Popular Pickleball Paddles of 2022: A Look Back
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This is an archive of 2022 best sellers. Paddles and prices have changed since. See the current best-rated paddles →
Pickleball paddles, they're like a trusty sidekick, always there to help ya' knock it outta the park! With so many different styles and brands to choose from, it's hard to know which one to pick. But fear not, my fellow pickleball enthusiasts, we've done the leg work for ya'! We've rounded up 17 popular paddles from 2022 so you don't have to. This is a look back, and models, prices and approval status have changed since, so check current details before you buy. We do not have sales data, so the list is not a ranking.
So, let's get down to business. One of the most talked-about paddles of 2022 was the Electrum Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddle. It was a popular paddle that year, known for its light feel and shot-making.
But, if you're looking for something a little more top-of-the-line, we've got you covered. The VANGUARD Power Air Invikta Paddle was one of the most expensive paddles on this list, aimed at serious players who want power and spin.
And for all you budget-conscious ballers out there, we've got the Champion Eclipse Graphite Pickleball Paddle. This budget-friendly option was the least expensive paddle on this list. So, whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone on this list!
So, grab a cold beverage, sit back, and take a look through the year's popular paddles. We hope you find a paddle that suits your playing style.
1. Electrum Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddle Review
The Electrum Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a wide-body paddle with a thinner core and a graphite face that gives a lively hit. The cushion grip handle gives you a comfortable hold and the mid-weight makes it easy to maneuver.
Pros
- Lively feel for players who like to attack
- Wide-body paddle with a thinner core
- Balanced construction
- Fiberglass/Graphite face
- Polypropylene honeycomb core
- Cushion comfort grip
- Mid-weight design
Cons
- Expensive compared to other paddles
- Grip may be too thin for some players
- Not available in a variety of colors
2. SELKIRK VANGUARD POWER AIR INVIKTA Review
The VANGUARD POWER AIR INVIKTA is a high-performance pickleball paddle developed by Selkirk Pickleball. It is known for its power and reach. The paddle uses Selkirk's Power Air technology, which is aimed at power and spin. It is perfect for attacking play, with its power and spin capabilities. However, it may not be the best choice for control play, especially up close. The handle is comfortable to grip, the overall look of the paddle is very professional, and it gives a great feel while playing. It is a great option for advanced players who have better technique and control over their shots.
Pros
- Generates a lot of power, spin and speed
- Provides great reach and surface area
- Elongated shape and large sweet spot provide more power and spin
- Sleek and modern design
- Comfortable handle with Selkirk's popular Geo Grip
- Durable surface
- Great for attacking play
Cons
- Can be difficult to control up close
- Learning curve to control power of shots
- Not the best choice for control play
- May not be suitable for beginners
- Some players might find it too powerful for their playing style
3. Champion Eclipse Graphite Pickleball Paddle Review
The Champion Eclipse Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a budget-friendly paddle with a quick, lightweight feel and a graphite face that gives good pop. The small grip circumference allows for comfortable handling, and the paddle weighs in at 7.3 to 7.8 ounces. The paddle also comes with a lightweight cover included. It is a lightweight, budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Lightweight construction makes it easily maneuverable.
- Graphite face gives some pop.
- Small grip circumference provides comfortable handling.
- Was on the USA Pickleball approved list in 2022 (check the current list).
- Suits beginners and recreational players.
Cons
- The paddle is only available in one size and shape.
- It is fairly lightweight, which may not suit players who prefer heavier paddles.
4. Electrum Pro 2 Review
The Electrum Pro 2 pickleball paddle is an excellent choice for experienced players looking for power and control. It features an 11mm full-cell polymer core, 8-inch paddle width, 16-inch paddle length, and a 5 1/4-inch grip length. The grip circumference measures 4 1/4 inches. The paddle is balanced and slightly longer for extra reach. It also has good spin potential and control, allowing you to make accurate shots with precision.
Pros
- Polymer core for control
- Slightly longer paddle for extra reach
- Full-cell construction for superior feel and touch
- Reported to come with a paddle cover
- Roughly 5 1/4" handle length with a 4 1/4" grip circumference
Cons
- Not the lightest paddle available; reported weight is around 8.7 ounces.
- The price point is higher than some other paddles on the market.
5. GAMMA Compass Graphite Pickleball Paddle Review
The GAMMA Compass Graphite Pickleball Paddle is 16-5/8" long and weighs about 7-3/4 oz. It was USAPA tournament approved when this was written and has a textured graphite face and a honeycomb grip. The paddle also features a 4-3/4" long handle with a small grip that allows for quick maneuvering. It has an elongated shape with extra length for reach and a textured graphite face for touch and control.
Pros
- Graphite face for touch
- Textured surface for control
- 16-5/8" length with 4-3/4" handle for improved reach
- Small grip for quick maneuverability
- Was approved for USAPA tournament play when written (check current list)
- Signature honeycomb grip for added comfort
- Weight of 7-3/4 oz for a light and responsive paddle
- 1/2" thick core
Cons
- Expensive compared to other paddles
- Not suitable for players with larger hands
- Weight of the paddle may be too light for some players
- Small sweet spot
6. GAMMA Hellbender Graphite Pickleball Paddle Review
The GAMMA Hellbender Graphite Pickleball Paddle is aimed at intermediate players. It offers a fairly large sweet spot, some extra reach and responsive play. The textured graphite face also enhances touch and helps to promote spin and control. Leveraging GAMMA NeuCore Technology, the Hellbender features a 25% thicker celled core, making it a great option for those seeking a medium-weight paddle with a slightly lighter feel for extra speed during exchanges.
Pros
- Textured graphite face enhances touch, spin, and control
- GAMMA NeuCore technology
- 25% thicker celled core
- 16-1/8 inches long, 7-5/8 inches wide and has a teardrop shape
- Weight average of 7.6 oz, giving it a medium weight slightly on the lighter end
- Large sweet spot, increased reach, responsive play, and accuracy
Cons
- Price may be too expensive for some people.
- May not be as balanced as some more lightweight paddles.
- Not as long as some other elongated paddles.
- Does not have a lot of power behind it.
7. Oneshot Pureshot Brian Ashworth Series Paddle Review
The Oneshot Pureshot Brian Ashworth Series Paddle is a carbon fiber paddle with a 4 1/2" circumference grip. The paddle's surface is textured with black hexagons for spin. The polymer core is 16 mm (0.63") thick, which softens impact and vibration. It was USAPA approved when this was written (check the current list).
Pros
- Medium weight at 7.9-8.3 oz
- Grip circumference of 4 1/2"
- Textured carbon fiber surface with black hexagons for spin
- Polymer core, 16mm (0.63") thick, for a soft feel
- Was USAPA approved when written (check current list)
Cons
- Expensive compared to other paddles on the market
- Not suitable for beginner pickleball players
- Uncomfortable grip for some players
- The weight of the paddle is not adjustable
8. Joola Vision Cgs 16 Review
The JOOLA Vision CGS 16 Pickleball Paddle is an elongated paddle for competitive players who want an expanded hitting area. The Carbon Grip Surface adds spin, while the AERO-CURV head shape and elongated build provide reach. It features a 16mm core. This carbon fiber paddle is 16.4 inches long, weighs about 7.8 oz and has a 4-1/2 inch grip size.
Pros
- Expanded hitting area
- Carbon Grip Surface (CGS) for spin
- AERO-CURV head shape
- 16mm core for a softer feel
- Medium weight, about 7.8 oz
- Textured surface
Cons
- Elongated shape may take some getting used to.
- The Carbon Grip Surface may not be suitable for all players, as it can be slippery to some.
- The paddle is more expensive than other paddles on the market.
- The paddle has a shorter handle than other paddles, which may not be comfortable for all players.
9. Tempest Wave Pro Graphite Paddle
The Tempest Wave Pro Graphite Paddle is a Paddletek graphite paddle. Featuring Paddletek's Smart Response Technology, it aims to improve the feel and sensitivity of the original Tempest Wave. Weighing in at 7.2-7.8 ounces, the paddle is lightweight and offers a thin or cushion grip for added comfort and control. It is a balanced option for a range of players.
Pros
- Accurate feel
- Power and forgiveness
- Smart Response Technology for a stronger feel and sensitivity
- Light-to-medium weight, 7.2-7.8 ounces
- Grip style of thin or cushion
Cons
- Pricey compared to other paddles
- Grip size may be too small for some players
- Not as durable as some other paddles
- Not as spin friendly as some other paddles
10. SLK Evo Hybrid & Soft
If you're just starting out, the SLK Evo Hybrid & Soft is worth a look. It is lightweight, soft and comfortable, which suits beginners who want a forgiving paddle. It is also a durable paddle for the money, and it suits players who want a large sweet spot and a thicker core. The SLK Rev-Soft Core absorbs impact for a softer feel while still delivering court power.
Pros
- Large sweet spot
- Ultra-comfortable grip
- Affordable price point
- Good value for beginner and intermediate players
- Combines power and control on the court
- C6-Flex fiberglass face for a balance of power and control
- Polymer Rev-Core interior
Cons
- No major issues for beginners
11. Paddle Candy Sugar Skull By Vulcan Review
The Vulcan Paddle Candy Sugar Skull Pickleball Paddle is a Vulcan paddle with a decorative skull design. Featuring a vibrant skull embellished with swirls, flowers and dots of color, the paddle has a carbon fiber face and a middleweight build. It is mainly a choice for players who want a distinctive look.
Pros
- Striking design featuring ornate skull with swirls, flowers and dots of color in bright neon shades
- Middleweight carbon fiber construction
Cons
- Expensive
- Unforgiving on off-center shots
- Bright neon colors may be distracting
- Not suitable for beginners
12. Onix Graphite Z5 Review
The Onix Graphite Z5 is a long-running, popular paddle for beginners and recreational players. It boasts excellent touch and ball control thanks to its graphite face and Nomex honeycomb core. The wide-body shape provides a large sweet spot for more consistent play, and the paddle handle mimics the shape of a table tennis racquet for added comfort. It's well-balanced in the hand and its medium weight (about 7.5 to 8.2 oz) is easy to maneuver on the court.
Pros
- Graphite face and Nomex honeycomb core for touch and control
- Wide body shape for a large sweet spot
- Ergonomic handle mimics the shape of a table tennis racquet
- Medium weight, 7.5 - 8.2 oz
- Popular with beginner to intermediate players
Cons
- Price may be too expensive for some players
- Can feel heavy to some players
- The handle may feel uncomfortable for some players
- It may take some time to get used to the paddle
- Slippery Handle
13. CRBN-1 Carbon Fiber Paddle Review
The CRBN-1 Carbon Fiber Paddle is a carbon fiber paddle with a gritty raw T700 carbon face. It measures 16.5 x 7.5 inches, comes in 16 mm and 13 mm core thicknesses, and weighs about 8.0-8.3 oz.
Pros
- Gritty raw carbon fiber face
- Medium weight, 8.0-8.3 oz
- 16.5" x 7.5" elongated size for reach
- Choice of 16 mm (more control) or 13 mm (more power) cores
- Facing material made of Raw T700 Carbon Fiber
Cons
- Expensive price tag
- Larger size may be difficult for smaller players to handle
14. GAMMA Jester Graphite Paddle Review
The GAMMA Jester Graphite Paddle is an excellent choice for players looking to increase their spin. It is lightweight and has a small grip circumference, making it easy to handle. In addition, the textured graphite surface helps generate spin and control, while the Honeycomb cushion grip provides added comfort. The 4-3/4" handle length offers a great feel, and the paddle plays well from baseline and the net. For those looking for a paddle to help improve their spin, the GAMMA Jester Graphite Paddle is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Lightweight at 7.5 oz average
- Small grip circumference
- 4-3/4" handle length
- Textured graphite surface to generate spin and control
- Comfortable Honeycomb cushion grip
- Grip size 4 1/8 inches
- Increased spin
- Plays well from baseline and the net
Cons
- Handle is slightly short
- Grip circumference is small
- Graphite surface can be slippery
15. Paddle Candy Turtle Paddle Review
The Paddle Candy Turtle Paddle is a decorative paddle made in the style of the Vulcan V520 Control Pickleball Paddle, which is aimed at control and feel. The paddle weighs an average of 7.8 oz and has a turquoise background with a sea turtle pattern.
Pros
- Made in the style of the Vulcan V520 Control Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle has a distinct, character-based design
- Weighs an average of 7.8 oz
- Turquoise background with a stylized sea turtle design
16. Rally Tyro 2 Pro Paddle Review
The Rally Tyro 2 Pro Paddle is an affordable polymer-core paddle. It has a polypropylene honeycomb core and polycarbonate facing which provide a balanced weight, great control, and great power. The paddle is 15.57 inches long and 7.875 inches wide, and it has a grip length of 4.25 inches and a circumference of 4.375 inches – making it an ideal size for most players. The weight of the paddle is 7.7-8.0 ounces, which makes it light and easy to maneuver without sacrificing power. The handle is of an above-average length, giving you enough room to adjust your grip and maneuver the paddle better.
Pros
- Above average handle length for better grip and positioning
- Balanced weight for better control
- Economical polymer core paddle
- Polypropylene honeycomb core for vibration dampening
- Polycarbonate facing for durability
Cons
- Weight not adjustable
- Grip circumference/length may be too small for some players
- No edge guard
- Longer handle length may be uncomfortable for some players
- Premium materials not used
17. JOOLA Radius CGS 16 Graphite Paddle Review
The JOOLA Radius CGS 16 Graphite Paddle is a round-shaped paddle for players who want a combination of spin and control. The paddle has a unique, ping-pong inspired shape that gives it a large edge-to-edge sweet spot and a 16mm Response polymer honeycomb core. It also features a Carbon Grip textured surface for spin and comes in a roughly 7.4 to 7.8 oz range.
Pros
- Large sweet spot from the round shape
- Ping-pong inspired shape offers a bigger playing surface area
- Weighs in the 7.4-7.8 oz range
- Textured Carbon Grip surface for spin
- 16mm Response polymer core
Cons
- Price is on the higher end
- Medium weight
- Round shape has less reach than elongated paddles
- No edge guard
Key Components of a Pickleball Paddle
A pickleball paddle is made up of several key components that can affect its performance. The following are some of the essential elements to consider when selecting a paddle.
Paddle Materials
Paddles are described by their face and core materials. Faces are commonly fiberglass (often called composite), graphite or carbon fiber, and cores are usually polymer honeycomb, Nomex or aluminum. Wood paddles are the cheapest but heavy and rarely used by regular players.
Fiberglass faces are popular and budget-friendly, while graphite and carbon fiber faces cost more and are favored for touch and spin.
Paddle Weight
The weight of a paddle is another critical factor to consider when selecting a pickleball paddle. Paddles typically weigh about 6.5 to 9 ounces, with most players opting for a paddle in the 7.5 to 8.5-ounce range. A lighter paddle can provide better control and maneuverability, while a heavier paddle can provide more power.
Grip
A comfortable and secure grip is essential for a good pickleball paddle. The grip should be comfortable and provide a non-slip surface. There are two types of grips to consider: cushioned and perforated. Cushioned grips provide a softer, more comfortable grip, while perforated grips allow for more ventilation, reducing sweating.
Paddle Shape and Size
The shape and size of a pickleball paddle can also impact its performance. Most paddles are a rounded rectangle in standard (wide-body), elongated or hybrid shapes. A typical standard paddle is about 8 inches wide by 15.75 inches long, and USA Pickleball limits length plus width to 24 inches. Wider paddles have a bigger sweet spot, while elongated paddles add reach.
Sweet Spot
The sweet spot is the area of the paddle where hits feel the cleanest and most consistent. The size and location of the sweet spot can vary from paddle to paddle. It's essential to find a paddle with a sweet spot that matches your playing style.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pickleball Paddle
There are several factors to consider when selecting a pickleball paddle that meets your needs. Here are some essential considerations.
Player Skill Level
Your skill level can impact the type of pickleball paddle you need. Beginners often do well with a light-to-medium paddle with a large sweet spot, while advanced players may choose based on the power, spin and reach they want.
Playing Style
Your playing style can also impact the type of paddle you need. Players who prefer a defensive or soft-game style may opt for a lighter paddle with better maneuverability, while those who prefer an aggressive style may choose a heavier or more power-oriented paddle.
Budget
Pickleball paddles can range in price from less than $20 to over $200. It's important to consider your budget when selecting a paddle, but keep in mind that the most expensive option may not always be the best choice for you.
Personal Preferences
Your personal preferences can also play a role in selecting a pickleball paddle. Consider factors such as color, brand, and paddle design when making your selection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Pickleball Paddle
There are several common mistakes that people make when selecting a pickleball paddle. Avoiding these mistakes can help you select the best paddle for your needs.
Buying Based on Price Alone
Price is an essential consideration when selecting a pickleball paddle, but it should not be the only factor. It's important to consider the other factors we have discussed to ensure that you get a paddle that meets your needs.
Choosing a Paddle Based on Brand
Brand recognition can be a powerful influence when selecting a pickleball paddle, but it's not always the best way to choose. It's important to consider the paddle's features and how they match your needs instead of just relying on a brand name.
Not Considering the Weight
The weight of a pickleball paddle can impact your performance, so it's essential to consider this factor when selecting a paddle. Make sure you select a paddle that feels comfortable and provides the level of control and power that you need.
In conclusion, 2022 brought many paddle options. Two we'd mention from this list are the Electrum Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddle and the GAMMA Hellbender Graphite Pickleball Paddle are two top contenders worth mentioning.
The Electrum Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddle was a popular option that year. And, the GAMMA Hellbender Graphite Pickleball Paddle was like the wild card of the bunch. This paddle offered a responsive feel and a distinctive look.
So, whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned player, these two paddles are worth a look. Check current models and availability.
