If you want to take your pickleball play to the next level or get involved in tournaments, it’s essential that you find a pickleball paddle that’s approved by the pickleball governing body, the USA Pickleball Association.

Here are some of the best USAPA-approved pickleball paddle released in 2023 for tournament play. If you aren’t sure if the paddle that you already have is a USA Pickleball-approved paddle, check out their approved paddle list. You can also identify if the pickleball equipment you have, such as outdoor pickleball balls, are tournament-approved with this equipment guide.

While most newly released paddles feature carbon fiber facing, if you prefer a fiberglass surface or a graphite pickleball paddle, there are plenty of high-quality options available. If you’re purchasing your first paddle or simply want to upgrade, check out this guide for how to select a pickleball paddle.

#1 - CRBN² X 16MM Power Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

Price

$229.95

Description

CRBN² X 14MM Power Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

This middleweight paddle comes with a large sweet spot and a cushioned, standard-sized grip that is perfect for beginners as well as advanced players. This paddle was designed to add power when driving shots over the net.

The foam-injected walls add unbeatable stability making this one of the best pickleball paddles for easy maneuverability in a power paddle. The carbon fiber can be found throughout the paddle and the handle, dampening vibration and offering better control. The thicker polypropylene honeycomb core is perfect to match your playing style while offering professional performance.

This paddle will stand out from the crowd when you feel the carbon that has been reinforced into the handle, providing a responsive, durable grip that eliminates vibration.

Features

16mm core thickness
Approved by USA Pickleball
Colorway: Black
Comes with a 120-day warranty against manufacturer defects
Core material: honeycomb polypropylene core
Handle length: 5 1/2”
Has an elongated paddle shape
Includes free paddle cover
Grip circumference: 4 1/4”
Paddle face material: Raw T700 carbon fiber
Paddle length: 16 1/2"
Paddle weight: 7.8 - 8.1 oz
Paddle width: 7 1/4”

#2 - Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

Price

$249.99

Description

Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta Pickleball Paddle

This middleweight paddle is perfect for beginners and advanced pickleball players. This power paddle is well-balanced and offers incredible performance at the net when trading dinks. The raw T700 carbon fiber facing offers superior control and spin and has a large sweet spot that players will appreciate.

While it comes in at a higher price point, the quality materials, craftsmanship, and overall feel of this paddle are well worth it if you want to challenge tough opponents on the pickleball court.

Features

Colorway: Black, Prestige, or Red
Edging: Edgeless
Grip Size: Standard 4 1/8” - 4 3/8”
Handle Length: Standard - 4.85''
Limited Lifetime Manufacturer's Warranty
Made in the USA
Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene
Paddle Face Material: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
Paddle Length: 16 1/2''
Paddle Shape: Elongated
Paddle Weight: 7.8 - 8.2 oz
Paddle Width: 7 3/8''
USAPA Approved

#3 - Diadem Edge 18K Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

Price

$229.95

Description

Diadem Edge 18K Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

Diadem breaks down barriers and embraces new technology in the development of the Edge 18K. This paddle is a perfect example of what innovation can do when crafting pickleball paddles for power and spin. This is carbon fiber like you’ve never seen it before - woven three ways into the paddle surface at a 60 degree angle, made to enhance spin and maneuverability while keeping the weight light and easy to manage.

The elongated shape of this mid-weight pickleball paddle extends your reach when going after those high lobs while the thin grip allows you to change your eastern grip to continental on the fly. The Diadem Edge was made with elite players in mind, offering the latest carbon fiber technology to improve precision, feel, ball control, and spin.

Features

30-day satisfaction guarantee
Colorway: Red
Core Thickness: 16 mm
Grip Size: Thin - 4 1/8”
Handle Length: Standard - 5''
Manufacturer's warranty after registration
Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb with Aramid Honeycomb
Paddle Face Material: 3D 18K Carbon Fiber
Paddle Length: 16 2/5''
Paddle Shape: Elongated
Paddle Weight: 8.0 oz
Paddle Width: 7 1/2''
USAPA Approved

#4 - PCKL Pro Series 13 & 16

Price

$159.99

Description

PCKL Pro Series 13 & 16 Raw Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

The PCKL Pro Series offers the latest technology at an affordable price point. This paddle was launched this summer and has been impressive in both design and feel during playtests and matches. It offers a sweat-resistant, comfort grip and an extra long handle so players have all the control needed to pull off power shots and slices with ease.

The reactive honeycomb core and choice between a 13mm or 16mm core thickness is perfect for players who enjoy hard drives or more finesse-style play. The edgefoam-injected thermoformed unibody ensures the paddle's integrity with daily use, and the extra large sweet spot is forgiving and consistent. Get 15% off your purchase with code PBU15 today!

Features

Core Thickness: 13mm or 16 mm
Grip Size: 4.2”
Grip Type: Corded
Handle Length: 5 1/2”
Limited lifetime warranty
Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Paddle Face Material: Toray T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
Paddle Length: 16.25”
Paddle Weight: 13mm is 7.8 oz / 16mm is 8.1 oz
Paddle Width: 7.5”
USAPA Approved

#5 - SLK NEO 2.0 by Selkirk Fiberglass and Graphite Pickleball Paddle

Price

$79.99

Description

SLK Neo 2.0 by Selkirk Fiberglass and Graphite Pickleball Paddles Set of 2

This lightweight pickleball paddles set is perfect for novice players and features everything you need to get started. It has a multi-layer fiberglass and graphite spin-flex surface providing excellent control. The paddle is lightweight and easy to swing due to the SX3 polymer honeycomb core that softens the feel of harder hits, reducing vibration.

The ultra-comfort grip material makes grasping the paddle easier for longer practice sessions and matches while absorbing moisture, and this handy set comes with pickleball balls and a carrying bag for easy portability at an affordable price.

Features

Colorway: Red | Blue
Green zone approved for community play
Grip Size: 4 1/4”
Handle Length: 5 1/4''
Paddle Core Material: SX3 honeycomb core
Paddle Face Material: Multi-layer graphite and fiberglass
Paddle Length: 15.67''
Paddle Shape: Standard
Paddle Weight: 7.5 oz
Paddle Width: 7 4/5''
USAPA Approved

Final Thoughts

Even the pros agree - choosing a paddle that works for you comes down to how it feels in your hand while playing and not the paddle specs. Most pro pickleball paddles are midweight to heavyweight paddles for added power, but there is no perfect paddle that everyone agrees on. Playtest a few paddles before choosing one that works with your skill level and gameplay for the best performance.