When it comes to pickleball gear, paddles are the crown jewel. They define your feel, power, and control on the court. So naturally, everyone wants to know: What’s the best one?
Truth is, there’s no single answer—but a few names always rise to the top.
What Makes a Paddle the Best?
To figure out what the #1 rated pickleball paddle really is, we have to look at what “rated” means. Reviews, rankings, and expert picks tend to focus on a few things:
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Power: How hard can it drive the ball?
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Control: How precise are your shots?
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Feel: Does it give good feedback or feel muted?
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Weight: Light for finesse, heavy for power
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Surface material: Graphite, fiberglass, carbon fiber—each has perks
The top paddles do all of these well. But your needs might tilt the scale one way or the other.
Top Contenders for the #1 Spot
According to players, reviewers, and tournament stats, these paddles consistently rank high:
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JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion: A favorite of pros, it offers a great balance of power and control.
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Selkirk Vanguard Power Air: Lightweight, aggressive, and tournament-tough.
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CRBN 1X: Known for its gritty spin surface and clean design.
But remember: the “best” paddle is the one that feels right to you.
What Paddle Do Most Pros Use?
Many top-tier pros play with JOOLA paddles—especially Ben Johns. His signature paddle, the Hyperion CFS 16mm, has made a huge splash in both amateur and pro circles.
Others swear by Selkirk, Electrum, and Gearbox paddles. It depends on their playstyle and sponsorship deals.
Still, even pros often make personal tweaks—like weight adjustments or grip changes. A Jet Black Paddle Band is a popular way to improve feel and identify your paddle quickly.
Does a High-End Paddle Really Make a Difference?
Yes… and no. Here’s how to know:
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If you’re brand new, any paddle will do—just get playing.
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If you’re leveling up, a better paddle can:
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Increase consistency
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Reduce arm fatigue
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Help you develop your unique game style
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But remember: even the best paddle won’t fix poor footwork or decision-making. That comes with time.
Still, combining skill-building with great gear gives you a major edge.
Is Price Everything?
Definitely not.
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$40–$70 paddles: Great for beginners.
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$100–$160 paddles: Ideal for intermediate players.
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$200+ paddles: Designed for serious competitors.
But a $250 paddle won’t help if it doesn’t fit your style. Try before you buy if possible—and always customize it with comfort in mind. Add a Jet Black Paddle Band for instant improvement and identification.
How to Know If a Paddle Is Right for You
Instead of asking, “What’s the #1 paddle?” ask these:
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Is the grip size comfortable?
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Can I control my shots better with this paddle?
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Does the weight match my strength and play style?
Use accessories to personalize your paddle:
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Jet Black Paddle Band for grip and sweat absorption
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Pickleball keychains and accessories to express your style
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Custom markings so it never gets lost on busy courts
Final Rally: Play Your Best With the Right Setup
The number one rated pickleball paddle might look different for everyone—but the right one will feel like an extension of your arm.
Whether you go with a JOOLA, a Selkirk, or something else entirely, take time to get the grip, weight, and feel dialed in.
Then accessorize with gear from CustomPickleballBands.com, including the Jet Black Paddle Band and more tools to keep your paddle game strong.
Because the real #1 paddle? It’s the one that makes you unstoppable.