Gear Reviews - Pickleball Rookie

Used Pickleball Paddles – Everything You Need to Know

February 22, 2026September 1, 2023 by Drew Pierce

Buying used pickleball paddles online is an adventure.

The proliferation of the sport, coupled with the obsession many players have with finding the perfect paddle to gain an edge over the competition, and it’s no wonder that picking up a secondhand paddle is like navigating the Wild West.

I’ve been fortunate to have mostly positive experiences, securing some great deals on quality paddles that added value to my game. However, like any online purchase, buying used pickleball equipment has its pitfalls. But as expensive pickleball paddles proliferate the market, sometimes a used bargain is your best bet!

All About Using a Pickleball Paddle Eraser

February 21, 2026August 14, 2023 by Drew Pierce

A pickleball paddle eraser gives you one less excuse for losing.

If your Raw Carbon Fiber paddle feels smooth and has lost its spin, it is likely clogged with plastic residue from pickleballs. A Paddle Eraser is a rubber block that removes this debris without damaging the grit. It is the only safe way to clean raw carbon fiber; never use household cleaners, Magic Erasers, or water on a raw carbon face.

You know you’re a pickleball enthusiast when you’re fascinated by the sport and the nitty-gritty details of paddle maintenance. I’ve spent months whacking that perforated ball, but only recently stumbled upon the concept of a “pickleball eraser.” Sounds mythical, right?

How to Use Lead Tape for Pickleball Paddles

November 20, 2025June 15, 2023 by Drew Pierce

Over the years, players have been looking for ways to improve their gameplay, and one of the tactics that has gained popularity is using lead tape for pickleball paddles. Is this modification worth it? When should you add weight to your paddle? And where does the lead tape get added?

Avoiding Tennis Elbow in Pickleball: Your Paddle Matters

November 20, 2025June 1, 2023 by Drew Pierce

As with any paddle or racquet sport, players must consider the risk of developing pickleball injuries like tennis elbow. Given the importance of the paddle in this sport, many wonder, “Is a heavy or light pickleball paddle better for preventing tennis elbow?”

The Most Expensive Pickleball Paddles of 2026 (Ranked by Price)

April 21, 2026May 17, 2023 by Drew Pierce

The most expensive pickleball paddles (like the JOOLA Perseus and Selkirk LUXX) command premium prices due to carbon fiber construction, thermoforming, and pro endorsements. While they offer superior power and spin for advanced players, beginners often won’t notice the difference and can save money with mid-range alternatives.

You don’t always get what you pay for, but players still look to elevate to the next level by seeking out the most expensive pickleball paddle on the market. But does spending more money on equipment make you a better player?

Of course not.

But some of the more expensive paddles bring intriguing features.

Quick Answer: The most expensive pickleball paddle in 2026 is the JOOLA Ben Johns Gold Perseus, which retails for $999. For standard production models you can actually play with, the Tesla Plaid Pickleball Paddle by Selkirk followed by the Proton Series One at $280.

Pickleball Central Mystery Box Reveal 2023

November 20, 2025May 6, 2023 by Drew Pierce

I’m a sucker for a pickleball mystery box.

So when Pickleball Central recently alerted me that the grab bag was back in stock, I took the plunge and decided to see what I would receive the second time around.

Here’s our first Pickleball Central Mystery Box unboxing.

Pickleball Accessories and Gadgets to Level Up Your Game

March 1, 2026March 22, 2023 by Drew Pierce

From score counters to funky visors to compression gear, new pickleball accessories hit the market every day.

Hey there, pickleball fanatics! You know what they say: “Look good, feel good, play good.” As fellow pickleball enthusiasts, we understand that having the right accessories and gadgets can make a world of difference in your game. With pickleball skyrocketing in popularity, the world of pickleball treasures is overflowing with innovative and cutting-edge products designed to elevate your performance while ensuring you look and feel like a pro on the court.

Our Favorite Pickleball Outfits for 2023 and Beyond

March 1, 2026March 17, 2023 by Drew Pierce

Are you looking to level up your pickleball outfits with fresh pickleball clothes?

Pickleball offers players greater latitude when it comes to fashion rules, making the court a colorful place to be.

Look, it’s no secret that pickleball does not enjoy the same lauded reputation in the fashion world as tennis. Close your eyes and imagine the stereotypical pickleball player’s clothing. Are you envisioning a boxy shirt that features tacky, paddle-wielding pickles? Are the pickles wearing sweatbands and sunglasses? Yikes.

The Truth: How Long Does a Pickleball Paddle Last?

November 20, 2025January 23, 2023 by Drew Pierce

The longevity of a pickleball paddle is based on the frequency of play, the aggressiveness of your strokes, temperature, common-sense care, and several other variables.

The issue never occurred to me until two weeks ago when I was having a dreadful night on the court. Rather than self-reflect and recognize that I was tired, distracted, and frustrated, I did the next logical thing–I blamed my paddle. Equipment malfunction!

Pickleball Paddle Weight Guide- How to Choose the Right Equipment

November 20, 2025November 15, 2022 by Drew Pierce

Pickleball paddle weight is an important consideration when choosing your equipment.

Different weights for pickleball paddles offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the weight best suits your needs is essential.

There is no “best” weight for pickleball paddles, as different players have different preferences. However, most experts agree that pickleball paddle weight is a personal preference and that the best way to choose the right weight is to experiment with different weights until you find the one that feels best for you.