Upgrade Your Game with the Best Pickleball Brands [Reviewed by Pros]

The best pickleball brands can elevate your game as you evolve your skills. Having fun is always possible even without the right gear, but the proper equipment can be a key factor in competitive moments when you need to rely on it the most. There’s nothing more frustrating than having a volley sail over the boundary or losing your touch on a dink because you kept using that paddle you despise.

We’ve all been there, blaming it on a wooden racket or maybe even a “cracked ball.” If you’ve constantly felt this way on the court with your generic gear, it’s time to step up your game and invest in some good stuff. This guide explores the top pickleball brands, explains their relevance, and matches you with the best options to suit your budget and skill level.

At 11 PICKLES our goal is to spread the word on tips, tricks, reviews, and news for pickleball lovers. We believe in the power of community and the good times that can be shared out on the court. Whether you are just figuring out what the game is all about or you are an avid pickler, there is something for you here. 

Why Quality Pickleball Brands Matter

Pickleball is an inclusive sport, so no one should judge you for the type of equipment that you have. The best players know that true talent lies within; it is not something that can be bought at the pro shop. At higher levels of competition, winning really comes down to focus & strategy. 

Pro picklers are always asked, “Do expensive pickleball paddles mean better play?” Ben Johns, one of the top players, has even shown that he can be competitive in a match using a frying pan. 

With all that being said, does your gear actually matter? While your skill set is the most important facet of your game, the pros agree that playing with the best pickleball brands can equip you with the most reliable, performance driven, and valuable tools to level up your game. Your investment in quality pickleball brands will give you confidence and complement your skills as you progress on the court.

Durability & Reliability

The top pickleball brands use premium materials to craft their equipment, focusing on innovation to ensure exceptional durability and reliability. Players can trust that their gear is built to last.

The best companies will back their product and make sure that you are completely satisfied, as they traditionally offer warranties on all equipment. Some brands such as Selkirk & Paddletek even offer lifetime warranties or extended guarantees that reflect their confidence in the products they put out there.

Enhanced Performance

The most reliable brands are constantly tailoring their products with the latest technologies; this is most evident in the design of advanced pickleball paddles. 

There are 5 different paddle compositions that the top brands use to give you a competitive edge on the court. When compared to aluminum and wood, these materials can make quite a difference in your performance. 

1. Polymer Core (Honeycomb Core): The plastic honeycomb structure that sits within the walls of the paddle will reduce vibrations increasing your precision and protecting your hands from wearing out. Even if you are a tad off with your swing, the polymer core’s spread throughout the racket will give you a bigger sweet spot. This is perfect for balanced play.

2. Nomex Core: Nomex core paddles are made up of aramid fiber, which according to Webster’s Dictionary are “Any group of very strong, lightweight, synthetic fibers used in making radial tires, bulletproof vests, etc.” That is some tough stuff. These paddles are known for their overall strength and the power that they can produce. You can hear a nice “pop” sound on well struck volleys. This is perfect for power play.

3. Fiberglass: These paddles are flexible with potent rebound potential. Fiberglass rackets have excellent ball speed off the volley and can enhance strong serves. Players like the way that fiberglass paddles can also promote spin control. 

4. Graphite: If you are looking for a lightweight paddle, graphite is a great option. Less weight means more control. If you are looking to make strategic shots with ease, graphite paddles are helpful especially when it comes to net play. 

5. Carbon Fiber: This material is very stiff but lightweight. Carbon fiber offers enhanced vibration reduction that makes it an excellent choice for those who want to focus on slams and strong serves. 

Value of the Investment

Although you might be paying more up-front compared to generic equipment, it is important to remember that you are making a long term investment. Not only are the products meant to last, but they are also meant to give you the tools you need to advance to the next level. 

Knowing that you are confident with your equipment will put your mind at ease out on the court and help you focus on the best parts of competition. You are making a commitment to your fitness, to enjoy the game at the highest level, and to continue improving without worrying about your gear.  

Top 5 Pickleball Brands of 2025

With its accessibility, fun, and competitive edge, players of all levels are always on the lookout for the best equipment and gear to elevate their game. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up a paddle for the first time, having the right tools can make all the difference. 

From cutting-edge paddles and balls to community-focused resources and stylish apparel, these brands have earned their spots as industry leaders. Here’s a closer look at the top five pickleball brands of 2025 and what makes them stand out.

1. Paddletek: Curtis Smith founded this family business in 2010 headquartered in Niles, Michigan; Paddletek has now grown into one of the leading Pickleball brands renowned for its excellent customer service and warranty policies. All paddles are crafted in the USA. You can now customize one of their award winning paddles, the Bantam EX-L, with your favorite color & nickname. Anna Leigh Waters is sponsored by Paddletek.

2. Selkirk: Founded by the Barnes family in 2014, this company is located in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, overlooking the Selkirk Mountains. The brand sponsors over more than 100 professional athletes, rising from a humble family business to one of the most recognized names in the sport. Selkirk is known for their commitment to player education with lots of online resources for the community. All paddles are made in the USA. ‍
3. 11 PICKLES: No, we do not sell paddles, balls, or nets. But we do have the best apparel for having fun out on the court! And we are committed to giving you the most up to date info about the game. Check out our 11 PICKLES apparel and accessories to show your support on the court! ‍
4. Onix - The brand was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Evansville, Indiana. Onix is a leading manufacturer of pickleball paddles dedicated to performance and technological advancements. The company is also known for the high quality pickleball balls that they produce. All Paddles are made in the USA.‍
5. Joola: This is one of the most recognized brands in all of pickleball, probably because it is one of the older companies in the game. Founded in 1952 in Germany, the brand was initially focused on table tennis equipment. In 2015 Joola made its way into the pickleball sphere and has since become a leader in pickleball paddles, nets, and other accessories. They are dedicated to creating paddles with exceptional grip, ergonomics, and aerodynamics. #1 pickleball pro Ben Johns signed a lifetime contract with Joola.

Best Paddles for Every Budget

The cost of a paddle varies depending on its composition and engineering. Although you don’t have to splurge on a racket to up your game, it never hurts to treat yourself when it comes to pickleball. Being comfortable with your equipment is the most important rule. 

Some of the best pickleball brands sell beginner paddles under $50, mid-tier paddles around $100, and premium paddles anywhere from $150 to just over $200 on average. There are a few paddles available for upwards of $300 and even limited editions that have sold for over $1000. These are a few of our picks for the best brand name rackets you can find on any budget. 

Affordable Paddles Under $50

• JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddle - This paddle combines advanced technologies with beginner-friendly design. Featuring a durable fiberglass face, a Response Polypropylene Honeycomb core, and Edge-Shield protection, it delivers power, control, and precision. It’s tournament approved, making it the perfect paddle for players starting to advance competitively. The Sure-Grip handle ensures comfort and confidence with reduced moisture and enhanced shock absorption.

• Onix Z3 - If you are choosing your first paddle, the Onix Z3 is a great option to start with. This balanced medium weight paddle features a wide body, honeycomb core, and an edge guard to keep your paddle protected. Jumping into the game with equipment like this will set you up for success as you learn to master your technique.

Mid-Range Picks for Competition ($100)

• Vatic Pro Prism - Lots of picklers swear by this paddle. It has some of the best ratings for intermediate and expert players because of all the value it offers for around $100. Vatic’s secret could be the cold molding technology that avoids a heat intensive process to create a paddle with more feel and control. 

• Selkirk SLK Evo - The Evo paddle is an excellent choice at a price right around $100. The Evo series has three different options to choose from: Evo Control, Evo Power, and Evo Hybrid. Designed with a carbon fiber Spinflex surface and thick polymer core, the paddle easily absorbs impact allowing for more control and extra power.

• Paddletek Bantam TS-5 - This paddle checks all the right boxes to help you level up your game. The Bantam TS-5 features a lightweight design, generous sweet spot, high-performance grip, and an advanced honeycomb core. At around $100, this paddle continues to garner great reviews. It’s easy to see why there are so many players choosing this paddle. 

High-End Equipment Worth the Splurge

• JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion - JOOLA worked closely with Ben Johns to design the Hyperion which is catered to offensive play. If you are an aggressive player who focuses on setting the tone, this paddle will keep your opponents guessing on the court. With its Carbon Frictions Surface (CFS) and Carbon-Flex5 textured surface, the Hyperion uses advanced technologies and is priced around $160. The signature brand’s professional paddle is worth the extra spend. 

• Selkirk LUXX Control - Designed for unmatched control and added power, the LUXX Control comes equipped with its Prospin+ Nextgen Texture. Its Air Dynamic Throat is the gap found at the bottom of the paddle. This gap helps to control airflow while enhancing ball control. You can find this racket for just under $250. 

• Proton Series One Type B - During the middle of a televised match, professional pickleball player Quang Duong switched to a Proton paddle right after a failed dink, sparking significant attention, especially as he moved away from the Selkirk brand he represents contractually. The decision was likely influenced by a combination of tactical adjustments and potential equipment issues. Proton paddles are crafted from aerospace-grade carbon fiber, offering unmatched durability, performance, and spin with features like a NanoTac-coated face and the largest sweet spot on the market. Priced around $280, the Proton Series One Type B is a rising competitor in the paddle market, with increasing appeal among professionals. 

3 Pickleball Sets for Beginners

As a beginner the best thing you can do is get yourself out there & start practicing. Perfecting your game with a partner or friend is a great way to socialize and stay active. With a pickleball set, you can be proactive about inviting friends to play and always be ready when someone needs an extra paddle. 

Sets are usually made up of a bundle of 2-4 paddles & about 4 pickleballs. There are some very affordable options out there. 

1. Niupipo - For around $40, you can buy everything you need to hit the ground running. This set comes with 4 balls, 2 paddles, and a carrying case. Not only are the Niupipo sets affordable, but they are also composed of quality materials like fiberglass with a polymer core to give you confidence in a starter set. These paddles are also approved for tournament play if you so choose to start competing earlier in your pickleball career. 

2. HEAD - Renowned for its pioneering innovations in tennis since its founding, this company has expanded into the pickleball scene, blending decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology to cater to the sport's rapid growth. Complete with a drawstring bag, 2 paddles, and 3 Penn Pickleballs, the HEAD pickleball set looks great and is sure to make you know what you are doing before you even start playing. The set currently runs around $115. 

3. GAMMA Sports - The GAMMA pickleball bundle is a versatile set designed for players of all levels, featuring 2 lightweight paddles with a honeycomb grip and graphite face for power and control, plus 3 GAMMA Photon Indoor Pickleballs. The set also includes a spacious sling bag that holds up to three paddles, six balls, and more, combining convenience with style. Available in blue and pink, this bundle offers quality, performance, and value, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned players alike for about $80.

Professional Pickleball Brands

The best players know that a new paddle will not change a player completely, but it can certainly help to elevate their skill in certain situations. In a Ben Johns QNA session, Ben revealed that he had a similar experience to many beginners when starting his pickleball career. His first paddle was a wooden paddle from Dick’s Sporting Goods; by the second time he went out to play, he had already made the change to a more well-rounded one. 

If you haven’t purchased your first paddle, see what the pros are repping; and look for paddles made by the same companies that are built for your skill level. This will save you some time and money down the road when you want to start improving. Here are some of the top players & the brands that they use. 

Note: Each player’s Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) ranking is listed according to the current standings as of January 20th, 2025.

Top Brands Trusted by Elite Men’s Singles Players 

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1. Federico Staksrud - The current number one singles pickleball player, originally from Argentina, just switched sponsors from Joola to Adidas Pickleball at the beginning of 2025. Federico Staksrud’s Adidas pickleball paddle is set to debut in April 2025. 

2. Ben Johns - This American pickler is considered to be one of the best players in the world. He is now the face of JOOLA after signing a lifetime deal with the company in 2023. Ben Johns net worth comes in at about $2 to $4 million with earnings that hit $2.5 million a year. 

3. Connor Garnett - The current third ranked men’s singles player holds sponsorships with ProXR Pickleball. He is also partnering with and testing out professional surfer John John Florence’s new apparel line Florence Marine X as a brand ambassador. 

Top Brands Trusted by Elite Women’s Singles Players

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1. Anna Leigh Waters - Before turning 18, Anna Leigh Waters net worth rose to over $1.4 million; as she has quickly become the face of the sport. She is sponsored by Paddletek, which launched her signature paddle line, the Bantam ALW-C series, in November 2023. Her journey began at 11, when she debuted professionally, becoming the youngest pro pickleball player in history. With her unmatched dominance in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, Anna Leigh is not only reshaping pickleball but also setting a new standard for women in sports.

2. Lea Jansen - Currently ranking second on the women’s singles circuit, Lea Jansen started her career as a successful tennis player in the Pacific Northwest. After picking up the game of pickleball in 2019, she quickly turned pro in 2021. Her current sponsor is JOOLA. 

3. Brooke Buckner - Another outstanding tennis player turned pickler, Brooke Buckner didn’t even start playing pickleball until after the birth of her first child in 2020. She has quickly risen in the ranks of the top women’s players and has a sponsorship with JOOLA. 

Stay Connected with the 11 Pickles Community

Remember, you don’t need to go out and buy all the pickleball gear that the pros have in hope that it will magically change your game overnight. What will change your game is constant practice and a hunger to learn more about the game. 

We’ve got you covered here at 11 PICKLES. Although there are many options to choose from when it comes to the best pickleball brands, these are some that we have researched for you. If you are going to be making an investment in quality equipment, we would love to be the ones to help you know where to look. 

And don’t forget about apparel. We have lots of light-hearted 11 PICKLES gear that shows off our love of the game and the way the competition can bring us all together. Join the fun and see what we have in our store!

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