With hundreds of different paddle manufacturers in pickleball, it can be overwhelming when trying to find the perfect pickleball paddle - especially when so many of the shapes, cosmetics, weights, and other features seem so similar. Power and spin are what we hear about most with pickleball paddles these days. But what about that long-lost characteristic that seems to be forgotten - control? Pickleball was born to be a sport of touch and control. In this article, the Paddle Experts at JustPaddles are going to reconnect to our roots and highlight a few of the best pickleball paddles for control.
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When you’re looking for a pickleball paddle with control, make it easy on yourself. Don’t overthink every aspect and remember that you’re in control of your paddle! That said, there are features that will be better for control than others. Here’s what to look for:
- Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles. The latest material to hit the pickleball scene, carbon fiber has many benefits and precision is firmly on that list.
- Graphite Pickleball Paddles. Graphite is well known as one of the most control-friendly surfaces used in pickleball paddles.
- Thicker Core. A thicker core will help create more precise shots and more vibration dampening. Look for paddles at a 16mm thickness or thicker.
- Standard or Widebody Shape. Standard or widebody paddle shapes create a large, forgiving, and centralized sweet spot that helps mis-hits and off-centered shots stay within the lines.
- Middleweight. Not too heavy, not too light - middleweight could be just right! Light paddles are high in maneuverability, but lower in stability which could affect your control. Heavyweight paddles are high in stability but less in maneuverability, potentially limiting your reaction to the ball and causing your ball to go array.
Pro Tip: Keep the above characteristics in mind and you can shop using our filters to find the best control paddle for you. Now, let's dive in.
Best Pickleball Paddles For Control
Diadem Warrior Edge Middleweight Graphite Pickleball Paddle
Diadem’s Warrior Edge is the perfect balance of thickness, face material, and swing weight, creating a universal paddle with loads of control. Plus, you can find unique, limited-edition first responder options for firefighters, military, and police. Watch as our Paddle Experts test the limits and highlight some of the main features.
Electrum Pro Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
This widebody shape and super-gritty carbon fiber face allow for supreme spin and control, a combination highly sought after when shopping for a control paddle. The best part? Each new paddle comes with a free Electrum Pro Paddle Cover (value of $18.99). Still not convinced? See what one of our happy customers had to say about the Electrum Pro Pickleball Paddle.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Love this pickleball paddle!"
Pros: Where do I start? I was super excited about the release of this paddle. It was worth it 100%. The excitement around the Electrum hype was totally warranted and the performance exceeded my expectations. It has a great touch on spin shots and a solid connection when I try to put some power into it. Couldn't be happier!
Cons: NA
Engage Pursuit EX 6.0 Graphite Pickleball Paddle
Engage is a brand that builds true pickleball paddles for any type of player. The Pursuit EX has a standard to widebody shape and a thick core for pinpoint precision from anywhere on the court.
GAMMA 405 Middleweight Graphite Pickleball Paddle
GAMMA's 405 was designed with control in mind. This graphite pickleball paddle offers maneuverability and control that is second to none. Watch as Paddle Exert's Ben and Austin provide their opinion on how it plays.
Gearbox GBX 16MM Heavyweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
Gearbox jumped into the polypropylene pickleball paddle game and designed one of the most controlled paddles in the history of their line. The GBX is a thicker core, soft paddle designed with line-painting accuracy.
Head Gravity Tour Middleweight Hybrid Pickleball Paddle
HEAD is well known for creating pickleball paddles that dominate the control game. In a line full of control paddles, the HEAD Gravity Tour might just reign supreme.
JOOLA Simone Jardim Hyperion CFS 16mm Swift Middleweight Pickleball Paddle
Encompassing everything that a player needs to take their control to the next level, the JOOLA Simone Jardim Signature pickleball paddle is designed for a true pickleball player. But don't take our word for it, here's a real review from intermediate player Cinely:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Love, love, love it!"
Pros: Helps with control. Reliable. Feels good.
Cons: None at this time.
Selkirk SLK Halo Max Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
Selkirk’s SLK Halo Series is a control-focused line, and the large and forgiving sweet spot of the Halo Max firmly cements it on the list of control paddles to keep an eye on.
Vulcan V570CF2 Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The best of all worlds. The V570 is a pickleball paddle you must consider when on the hunt for the best control paddles in the game.
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Now that you’re in control of your paddle-picking process, we’re going to let you get to it! If you need any help, feel free to contact our Paddle Experts! Whether it be our Paddle Coach or just a nudge in the right direction, give us a call or text 1-866-382-3465, email us at experts@justpaddles.com, or utilize our live chat to speak with a Paddle Expert today. We’re JustPaddles, and we’re with you from Click to Court!
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