What Pickleball Paddles Do the Pros Use? ( Top Men & Women )

Are you a pickleball enthusiast curious about what pickleball paddles do the pros use to dominate the court? Yeah, we were wondering the same thing.

Pickleball, a racquet sport that borrows elements from badminton, tennis and table tennis has taken the world by storm, attracting players of all ages and skill levels. As the game continues to gain popularity, so does the fascination with what paddles professionals use.

In this blog post, we take a look at the different types of paddles and reveal the top choices of professional pickleball players while highlighting why they opt for these particular models.

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Unlocking the Secrets of the Pros’ Pickleball Paddles

If you’ve ever watched a pickleball match and wondered what in the world those paddles are, you’re not alone.

Professional pickleball players use top-of-the-line gear to get every edge they can, but learning which paddles they choose can be tricky. To unlock the secrets of the pros’ pickleball paddles, some key characteristics set them apart from the average player’s equipment.

The pickleball paddles used by pros are typically slightly heavier paddles with a large sweet spot—the area on the paddle face that generates powerful shots without putting unnecessary strain on their arms and wrists. They also look for a good balance of control and power, meaning they need their paddle to have enough pop to send shots deep into the court but still feel maneuverable in their hands while they are at the net.

What Pickleball Paddles Do the Pros Use? ( Top Men & Women Players in The World )

What Pickleball Paddle Does Anna Leigh Waters Use?

Anna Leigh Waters is currently the world #1 ranked women pickleball player who has been competing professionally for over five years. She recently switched to the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro Middleweight paddle, and it’s easy to understand why when you look at what this paddle can do.

• The most notable feature of this paddle is its extra-long handle which ensures Anna Leigh gets maximum leverage on her strokes.

• Its middleweight design means it provides a great balance between power and control, allowing her to compete with confidence no matter the skill level of her opponent.

• In addition, the textured surface gives her an excellent grip, which helps prevent slips and misplays during intense matches.

• Finally, with its vibration-dampening technology integrated into the handle, players can enjoy a smooth playing experience without tiring out quickly.

• It’s lighter weight than other paddles due to its mid-core construction; this allows for maximum speed and control when making shots.

This makes the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro Middleweight one of the top picks among professional players looking for a reliable weapon in their pickleball arsenal.

Specifications:

• Core: Bantam SRT Core
• Weight: 7.6-8.1 oz
• Handle Length: 4 ¾”
• Grip Circumference: 4 ⅜”
• Paddle Surface: Textured Fiberglass Epoxy Hybrid

What Pickleball Paddle Does Ben Johns Use?

Ben Johns is a professional pickleball player who is currently ranked #1 in the world. He has consistently placed among the top players and is known for his technical playing style. So, what type of paddle does Ben Johns use to give him the edge over other players?

The answer is the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16mm Pickleball Paddle!

• The Hyperion CFS 16mm is a new paddle that offers superior performance compared to traditional paddles. It features an advanced carbon fiber surface providing increased play power and control.

• Additionally, its unique design helps reduce vibration and shock, allowing for more accurate shots. This makes it an ideal choice for competitive players like Ben Johns, who need precision and accuracy when competing at high levels.

With its superior performance, it’s no wonder that Ben Johns chooses this paddle to help him reach his peak performance on the court. Check out our full review of this paddle.

Specifications:

• Maker: Joola Pickleball
• Core: 16mm Honeycomb Polymer
• Weight: 8.4 oz
• Paddle Length: 16.5″
• Paddle Width: 7.5″
• Handle Length: 5.5″
• Grip Circumference: 4.25″
• Paddle Surface: Carbon Friction Surface

What Paddle Does Tyson McGuffin Use?

Tyson McGuffin is among the most accomplished pickleball players in the world, so when he chooses a paddle, it should be no surprise that he opts for the best.

For Tyson McGuffin the Slekirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta paddle is his paddle of choice. This could also be the most used pickleball paddle by pros. We did a write up on Selkirk Paddles and how they stand out as some of the best overall.

• The Slekirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta paddle is made from graphite and weighs only 7.9 ounces. This lightweight construction allows it to move quickly through the air so that Tyson can make quick changes in direction on the court and deliver powerful shots to his opponents.

• The handle has been designed with comfort in mind and features a textured grip pattern to ensure maximum control over each shot.

• Additionally, this paddle comes with an adjustable handle length so players can customize it to their individual playing style. Its air cushion grip provides enhanced comfort and balance during long matches without sacrificing power or performance.

• The paddle’s design also features an oversized sweet spot to increase control on each shot while allowing Tyson to remain agile on the court.

Specifications:

• Core: Polymer Honeycomb
• Weight: 7.7- 8.1 oz
• Paddle Length: 16.5″
• Paddle Width: 7.375″
• Handle Length: 5.25″
• Grip Circumference: 4.25″
• Paddle Surface: Hybrid Blend of Fiberglass and Carbon Fiber.

What Pickleball Paddle Does Parris Todd Use?

Parris Todd is a professional pickleball player who has earned numerous medals in tournaments around the world. She has been a triple crown winner as well (win singles, doubles and mixed doubles at the same tournament). She is known for using the SLK paddle by Selkirk, which is quickly becoming one of the most popular paddles among top players. So what makes this particular paddle stand out?

• The SLK Paddle by Selkirk was designed with input from Parris and other elite pros to provide an optimal balance of power, spin, and control. It features a unique hybrid diamond shape that allows for greater reach and maneuverability on the court.

• The paddle also has an ergonomic handle which provides more comfort during long rallies.

• Additionally, its oversized core makes it easier to put more spin on shots while still having maximum control over them.

This combination of features makes it one of the best all-around paddles for competitive play.

Specifications:

• Core: Rev Core Power Polymer Core
• Weight: 7.5-8.o oz.
• Handle Length: Max: 4.875″ XL: 5.75″
• Grip Circumference: 4.0″
• Paddle Surface: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber

What Pickleball Paddle Does Simone Jardim Use?

Simone Jardim is known for her powerful forehand, but what paddle does she use? The answer is the Joola Simone Jardim Hyperion CFS 16. This paddle has been designed specifically for Jardim’s style of play, offering superior control with power shots and spin.

• The Hyperion CFS 16 is constructed with a polypropylene honeycomb core and composite fiber face surface. This combination gives the paddle an incredibly lightweight and increased control over strokes that require precision accuracy during pickleball matches.

• Furthermore, the polypropylene material helps to reduce vibration on contact with the ball, which allows players to maintain their grip while playing hard shots.

• Additionally, the paddle’s thick core gives it more power when needed while still providing adequate spin for shots like drop shots or hard serves.

Specifications:

• Core: 16mm Reactive Honeycomb Polymer Core
• Weight: 7.9 oz.
• Paddle Length: 16.5 in
• Paddle Width: 7.5 in
• Handle Length: 5.5 in
• Grip Circumference: 4.25 in
• Paddle Surface: Carbon Friction Surface

What Paddle Does Catherine Parenteau Use?

In a recent new signing, Catherine singed a new sponsorship deal with Selkirk. She was formerly with PaddleTek. She still has nothing but good things to say about PaddleTek and they signed her to start her career.

Now with Selkrik, she is using the Vanguard Power Air Invikta, which is becomming a very poplular paddle on the tour. You’ll see below, it is also the paddle of choice of Tyson McGuffin.

This paddle is great for power and maximum spin. It has nice large sweet spot for great control. This paddle is also extremely aerodynamic.

Specifications

• Weight: 7.7-8.1 oz
• Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″
• Face: Carbon Fiber and Fiberglass Hybrid
• Core: Polymer Honeycomb
• Paddle Length: 16.5 inches
• Paddle Width: 7.375 inches

What Pickleball Paddle Does Zane Navratil Use?

Zane Navratil, a world-renowned professional pickleball player and three-time National Champion. He had been using Franklin Carbon STK pickleball paddle for the past few years to great success and has now moved to the ProXR Zane Navratil Signature 14mm Paddle. So what makes this paddle so special?

The ProXR uses T700 Ultra-Raw Carbon technology that grips the ball longer and produces awesome spin. This paddle uses the strongest and most durable face material available on the market, ensuring unmatched pop and unparalleled durability. With its 6-inch elongated handle and ergonomic design, you can easily maximize its power and maneuverability, especially when executing two handed backhand shots.

Specifications:

• Core: PP Honeycomb
• Weight: 8.2 oz.
• Paddle Length: 16.5″
• Paddle Width: 7.3″
• Handle Length: 6″
• Grip Circumference: 4″
• Paddle Surface: T700 Raw Carbon

What Pickleball Paddle Does Matt Wright Use?

Many of the most successful pros rely on ONIX EVOKE PREMIER to ensure they have the edge over their opponents. Matt Wright is one of those professionals, and this is why it is his go-to paddle for tournaments.

• The ONIX EVOKE PREMIER is crafted from high-grade graphite and fiberglass materials, giving it superior control and power over other brands.

• It also has an elongated handle design which gives it better reach than usual paddles due to its longer surface area.

• The 5-inch wide face provides maximum contact while playing as well as extra spin potential when striking the ball.

• It has a good grip that helps to keep a solid hold on the paddle during long rallies, and its wide surface area helps to generate more spin with each shot.

Specifications:

• Core: Polypropylene
• Weight: Lightweight(7.5-7.8). Standard(7.8-8.2), Heavyweight(8.2-8.5)
• Paddle Length: 16″
• Paddle Width: 8″
• Handle Length: 5″
• Grip Circumference: 4.125″
• Paddle Surface: DF Composite

Check our article about the top two Onix brand pickleball paddle differences and which is better: Onix z3 vs z5

What Weight Pickleball Paddle Do the Pros Use?

Most professional pickleball players use paddles that weigh between 7.3 and 8.4 ounces. However, the weight of a paddle is a matter of personal preference and can vary depending on factors such as playing style and physical ability. It’s important to choose a paddle that feels comfortable in your hand and allows you to play at your best level.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, each pro has their own preference as to what it is that they like in paddle. This comes from playing experience and playing style. I encourage you to get out there and try as many paddles as you can to find the perfect paddle for yourself. Keep in mind, some players use different paddles for different types of matches like singles or doubles. It all comes down to player preference!

So get out on the court and test out different styles of paddles until you find the perfect model for your game!

Pickle on!

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