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General
The Complete Pickleball Paddle Buying Guide
Carbon vs fiberglass, weight, grip, and core type — all explained clearly, so you can choose the right paddle without wasting money.
Quick Answer for Most Beginners
New to pickleball? Start with a mid-weight fiberglass paddle (7.3-8.4oz, $30-60). Fiberglass has a softer, more forgiving face than carbon fiber, so it won’t punish off-centre hits while you’re still learning. Upgrade to carbon fiber once you’ve settled into your playing style.
Face Material
Carbon Fiber vs Fiberglass
Fiberglass (Composite)
Softer face for more “pop” and power. Larger sweet spot, more forgiving on off-centre hits. Great for beginners who rely on power over precision. Typically $30-80.
✓ Best for beginners
✓ Larger sweet spot
✓ Lower price point
✗ Less spin control
✗ Less touch & feel
Carbon Fiber (Raw / T700)
Stiffer face for more spin, better control, and precise dinking. Smaller sweet spot punishes mishits. Preferred by intermediate and advanced players. Typically $80-200+.
✓ More spin potential
✓ Better touch & feel
✓ Precision control
✗ Smaller sweet spot
✗ Higher cost
Paddle Weight
Weight Guide
LIGHTWEIGHT
Under 7.3oz
Easier on the arm, more control, quick reactions, less power. Good for players with arm issues or smaller builds.
MID-WEIGHT — RECOMMENDED
7.3 – 8.4oz
Best balance of power and control. Suits most players at most levels — start here if unsure. Most beginner and intermediate paddles fall in this range.
HEAVYWEIGHT
Over 8.4oz
Maximum power, but can strain wrist and elbow over time. Good for baseline players and power hitters. Not recommended for beginners.
Grip Size
How to Choose Your Grip Size
Grip circumference affects wrist snap (spin) and arm stress. Most paddle grips come in three sizes: 4″ (small), 4⅛” (medium), 4¼” (large).
4″ – Small
More wrist action, more spin. Smaller hands. Easy to add an overgrip to increase size.
4⅛” – Medium
Most popular size. Best starting point if you’ve never held a pickleball paddle before.
4¼” – Large
Less wrist snap, more stability and power. Reduces arm fatigue over longer sessions.
Core Types
Paddle Core Types Explained
The core determines feel, sound, and power. Almost all modern paddles use polymer honeycomb — including our own Pulse Pro 16 — but density varies significantly between brands.
Polymer Honeycomb
MOST COMMON — RECOMMENDED
Quiet, soft feel, good power. Used in most modern paddles including the Pulse Pro 16. Best all-round option.
Nomex Honeycomb
HARDER · LOUDER · LEGACY
Older technology. Hard core, loud pop, more power but less control. Avoid if court noise is a concern.
Aluminum Honeycomb
RARE · BUDGET RANGE
Entry-level. Soft feel, less responsive. Fine for a first paddle, but most players upgrade quickly.
Budget Guide
How Much Should You Spend?
Under $40
First Timer
Good enough to learn. Fiberglass composite. Expect to upgrade within 3-6 months.
Best for Most
$40 – $80
Solid Choice
Good fiberglass or entry carbon. Will last 1-2 years of regular play — like the Pulse Pro 16.
$80 – $150
Intermediate
Carbon fiber face, T700 raw carbon. Worth it once you’re playing 2+ times a week.
$150+
Advanced
Tour-level paddles for competitive play. Don’t spend here until you’re playing 3+ times a week.
Built With Everything Above in Mind
The Pulse Pro 16 — Toray T700 raw carbon face, thermoformed unibody, 16mm control platform, 228g ±5g.