As a mid-level player, you’ve got the basics down: dinks, drives, drops—and maybe even the occasional ATP. But you’re also making more unforced errors than you’d like. You don’t need the flashiest paddle—you need the right one.
What Makes a Paddle Good for Intermediate Players?
Here’s what to look for:
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Balance: You want a mix of power and control.
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Forgiveness: A larger sweet spot helps on off-center hits.
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Weight: Midweight (7.8 to 8.4 oz) is the sweet spot.
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Grip: It should feel natural and help prevent slippage.
The best paddle for average players is one that boosts confidence, reduces mishits, and feels great in your hand for hours.
Top Paddle Recommendations for Average Players
While there’s no one-size-fits-all, here are some top contenders:
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Selkirk Amped S2: Known for control, great for doubles players.
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JOOLA Vision CGS 14mm: Softer feel, good for those improving their touch game.
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HEAD Radical Elite: Budget-friendly and super playable.
These paddles all offer generous sweet spots, manageable weight, and a feel that helps refine your technique.
Customize for Comfort and Performance
An often overlooked aspect? Accessories. Upgrading your grip can make even a good paddle feel elite.
Try a Jet Black Paddle Band for:
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Improved grip and sweat resistance
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Fast paddle identification
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A sleek custom look
Plus, you can check out CustomPickleballBands.com for matching keychains and name bands to keep your gear dialed in.
What to Avoid as an Intermediate Player
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Super heavy paddles: They can tire you out or cause injury.
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Ultra-light paddles: Less power, more instability.
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High-end pro paddles: Unless you're practicing daily, you probably don’t need the $250 model.
Stick with something reliable that improves your consistency and encourages confidence.
How to Test a Paddle Before You Buy
Many retailers (and local pickleball shops!) let you demo paddles. If not:
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Borrow from friends
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Read detailed reviews
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Choose something midweight with a decent face material like fiberglass or composite
Then personalize it. Start with a Jet Black Paddle Band—it's a small tweak that makes a big difference.
Final Tip: Accessorize for Success
Average players don’t need elite sponsorships—but they do need gear that’s dialed in for performance and style. That’s where small additions shine:
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Paddle bands for better grip
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Custom keychains to organize your bag
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Color-coded name tags from CustomPickleballBands.com so your paddle never gets mixed up
Final Rally: Upgrade Your Game the Smart Way
You’re past the beginner stage—so your gear should reflect that. Choose a paddle that offers balance, forgiveness, and feel, and back it up with the right accessories.
Need a first step? Grab the Jet Black Paddle Band and browse the full lineup at CustomPickleballBands.com.
You’ve got the skills. Now equip yourself with the tools to go even further.