Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in America, is no longer just a backyard pastime. It has evolved into a professional sport with its own set of elite players.
These professional pickleball players have their unique styles, strategies, and yes, equipment preferences. Some even have their own signature paddle. If you’re an avid pickleball fan or a budding player aiming to up your game, you’ve probably wondered, “What pickleball paddles do the pros use?”.
In this article, we talk about what pickleball paddles professional pickleball players use. We’ll discuss what’s special about these paddles, why pros choose them, and how they can affect your game. Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting out and thinking about buying your first paddle, you’ll find useful information here.
Let’s dive in and learn more about the pickleball paddles used by some of the top professional pickleball players.
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What Pickleball Paddles Do the Pros Use?
What Pickleball Paddle Does Anna Leigh Waters Use?
Anna Leigh Waters, the reigning queen of the pickleball court and globally ranked number one female player, has chosen the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 paddle.
The TS-5 delivers exceptional performance and responsiveness. It has a nice touchy polymer core.
Weighing between 7.0 to 7.5 ounces, the Bantam TS-5 is a light paddle that gives you balance between maneuverability and power. Its lightweight design ensures easy handling, so you can return tricky shots near the net.
Additionally, the medium grip size with a 5” handle length provides a comfortable fit for the average hand, while offering leverage that amplifies the impact of your overhead smashes.
The paddle’s generously sized face, measuring 7-7/8” by 10 ½”, is equipped with a large sweet spot. This means greater accuracy and consistency in your shots, allowing you to make more successful returns and ultimately win more points.
What sets the Bantam TS-5 apart from its predecessor, the Bantam EX-L, is its slimmed-down design. This paddle has undergone a diet to shed some weight without compromising on power. It offers all the benefits of a heavier paddle, but with a lighter feel.
The Paddletek Bantam TS-5 is a top-notch paddle that combines power and finesse seamlessly. With its touchy polymer core, easy maneuverability, comfortable grip, and large sweet spot, this paddle is designed to elevate your game.
Specifications:
- Weight Average: 7.3 ounces
- Weight Range: 7.0-7.5 ounces
- Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″ – (Medium)
- Grip Length: 5″
- Paddle Length:15 1/2″
- Paddle Width: 7 7/8″
- Paddle Face: Fiberglass
- Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb
- Edge Guard: 1/8″ overlapping paddle face
What Pickleball Paddle Does Ben Johns Use?
Ben Johns, the top men’s professional pickleball player in the world, has chosen the Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16 Carbon Fiber Paddle from JOOLA Pickleball. The Ben Johns Signature paddle is the much-anticipated successor to the wildly popular Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16, and it does not disappoint. This paddle also tops our list as the best pickleball paddle overall.
Weighing in at 8.0 ounces, the Perseus CFS 16 has a nice elongated shape paired with a thick, responsive 16mm core. The new paddle shape, amplified by an 11″ by 7.5″ Carbon Friction Surface and a 5.5″ long handle, grants extra leverage and power to each shot.
On the other hand, the thick core and stiff “charged” carbon fiber face of this particular paddle ensure the ball compresses slightly and stays on the paddle just a bit longer. This feature aids in controlling the ball and adding a spin that keeps it within play.
The Perseus CFS 16’s handle comes wrapped in JOOLA’s Sure Grip, a tacky surface that enhances grip during play.
The Perseus CFS 16 paddle has a 16mm Reactive Honeycomb Polymer core. This innovative core design uses a honeycomb pattern injected hyper foam around the edges, and thermoformed construction for a perfect blend of power and vibration dampening.
The large sweet spot resulting from this design ensures precision in dinking, control in passing shots, and the ability to place returns deep into the court.
In summary, the Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16 Carbon Fiber Paddle embodies the perfect combination of power and control that Ben would expect from his own signature paddle. It’s a testament to the high level of performance and precision that defines his game and the commitment from top pickleball paddle manufacturers like JOOLA.
Specifications:
- Average Weight: 8.0 ounces
- Weight Range: 7.8 – 8.2 ounces
- Grip Circumference: 4.25″ (Medium) Actual grip sizes may vary up to 1/8″
- Handle Length: 5.5″
- Paddle Length: 16.5″
- Paddle Width: 7.5″
- Paddle Face: “Charged” Carbon Friction Surface (CFS)
- Core Material: Reactive Honeycomb Polymer Core
- Core Thickness: 16mm (0.63″)
- Edge Guard: 1/8″ overlapping paddle face
What Paddle Does Tyson McGuffin Use?
Tyson McGuffin, a name synonymous with excellence in the world of pickleball, has made his paddle choice clear – the Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta. Given Tyson’s accomplishments and prowess on the court, it’s evident that he would settle for nothing less than the best.
And since he has chosen the Power Air, they have now given him his own signature paddle as well. Many consider the Power Air Invikta to be the most frequently chosen paddle by professional pickleball players.
Crafted from graphite and weighing in at 7.9 ounces, the Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta paddle is designed for speed and power. Its lightweight construction allows Tyson to swiftly maneuver on the court, making rapid directional changes and delivering forceful shots that keep his opponents on their toes during tournament play.
One of the standout features of this paddle is its air cushion grip. This innovative design element enhances comfort and balance during long matches, ensuring that players like Tyson can maintain a high level of performance without compromising on power.
The Power Air Invikta also boasts an oversized sweet spot which increases control on each shot. This feature allows Tyson to maintain agility on the court, responding rapidly to the game’s dynamics while keeping his returns accurate and powerful. We have found this paddle to be good for the former tennis player.
In conclusion, the Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta paddle, with its impressive combination of speed, power, comfort, and control, is a top choice for professional players like Tyson McGuffin and other pickleball national champions. It’s a testament to the high-quality craftsmanship of Selkirk Paddles and their commitment to delivering pickleball paddles that elevate the game of pickleball.
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 has an impressive collection of tournament medals to her name. Notably, she is a triple crown winner, having claimed victories in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles in the same tournament. A key component of her success can be attributed to her paddle of choice – the SLK HALO by Selkirk, which is fast gaining popularity among top players.
The SLK HALO Paddle by Selkirk was designed with valuable input from Parris and other elite pros. The aim? To create a paddle that offers the balance of power, spin, and control.
Another distinguishing feature of the SLK HALO Paddle is its handle. Designed for comfort, it helps players maintain their grip and precision during long rallies.
Furthermore, the SLK Paddle boasts an oversized core. This makes it easier for players to add more spin to their shots while maintaining maximum control.
In conclusion, the SLK HALO Paddle by Selkirk, with its unique shape, ergonomic handle, and oversized core, is an excellent all-around choice 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, a legend in women’s professional pickleball and one of its most decorated players, has made a name for herself with her powerful gameplay and meticulous control. Her paddle of choice is the JOOLA Simone Jardim Hyperion CFS 16.
The Hyperion CFS 16 Paddle features Carbon-Flex5 face material that adds maximum texture to the paddle. This feature encourages controlled spin shots that can draw opponents out of position, giving you a strategic advantage. Simultaneously, the Hyperfoam Edge Wall enhances stability and enlarges the sweet spot, enabling you to deliver pure backhands and powerful forehands confidently.
Both the 8.4 oz. Standard and the 7.9 oz. Swift versions of this paddle come with an Aero Curve design. This design, combined with the paddle’s dimensions of 16.5″ long x 7.5″ wide, allows you to swing at high speeds while maintaining optimal control throughout. This paddle is a favorite for a tennis player due to its large surface area, which is backed by a reactive honeycomb polymer core. This core design helps limit vibrations, provides adequate feedback, and ensures consistent performance throughout the match.
One of the unique features of this paddle is its elongated 5.5″ CX carbon handle, which flexes slightly to add a touch of extra power to each shot.
In conclusion, the JOOLA Simone Jardim Hyperion CFS 16 Graphite Pickleball Paddle is tailored to meet the demands of power and control that define Simone Jardim’s gameplay and now you can use the same paddle as Simone!
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?
Catherine Parenteau recently signed a new sponsorship deal with Selkirk, transitioning from her former sponsor, PaddleTek. Though she started her career with PaddleTek and speaks highly of them, her current paddle of choice is the Vanguard Power Air Invikta by Selkirk, a favorite among many players on the tour, including Tyson McGuffin.
The Vanguard Power Air Invikta is known for its power and exceptional spin capabilities. It has a large sweet spot for improved control and an aerodynamic design that enhances swing speed. Selkirk has declared it “The Ultimate Power & Spin Paddle,” highlighting its engineering focus on aggressive play and power.
The Aero-DuraEdge Edgeless Technology and Air Dynamic Throat help reduce wind resistance and enhance swing speed. Combined with the paddle’s elongated shape, these features result in impressive power generation.
Another standout feature of the Vanguard Power Air Invikta is the ProSpin+ NextGen Texture applied to a hybrid face material. This unique blend of carbon fiber (for control) and Fiberflex fiberglass (for power) allows players to generate top spin and cut shots like never before. Moreover, the molded one-piece feel and FlexFoam injected beneath the perimeter contribute to consistent paddle performance and a confidence boost for players.
The Vanguard Power Air Invikta has a 5-1/4″ handle length, suitable for both one-handed and two-handed shots. The handle comes wrapped in Selkirk’s popular Geo Grip.
In conclusion, the Vanguard Power Air Invikta from Selkirk Pickleball offers top-tier power for competitive players, who can effectively control it up close. Experience the latest in pickleball paddle technology, developed to give you a competitive advantage, just as it does for Catherine Parenteau.
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 three-time National Champion and a highly respected figure in the professional pickleball world, has recently transitioned from the Franklin Carbon STK to the ProXR Zane Navratil Signature 14mm Paddle.
The Zane Navratil Signature 14mm Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is engineered to provide you with the same level of dominating control that professional pickleball player Zane himself demands in his games.
This control begins with the 10″ x 7.5″ Ultra Raw T700 carbon fiber face. The material offers minimal give and ample friction, allowing the ball to compress and stay on the paddle face for a longer period.
The paddle’s 14mm thick polypropylene honeycomb core further boosts control by limiting vibrations. It also enhances the sweet spot, helping you place your shots with precision.
But control isn’t the only strength of this paddle. It also packs a punch thanks to its ultra-extended 6″ handle wrapped in a Performance-Tac grip. This design allows you to generate plenty of leverage and swing speed.
In summary, if you’re looking for a paddle that offers exceptional control and feel from all positions on the court, then the Zane Navratil Carbon 14mm paddle from ProXR Pickleball could be the perfect choice for you.
Specifications:
- Average Weight: 8.2 ounces
- Weight Range: 8.0 – 8.4 ounces
- Grip Circumference: 4″ (Small) Actual grip sizes may vary up to 1/8″
- Grip Style: Performance-Tac Cushion
- Grip Manufacturer: ProXR
- Handle Length: 6″
- Paddle Length: 16.5″
- Paddle Width: 7.5″
- Paddle Face: Raw Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Core Thickness: 14mm (0.55″)
- Edge Guard: 1/4″ Overlapping Paddle Face
- Manufacturer: ProXR Pickleball
What Pickleball Paddle Does Matt Wright Use?
Matt Wright holds a remarkable #2 ranking in both Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles.
Matt uses the Evoke Premier Composite Paddle, developed in collaboration with pickleball pros including himself and Lucy Kovalova. This paddle is designed to be consistently powerful and reliable. It features a special coating on the face to dampen impact while ensuring a quick ball response, enhancing control and precision.
The Atomic13 Edge technology incorporated into the paddle creates a slim yet sturdy edge guard. This innovative feature is designed to reduce shock while enhancing the power and speed of the paddle.
The Evoke Premier Composite Paddle comes in lightweight (7.5 – 7.8 oz), standard weight (7.8 – 8.2 oz), and heavyweight (8.2 – 8.5 oz) versions. This versatility allows you to choose a weight that suits your playing style, whether you prefer more speed at the net or extra power in their shots.
In conclusion, the Evoke Premier Composite Paddle, with its strong feel and pinpoint precision, is a key component of Matt Wright’s success on the pickleball court. It offers the ideal blend of power and control, helping him maintain his position at the top of the game.
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
Conclusion
In closing, the choice of a pickleball paddle greatly impacts the performance on the court. As we’ve seen, professional pickleball players often opt for high-quality pickleball paddles that offer a blend of power, control, and durability.
Brands like JOOLA, Selkirk, Paddletek, and Onix are popular paddles among the pros due to their exceptional features and top-notch performance.
But remember, while it’s beneficial to consider what the pros use, it’s equally important to find a paddle that suits your personal playing style and comfort. It’s about finding the right balance between what the pros use and what feels right in your hands, so make sure to try out other paddles as well so you can find the perfect balance.
Happy playing!
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