Best Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players: Top 5 Choices for 2025
Pickleball has become a popular sport for players of all ages and skill levels. As you progress from beginner to intermediate, you’ll want to upgrade your equipment to match your improved skills. The right paddle can make a big difference in your game, helping you hit with more power, control, and spin.
Intermediate players need paddles that offer a good balance of power and control. You’ll want something that lets you place shots accurately while still delivering enough oomph when needed.
Weight, grip size, and paddle face material all play important roles in finding the right fit for your playing style.
When choosing a paddle, pay attention to the core material, face texture, and weight. These factors affect how the paddle feels and performs.
A midweight paddle between 7.3-8.3 ounces often works well for intermediate players. We tested dozens of popular paddles to find the best options for players looking to take their game to the next level.
Best Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players
You’ve reached the intermediate level in pickleball and now you’re looking to step up your game. The right paddle can make a big difference in your performance. Check out our top picks for intermediate players below.
CZRR Carbon Fiber Paddle
This paddle offers great performance for intermediate players looking to improve their game.
Pros
- Carbon fiber surface enhances spin
- Comfortable grip reduces fatigue
- USAPA approved for tournaments
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some paddles
- May take time to adjust to
- Higher price point for beginners
The CZRR Carbon Fiber Paddle stands out with its 3K raw carbon fiber surface. This material gives you extra grip on the ball, letting you add more spin to your shots.
When you hit with this paddle, you’ll notice the ball stays on the face a bit longer. This helps you control your shots better and place them exactly where you want.
The core of this paddle is made with a 16mm polypropylene honeycomb structure. This design cuts down on vibrations when you hit the ball. You’ll feel more confident going for tough shots because the paddle absorbs some of the impact.
The reduced vibration also means your arm won’t get as tired during long games.
If you’re thinking about entering tournaments, this paddle is a good choice. It’s approved by the USA Pickleball Association for official play.
The grip is covered in soft artificial leather with small holes to help sweat evaporate. You can play for hours without your hand slipping.
At 8.0 to 8.5 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than some paddles. This extra weight gives your shots more power, but it might take some getting used to if you’re coming from a lighter paddle.
Uteeqe Graphite Pickleball Paddles
You’ll love these paddles for their perfect balance of power and control, making them ideal for intermediate players looking to up their game.
Pros
- Lightweight and well-balanced for quick reactions
- Textured surface for excellent spin
- Comfortable grip with sweat-wicking perforations
Cons
- May be too light for players preferring heavier paddles
- Limited color options
- Grip may wear out with heavy use
The Uteeqe Graphite Pickleball Paddles are a game-changer for intermediate players. When you pick up these paddles, you’ll notice how light they feel in your hands. At just 7.8 ounces, they allow for fast swings and quick reactions at the net.
The rough-textured graphite surface gives you amazing control over your shots. You can put a wicked spin on the ball, making it tougher for your opponents to return. The large sweet spot helps you hit more consistently, even when you don’t make perfect contact.
Comfort is key during long matches, and these paddles deliver. The cushioned, contoured grip fits nicely in your hand and helps prevent slipping. The perforations in the grip material keep your hands dry, so you can maintain control even when you’re working up a sweat.
SLK Neo 2.0 Pickleball Set
You’ll find the SLK Neo 2.0 Pickleball Set a great choice for intermediate players looking to step up their game.
Pros
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue
- USAPA approved for tournament play
Cons
- May lack power for advanced players
- Limited color options
- Included balls are not very durable
The SLK Neo 2.0 paddles feel great in your hands. At 7.5 ounces, they’re light enough for quick reactions but still pack enough punch for solid shots.
The graphite face gives you good control, and the textured surface helps you add spin to your shots.
You’ll appreciate the Ultra-Comfort Grip during long games. It absorbs sweat and reduces vibration, so you can play for hours without discomfort. The 4.25-inch grip size fits most hands well, and the 5.25-inch handle length gives you room to adjust your grip for different shots.
The polymer core provides a nice balance of power and control. You’ll notice a larger sweet spot compared to basic paddles, which helps forgive off-center hits. While these paddles might not have the raw power of some high-end models, they offer plenty of performance for most intermediate players.
GARYE Carbon Fiber Pickleball Set
You’ll find this USAPA-approved set offers great value for intermediate players looking to up their game.
Pros
- Lightweight carbon fiber construction
- Comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue
- Includes balls and carrying bag
Cons
- Balls may not be as durable as premium options
- Bag could be bigger for extra gear
- Edge guard may affect some shots
The GARYE paddles feel great in your hands. At just 8.1 ounces, you can swing them fast without tiring out. The carbon fiber face gives you nice pop on hits, letting you put some zing on the ball.
You’ll like the cushy grip. It soaks up sweat and stops the paddle from slipping, even during long games. The 4.57-inch grip size fits most hands well. It lets you keep a firm hold without cramping up.
The set comes with everything you need to play. You get two paddles, six balls, and a bag to carry it all. The balls work fine for practice, but you might want better ones for serious games. The bag holds the basics, but you may wish it had more room for water bottles or extra gear.
ONIX Z5 Graphite Paddle
You’ll find the ONIX Z5 Graphite Paddle a top choice for intermediate players seeking balance and control.
Pros
- Great touch and ball control
- Comfortable tennis-style handle
- Large sweet spot for consistent shots
Cons
- Might feel heavy for some players
- Can be noisy during play
- Limited color options
The Z5 Graphite Paddle feels solid in your hands. Its graphite face and nomex core give you amazing ball control. You’ll notice how easy it is to place shots exactly where you want them.
When you swing this paddle, you’ll feel the perfect balance between power and speed. It weighs between 7.5-8.2 ounces, which might take some getting used to if you’re coming from a lighter paddle. But once you adjust, you’ll love how it helps you add some oomph to your shots without losing control.
The wide body shape of the Z5 is a big plus. It gives you a big sweet spot, so even if you don’t hit the ball dead center every time, you’ll still get good results. The handle feels like a tennis racket, which many players find comfortable and familiar.
Jojolemon Carbon Fiber Paddle
You’ll love this paddle for its balanced design and impressive spin control.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Excellent spin and power
- Comfortable grip for long matches
Cons
- May be too light for some players
- Higher price point
- Limited color options
The Jojolemon Carbon Fiber Paddle is a game-changer for intermediate players. You’ll notice the difference as soon as you pick it up. At just 8 ounces, it feels like an extension of your arm. The T700SC carbon fiber gives you the perfect mix of power and control.
You’ll appreciate the Teflon coating on the paddle face. It adds extra grip to the ball, letting you put more spin on your shots. The 16mm polypropylene honeycomb core absorbs shocks well. This means less strain on your arm during long rallies.
The grip is a standout feature. At 4.25 inches around and 5.2 inches long, it fits most hand sizes well. It’s sweat-absorbing too, so you won’t have to worry about the paddle slipping during intense games. The thermoformed engineering makes the whole paddle feel solid and durable. You’ll be able to trust this paddle for many matches to come.
Selkirk Evo Power XL
You’ll find the Selkirk Evo Power XL paddle a game-changer for intermediate players seeking enhanced spin and control.
Pros
- SpinFlex surface boosts spin consistency
- Lightweight fiberglass face for power and control
- Comfortable grip reduces fatigue
Cons
- May take time to adjust to the elongated shape
- Higher price point than some beginner paddles
- Grip might feel slippery for some players
When you pick up the Selkirk Evo Power XL, you’ll notice its comfortable feel right away. The Ultra-Comfort Grip absorbs sweat and impact, letting you play longer without getting tired.
This paddle’s elongated shape gives you extra reach, which can be a big help when you’re at the net or trying to get those tricky shots.
The SpinFlex spin surface is a standout feature. You’ll find it easier to add spin to your shots, giving you more options during play. The large sweet spot on the Rev-Hybrid Polymer Core helps you hit consistent shots, even when you don’t hit the ball perfectly.
You might need some time to get used to the XL shape if you’re switching from a standard paddle. But once you do, you’ll love the extra control it gives you.
The lightweight fiberglass face helps you put power into your shots without losing accuracy. Whether you’re playing at the net or from the baseline, this paddle gives you the tools to step up your game.
YC DGYCASI Pro Carbon Paddle
You’ll find this paddle a game-changer for intermediate players seeking improved control and power.
Pros
- Large sweet spot for consistent hits
- Comfortable grip reduces fatigue
- Advanced carbon fiber surface for enhanced spin
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some alternatives
- May take time to adjust to larger face
- Premium price point
The YC DGYCASI Pro Carbon Paddle stands out with its innovative thermoformed technology. The paddle feels solid and well-built in your hands. The polypropylene core gives you excellent ball cushioning, while the carbon fiber surface lets you generate impressive spin.
When you start playing, you’ll appreciate the foam-filled honeycomb core. It adds a nice touch of elasticity to your shots and helps dampen vibrations. This feature really shines during long games, as your arm stays fresher. The 5.5-inch handle with a 4 1/4-inch grip size fits comfortably in your palm, giving you great control.
At 8.3 ounces, this paddle sits at the heavier end of the spectrum. While it might take some getting used to, you’ll find it provides excellent stability for power shots. The enlarged sweet spot is forgiving on off-center hits, boosting your confidence on the court. For intermediate players looking to step up their game, this USAPA-approved paddle offers professional-grade performance.
JOOLA Scorpeus Pro Paddle Set
You’ll love this pro-level paddle set for its power, control, and top-notch quality.
Pros
- Excellent power and feel
- Large sweet spot for forgiveness
- Includes two paddles, balls, and carry bag
Cons
- May be pricey for casual players
- Short handle might not suit all grips
- Learning curve for newer players
The JOOLA Scorpeus Pro Paddle Set gives you a taste of pro-level play. When you pick up these paddles, you’ll notice the charged carbon surface right away. It adds a nice pop to your shots without losing control. You’ll find it easier to place the ball exactly where you want it.
These paddles have a big sweet spot, which helps a lot when you’re not hitting the ball perfectly every time. You’ll make fewer mistakes and keep more rallies going. The carbon fiber construction makes the paddle strong and stable, so you won’t feel much wobble when you hit off-center.
The set comes with two paddles, two balls, and a carry bag. It’s great for playing with a friend or having a backup. The paddles work well for all skill levels, but they really shine for players moving up to more competitive games. If you’re serious about improving your pickleball game, these paddles are a solid choice.
KASACA Edgeless Carbon Fiber Paddle
You’ll find this paddle a solid choice for intermediate players looking to step up their game.
Pros
- Lightweight design for quick moves
- Large sweet spot improves accuracy
- Stylish graphics on both sides
Cons
- May be too light for some players
- Higher price point
- Grip might need replacing sooner
When you pick up this KASACA paddle, you’ll notice how light it feels at just 7.8 ounces. This makes it easy to swing fast and react quickly on the court. The edgeless design gives you a bigger sweet spot, so you’ll hit more accurate shots.
The paddle’s surface is made of multi-layered T700 carbon fiber. This material helps you put more power into your shots while still keeping good control. You’ll find it works well for both soft dinks and hard slams.
You’ll love the look of this paddle too. It has cool graphics on both sides that are printed using a special water transfer method. This means the design won’t wear off easily. The paddle comes with a nice cover to keep it safe when you’re not playing.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pickleball paddle as an intermediate player is key to improving your game. Here are some important factors to consider:
Weight
Paddle weight affects your control and power. Lighter paddles (7-7.8 oz) offer more control, while heavier ones (7.9-8.5 oz) provide more power. Try different weights to find your sweet spot.
Grip Size
Your grip size impacts comfort and control. Measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. This length in inches is your recommended grip size.
Core Material
The core affects the paddle’s feel and performance. Common materials include:
- Polymer: Offers control and soft feel
- Nomex: Provides power and durability
- Aluminum: Balances power and control
Face Material
The paddle face influences spin and control:
- Graphite: Lightweight with good control
- Composite: Durable with moderate power
- Carbon fiber: Lightweight with excellent touch
Shape and Size
Paddle shape affects reach and maneuverability:
- A wide body has a larger hitting surface but less maneuverability.
- An elongated shape gives you an extended reach but a smaller sweet spot.
Test different paddles if possible. Your playing style and preferences will help determine the best choice for you.
