So, you’ve played a few games, fallen in love with pickleball, and now you’re ready for the big leagues (or at least to stop borrowing paddles that smell suspiciously like old cheese).

But how do you pick the right racket? Fear not—I’m here to break it down for you, with a healthy dose of sarcasm and a side of honesty.

Step 1: Admit You Have No Idea What You’re Doing (Yet)

Let’s be real—most people buy their first pickleball paddle based on color, price, or whether it matches their trainers. But there’s more to it. The right paddle can make you feel like a superstar (or at least help you hit the ball more than you miss).

Step 2: Know the Basics—What Makes a Paddle… a Paddle?

Before you get dazzled by jargon, here’s what actually matters:

Core Material:

The stuff inside the paddle. Think of it as the “soul” of your weapon.

Face Material:

The outer layer you actually hit the ball with.

Shape and Weight:

Impacts control, power, and your ability to swing without pulling a muscle.

Grip/Handle:

Where your sweaty hand goes. Comfort is key.

And yes, I’ll explain what all those weird numbers and letters mean.

Step 3: Beginners—Fibreglass is Your New Best Friend

If you’re just starting out, let me save you some time: fibreglass paddles are where it’s at.

Why? Let’s count the ways:

Big Sweet Spot:

Translation? You can hit off-center and still look like you meant it. Fibreglass is forgiving—perfect for those of us who occasionally swing like we’re swatting a fly.

Great Control:

You’ll be able to place shots without feeling like the paddle is in charge (instead of you).

Comfortable Weight:

Not too heavy, not too light—just right for learning the ropes without getting tennis elbow.

Honeycomb Core:

All our beginner paddles come with a honeycomb core. That means a great mix of power and control, plus a nice satisfying “pop” sound when you actually connect with the ball.

Leather Handle Straps:

Because your hand deserves luxury, even if your skills are a work in progress.

If you’re a beginner, don’t overthink it—grab a fibreglass paddle and get playing. You’ll thank me later (or curse me, but at least you’ll have a paddle you can blame).

Step 4: Developing Players—Fibreglass or T300 Carbon

So you’ve got a few games under your belt, and you’re starting to get cocky—er, confident. Time to consider stepping up.

Fibreglass:

Still a solid choice. That big sweet spot continues to save your bacon.

T300 Carbon:

This is where things get interesting. T300 carbon paddles offer more power and a little extra “bite” on your shots. The sweet spot is still generous, but you’ll notice better responsiveness and a bit more control as you refine your game.

Honeycomb Core:

Yep, these have it too. Consistent feel, reliable performance.

Leather Handle Straps:

Because style points matter.

If you’re not sure you’re ready for carbon, stick with fibreglass. If you want to experiment and feel a bit more “pro,” try T300. Either way, you can’t go wrong.

Step 5: Advanced Players—T700 Carbon or Kevlar (If You Dare)

Now we’re talking. If you’re smashing dinks, pulling off sneaky spins, and making your opponents weep, you might be ready for the big leagues.

T700 Carbon:

This is the stuff of legends. T700 gives you insane power, precision, and touch. The core is Gen 3 middle, which means even more feel and feedback on every shot. It’s not as forgiving as fibreglass, but if you’ve got the skills, you’ll love it.

Kevlar:

The unicorn of paddles. Super strong, super responsive, and probably more paddle than most mortals need. 

Leather Handle Straps:

On my T700, too. Because you’ve come this far, you deserve it.

Step 6: Handle With Care (Literally)

All my paddles—fibreglass, T300, and T700—come with leather handle straps. Why? Because your hands do all the work, and they should feel good doing it. Plus, leather looks cool. Fact.

Step 7: Ignore the Hype, Trust Your Feel

 

The truth? The best paddle is the one that feels right in your hand, helps you hit the ball, and doesn’t make you want to throw it across the court, whilst also making you look super cool. 

Quick Recap (Because Lists Are Fun)

Newbies:

Go fibreglass. Big sweet spot, honeycomb core, leather handle. Easy choice.

Developing:

Try fibreglass or T300 carbon. Both have honeycomb core and leather handle. Pick what feels best.

Advanced:

T700 carbon with Gen 3 middle core (and leather handle). Or, if you’re feeling wild, kevlar (not sold here, but hey, honesty matters).

Bonus: The “Sweet Spot” Explained

You’ll hear this term a lot. The sweet spot is the area on your paddle where magic happens—maximum power, minimum vibration, and the best chance of impressing your mates.

Fibreglass paddles are famous for having a big sweet spot, which is why they’re perfect for beginners.

As you move up to T300 and T700, the sweet spot gets a bit more precise, but the power and control go up. Choose wisely!

Final Thoughts—Pickleball Paddles, Sorted

Choosing a paddle shouldn’t feel like rocket science.

Go fibreglass if you’re new and want a big, forgiving sweet spot.

Try T300 if you’re getting better and want to step up your game.

Go T700 (Gen 3 core!) if you’re ready to unleash your inner pickleball beast. And always, always treat your hands to a leather handle.

Ready to find your perfect paddle? Grab one, hit the court, and remember—if you miss a shot, just blame the paddle. That’s what it’s there for.