy with this paddle:

  • Powerful Performance: The heavyweight design enhances the power, allowing you to drive the ball with more force.
  • Superior Control: The response honeycomb polymer core couples with the carbon friction surface to offer a high level of control over ball placement.
  • Optimal Spin: The carbon friction surface helps generate excellent spin, making your shots unpredictable and challenging for opponents.
  • Comfort and Feel: Despite its weight, the paddle ensures a comfortable grip and excellent feel, making long games less tiring.

Recess Pickleball Paddle

Surprisingly, you’re not just playing with a high-quality Recess Pickleball Paddle, but you’re also showcasing local artwork from Austin, Texas. This isn’t just a piece of sporting equipment, it’s a testament to Austin’s vibrant art scene, making each game a bit more special.

The Recess Pickleball Paddle is fantastic for recreational players. It’s lightweight, tipping the scales at 7.5-8 oz, making it easy to handle during those intense matches. Perhaps it’s not the lightest option on the market, but it offers a nice balance of portability and performance.

One feature you’ll absolutely love is the padded grip tape. It’s thick and super comfortable, making it feel right in your hand throughout the whole match. It’s so good, you can even purchase it separately!

Moreover, many of these paddles have USA Pickleball approval, testifying to their quality and compliance with game standards. So, you’re not just getting a paddle with cool designs, but a top-notch pickleball paddle that’s been crafted with care and precision.

Selkirk Amped S2 X5 FiberFlex Pickleball Paddle

In comparison to the Recess Pickleball Paddle, the Selkirk Amped S2 X5 FiberFlex Pickleball Paddle offers you a unique blend of control, power, and adaptability, making it an excellent choice for any style of play. As a woman player, you’ll appreciate its versatility and all-around performance.

This paddle’s FiberFlex face gives it a comfortable and balanced feel. The X5 honeycomb core, meanwhile, ensures a generous sweet spot, enabling you to deliver your best shots consistently.

Here are some of the key features of the Selkirk Amped S2 X5 FiberFlex Pickleball Paddle:

  • Versatile performance, perfect for various playing styles
  • FiberFlex face for a balanced feel
  • X5 honeycomb core offering a large sweet spot
  • Suitable for both control and power shots

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this paddle is designed to keep up with your skills. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a paddle that combines control, power, and versatility. The Selkirk Amped S2 X5 FiberFlex Pickleball Paddle can truly elevate your game and help you dominate the court.

GAMMA Sports Needle Pickleball Paddle

If you’re after a paddle that’s lightweight and offers precision control, the GAMMA Sports Needle Pickleball Paddle is something you should consider. Weighing in at just 7.6 oz, you’ll find it easy to make quick moves at the kitchen line, crucial in fast-paced pickleball games. You’ll also appreciate the paddle’s Sensa Poly Core technology, which ensures consistent control over your shots.

But the GAMMA Sports Needle offers more than just swift handling and enhanced touch. Its 4-inch Gamma Honeycomb handle provides extra comfort, allowing you to play for extended periods without discomfort. And that’s not all. The paddle’s RZR textured graphite face heightens touch and mastery, giving you the upper hand in every match.

One unique feature of the GAMMA Sports Needle is its elongated design, perfect for women wanting more reach during games. The textured fiberglass surface allows you to hit shots harder and faster, and also defend against opponents’ hits with ease. If your game relies on your reach and reflexes, this paddle will undoubtedly enhance your performance. Make sure to give it a try and see the difference for yourself.

ONIX Stryker 4 Composite Pickleball Paddle

You’re going to appreciate the feel of the ONIX Stryker 4 Composite Pickleball Paddle, with its well-balanced weight offering both control and power during your gameplay. Perfectly designed for beginner to intermediate players, it’s crafted to fit well in small hands, enabling you to deliver more accurate and powerful shots.

Here are some features you’ll find absolutely remarkable:

  • Its medium weight. It maintains the perfect balance between touch and power, allowing you consistent gameplay.
  • The oversized paddle shape. This enhances your hitting surface, giving you a larger sweet spot.
  • The polypropylene core and fiberglass face. These materials ensure durability and longevity.
  • The special grip. Designed for comfort and efficiency, it enhances your control over the paddle.

Moreover, it’s the most inexpensive paddle on our list, making it an excellent choice if you’re on a budget. The ONIX Stryker 4 isn’t just a fantastic choice for women looking to play their best and have fun, but also for anyone seeking a quality, affordable pickleball paddle.

This paddle is proof that great things can come in small, well-designed packages.

Engage Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle

Despite its higher price tag, with the Engage Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle, you’re getting a paddle that’s optimized for both control and power, thanks to its specialized polypropylene/polymer honeycomb core and proprietary fiberglass skin. This paddle’s weight ranges from 7.5 to 8.3 oz, and its size is a comfortable 15 1/2′ long by 8 1/8′ wide, designed to meet stringent community noise requirements.

Now, let’s talk about its unique features. The rough-textured skin is a spin maestro, helping you master your shots without losing control. And, thanks to its Core & Skin Dimensioning Technology, you’ll enjoy a larger sweet spot for bolder spins and bigger pops, just what you need to up your game.

However, there are some cons. The handle length mightn’t suit everyone’s comfort, and it’s on the heavier side, which mightn’t be ideal if you prefer a lighter touch. And, although it packs a punch with control and power, its price might be a bit steep if you’re budget-conscious.

Still, as a USAPA-approved paddle, it’s a top-tier choice for serious players seeking to level up their game.

HEAD Extreme Tour Lite Pickleball Paddle

Why wouldn’t you consider the HEAD Extreme Tour Lite Pickleball Paddle, given its lightweight design and superior spin control? It’s a winning choice for those who wish to rule the game with precision and speed. Its diamond shape isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s designed to provide you with a more focused sweet spot for improved control.

While it mightn’t be the best for beginners, it’s definitely a star for those who’ve got a handle on the game. This paddle stands out for a few specific reasons:

  • It’s USAPA approved, having proven itself in tournament play.
  • The Optimized Tubular Construction (OTC) enhances the overall playing experience.
  • It’s incredibly lightweight, making it easy to handle.
  • The spin capabilities are unparalleled, leaving your opponents puzzled.

However, it’s not all praises. Some players might find it lacking in ‘pop’. But if consistent volleys and spin are your thing, this paddle delivers. To top it off, the comfort grip is a winner, giving you an edge in those crucial moments.

At a price of $119.95, it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a high-performance, quality paddle.

Paddletek Bantam EX-L Paddle

The Paddletek Bantam EX-L Paddle, with its polymer honeycomb core and vinyl graphic paddle face, offers a combination of power and control. However, you might find its grip a bit too squishy. Weighing in at an average of 8.2 ounces, it sits comfortably in the mid-weight category, allowing you to play for longer periods without feeling exhausted. Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with its grip, finding it not quite as absorbent as they’d like when it comes to sweat.

Further, you might find the edge guard somewhat lacking in the durability department. But don’t let these potential downsides deter you. This paddle’s adaptability is its standout feature. It’s a chameleon, fitting right into your game regardless of your skill level, though it’s especially popular with intermediate to advanced players.

Its generous hitting area is a blessing for those who appreciate a broad sweet spot. The grip, despite its squishiness, is a comfortable medium size, fitting most players like a glove. Priced at $99.99, the Paddletek Bantam EX-L Paddle delivers a balance of power and control that could just make it the best pickleball paddle for you.

Diadem Icon Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

You’re going to love how the Diadem Icon Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle feels in your hand, and its exceptional sweet spot, but keep in mind, you’ll need to clean off sand and other particles regularly.

This isn’t your ordinary pickleball paddle. With a weight range of 7.7 to 8.0 ounces, this paddle gives you the perfect balance for power and control. It’s an excellent choice for both intermediate and professional players who desire a more balanced play style.

Here are some key features to consider:

  • The paddle face is made from carbon fiber, offering durability and excellent ball response.
  • Its polypropylene core ensures a superb balance between power and control.
  • The standard size grip provides a comfortable hold for prolonged play.
  • It’s priced at $99.95, providing good value for a high-quality paddle.

However, this paddle may not be for everyone. Some players may prefer a more forgiving paddle, especially if they’re less experienced. Despite its large sweet spot, you might find other power paddles like the Gamma Typhoon more suitable.

PROKENNEX Pro Flight Pickleball Paddle

Even though it’s on the pricier side, you’ll find that the PROKENNEX Pro Flight Pickleball Paddle offers a unique blend of power and control that could significantly enhance your game. Weighing between 7.3 – 7.6 OZ and armed with a Comfort Cushion grip, this paddle feels incredibly stable in your hand. The ball takes off with impressive power without feeling erratic, leaving you in awe of the force it delivers.

You might need a bit of an adjustment period for mastering the drop shots, but with a bit of finesse and about an hour of practice, you’ll be making accurate drops consistently. It’s not the best option for budget players due to its high price point, but its benefits could outweigh the cost for some.

A study from MIT found that this paddle reduces arm energy consumption by a whopping 43%, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a lightweight paddle that adds extra power and precision to your serves, volleys, and drives. However, if you prefer a softer feel, this mightn’t be the right choice for you. Despite the price, you might find that this paddle brings a lot of enjoyment to your game.

Conclusion

Choosing the best pickleball paddle isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It’s about finding the one that suits your game style and comfort.

From the JOOLA Simone Jardim Hyperion to the PROKENNEX Pro Flight, each paddle offers unique features.

Whether you prefer a lightweight paddle like the HEAD Extreme Tour Lite or a heavyweight option like the Diadem Icon, there’s a perfect fit for every woman.

Remember, the right paddle can significantly enhance your pickleball experience.