Best Pickleball Paddles for Advanced Players: Smash Like a Pro (Without Breaking a Sweat)

Pickleball started as a backyard pastime, but now it seems like everyone we know is either playing or seriously thinking about it.

As we’ve moved past our beginner mistakes and started hitting consistent smashes and dinks, we realized the right paddle changes everything.

Not every paddle is built for advanced play, and honestly, picking the right one matters almost as much as remembering to wear sunscreen.

When we shop for a top-tier pickleball paddle, some features stand out more than others.

We always check for materials like carbon fiber or graphite—they give us more power and control.

Paddle weight, grip size, and balance really affect our game.

If a paddle feels too heavy, we start wishing we’d just played board games instead.

If it’s too light, even a lucky shot can feel impossible.

Texture makes a difference too.

If a paddle slips like a bar of soap, our spin game just won’t work.

With so many paddles promising the “ultimate” game, picking one can get more confusing than learning the non-volley zone rule.

We spent time researching and testing the most popular options to find the best pickleball paddles for advanced players.

Best Pickleball Paddles for Advanced Players

We’ve all watched in disbelief as our old paddles failed us during a fast volley.

Fortunately, we’ve rounded up the best pickleball paddles that keep up with our powerful gameplay.

Let’s dive into the top picks that’ll level up our shots—and maybe our bragging rights.

Uteeqe Graphite Spin Paddle Set

If we want spin, control, and a paddle tougher than our grandma’s cast iron skillet, the Uteeqe Graphite Spin Paddle Set is a smart pick.

Pros

• Rough graphite surface really boosts our spin
• Lightweight design lets our reflexes shine
• Cushioned grip keeps sweaty hands from ruining the fun

Cons

• Edge guard doesn’t stand up to hard scrapes forever
• Durability drops with heavy use
• Handle feels chunky for smaller hands

The first thing we noticed about the Uteeqe was how light and quick it felt—almost like it wanted to play by itself.

The graphite surface grips the ball well but doesn’t scuff up everything in our bag.

Our topspins seemed sharper, and dink battles at the net felt like we’d leveled up.

We liked the contour grip, especially on days when the court felt like a sauna.

It helped us hang on, even during wild rallies when we started sweating buckets.

The paddle’s sweet spot felt generous, saving a few more off-center hits than we’d like to admit.

The edge guard did its job, but after some tough outdoor matches, we saw signs of wear.

If we play every day for months, durability might drop off a bit, especially if we go after every low ball.

The Uteeqe Graphite Spin Paddle Set gives us control, spin, and comfort.

It’s a great pick if we’re ready to step up our game without breaking the bank—or our wrists.

Jojolemon Shark Power Pickleball Paddle

If we want to feel like real pickleball sharks and actually improve our game, this paddle delivers for advanced players.

Pros

• Adds more spin and power to every shot
• Sweet spot feels big and forgiving
• Super lightweight and comfy to swing

Cons

• Takes time to adjust to the longer handle
• Price is higher than basic paddles
• Textured grip feels odd at first

When we picked up the Jojolemon Shark Power, the difference was obvious.

The carbon fiber surface gives us loads of spin, so now we can slice, dice, and look like we know what we’re doing.

Every shot feels solid, and it’s hard not to grin when we hit that big sweet spot.

We felt the lighter weight after just a few games.

Our elbows didn’t ache, and we reacted faster at the net.

That extra handle length is perfect for two-handed shots, but we needed a game or two to get used to it.

The grip is super tacky, which meant we held on tight, even when we got sweaty mid-rally.

Setup was quick, and the included eraser helped us keep the paddle looking new.

If we’re ready for the next level, this one deserves a hard look (and a few strong forehands).

DGYGQ Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

If we want a paddle that brings power and finesse but doesn’t feel intimidating, this one’s a strong buy.

Pros

• Extra-long handle gives us power on two-handed swings
• Lightweight build helps us zip around the court
• Shock absorption tames wild, off-center hits

Cons

• Extended handle can trip us up if our hands are small
• Smooth surface takes getting used to for spins
• Carbon fiber makes us look more pro than we feel

The first thing we noticed about the DGYGQ paddle was how light it felt—featherweight but still sturdy.

After an hour of play, our arms could’ve kept going (even if our legs disagreed).

The extra-long handle is great for double-handed backhands or reaching tough shots.

There’s a solid “pop” with each swing, and the shock absorption is real.

We’ve missed the sweet spot plenty, but this paddle soaked up the vibrations so our hands didn’t tingle, unlike after Aunt Judy’s handshake.

The carbon fiber surface gives us control, though we needed a little time to get our spin game dialed in.

If we want to look and play like pros, the DGYGQ paddle helps.

Don’t be surprised if people ask us for tips—they’ll assume we spent a fortune, and who are we to correct them?

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle

If we’re after control, spin, and a bit of swagger, this is the paddle we want in our hand.

Pros

• Excellent grip and control, even with sweaty palms
• Surface adds real spin to shots
• Feels sturdy and competes with pricier paddles

Cons

• Slightly heavier than some others
• Price runs high
• Durability can be a question after heavy play

With the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion paddle, we feel like we’ve got an edge right from the first serve.

The grip stays solid, even when we’re sweating like crazy, and the textured surface helps us spin the ball in ways that make our friends shout, “How did you do that?”

The design gives us both power and finesse.

Our dinks and blocks felt more controlled, but when it was time to smash, the paddle delivered enough punch to win the point.

It’s heavier than some, so after a while, our arms were begging for a snack break—especially in long games.

It stands up well next to paddles that cost way more, but we did spot a few dings after some intense play.

For the price, we’d hope for superhero-level durability, but honestly, we left the court happier and maybe a little more stylish.

If you want a paddle that actually backs up its pro-level hype, this one’s a strong contender.

SLK Helix Pro Pickleball Paddle

If we want pro-level control without draining our bank account, this is a solid pick.

Pros

• Huge sweet spot saves us from embarrassing mishits
• Hybrid face makes it easy to switch between power and soft shots
• The grip feels so comfy we almost wish games went on forever

Cons

• Not the best for maximum spin
• Heavier than some paddles
• Looks flashier than our actual skills

We know when a paddle just gets our game.

With the SLK Helix Pro, the large sweet spot forgave our off-center shots—our dignity survived more crowded tournaments than usual.

We liked how the carbon/fiberglass mix brought power without making us feel like we were launching rockets.

That balance let us mix up our shots and keep opponents guessing.

The grip stood out, too—it’s comfortable, and we didn’t need to readjust every five minutes.

It’s not perfect.

Players who want to spin the ball like crazy might want something grippier.

It’s also on the heavier side, so we got a mini arm workout with our matches.

And let’s be honest, the gold design looks sharp, which means now we have no one to blame but ourselves if our play doesn’t match our paddle’s style.

Bravixs Apex Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle Set

If you’re an advanced player looking for a paddle that keeps up with your skills, but you don’t want to empty your wallet, the Bravixs set is honestly pretty hard to beat. There’s a lot here to love (and, yeah, a couple of small things to nitpick).

Pros

• Serious spin—thanks to the grippy carbon fiber face
• Comfortable grip keeps hands happy and dry
• Big sweet spot actually makes us look better than we are

Cons

• Some folks might find the longer handle a bit chunky
• Carrying bag could really use extra padding
• Spin’s good, but not as wild as the top pro paddles

We cracked these open on a sunny Saturday and realized right away that the Bravixs Apex means business. Our shots came off with real power, and the gritty paddle surface let us whip up more spin than we usually manage.

The control impressed us—a couple of us even started aiming for corners on purpose instead of just hoping for the best. Even after a few sweaty games, that special microfiber grip stayed dry and felt just right in our hands.

We love not having to deal with blisters. The extra-long handle gave us plenty of room for two-handed backhands. If you’ve got smaller hands, though, it does take a little getting used to.

The set includes two paddles, four balls, and a bag—pretty much everything we needed to hit the courts. We do wish the bag had tougher padding since, let’s be honest, we’re not always gentle.

For advanced players who want a pro-level feel without the sticker shock, this set delivers a ton of value.

GARYE Pickleball Paddles Set

If you want a complete paddle set that brings quality, comfort, and a little “we mean business” energy, this is a great pick for advanced players who love extras.

Pros

• Carbon fiber build keeps swings light and quick
• Cushioned grip saves our hands during long matches
• Set comes with extras: balls, bag, and grip tapes

Cons

• Balls could last longer
• Bag’s a bit snug for extra gear
• Design feels a little plain compared to flashier paddles

We really like how the GARYE paddle plays—it’s light, but not flimsy, and the sweet spot is easy to find. The carbon fiber gives each shot a crisp feel, and our dinks and drives stay consistent, even in heated rallies.

The thickened core gives us control, but we still get enough power to keep opponents on their toes. That grip genuinely saves our sweaty palms. After a few games, we stop worrying about dropping the paddle and focus on the next point.

No blisters or sore hands, even after hours of play (though, honestly, sometimes we lose track of time). This set comes with everything but the kitchen sink.

We didn’t need to buy extra balls or tapes, but if you’re hard on balls, you might want to get better ones. The only other gripe? The carrying bag is tight if you try to toss in towels and snacks—but maybe that’s just a sign to pack lighter.

Selkirk SLK Neo Paddle Set

If you want a paddle that’s fun to play with, good-looking, and doesn’t make your wallet cry, this Selkirk SLK Neo set should be right at the top of your list.

Pros

• Great control and spin—makes us look more skilled than we really are
• Comfortable grip, even for sweaty hands
• Light enough so our arms don’t complain after a long match

Cons

• Sweet spot isn’t as huge as the hype (aim matters!)
• Power feels just average—we still have to do some of the work
• Carry bag won’t win any fashion awards

Let’s talk about feel. The graphite surface gave our shots more accuracy and control, especially for those tricky dinks at the net.

The extra texture helped us put spin on the ball, which led to a few accidental winners (and, let’s admit it, a few accidental outs). The grip worked well, too.

Even after a sweaty afternoon, it kept our hands comfortable and slip-free. The paddle felt balanced, so long rallies didn’t turn our arms into lead noodles.

This set isn’t just for beginners. It’s forgiving, but there are enough features to let us play fast-paced games without blaming the paddle for every miss.

The included bag and balls are fine, but the real reason to buy this set is the paddles themselves. If you care more about performance than paddle bling, you’re in the right place.

Selkirk Luxx Control Air Epic Paddle

Players who want full command of the court without giving up power might find this paddle becomes their new doubles partner.

Pros

• Amazing ball control helps us hit tricky drops with confidence
• Big sweet spot means fewer mishits and more high fives
• Grippy surface lets us spin the ball better than our grandma spins a story

Cons

• Noticeably less power if you’re used to thinner paddles
• Unique design takes some getting used to
• Not the lightest paddle, so long sessions might surprise your arm muscles

We took the Selkirk Luxx Control Air Epic out for a spin, and suddenly our serves and third-shot drops felt way more satisfying. The paddle sits solid in hand, giving us a real sense of control, especially when the rally heats up and our reflexes are…well, just barely quick enough.

No weird dead spots here—balls come off the surface crisp, even on our off days. Switching from a thinner paddle, we lost a bit of power, but the gain in placement and touch was worth it.

Those dinks that used to float off the court? Now they drop just over the net, leaving opponents frustrated. Spin comes easier, too, and the sticky surface makes a real difference—it almost feels unfair, but hey, it’s legal.

The paddle is a bit chunkier than some others in our bag. If we play back-to-back matches, our arm sometimes needs a pep talk between games.

Still, we’d grab this for any advanced match where accuracy and strategy matter more than brute force. The Selkirk Luxx Control Air Epic definitely earned a permanent spot in our gear closet.

ONIX Z5 Graphite Paddle

Advanced players who want fast hands and plenty of control, with just enough pop to keep opponents guessing, should check this out.

Pros

• Excellent touch for precise shots
• Comfortable grip, even during marathon games
• Light and easy to maneuver at the net

Cons

• Doesn’t have the sheer power of heavier paddles
• Handle length may feel short for bigger hands
• The finish could look a bit cleaner

Switching from a generic paddle to something built for real performance, the ONIX Z5 felt like a serious upgrade. The lightweight feel made dinking near the kitchen actually enjoyable, not just an exercise in frustration.

Our drops and blocks felt dialed in, and we didn’t tire out as quickly during long rallies. The grip really stood out for us.

If you hate fidgeting with your paddle mid-game, you’ll love how it just sticks in your hand. Even after an afternoon of sweaty matches, we never worried about losing control.

The classic tennis handle shape feels familiar—finally, something our tennis background doesn’t punish us for. It’s not perfect, though.

If you’re a power hitter, you might want more weight behind your swings. And if you’ve got “giant mitts,” the shorter handle leaves you wishing for a bit more to grab.

Still, for touch, comfort, and easy handling, the Z5 outperformed our old paddles by a mile. If you want balance and finesse—with a little style on the side—you probably won’t regret giving the ONIX Z5 a try.

Buying Guide

Choosing a pickleball paddle honestly feels a bit like hunting for the right pair of jeans. There’s just no single perfect fit, and sometimes you’ve got to try a few before something clicks.

Let’s start with weight. Lighter paddles give you speed, but you trade away some power. On the flip side, heavier paddles pack more punch, though your arm might start complaining after a while.

It’s always a bit of a toss-up—kind of like picking between cake and salad, right?

Grip size sneaks up on you in terms of importance. If the grip’s too big, your hand slips around. Too small, and you might end up with a cramp halfway through a match.

You really should test out grip size in person if you can. Your hands will probably thank you.

Here’s a quick table to lay out the basics:

Feature	What to Look For
Weight	Light (7-7.5 oz) or Heavy (8-8.5 oz)
Grip Size	Fits your hand comfortably
Shape	Traditional or elongated
Surface Material	Composite, graphite, or wood
Core Material	Polymer, nomex, or aluminum

Let’s talk surface material for a second. Graphite paddles feel light and move fast. Composite ones add a bit more spin—pickleball spin, not the other kind.

Don’t overlook the core. Polymer cores usually keep things soft and quiet. If you’re after a paddle with a punchier, louder hit (and maybe want to annoy your opponents a bit), nomex or aluminum could work for you.

Try to test paddles before you buy. Nobody wants to get stuck with something that feels like a brick—or worse, a feather.