Best Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players: Because You’re No Longer a Beginner (But Not Quite Pro)

Pickleball sneaks up on you, doesn’t it? One day you’re smacking wobbly shots in your neighbor’s driveway, and suddenly you’re online, hunting for a paddle that won’t embarrass you at the rec center. Paddles might all look the same to a newbie, but once we got past the basics, we realized just how much the right paddle can change our game.

At the intermediate stage, we need something better than the clunky loaners we started with. A good paddle helps us find that sweet spot between power and control. Suddenly, grip, weight, and surface matter—a lot. No paddle will magically fix our footwork, but the right one can save us from those accidental “whoops” shots.

When we shop for a paddle, we care about the material (graphite and composite are popular for good reason), the weight (nobody wants a paddle as heavy as our cookie guilt), and the grip size. It’s not rocket science, but these details can mean the difference between a fun match and a frustrating one. We spent hours hitting, testing, and arguing to find the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players like us.

Best Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players

Pickleball isn’t just a funny word—it’s a real sport, especially for us intermediate players. Our list below features paddles that can help us stop blaming our gear for missed shots. Let’s pick the right paddle and maybe win a couple more games.

Uteeqe Pickleball Paddle Set

If you want to level up your game without emptying your piggy bank, this set deserves a spot in your gear bag.

Pros

• Durable build survives our wildest rallies
• Textured graphite face lets us pull off sneaky spins
• Cushioned grip keeps sweaty hands in check

Cons

• Grip can wear down after heavy use
• Might feel a bit light for power hitters
• Edge guard gets scuffed if we play rough

Right out of the bag, these Uteeqe paddles look sturdy (and honestly, they’re pretty sharp in blue). We noticed the textured surface immediately, and it made adding spin almost too easy—our friends were not amused. The grip feels soft and doesn’t slip, even when we’re sweating through long rallies.

At just under 8 ounces, the paddle swings fast and doesn’t tire out our arms. We zipped around at the net and managed some sneaky drop shots. Control is excellent, and mishits didn’t leave us totally embarrassed.

The edge guard saved our nerves during those “oops, I hit the court” moments. After a few months of intense play, the grip started to show wear, but a little athletic tape fixed it up. It doesn’t pack the punch of a heavier paddle, but for intermediate play, it nails the balance between speed, spin, and control.

The set includes balls and a carry bag, so our excuses for skipping pickleball just got weaker.

Selkirk SLK Neo Pickleball Paddle Set

If you’re ready to upgrade from basic paddles but don’t want to spend a fortune, this set checks the right boxes—with only a few quirks to dodge.

Pros

• Comfy grip is easy on our wrists
• Lightweight, so we can pretend we’re faster than we are
• Big sweet spot saves us during rallies

Cons

• Maybe too gentle for hard-hitters
• Bag works, but it’s not winning any style points
• Paddles lose a bit of pop after months of use

We played plenty of games with the Selkirk SLK Neo paddles, and somehow, our game didn’t get worse. The first thing we noticed? How light these paddles feel—no arm soreness, even after a suspiciously long session when nobody wanted to quit.

The cushioned grip soaked up sweat and shock, so we spent less time complaining about hand cramps. Control stood out with these paddles. The graphite face lets us pull off drop shots and dinks, and the large sweet spot cuts down on embarrassing air whiffs.

We managed some decent spin, even if our technique still needs help. For power, these paddles have enough pop for most intermediate play, but if you swing like you’re still on the tennis team, you might want more oomph.

The kit includes a useful bag and plenty of balls, which almost makes us look professional. Over time, we noticed the paddles feeling a bit softer after heavy use, but for the price, that’s not a dealbreaker.

If you want solid paddles that let you have fun, keep improving, and avoid breaking the bank, this set is tough to beat—even if the bag is a little bland.

Jojolemon Carbon Fiber Paddle

This paddle is a clear upgrade for anyone who wants more spin and control without arm fatigue.

Pros

• Great spin and accuracy
• Feels light for quick volleys
• Large sweet spot forgives off-center hits

Cons

• A bit pricey for some
• Handle might feel long if you like short grips
• Could be too much for total beginners

If you want a paddle that gives you better control and just enough power, the Jojolemon Carbon Fiber Paddle is a winner. The lightweight design means our wrists don’t hate us after a long match, and the sweet spot is big enough to forgive a few shaky hits.

After switching from a basic paddle, the difference was obvious—shots finally went where we aimed. Spin became our new best friend. That carbon fiber surface really grabs the ball, letting us add curve to shots that used to drop straight into the net.

The grip stays comfortable, even for sweaty hands, and the paddle’s quiet performance spared our ears on noisy indoor courts. Presentation matters too—getting a cover and spare grip tape in the box felt like a bonus.

It’s definitely a paddle for those who take the game seriously but don’t want to feel like they’re swinging a brick. If you’re just starting, it might feel like too much; but for intermediate players, this paddle really does make us look—almost—like we know what we’re doing.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Paddle

If you want to step up your pickleball game without completely emptying your wallet, this paddle could be your next move.

Pros

• Excellent control lets us aim our shots
• Surface grip creates plenty of spin
• Handle stays comfortable and sweat-resistant

Cons

• A little heavier than others we’ve tried
• Durability could be better for this price
• Grip might feel big for smaller hands

After a few games with the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion, we knew we’d upgraded from our beginner paddles. The carbon abrasion surface adds a surprising amount of spin—finally, our drop shots don’t fly into the net or off the court.

Serving and dinking felt easier, and the grip stayed dry even after an intense rally. We noticed it has some heft. If you love ultra-light paddles, it might take some getting used to.

Some of us saw the edge chip a bit after a run-in with the court, so maybe high-five instead of banging paddles. The grip size is on the larger side, but it adds stability and comfort, which helps when matches get close.

No, it won’t turn us into Ben Johns overnight, but it does make us feel like we’re moving up in the pickleball world. If nothing else, it’ll make our friends jealous at the courts.

GARYE Pickleball Paddle Set

If you want a paddle that won’t make you look clueless during intermediate matches, this set is a practical pick with a few quirks to keep things interesting.

Pros

• Comfy grip stays dry, even when our hands don’t
• The set comes with useful extras
• Lightweight but still packs a punch

Cons

• Balls can crack faster than our spirits after a missed shot
• Bag could use an expansion pack
• Uninvited socks occasionally included (true story)

After a few rounds with the GARYE Pickleball Paddle Set, we felt the difference from our old beginner gear immediately. The paddles felt solid without weighing us down, so our arms didn’t turn to noodles by the third game.

The comfortable handle made it easy to keep a steady grip, especially during heated rallies. It’s nice that this set isn’t just two paddles tossed in a box.

Six balls and a handy bag mean less time searching the car for lost gear. The extra grip tapes are great for those of us who sweat buckets. We even managed to squeeze a towel and two granola bars in the outer pocket, which definitely helped morale.

One thing stood out—besides the random sock in our box—the balls don’t last forever. A couple split on us after a few hard games, so we’d recommend grabbing a backup pack if you play rough. The bag fits the basics, but if you try to haul lunch and water bottles too, it gets tight fast.

Overall, this set worked well for casual play and practice. We looked and felt prepared, even if our skills still needed some seasoning. Just check the balls (and maybe the box) for surprises, and you’re ready for the courts.

MTEN Fiberglass Pickleball Set

If you’re looking for a reliable set that won’t make your wallet cry, this pickleball set hits that sweet spot for intermediate play.

Pros

• Super lightweight and easy to swing
• Grip stays comfy, even after a long session
• Set comes with everything—including a bag and extra balls

Cons

• Carry bag strap feels a bit flimsy
• Design is basic, nothing wild
• Paddle isn’t exactly quiet

When we grabbed the MTEN Fiberglass Pickleball Set, we honestly didn’t expect it to feel this good in hand.

The grip has a bit of squish, so our hands don’t turn into sweaty slip-n-slides.

If you’re new to pickleball or just moving up from a basic set, you’ll appreciate the forgiving surface.

We actually felt like we had some control, even when we tried to look like pros (and, let’s be real, failed).

One bonus we didn’t know we needed: everything fits in the included bag, and there are even extra grip tapes for when the sweat really kicks in.

We love not having to hunt down balls that vanish like socks in the dryer.

The paddles feel nice and light, so our arms don’t turn into noodles after a few games.

The sound isn’t exactly stealthy, but it’s nothing the neighbors haven’t already heard.

If you’re in that “not-quite-beginner, not-quite-pro” zone, this set just works.

Selkirk SLK Halo Raw Carbon Fiber Paddle

If you want to add more control and spin to your game without making your wallet cry, this paddle has you covered.

Pros

• Great spin and control for intermediate players
• Comfortable faux leather grip keeps hands happy
• Lightweight design makes reactions faster

Cons

• Narrower shape takes a bit to get used to
• Sweet spot could be bigger
• Popular colors mean you might mix it up with someone else’s paddle

The first thing we noticed with the Selkirk SLK Halo was just how much easier it became to add some wicked spin to our serves.

That raw carbon face has more grit than grandma’s attitude, and it really pays off when you need to put away a volley.

We liked the grip more than we expected.

Even after a couple of long games, our hands felt fine, and the paddle didn’t try to escape our grip.

At just 8 ounces, it’s quick, so we could react a little faster at the net.

There’s a learning curve, though.

The elongated shape is great for reaching tough lobs, but we had to adjust our timing, especially since the sweet spot is a bit narrow.

Keep your eyes peeled at rec play—apparently, everyone and their neighbor has this paddle in the same color.

Label it or prepare for a paddle swap with a stranger.

If you’re sticking in that intermediate zone and want something to boost your spin without boosting your stress, the Selkirk SLK Halo Raw Carbon Fiber Paddle is a solid choice.

At least until it gets lost in a sea of other Selkirks.

JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddle Set

If you want to step up your game without emptying your wallet, this JOOLA paddle set is a solid pick.

Pros

• Comfy grip makes longer games easier
• Lightweight paddles give decent power and control
• Comes with balls and a carry bag—you’re ready right away

Cons

• Handle might feel short if you have big hands
• The case is snug—think of it as “motivation” to pack neatly
• Not the fanciest set for tournament players

We took these paddles for a spin, and honestly, the grip is pretty nice.

No more dropped paddles mid-swing because of sweaty hands.

The surface has a decent pop, which helped a few of our shots not look totally embarrassing.

There’s a good sweet spot, so you don’t need Ben Johns’ skills to get a crisp shot now and then.

We like that the paddles come with balls and a bag.

If we left the house with random gear, it’d end up rolling around the car, so this bag is a lifesaver.

It isn’t massive—let’s call it “efficiently sized”—but it fits two paddles, two balls, and our keys if we squeeze them in.

This set feels tough enough for a bunch of games at the local courts.

We do wish the handles were a bit longer, especially for those of us with baseball mitt-sized hands.

For intermediate play and matches with friends, we kept our dignity and even landed a few serves.

If you want a dependable upgrade that doesn’t break the bank, these paddles hit the mark.

Onix Graphite Z5 Paddle

If you want to up your pickleball game and stop blaming your old paddle for missed shots, the Onix Z5 is an easy pick for intermediate players.

Pros

• Feels light and lets you move fast at the net
• Handle shape gives tennis vibes—solid and familiar
• Good touch for those “oops, was that on purpose?” drop shots

Cons

• Grip isn’t for giant hands (sorry, Bigfoot)
• Sound on contact is a bit loud
• Edge guard looks kind of chunky

Right away, we noticed the Graphite Z5 feels super comfortable.

The handle feels like swinging a tennis racket—so if your tennis dreams didn’t pan out, here’s your second shot at sports glory.

Net control is excellent, and we found it easy to add spin when we wanted to look fancy.

During games, we liked the paddle’s lightweight design.

We moved with a bit more speed, but it still packs enough punch for baseline drives.

Drop shots felt smooth, too—nobody had to compliment us, but they probably should have.

A couple of small issues: the grip isn’t very big, so anyone with large hands might feel cramped.

The edge guard is a little bulky—it does its job, but it isn’t winning any style awards.

When you want to hit great shots and actually enjoy yourself, the Onix Graphite Z5 Paddle gets you there.

JoncAye Pickleball Paddle Set

If you’re craving a reliable, ready-to-play pickleball kit without breaking the bank—or your wrists—this JoncAye set is a win.

Pros

• Lightweight paddles are gentle on your arms
• Comes with extra balls and grips
• Cushioned handle keeps hands from slipping

Cons

• Paddle bag barely fits everything if you overpack
• Edges can get scruffed if you toss it around
• Color options might test your sense of style

We swung these JoncAye paddles at our local court, and wow—our wrists are grateful.

The paddles feel seriously light, so nobody needs to nurse a sore shoulder after one too many games (or wild backhands).

Returning shots feels smooth, and the cushy grip stops sweaty palms from ruining the fun.

Everything for a full game comes in the kit.

The included balls and over-grips mean you’re set for both indoor and outdoor matches—or for that forgetful teammate who loses stuff.

The carrying bag packs it all up, though if you cram in too much gear, the zipper might protest.

The surface offers great control, especially when you accidentally pull off a spin shot.

It’s not the flashiest set on the court, but for everyday matches and leveling up from beginner paddles, this set covers the bases.

Plus, our neighbors haven’t complained about the noise once, which is a win for everyone.

Buying Guide

Picking a pickleball paddle almost feels like finding a new best friend—except this one’s always sweaty and never texts back. We’re just trying to get the right match for our style and comfort, but honestly, it’s easy to overthink.

Weight matters. Lighter paddles let us swing faster and make it easier to control the ball. Heavier paddles? They pack a punch, but our arms might complain later.

If you want less arm fatigue, lighter is probably the way to go. Still, some folks love the thwack of a heavier paddle.

Material is important. Most paddles come in wood, composite, or graphite.

• Wood is cheap but a bit clunky and heavy.
• Composite finds a nice middle ground.
• Graphite feels light and sturdy, but yeah, it costs a bit more.

Here’s a quick table:

Feature	Description
Weight	Light: control, Heavy: power
Handle Length	Short: more control, Long: reach
Grip Size	Small: for smaller hands, Large: comfort
Surface Material	Wood, Composite, Graphite

Grip size deserves a look too. Nobody wants to grip a paddle that feels like a tree trunk or a toothpick.

Most people get by with a medium grip, but if your hands are on the bigger or smaller side, try something that fits better.

Edge guard or no edge guard? Edge guards help protect the paddle from chips and dings. Some players just like the clean feel of an edgeless paddle.

It’s really a personal call—especially if you find yourself smacking the ground more than you’d like.

If you’re not a total beginner, you’ll probably want a paddle with better control, comfort, and maybe a bit of extra pop. There’s a lot out there, but finding the right one can make the game a whole lot more fun.