How to Choose a Pickleball Paddle for Beginners

Starting your pickleball journey? One of the first (and most important!) choices you’ll make is picking the right paddle. The good news is: you don’t need to spend hours researching specs. In this guide, we break down exactly how to choose a pickleball paddle for beginners, so you can play with confidence—without getting overwhelmed.

Why Your Paddle Matters

The right paddle makes a big difference, especially when you’re just starting out. A beginner-friendly paddle can help you:

• Control your shots better
• Avoid unnecessary strain on your wrist or elbow
• Gain confidence in your swing
• Improve faster and enjoy the game more

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pickleball Paddle

1. Weight

Paddle weight directly affects your swing speed, power, and comfort.

• Lightweight (7.0–7.5 oz / ~198–213g): Great for control and quicker reactions.
• Midweight (7.6–8.4 oz / ~215–238g): Balanced power and control—ideal for most beginners.
• Heavy (8.5 oz and up): Offers more power but can lead to fatigue or strain.

ARTÉ Pickleball paddles are midweight (approx. 7.9 oz / 224g), making them perfectly suited for beginners who want both control and confidence in their game.

2. Grip Size

A comfortable grip helps prevent blisters and improves handling.

• Small hands: Choose a grip circumference of around 4"–4.125".
• Average to larger hands: Go for 4.25"–4.5".

ARTÉ paddles come with a 4.125” grip—ideal for most hand sizes—and feature an EVA foam wrap for a snug, cushioned feel that stays comfortable through long matches.

3. Paddle Surface Material

The surface of your paddle can influence spin, touch, and power.

• Composite or fiberglass: Great balance of feel and power—good for beginners.
• Graphite or carbon fiber: Lightweight, responsive, often more expensive.
• Wood: Affordable but heavy and less performance-oriented.

ARTÉ Pickleball uses premium carbon fiber faces—known for their durability, control, and spin potential—while still keeping our paddles affordable for beginners looking to invest in quality from the start.

4. Paddle Core

The core of your paddle impacts how the ball feels and reacts when hit.

• Polymer core: Soft, quiet, and forgiving—perfect for control and comfort.
• Nomex core: Harder and more powerful, but noisier.
• Aluminum core: Lightweight but can feel less solid.

A polymer core is typically the best choice for beginner players due to its balanced feel and ease of control.

🎨 Don’t Forget Style!

Pickleball is as much about expression as it is about movement. A paddle that reflects your style can boost your confidence and energy on the court. Why settle for black-and-boring?

🔗 Where to Buy a Beginner-Friendly Paddle

If you're a beginner looking for a paddle that’s easy to control, beautifully designed, and made to last, check out ARTÉ Pickleball. Our paddles are designed for beginners who want more than just a cheap plastic starter—without sacrificing aesthetics or quality.

With features like midweight balance, ergonomic EVA foam grip, and carbon fiber surface—all in eye-catching designs—ARTé paddles are made to help you grow your skills and stand out on the court.

👉 Shop now at artepickleball.com

Final Thoughts: Start Smart, Play Confident

Choosing the right pickleball paddle doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on a comfortable grip, balanced weight, and solid materials—and don’t forget to have fun with your style.

With the right paddle in hand, you're ready to hit the court, meet new people, and fall in love with the fastest-growing sport in the world.