Jax Story
I wanted to get a new paddle because, like you, I'm addicted to pickleball. While researching paddle specs, I noticed some consistent features among high-quality paddles, typically priced at $200 or more. Here are a few key points I observed:
- Materials: Top paddles are made from 700k fiber, 3k fiber, 18k fiber, or the latest carbon fiber Kevlar blend, each offering unique properties for spin, control, and power.
- Unibody Construction: All high-end paddles feature unibody construction for enhanced durability and reduced handle vibration.
- Thermoforming: Expensive paddles are thermoformed, unlike cheaper ones made with cold press techniques.
- Honeycomb Polymer Core: This is the most common core material in premium paddles, offering excellent performance.
While other factors like grip, handle length, balance, and weight also play a role, these are the main distinctions between high-end paddles and the cheaper ones you'll want to upgrade from as your pickleball addiction grows.