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.
Are Expensive Pickleball Paddles Worth It?
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It depends on who you ask, but the answer tends to veer toward “yes.” Cost-effective paddles often suffer from rapid wear and tear, becoming unfit for play. This is particularly true for beginners, whose unrefined and often forceful strokes can take a toll on cheaper paddles.
Investing in a pricier paddle gives you a better shot at longevity and a seamless experience for rookies and seasoned players. High-quality paddles tend to be more resistant to hard-hitting shots, and are calibrated to more exact specifications offering a superior pickleball experience.
If you’re looking for a variety of paddles, consider a pickleball mystery box.
Do Expensive Paddles Make a Difference?
While pricier paddles don’t always guarantee superiority, some manufacturers have begun utilizing advanced polymers with enhanced durability and a consistent feel. This results in more accurate shots, which is crucial for competitive players. Investing in a top-tier paddle is a wise decision for those seeking longevity and exceptional performance.
Budgeting for a Pickleball Paddle: How Much to Spend?
Selecting the perfect pickleball paddle involves several considerations. Paddles can range from $50 to $350, but it’s important to remember that high-quality paddles can last for years. In my experience, anything under $50 will only be OK for an absolute beginner who will rarely play.
When exploring different brands and models, weight is a key factor. Heavier paddles offer durability and better grip, while lighter paddles are more maneuverable but may need to be sturdier. The type of ball you’ll be using also plays a role, with most paddles featuring either a rubber or composite ball mount.
Most Expensive Pickleball Paddles
Engage Pursuit Ultra EX – $260
The Engage Pursuit Ultra EX, crafted from superior carbon fiber, is an outstanding choice for pickleball enthusiasts seeking a combination of force and precision. Its sturdy construction promises remarkable power and resilience, while the textured exterior enhances shot spin generation. The paddle’s well-proportioned balance ensures effortless maneuverability, making it an excellent option for those wanting to elevate their pickleball performance.
Highlighted attributes of the Engage Pursuit Ultra EX carbon fiber paddle include:
- Premium carbon fiber construction
- Surface texture designed for enhanced spin
- Exceptional balance for effortless handling
- Outstanding power and long-lasting durability
For pickleball players aiming to improve their game, the Engage Pursuit Ultra EX carbon fiber paddle stands as a compelling choice.
Engage recently launched the Engage Pursuit Pro MX 6.0 Pickleball Paddle with a “Raw T700 Toray Carbon Fiber Face.” Retails for $260.
Selkirk Project 003 – $333
The Selkirk Project 003 paddle, featuring a top-notch polymer honeycomb core, emerges as a superior choice for pickleball enthusiasts desiring both might and mastery. This paddle’s robust construction ensures remarkable strength and longevity, while the textured facade aids in creating increased shot spin. Thanks to its excellent balance, the paddle offers effortless command, making it a prime option for those seeking to upgrade their pickleball prowess.
Prominent attributes of the Selkirk Project 003 paddle encompass:
- Constructed with a superior polymer honeycomb core
- Textured exterior designed for increased spin
- Perfectly balanced for intuitive handling
- Demonstrates impressive power and endurance
For individuals aiming to amplify their pickleball performance, the Selkirk Project 003 paddle is a compelling proposition.
ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro – $250
The ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro paddle, manufactured from superior Toray carbon fiber, stands out as an exceptional option for pickleball participants who desire a blend of force and precision. Its robust make assures impressive potency and longevity, while its textured surface promotes amplified shot spin. The paddle’s optimal balance ensures effortless maneuverability, positioning it as an excellent choice for those wanting to enhance their pickleball skills.
Here are the noteworthy characteristics of the ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro paddle:
- Crafted with high-grade Toray carbon fiber
- Textured exterior for added spin
- Perfectly balanced for intuitive handling
- Delivers exceptional power and durability
For players wanting to elevate their pickleball gameplay, the ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro emerges as a compelling choice.
In summary, the ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro paddle is a superb choice for pickleball enthusiasts seeking both power and control.
Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power – $250
The Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power paddle, constructed with a superior Solid Span Technology (SST) core, is an exceptional option for pickleball players seeking a perfect blend of strength and precision. The paddle’s robust build guarantees noteworthy power and resilience, while its textured exterior aids in increasing spin on each shot. With its excellent balance, the paddle allows for effortless command, positioning it as an ideal choice for those aiming to boost their pickleball performance.
Here are the notable attributes of the Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power paddle:
- Built with a premium SST core
- Textured surface designed for enhanced spin
- Perfectly balanced for easy maneuverability
- Delivers exceptional power and durability
For pickleball enthusiasts who want to elevate their gameplay, the Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power emerges as a compelling contender.
Adidas Metalbone Pickleball Paddle – $260
The Adidas Metalbone Pickleball Paddle, constructed with an innovative PMI foam core, offers pickleball players an optimal blend of power and control. Its robust yet lightweight build generates impressive pop on shots while allowing for precise placements. With its customizable weight system, the paddle enables easy adjustment to match each player’s preferences. Here are the key features of the Adidas Metalbone Pickleball Paddle:
- 13mm PMI foam core provides rigid, lightweight performance
- Weight & Balance System allows customization of weight distribution
- Perimeter carbon fibers add stability and aerodynamic edgeless design
- Textured C18 carbon fiber face promotes fantastic spin
- Familiar proportions including 16.5″ length and 7.5″ width
For pickleballers seeking to take their game to the next level, the technology-packed Adidas Metalbone is an exciting new option worth strong consideration.
Selkirk LUXX Control Air Pickleball Paddle – $260
The Selkirk LUXX Control Air Pickleball Paddle, constructed with groundbreaking Florek Carbon Fiber technology, gives balanced pickleball players unmatched control and feel. Its innovative composition enlarges the sweet spot for more consistent shots while providing added power on drives. With its widened hitting area, the paddle enables pinpoint placement and optimal performance during gameplay. Here are the key features of the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Pickleball Paddle:
- Revolutionary Florek Carbon Fiber expands the paddle’s sweet spot
- Innovative construction amplifies power on drives
- Wider hitting area allows for more consistent, accurate shots
- Enables optimal control and performance for balanced play
For pickleballers seeking the ultimate control paddle to elevate their balanced game, the technology-driven Selkirk LUXX Control Air is a trailblazing new option.
Gearbox PRO Control Elongated Pickleball Paddle – $275
The Gearbox PRO Control Elongated Pickleball Paddle, featuring an innovative 14mm SST carbon fiber core, gives control players the added reach and precision they need to dictate play. Its specially designed core provides a large sweet spot for consistent shots while damping vibration. The paddle enables exact dinks, quick reflexes at the net, and unmatched control to seize the advantage. Here are the key features of the Gearbox PRO Control Elongated Pickleball Paddle:
- 14mm SST carbon fiber core creates large sweet spot
- Impressive vibration damping for touch and feel
- Allows precise dinks and quick reflexes up front
- Elongated 16.5″ x 7-3/8″ shape for added reach
- Quiet tech emits low decibel “knock” on shots
For pickleballers who desire more control up front, the innovative Gearbox PRO Control Elongated is an elite option worth strong consideration.
Joola Ben Johns Hyperion – $200
The Joola Ben Johns Hyperion paddle, crafted from high-grade carbon fiber, is an outstanding choice for pickleball players who are seeking a blend of strength and precision. Its sturdy construction promises remarkable power and longevity, while the textured facade enhances shot spin generation. The paddle’s well-proportioned balance ensures effortless maneuverability, making it an excellent option for those wanting to elevate their pickleball performance.
Here are the noteworthy features of the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion paddle:
- Constructed with superior carbon fiber material
- Surface texture designed for increased spin
- Exceptionally balanced for intuitive handling
- Delivers impressive power and endurance
For pickleball players aiming to improve their game, the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion paddle stands as a compelling choice for those looking for a high end paddle.
Joola Ben Johns Perseus Gold Collector’s Edition – $999
In a momentous occasion, Ben Johns, the globe’s top-ranked pickleball athlete, clinched his 100th gold medal on the PPA tour at the mere age of 24. This unparalleled achievement in the sport stands as a testament to his skill. Joola used the opportunity to commemorate the event with a limited-edition, autographed paddle. I don’t think you’ll find anyone hitting with it at open play, but you will find them listed on eBay for 10x the original cost. I’m just not feeling this.
Third Shot Drop Special Edition – $325
The Third Shot Drop Special Edition paddle, crafted from superior Nomex core, stands out as an exceptional option for pickleball enthusiasts desiring both might and mastery. Its robust construction promises impressive strength and longevity, while the textured exterior enhances shot spin generation. The paddle’s well-proportioned balance ensures effortless maneuverability, making it an excellent option for those wanting to boost their pickleball skills.
Highlighted attributes of the Third Shot Drop Special Edition paddle include:
- Constructed with a superior Nomex core
- Surface texture designed for enhanced spin
- Exceptional balance for intuitive handling
- Outstanding power and durability
For pickleball players aiming to elevate their gameplay, the Third Shot Drop Special Edition paddle emerges as a compelling contender.
Whether you’re an ambitious beginner or a seasoned pickleball player, investing in a premium paddle could be the game-changer you’re seeking. The highlighted high-end paddles—Engage Pursuit Ultra EX, Selkirk Project 003, ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro, Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power, Joola Ben Johns Hyperion, and Third Shot Drop Special Edition—each offer unique features and advantages that may prove worth the investment.
6 Additional High End Pickleball Paddles to Consider
JOOLA Vision: Highlighted for advanced players, this paddle is noted for its maximum spin and control, along with added power features like Carbon Grip Surface (CGS) technology and a 16mm Response polymer core.
PROKENNEX Pro Flight: Described as a light, high-quality paddle designed for adult players, emphasizing balance between power and control with features like Kinetic and Cloud Core technologies.
Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro: Recommended for intermediate players, this paddle is appreciated for its control, accuracy, and speed, with a large sweet spot and textured graphite surface.
PROKENNEX Pro Speed II: A highly featured paddle for serious players, known for its Kinetic shock-absorbing system and edgeless design to resist wind.
Joola Ben Johns Hyperion Swift: Known for its textured carbon surface and reactive polymer core, this paddle is aimed at advanced players seeking improved technique and control.
Gearbox CX11E Control: Designed with advanced technology like Solid Span Technology (SST) and Hyper-Bite Spin Technology for improved spin and performance.
Of course, the longer a paddle is on the market, the more likely it is that the price will drop; there’s always a more expensive paddle waiting in the wings!
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