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Top Pick
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Fun Pick
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Mountain View Pick
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5.0
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4.4
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4.1
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Of course, improving your skills as a player while on the pickleball court is important, but what’s the point if you don’t look stylish while playing? Pickleball and fashion now go hand in hand, so it’s important to find a paddle for open play that exceeds in both form and function.
The following five paddles represent a variety of personalities and colorways, so hopefully, you find something that fits your personal style!
While we prioritized the overall aesthetics of each paddle, we also made sure to pick paddles that will actually perform when you hit the court.
1. Our Top Pick: Nettie Pendleton Classic
The Nettie Pendleton Classic Pickleball Paddle is an excellent option for players looking for a high-quality paddle with exciting aesthetic designs. Plus, it is USAP-Approved, making it legal at most tournaments.
Leading the pack for “designer” paddles has to be the Nettie Pendleton Classic. Most Nettie paddles have clean, geometric patterns that are nice to look at without being overly distracting.
- The geometric patterns of the Pendleton Nettie paddle are clean and don’t impair ball visibility while playing.
- Unlike many designer paddles that prioritize form over function, Nettie paddles are USAP-Approved, making them tournament legal.
- The carbon fiber construction makes them perfect for control players, and the face paint doesn’t seem to hinder the ability to put spin on the ball.
- The paddle’s 13 mm thickness makes it great for power, and when paired with the 5″ long grip makes it excellent for powerful two-handed swings.
2. Our “Fun” Pick: Margaritaville ‘Island Life’
The Margaritaville 'Island Life' Paddle is not just a piece of equipment; it's a game-changer that brings a piece of paradise into every match. Its design ensures that winning points feels as smooth as an ocean breeze, making it a prized possession for any pickleballer aiming to elevate their game with style and substance.
Use code PBUNION for 10% off at checkout!
For pickleball enthusiasts looking for a blend of power and precision, the Margaritaville ‘Island Life’ Pickleball Paddle by HEAD is a standout choice. The paddle is more than just its eye-catching Jimmy Buffett-themed graphics; it’s a rebranded HEAD Radical Tour GR paddle designed for those who demand excellence in their game.
- At the heart of the ‘Island Life’ paddle is a robust combination of a graphite face and a polymer core.
- Weighing an average of 7.9 oz. and measuring 16″ in length, it offers an exceptional balance between heft for powerful swings and agility for precision shots.
- The spin-textured surface allows players to add more spin and swiftly redirect the ball, ensuring you’re always in command of the game.
3. Our “Mountain View” Pick: OutWest Sport – Ranier
The OutWest Sport Ranier paddle allows you to express your inner wild mountain spirit while on the pickleball court! Its Colorado mountain design is backed up by a graphite carbon face and the classic polypropylene honeycomb core.
The OutWest Sport Pickleball Paddle feels like a solid intro paddle with beautiful, silhouetted landscapes that fit the mountain-fun vibe perfectly! The paddle comes in a few colorways, including the Ranier, which depicts a beautiful mountain scene.
- The paddle features a graphite carbon face, which is often prized for its lightweight characteristics while also adding a significant amount of grip for shot control
- It’s got the standard polypropylene honeycomb core, giving you excellent touch and power to your shots.
- At 15.7″ x 8.1″, the OutWest Sport paddle has a massive sweet spot, making it a great all-around paddle for both dinks and drives.
- The construction of this paddle feels top-notch. It feels light in hand but also very sturdy, giving you added confidence behind your swing.
4. Franklin Signature Pro Paddle
The Franklin Signature Pickleball Paddle combines cutting-edge technology with unparalleled craftsmanship for peak performance on the court. Its innovative core is designed for optimal control and power, providing players with a responsive feel and consistent play.
Use code PBUNION for 10% off at checkout!
What is more stylish than using a paddle that is branded with one of the biggest names in the pickleball industry? It stands out not only for its functionality but also as a statement piece of equipment that serious players can be proud to wield.
- Thanks to its extra textured surface, the Signature Pro Paddle provides unmatched traction on the ball, facilitating easier and more effective spin.
- The paddle’s construction includes a polypropylene core that not only reduces vibration for a more comfortable playing experience but also creates a large, versatile sweet spot for consistent hitting.
- The Signature Pro Paddle is thoughtfully designed with a long handle and an extended overall length, enabling players to comfortably use double-handed backhands and explore a wider range of shot options.
5. Sunset 4Joy Pickleball Paddle
Crafted from premium T700 carbon fiber, the 4Joy paddle promises lightweight durability and exceptional play. Its unique soft core handle with an anti-slip grip offers unmatched comfort and control. This paddle also represents a choice with a conscience, as it's from a woman-owned company that donates a portion of sales to health causes.
Crafted with superior T700 carbon fiber for unmatched durability and featuring a Thermoformed construction for enhanced power, this paddle is designed to impress both on and off the court. Ideal for players of all levels, from beginners to pros, and is USAP-approved for tournament play. Plus, with every purchase, you contribute to health-related charitable causes.
- Incorporates Gen. 2 Thermoformed technology for a larger sweet spot, providing players with superior control, shock absorption, and stability.
- The elongated soft core handle with a premium anti-slip grip ensures maximum comfort and effective shock absorption during play.
- Features high tensile strength and consistent play with a surface designed for aggressive games.
Other Pretty Paddles
We have tested several other paddles that, while not in our top 5, will also make you look fantastic at open play! If the paddles above weren’t quite your style, maybe these options have the flair you’re looking for.
- House Pickleball Paddles – House have been on the rise in the paddle market, and their simple, modern design is at the core of why they’ve become so eye-catching. They even offer a custom design printing option on paddle orders of 50 or more!
- Picklish – What’s not to love about having a small pickle silhouette in the middle of your pickleball paddle? Clean, simple, and high quality builds.
- Amazin’ Aces – This is one of our go-to budget options for pickleball players, since you’re getting two USAP-Approved paddles for the price of one average beginner paddle! Plus, they come in tons of funky patterns, from city maps to outer space.
- Play Paddles – Who doesn’t like eggs and bacon? Play Paddles are USAPA-Approved and come in some wild patterns such as eggs and bacon, waffles, and cheetah print.
How to choose the right pickleball paddle for you?
Choosing the right pickleball paddle involves considering your playing style, grip size, and weight preference. Look for a paddle that matches your skill level and enhances your gameplay.
A lighter paddle offers more control and maneuverability and is great for beginner players, while a heavier one provides more power. Ensure the grip fits comfortably in your hand to prevent strain and enhance play.
Test different materials to find the one that feels best for your shots and control needs.
