Best Pickleball Paddle for Racquetball Players: Transitioning to a New Sport

Pickleball has become a popular sport, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. For racquetball players looking to switch to pickleball, finding the right paddle is key. The transition can be smooth with the right equipment, as both sports require quick reflexes and powerful shots.

Pickleball paddles come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. They’re typically lighter and smaller than racquetball racquets. This difference can take some getting used to, but it allows for more control and finesse in pickleball. The right paddle can help you apply your racquetball skills to this new sport.

When picking a pickleball paddle, pay attention to weight, grip size, and material. These factors affect how the paddle feels and performs. A paddle that’s too heavy or light can throw off your game. The right grip size helps you control the paddle better. Material choice impacts power and control balance.

We tested many paddles to find the best ones for racquetball players switching to pickleball.

Best Pickleball Paddles for Racquetball Players

If you’re a racquetball player looking to try pickleball, you’ll want a paddle that feels familiar. The paddles on this list offer features that make the transition easier. They combine the best aspects of both sports to help you excel on the pickleball court.

SLK Neo 2.0 Pickleball Set

You’ll find this set a great choice for beginners or racquetball players transitioning to pickleball.

Pros

• Lightweight and well-balanced
• Comfortable grip
• Includes carrying case and balls

Cons

• May lack power for advanced players
• Grip size may not suit all hands
• Included balls are of lower quality

The SLK Neo 2.0 paddles feel light in your hands, weighing just 7.5 ounces. You’ll notice the balance right away, making it easy to maneuver during quick exchanges at the net.

The graphite face gives you good control, while the textured surface helps you add spin to your shots.

When you grip these paddles, you’ll appreciate the Ultra-Comfort material. It absorbs sweat and reduces impact, so your hands stay comfortable even during long games. The 4.25-inch grip might feel a bit small if you have larger hands, but it’s perfect for most players.

You get two paddles, four balls, and a carrying case in this set. The case is handy for taking your gear to the courts. While the included balls aren’t the best quality, they’re fine for practice. As you improve, you might want to upgrade to better balls for more serious play.

ONIX Z5 Graphite Paddle

The ONIX Z5 Graphite Paddle is a top choice for racquetball players transitioning to pickleball due to its excellent control and tennis-like handle.

Pros

• Great ball control
• Comfortable tennis-style grip
• Large sweet spot

Cons

• Might be too light for some players
• Can be noisy during play
• Limited color options

When you pick up the ONIX Z5, you’ll notice its light weight right away. At 7.5-8.2 ounces, it feels nimble in your hand.

The graphite face gives you a crisp feel when you hit the ball, and the nomex core adds some pop to your shots.

The paddle’s widebody shape offers a big sweet spot, which is great when you’re learning pickleball. You’ll find it forgiving on off-center hits. The flared handle mimics a tennis racket, making it feel familiar if you’re coming from racquetball or tennis.

During gameplay, you’ll appreciate the Z5’s balance of power and speed. It lets you make quick shots at the kitchen line while still giving you enough oomph for serves and baseline play. The edge guard helps protect the paddle if you dive for a shot, but it might scratch up a bit over time.

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Paddle

This high-end pickleball paddle offers advanced players a powerful and responsive option for competitive play.

Pros

• Large sweet spot for improved accuracy
• Charged carbon surface for enhanced power
• Durable carbon fiber construction

Cons

• May be too advanced for beginners
• Higher price point
• Requires adjustment period

The JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus paddle is a top-tier choice for serious pickleball players. You’ll notice the difference as soon as you grip the handle.

The Feel-Tec Pure Grip feels tacky and absorbs sweat, giving you a secure hold during intense rallies.

When you start hitting with this paddle, you’ll feel the crisp response from the charged carbon surface. It gives you extra pop on your shots without sacrificing control. The large sweet spot helps you hit more accurately, even when you don’t make perfect contact.

The fully encased carbon fiber build makes this paddle tough and consistent. You won’t have to worry about it breaking down after heavy use. At 8 ounces, it’s light enough for quick reactions at the net but still has enough heft for powerful drives from the baseline.

JOOLA Vision CGS Paddle

You should buy this paddle if you want to boost your pickleball game with a pro-level blend of power and control.

Pros

• Carbon grip surface for enhanced spin
• Larger sweet spot for forgiving hits
• Comfortable grip reduces moisture

Cons

• Higher price point
• Rough surface collects dirt
• May be too advanced for beginners

The JOOLA Vision CGS Paddle feels like a game-changer in your hands. Its carbon grip surface really grips the ball, letting you add more spin to your shots. You’ll notice the difference right away, especially on serves and dinks.

The paddle’s shape is unique. It has less drag when you swing, which helps you hit faster. The polypropylene core gives you great control and reduces vibration. This means you can place your shots more accurately and play longer without fatigue.

One standout feature is the large sweet spot. It’s very forgiving, so even if you don’t hit the ball perfectly, you still get good results. The grip is comfortable and stays dry, which is great for long games. While it’s pricier than some options, the quality and performance make it worth considering if you’re serious about improving your pickleball skills.

CZRR Carbon Fiber Paddle

You’ll find this paddle offers great value and performance for players of all skill levels.

Pros

• Textured surface for enhanced spin
• Comfortable grip reduces fatigue
• USAPA approved for tournament play

Cons

• Slightly heavier than some paddles
• May take time to adjust to
• Grip size may not suit all players

The CZRR Carbon Fiber Paddle packs a punch with its 3K raw carbon fiber surface. You’ll notice the textured face gives you extra spin on your shots, even if you’re not trying.

The 16mm polypropylene honeycomb core helps absorb vibrations, making it easier on your arm during long play sessions.

Grip comfort is a standout feature. The soft artificial leather handle with sweat-wicking holes keeps your hand dry and secure. You won’t have to worry about the paddle slipping during intense rallies.

Weight-wise, this paddle falls between 8.0 and 8.5 ounces. It might feel a bit heavy if you’re used to lighter options. But the extra heft can add power to your shots. Give yourself some time to get used to it, and you may find it improves your game. Remember, it’s USAPA approved, so you can use it in tournaments as you progress.

HEAD Radical Elite Paddle

You’ll find the HEAD Radical Elite paddle offers great value and performance for beginners and intermediate players alike.

Pros

• Large sweet spot for more power
• Comfortable ergo grip
• Good balance of control and power

Cons

• Flat surface limits spin potential
• May be too light for some players
• Paint can chip easily

When you pick up the HEAD Radical Elite paddle, you’ll notice how comfortable it feels in your hand. The ergo grip provides a nice cushioned feel that reduces fatigue during long games.

At 8.1 ounces, it’s on the lighter side, which helps with quick reactions at the net.

The polypropylene core and composite face give this paddle a nice pop when you hit the ball. You’ll get good power, especially from the large sweet spot. It’s forgiving on off-center hits too. The 16-inch length provides solid reach without being unwieldy.

For control shots, the Radical Elite performs well. You can place the ball with decent accuracy. The flat face limits spin potential, but that’s not a major issue for most recreational players. At this price point, you get a quality paddle that will help improve your game as you progress in skill level.

Uteeqe Graphite Pickleball Set

This pickleball set offers an excellent balance of power and control, making it perfect for racquetball players transitioning to pickleball.

Pros

• Lightweight and well-balanced for quick reactions
• Textured surface for great spin
• Comfortable grip with sweat-wicking design

Cons

• May take time to adjust to the different weight
• Grip might be too small for some players
• Edge guard could be more durable

You’ll notice how light the Uteeqe paddle feels in your hand. At just 7.8 ounces, it’s easy to maneuver and quick to respond. The graphite face gives you a nice pop when you hit the ball, letting you put some real power behind your shots.

The rough texture on the paddle face helps you add spin to your shots. This is great for those tricky dinks at the kitchen line. You’ll find that you can really control the ball, placing it just where you want it on the court.

The grip is a standout feature. It’s got a spiral contour design that feels secure in your hand, even when you’re sweating. The perforations in the grip help keep your hand dry, so you won’t have to worry about the paddle slipping during intense rallies.

GARYE Carbon Fiber Pickleball Set

This USAPA-approved pickleball set offers great value for players of all skill levels, with high-quality paddles and useful accessories.

Pros

• Lightweight carbon fiber paddles
• USAPA approved for tournament play
• Includes carrying bag and balls

Cons

• Balls may not be top quality
• Bag could be bigger
• Surface durability concerns for some users

The GARYE pickleball set gives you everything you need to start playing right away. You get two carbon fiber paddles that feel light and easy to control. The paddles have a nice grip that won’t slip when your hands get sweaty.

When you hit the ball, you’ll notice a good “pop” sound. The paddles have a large sweet spot, so you don’t have to hit the ball perfectly every time. The set comes with six balls, but some players say they’re not as good as other brands. Still, they work fine for practice or casual games.

The carrying bag is a nice touch. It fits both paddles and has room for the balls. You can also put your keys or phone in there. Some people wish the bag was a bit bigger, but it does the job. If you’re new to pickleball or want a good set to share with a friend, this GARYE set is a solid choice.

ProKennex Black Ace LG

This paddle is perfect for racquetball players looking for a high-performance pickleball paddle with an extended grip.

Pros

• Extended grip for two-handed backhand players
• Powerful carbon fiber face for maximum spin
• Shock-absorbing technology reduces vibration

Cons

• Slightly smaller paddle face
• May take time to adjust to the unique design
• Limited color options

The ProKennex Black Ace LG is a game-changer for racquetball players transitioning to pickleball. You’ll love the extended grip, which feels familiar and allows for comfortable two-handed backhands. The carbon fiber face packs a punch, giving you the power and spin you’re used to from racquetball.

When you first pick up this paddle, you’ll notice its lightweight feel and excellent balance. The smaller paddle face might seem odd at first, but you’ll quickly appreciate how it improves your control and maneuverability at the net. The raw carbonite surface grips the ball well, letting you put tons of spin on your shots.

One of the standout features is the kinetic system that absorbs shock and vibration. You’ll feel the difference in your arm and elbow, especially during long playing sessions. The Air-O-Guard edge protection is a nice touch, keeping your paddle safe without adding unnecessary weight. While the color options are limited, the sleek black design looks professional on the court.

JOOLA Scorpeus Pickleball Set

This top-quality pickleball set offers great value for players looking to step up their game.

Pros

• High-performance paddles with advanced technology
• Complete set includes balls and carry bag
• Suitable for all skill levels

Cons

• May be pricey for casual players
• Grip size might not suit all hand sizes
• Limited color options

You’ll notice the impressive build quality of the JOOLA Scorpeus paddle right away. The carbon fiber construction gives it a solid feel, while still being light enough for quick movements at the net. You’ll appreciate the larger sweet spot, which helps you hit more consistent shots even when you don’t make perfect contact.

The charged surface technology really shines during gameplay. You’ll feel extra pop on your drives and smashes, without sacrificing control on softer shots. The paddle’s design allows you to put some nice spin on the ball too, giving you an edge in competitive matches.

For racquetball players transitioning to pickleball, you’ll find the JOOLA Scorpeus a great fit. Its responsive feel and power will feel familiar, while the perforated grip helps you maintain control in intense rallies. The included balls and carry bag make this set a convenient choice for taking your game to different courts.

Buying Guide

When choosing a pickleball paddle as a racquetball player, consider these key factors:

Weight

Look for a paddle between 7-8.5 ounces. This range offers a good balance of power and control.

Grip Size

Measure your hand to find the right grip size. A comfortable grip is crucial for your transition.

Paddle Shape

Wider paddles give more hitting surface. Elongated ones offer extra reach. Choose based on your playing style.

Core Material

Polymer cores absorb shock well. Nomex or aluminum cores provide more power. Pick what suits your game.

Face Material

Graphite faces offer control. Composite faces give more power. Think about what you need most on the court.

Sweet Spot

A larger sweet spot helps with off-center hits. This can be useful as you adapt to pickleball.

Price

Before shopping, set a budget. Quality paddles range from $50 to $150+.

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Feature	Beginner	Intermediate	Advanced
Weight	7-7.8 oz	7.3-8 oz	7.5-8.5 oz
Grip	4″-4.25″	4.25″-4.5″	4.25″-4.5″
Core	Polymer	Polymer/Nomex	Any

If possible, try different paddles. Your perfect match might surprise you.