Top Pickleball Paddles of 2024: Tested and Reviewed

### Best Pickleball⁤ Paddle ⁤Overall

#### Selkirk Vanguard Control Invikta
The Selkirk Vanguard⁢ Control Invikta​ is a top ⁣choice for pickleball enthusiasts. It offers excellent control and precision, making it ideal for players ⁣looking to improve their ⁣game.

### For Aspiring Spin Doctors

####⁢ Pro⁤ XR T700 Raw Carbon
The Pro ​XR T700 Raw Carbon paddle is perfect for those who⁤ want to ​master spin shots. Its raw carbon face provides exceptional grip and spin potential.

### The Evolution of Pickleball

Pickleball, a sport that blends⁣ elements of tennis‌ and badminton, was invented near Seattle in ‌1965. ⁢Initially, paddles were made of laminated wood ⁣and were primarily used in gym classes.

### Practice Makes Perfect

#### Slinger ⁣Pickleball Machine
The Slinger Pickleball Machine is⁢ a fantastic ‌tool for solo practice. Resembling‌ a large‍ rolling ‌suitcase, ‍it can hold up to 92 pickleballs and fire them at various angles and speeds up to 45‌ mph. This machine ​allows you to ‍practice​ without needing​ a partner,⁢ making it a ​favorite among⁣ players of‍ all ages.

“The Slinger can help ⁤you quickly improve your game without needing​ to persuade anyone else to play.”

However,‍ there are a ​few minor drawbacks. The remote control is slightly weak,⁣ and the ‌spinning base needs to​ be carried separately. Despite‌ these issues,​ the Slinger remains an⁢ excellent⁣ practice‌ tool.

### Pick(le)⁢ Your Paddles

#### Pickleball Paddle Sizes
Pickleball paddles are restricted by size regulations.⁢ They can’t be longer than 17 inches, ⁢and the combined length and width must not exceed 24 inches. ​Standard paddles are typically 16 inches long and 8 inches wide, while elongated paddles use the full 17 inches for more power.

#### Understanding⁣ “Pop”
“Pop” refers to how aggressively the ball bounces off the⁤ paddle face, similar to how “bouncy” a basketball is.

#### Paddle Weight
Most paddles weigh around 8 ounces. Lightweight ⁣paddles⁤ are about 7.5 ounces, while heavyweight paddles are around 8.5 ounces. The weight distribution is crucial; paddles⁤ with more power tend to ‍be top-heavy, while balanced paddles offer a more even feel.

#### Paddle Shapes
While most paddles have a standard shape, some variations exist. For example, Joola offers a rounded paddle similar to a tennis racket, ‍and Selkirk has paddles with cutouts⁤ to reduce air resistance. ‌Despite these options, the standard shape remains‍ the most popular.

#### Paddle Materials
Old-fashioned wooden paddles are still available, but fiberglass paddles are more common for beginners. A⁤ beginner set can cost around $30 and last for about six months before an upgrade is needed. Most‍ high-quality paddles have a carbon-fiber face, which is stiff, ​light, and offers a lot of “pop.” Graphite paddles are another option;⁤ they are cheaper, heavier, and softer than ‌carbon fiber. Nearly all paddles have a‍ honeycomb-shaped polymer core, with pricier paddles featuring more advanced construction techniques.

For more information on the brands mentioned, visit ⁤their official websites:
– [Selkirk](https://www.selkirk.com)
– [Pro XR](https://www.proxr.com)
– [Joola](https://www.joola.com)