The Best Performing Pickleball Paddles for Women in 2023

As the popularity of pickleball continues to soar, more and more women are finding themselves drawn to this exciting and fast-paced sport. Whether you are a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking to improve your game, having the right paddle can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore the best performing pickleball paddles for women in 2023, tailored specifically for female players who want to enhance their skills and enjoy the game to its fullest.

When it comes to choosing the perfect pickleball paddle, there are several factors to consider. From paddle weight and grip circumference to the material and design, finding a paddle that complements your playing style and skill level is crucial. We will dive into each of these aspects, discussing the pros and cons of various paddle types, including lightweight composite and graphite paddles, as well as heavier options for those seeking more power.

Additionally, we will explore grip sizes and the importance of a comfortable grip, which can greatly impact your performance on the court. We’ll also touch on paddle balance and the ideal weight for different playing styles, helping you find the paddle that meets your individual needs.

In conclusion, by understanding the key features and qualities to look for in a pickleball paddle, women can find the best paddle that offers control, power, durability, and an excellent overall playing experience. So, let’s dive into the world of pickleball paddles and discover the best options for female players in 2023. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, we have you covered with the top picks that are sure to enhance your game.

6 Paddle Characteristics for Female players to consider

Each of the following factors plays a vital role in determining which paddle will enhance your skills and maximize your enjoyment on the court. From paddle weight and grip circumference to the material and design, finding the right paddle tailored to your individual needs is essential. In this article, we will take a closer look at each of these characteristics, providing valuable insights and guidance to help you make the perfect pickleball paddle choice. So, let’s dive in and explore the six paddle characteristics that every female player should consider.

1. Grip circumference

Grip circumference directly affects how comfortable and secure you feel when holding the paddle, which ultimately impacts your overall performance on the court.

For female players, hand size is a key consideration when determining the appropriate grip circumference. Smaller hands may require a smaller grip size, while larger hands may require a larger grip size. Additionally, your playing style can also influence the grip circumference you choose.

To choose the right grip circumference, start by measuring the width of your hand at its widest point, excluding your thumb. This measurement will give you an idea of how small or large the grip circumference should be for your hand.

For most women, grip sizes of 4″, 4.125″, or 4.25″ are recommended. It is important to note that chunkier handles, which were once popular, are now becoming less favored, as they can limit wrist maneuverability and control.

Ultimately, the grip circumference should offer a comfortable grip that allows for full control of the paddle, so you can focus on playing your best game. By selecting the right grip circumference based on your hand size and playing style, you can enhance your overall pickleball experience and optimize your performance on the court.

2. Grip length

The grip length refers to the distance from the butt cap to the end of the handle.

For female players, choosing the appropriate grip length is crucial for comfort and control. It can greatly impact their playing style and overall performance on the court.

If you are a female player with a tennis background or if you enjoy playing two-handed backhands, a longer grip length can be beneficial. It allows for a comfortable grip and more room to maneuver your hands on the handle. This extra length enables you to generate more whip and power on your strokes, similar to how you would with a tennis racket.

On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker-moving handle and have a smaller playing style, a shorter grip length may be more suitable for you. Shorter grip lengths offer a more compact grip, allowing for faster wrist movements and quicker reaction times. This can be advantageous for players who rely on speed and agility in their game.

Ultimately, the best grip length for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. It’s important to try out different grip lengths and see what feels most comfortable and natural for you. Remember, finding the right paddle is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort and performance.

3. Weight

The weight of the paddle can greatly affect a player’s performance on the court, making it an important aspect to consider when choosing the best pickleball paddle for your needs.

Pickleball paddles come in a range of weights, typically ranging from 6oz to 12oz. For women, the ideal weight range falls between 7.6oz to 8.4oz. It’s important to find a weight that suits your playing style and skill level.

Lightweight paddles are popular among female players who value speed and agility. These are easy to maneuver and allow for quicker wrist movements. However, lightweight paddles may lack stability and may not offer as much power as heavier ones.

On the other hand, heavyweight paddles provide extra power on shots, making them a popular choice for players who rely on power and strength. However, it’s important to note that heavy paddles can be more unwieldy, especially for players with less upper body strength or those who prioritize maneuverability.

When considering paddle weight, it’s important to find the right balance for your playing style and skill level. Experimenting with different weights and finding the one that offers the right balance of controllability, power, and maneuverability can greatly enhance your game on the pickleball court.

4. Control

Control is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a pickleball paddle for women, especially if they prefer a control-focused game. A paddle with excellent controllability allows players to have precise shots and better ball placement on the court.

One of the reasons why women tend to favor soft and plush paddles over hard and stiff ones with lots of pop is because softer paddles offer better control. The softer surface of these paddles provides a larger “sweet spot,” which means a larger area on the paddle where the ball can make clean contact. This translates into more consistent shots, as the player has a higher chance of hitting the ball exactly where they intend to.

Additionally, soft and plush paddles give female players a better feel for the ball. The softer surface absorbs some of the impact when making contact with the ball, resulting in a more controlled shot. This is particularly beneficial for players who rely on finesse and placement over power.

While hard and stiff paddles may offer more pop or power on shots, they can be more challenging to control, especially for players with a control-focused game. These require precise timing and technique to avoid over-hitting or miss-hitting the ball. Soft and plush paddles, on the other hand, provide a forgiving and comfortable grip, allowing players to make subtle adjustments to their shots with ease.

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best pickleball paddle for women who prioritize a control-focused game, opting for a soft and plush paddle is an excellent choice. With enhanced controllability and a comfortable feel, these empower female players to execute precise shots and dominate the court with finesse.

5. Power/Pop

Having a paddle with the right amount of power and pop can make all the difference in taking your game to the next level. While control and finesse are important aspects, the ability to add an extra punch to your shots can give you an edge on the court.

Paddles like the Rokne Curve Classic are perfect examples of paddles that offer both power and pop for female players. These are specifically designed to provide that extra boost, allowing you to hit harder shots while still maintaining control. The unique construction of the Rokne Curve Classic gives it the perfect balance, ensuring that you can deliver powerful shots without sacrificing accuracy.

Having a paddle with power and pop not only allows you to hit harder shots but also gives you more options on the court. Whether it’s adding spin, hitting deep shots, or overpowering your opponents, having that extra punch can give you the advantage in any situation. It’s about finding the right balance between power and control to suit your game style and preferences.

So, if you’re a female player looking to add some power and pop to your game, paddles like the Rokne Curve Classic should definitely be on your radar. With its reputation for delivering that extra punch, this paddle could be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.

6. Experience Level

As a pickleball enthusiast myself, I understand how important it is to have the right paddle that matches your skill and playing style. Whether you’re a newcomer to the game or a seasoned professional, there are options available that are specifically designed to meet the needs of players at different experience levels.

For youth and beginner players, it’s essential to start with a paddle that is lightweight and easy to handle. These paddles are often made with materials like graphite or composite, which provide a good balance of power and control. Some other popular options for beginners include the Rokne Curve Prodigy and the ONIX Graphite Z5. These paddles are known for their forgiving sweet spots and excellent ball control, allowing new players to develop their skills and confidence on the court.

Intermediate players can explore a wider range of paddle options that offer more power and precision. Paddles like the Selkirk PRIME S2 and the Paddletek Bantam EX-L are known for their versatile performance and are well-suited for players looking to improve their game. These paddles often have a slightly heavier weight, providing more stability and power without compromising control.

For professional players or those with advanced skills, there are paddle designs that cater to the specific demands of competitive play. These paddles are often constructed with premium materials like carbon fiber and feature advanced technologies to maximize performance. Also, Selkirk is a brand that makes paddles that are favored by professional players for their exceptional power and control.

No matter your experience level, having the right pickleball paddle can greatly enhance your playing experience. Remember to consider your skill level when choosing a paddle and prioritize finding one that suits your style of play.

Our Top Pickleball Paddle Picks

Choosing the right pickleball paddle is crucial to enhancing your game and enjoying this exhilarating sport to the fullest. As a passionate pickleball enthusiast, I understand the importance of finding a paddle that caters to your specific needs, skills, and playing style. In this article, I will guide you through our top pickleball paddle picks, exploring options for women that offer the perfect balance of power, control, and comfort. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate player, or a seasoned pro, these paddle recommendations will help you make an informed decision and take your pickleball game to the next level.

1. Best Pickleball Paddle for Beginners: Rokne Curve Prodigy

For novice players, it’s essential to start with a paddle that is lightweight and easy to handle. The Rokne Curve Prodigy is a fantastic choice, providing an excellent balance of power and control with its graphite construction. It features a forgiving sweet spot and exceptional ball control, allowing beginners to develop their skills and confidence on the court.

See Amazon Price

2. Top Pickleball Paddle for Intermediate Players: Selkirk PRIME S2

Intermediate players looking for improved power and precision should consider the Selkirk PRIME S2. This paddle offers a versatile performance and a slightly heavier weight, providing stability and power without compromising control. It is a favorite among players looking to elevate their game and optimize their performance.

3. Ultimate Professional Pickleball Paddle: Selkirk AMPED Invikta

For advanced players or those with competitive skills, the Selkirk AMPED Invikta is the perfect choice. With its premium carbon fiber construction and advanced technology, this paddle delivers unparalleled power and control. It is highly favored by professional players for its exceptional performance and durability.

See Amazon Price

4. Recess Pickleball Paddles

Recess Pickleball Paddles are a top choice for recreational players. These paddles are known for their lightweight design and superior craftsmanship, making them a fantastic option for those who enjoy the sport casually.

One standout feature of Recess is their padded grip tape. This ensures that players have a comfortable grip during intense gameplay, minimizing the chances of slipping or losing control of the paddle. The padded grip tape provides a secure hold, allowing players to focus on their shots and strategies without any distractions.

Another great aspect of Recess is their well-made construction. These paddles are built to last, ensuring durability and longevity even with regular use. The attention to detail and quality materials used in their production make them a reliable choice for recreational players seeking a paddle that can withstand the rigors of the game.

To make things even better, Recess offer a separate option to purchase additional grip tape. This means players can choose their preferred grip size and customize their paddle to their liking. With the comfort and control of the padded grip tape, players can confidently take on any pickleball challenge that comes their way.

See Amazon Price

5. Luxe Pickleball Paddles

Luxe Pickleball Paddles are definitely worth considering. Luxe offers three incredible collections – Draft, Luxury, and Pro – each with their own unique features to cater to different playing styles and skill levels. Not to mention, these paddles are extremely cute, perfect for the women wanting a stylish paddle.

One standout feature of Luxe is their focus on delivering comfort to women players. The grip circumference is perfectly sized to accommodate a woman’s hand, providing a comfortable and secure hold that allows for precise control during gameplay. This is especially important for female players who may have smaller hands and require a paddle that fits them perfectly.

Another advantage of Luxe is their lightweight design. The paddles are specifically crafted with a balance of power and maneuverability, making them ideal for female players who prefer a lighter paddle. The lightweight construction allows for quicker reactions and greater agility on the court, enabling female players to dominate their opponents with ease.

In addition to their performance-driven features, Luxe also showcase cute and stylish designs. They are available in a variety of eye-catching patterns and colors, allowing female players to showcase their personality and style while enjoying the game.

Among the Luxe collections, the Draft paddle stands out with its unique open-throat design. This design provides improved maneuverability and power, making it an excellent choice for female players looking to level up their game.

Overall, Luxe Pickleball Paddles are the perfect combination of comfort, performance, and style. Whether you’re an experienced or beginner player, Luxe offers a collection that suits your needs, ensuring that you can enjoy the game to the fullest.

See Amazon Price

6. Vatic Pro Prism

The Vatic Pro Prism is a top contender. This paddle is designed with the needs and preferences of female players in mind, offering a range of features that enhance gameplay and performance.

One notable feature of the Vatic Pro Prism Paddle is its grip circumference. It is specifically designed to fit comfortably in the hands of women, providing a secure and confident feel during gameplay. Additionally, the grip length is tailored to accommodate the average hand size of female players, ensuring a comfortable and natural grip.

In terms of weight, the Vatic Pro Prism strikes a perfect balance. It is lightweight enough to allow for quick maneuverability and control, but also offers enough substance to provide the desired power and pop in shots. This ideal weight distribution is a key factor in enhancing the overall performance on the court.

When it comes to controllability, the Vatic Pro Prism excels. Its design and construction give players the ability to accurately place shots and maintain ball control, making it an excellent choice for those who value precision and finesse in their gameplay. However, the paddle does not compromise on power and pop, allowing players to generate substantial force while maintaining control.

On top of its impressive features, the Vatic Pro Prism boasts an affordable price without sacrificing quality. Made with high-quality materials, it is built to withstand hours of intense gameplay and provide durability.

In conclusion, the Vatic Pro Prism is a fantastic choice for women pickleball players. Its thoughtful design caters to the needs of female players in terms of grip circumference, grip length, and optimal weight distribution. With its controllability, power/pop, affordability, and high-quality construction, it is truly a paddle that delivers on both performance and value.

See Amazon Price

Conclusion

Choosing the right pickleball paddle is vital for every player, regardless of skill level. By considering your experience, playing style, and desired features, you can select a paddle that enhances your performance on the court. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, our top pickleball paddle picks offer options that cater to your specific needs, allowing you to excel and enjoy the game to the fullest.