What Pickleball Paddles Do the Pros Use 2024
To explore your inner champion with the same pickleball paddle favored by the pros! Upgrade your game to the next level with their go-to choice.
Selkirk AMPED is the most common pickleball paddle used among the pros. Known for its unparalleled power, control, and accuracy, it is a top choice for many elite players. Other popular options include the Engage Poach Advantage, Onix Evoke Premier, and Paddletek Tempest Wave.
I was at a pickleball tournament, and I noticed most professional players were using the Selkirk AMPED paddle. Curious, I asked a player why this was. He explained that the paddle’s design and materials offer a great balance of power, control, and durability, making it a favorite among pros.
Curious about the preferred equipment of top pickleball players?What Pickleball Paddles Do the Pros Use? “Knowing about the paddle used by the pro pickler can help you to upscale the gameplay into the next level.
In this article, we will walk through the detailed insights about what paddles pro pickleball players use.
What Pickleball Paddles Do the Pros Use- Detailed Answered
Following is the overview about the pickleball paddle most pros use and the reasons behind it.
(1) Factors Considered by Pros in Pickleball Paddles
Pickleball paddles come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Some of the factors that pros consider when choosing a pickleball paddle include.
Quick Review
(i) Weight: Typically 7.3 to 8.3 ounces, balancing power and control.
(ii) Grip Size: Ranges from 4 to 4.5 inches, ensuring comfort and precision.
(iii) Surface Material: Graphite or composite for advanced players.
(iv) Shape: Traditional, with a slightly elongated design for optimal control and power.
(1) Weight
Pickleball paddles can range in weight from 6 to 14 ounces. The weight of the paddle can affect the player’s speed, power, and control. Generally, heavier paddles offer more power and control, while lighter paddles offer more speed and maneuverability.
What weight paddles do pro pickleball players use?
Pro pickleball players typically use paddles weighing between 7.3 to 8.3 ounces. The weight choice depends on personal preference and playing style, aiming for a balance of power and control.
(2) Grip Size
The size of the grip can affect the player’s comfort and control. A grip that is too small can cause the player’s hand to slip, while a grip that is too large can cause fatigue and discomfort.
Most of the Pro pickleball players often use paddles with grip sizes ranging from 4 inches to 4.5 inches in circumference. But still the choice depends on hand size and comfort, ensuring a secure hold for precise shots and maneuverability during intense matches.
(3) Surface Material
The surface of the paddle can be made from a variety of materials, including graphite, composite, and wood. Each material has its own unique characteristics that can affect the player’s performance. Most of the advanced pickleball players use graphite and composite.
(4) Shape
The shape of the paddle can affect the player’s reach and control. Wide-body paddles offer a larger hitting surface, while narrow-body paddles offer more control.
Elite pickleball players typically use paddles with a traditional shape, featuring a slightly elongated design with a broad face and rounded edges. This shape allows for optimal control and power when striking the ball, facilitating precise shots and strategic placement on the court during competitive play.
(2) Top Pickleball Professionals & Their Paddles
Now let’s take a look at some of the top pickleball professionals and the paddles they prefer with features.
(2.1) Ben Johns – Selkirk AMPED Invikta
Ben Johns is considered one of the top pickleball players in the world, and he uses the Selkirk AMPED Invikta paddle. This paddle features a unique “S2” grip that provides a comfortable and secure hold for players. The paddle’s composite materials and carbon fiber face offer excellent power and control, making it a popular choice for top players.
Special Feature
The paddle is made with a special polymer core, which provides a great balance between power and control.
What paddle do the Johns brothers use?
The Johns brothers, Kyle and Ben, use Engage Pickleball paddles customized to their preferences and playing styles. These paddles are often characterized by a balance of power, control, and maneuverability to optimize their performance on the pickleball court.
(2.2) Tyson McGuffin – Engage Elite Pro Maverick
Tyson McGuffin is a multiple-time national champion and is known for his power and agility on the court. He uses the Engage Elite Pro Maverick paddle, which features a unique “Control Pro” technology that provides enhanced ball control and spin. The paddle’s composite materials and carbon fiber face also provide excellent power and durability.
Special Features
The Maxima paddle has a thicker core, which provides a great balance between power and control.
(2.3) Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters – Pro Kennex Kinetic Pro Speed
Sisters Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters are a formidable doubles team, and they both use the ProKennex Kinetic Pro Speed paddle. This paddle features a “Kinetic” technology that reduces shock and vibration, providing a comfortable and stable feel for players. The paddle’s composite materials and textured face also provide excellent power and control.
Special Features
The paddle has a textured surface, which helps to increase the player’s grip and control over the ball.
(2.4) Lucy Kovalova and Matt Wright – Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro
Lucy Kovalova and Matt Wright are one of the top mixed doubles teams in pickleball, and they both use the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro paddle. This paddle features a unique wave-shaped design that provides enhanced ball control and reduces wind resistance. The paddle’s composite materials and textured face also provide excellent power and control.
Special Features
The paddle is made with a special polymer core that helps to reduce vibration and increase the player’s comfort while playing.
(2.5) Riley Newman and Lindsey Newman – Onix Evoke Premier
Riley and Lindsey Newman are a husband and wife doubles team, and they both use the Onix Evoke Premier paddle. This paddle features a unique “FiberFlex” technology that provides enhanced ball control and reduces vibration. The paddle’s composite materials and rough texture face also provide excellent power and control.
Special Features
The paddle has a special polymer core that helps to reduce vibration and increase the player’s comfort while playing.
(2.6) Catherine Parenteau – Engage Encore Pro
Catherine Parenteau is a top women’s player and uses the Engage Encore Pro paddle. This paddle features a unique “ControlPro” technology that provides enhanced ball control and spin. The paddle’s composite materials and carbon fiber face also provide excellent power and durability.
Special Features
The paddle has a textured surface, which helps to increase the player’s grip and control over the ball.
What is the difference between Simone and Ben Johns paddles?
The main difference between Simone and Ben Johns’ paddles lies in their customization to suit each player’s unique preferences and playing styles. While both may use Engage Pickleball paddles, specific features such as grip size, weight, and surface texture may vary.
(3) Pro Pickler Sayings About Pickleball Paddles
- “Your paddle is your weapon on the court, so choose it wisely.” – Ben Johns
- “It’s not about the brand of the paddle, it’s about how it feels in your hand.” – Leigh Waters
- “Find a paddle that feels like an extension of your arm.” – Tyson McGuffin
Final Thoughts
To wrape the discusion, there is no single pickleball paddle that all professional players use, there are several brands and models that are favored by many top players. Selkirk, Engage, and Paddletek are among the most popular brands among professional players, with models like the Selkirk AMPED, Engage Encore Pro, and Paddletek Tempest Wave leading the way. However, it’s important to note that the best paddle for any player, pro or otherwise, is ultimately a matter of personal preference and playing style. It’s always a good idea to try out different paddles and see what works best for you.
Do any pros use Gearbox paddles?
Yes, several professional pickleball players use Gearbox paddles, including #1 ranked player Ben Johns. Other notable players who use Gearbox paddles include Christine McGrath, Daniel Moore, and Jocelyn Devilliers. Gearbox paddles are known for their durability, power, and control, making them a popular choice among pro players.
What pickleball paddles do pro women use?
Top-tier women often use a variety of pickleball paddles from brands like Selkirk, Engage, and Paddletek. These paddles are customized to their preferences, offering a balance of power, control, and agility for competitive play.
What is the most popular pickleball paddle among professionals?
The most popular pickleball paddle among professionals varies, as it ultimately depends on personal preference. However, some popular brands among pros include Selkirk, Engage, Paddletek, and Onix. Many top players also have their own signature paddle models.
Do professional pickleball players use specific brands of paddles?
Yes, professional pickleball players tend to use specific brands of paddles, often because they have endorsement deals with those brands. However, there are also players who choose their paddles based on personal preference, regardless of brand affiliation. Some of the popular brands used by professionals include Selkirk, Engage, Paddletek, and Franklin.
