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My Friend And I Pooled $10,000 To Start An E-commerce Company. After Months Of Brainstorming Products, We Chose Pickleball Paddles.
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By clicking "Sign Up", you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You can opt-out at any time by visiting our Preferences page or by clicking "unsubscribe" at the bottom of the email.When my friend and I committed to building our own e-commerce business, our first task was selecting a product to sell.
We knew we wanted to create something of our own (rather than use an arbitrage model and buy and resell an existing product) — and that was about it.
There were infinitely many directions we could pursue. We talked in circles for weeks, plagued by decision fatigue. Our working list included but was not limited to kitchen sponges, elbow braces, zip ties, wind-up toys, cookie cutters, and even seasonal-specific items such as holiday socks. And it felt like the blind leading the blind: My experience with e-commerce was secondhand, having reported on successful Amazon sellers. My business partner worked in film.
Rather than spend more time working through whether there was enough demand for elbow braces or too much competition in the cookie-cutter space, we decided to ask for help.
I reached out to Joe Reeves, who, in addition to building his own e-commerce empire, cofounded the consulting business 330 Trading to help people do exactly what we were hoping to do: make money selling things online.
He and his cofounder, Tyler Walter, agreed to meet. They assigned us homework ahead of the call: select a category we wanted to sell in and come up with a list of specific product ideas in that space. To get the ideas flowing, they encouraged us to think about our hobbies and how we generally spend our time. What do you know and like?
It was an easy question to answer; we both grew up surrounded by tennis and competed collegiately. Years after graduating, we still played recreationally and spent our weekends teaching. We dabbled in other racket sports, including pickleball, padel, and paddle tennis.
It wasn't kitchen sponges or zip ties we should be producing; it was something racket-sport-related.
After pinpointing our category, the next step was listing specific product ideas. We came up with tennis-ball tubes, overgrips, lead tape, shock absorbers, pickleballs, and pickleball paddles and, under Reeves' counsel, signed up for a software called Helium 10 to start researching our product ideas. It offers a lot of data, and Reeves recommended we start by paying attention to demand — whether people were actually buying the product — which can be identified by looking at the search volume.
We purchased Helium 10 Platinum ($79 a month when billed annually and $99 a month when billed monthly). Our $99-a-month subscription also granted us access to "Freedom Ticket," an online course that consists of an extensive library of video content designed to help you build a successful Amazon, which Reeves suggested we take advantage of.
One of the first tools we started tinkering with was Xray. It allows you to see sales data that, in theory, can help you identify a profitable product niche.
Here's the data we pulled on "tennis shock absorbers," "tennis grip tape," and "pickleball paddles." I highlighted the search volume and the BSR, which stands for "best sellers rank" and indicates how well a product is selling on Amazon. The lower a product's BSR, the higher its sales.
"Tennis shock absorbers":
Kathleen Elkins via Helium 10"Tennis grip tape":
Kathleen Elkins via Helium 10"Pickleball paddles":
Kathleen Elkins via Helium 10Pickleball paddles were the most intriguing, at least based on search volume and BSR, but with an average price of $63, we wondered whether they'd be too expensive to make on a $10,000 budget.
We sent our list of racket-sports products and accompanying Helium 10 data to Reeves and Walter ahead of our call, not entirely sure what to make of the numbers — and not entirely sure we were even using the software correctly.
When we met over Zoom, Reeves helped us nix a few products right off the bat. Tennis ball tubes, for example, had a low search volume, signifying low demand, and they were irregularly shaped, which means they'd likely be difficult and expensive to ship. He asked us, as tennis coaches, if we used tennis-ball tubes. The answer was no — another reason to pass.
We ultimately narrowed the list down to overgrips (a cloth-like tape that you wrap around the grip of a racket) and pickleball paddles. Grips were the cheaper (and, therefore, safer) option for first-time Amazon sellers, but you could feel the energy behind the paddle idea. It would be easier and more fun to market, there was competition but notable demand as the sport continued to grow in the US, and the margins seemed excellent based on back-of-the-napkin math.
The one catch was the cost. Reeves estimated that our first inventory order alone could wipe out our $10,000 budget.
He recommended we talk among ourselves and sleep on it, which we did, but the decision already felt made.
It was time to make a pickleball paddle.
The 9 Best Pickleball Paddles For Players Of All Levels
The best pickleball paddles provide a secure grip, helping you maintain control and deliver powerful shots. Finding the right paddle can make all the difference—it's the only equipment you need to play, whether you're just getting started or looking to up your game. After speaking with a USA pickleball expert and playing with different options, I named the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 the best paddle overall for balanced performance. If you're looking for a slightly less expensive paddle, I recommend the Head Radical Elite for around $70. And if you need a beginner, advanced, controlling or powerful paddle, I've found great options for these as well.
The best pickleball paddles include picks from Joola, On Holiday and more.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERSAs simple as a pickleball paddle may seem, each one offers a different experience, which is why you should "try as many different paddles as is practical," says Carl Schmits, chief technical officer at USA Pickleball. To help you find the right one for your needs, I evaluated the grip size, weight, shape and materials of 15 different pickleball paddles to separate the best models from the rest. Read on to find a paddle that meets your needs. If you're looking for a beginner-specific paddle, check out our guide to the best pickleball paddles for beginners.
Amazon
Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16
Face: Carbon abrasionCore: HoneycombWeight: 8.3 ouncesPaddle length: 16.5 inches
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If a paddle is good enough for the greatest pickleball player of all time, it should probably be good enough for the rest of us. Named after the number one player in all three divisions for most of the last three years, Ben Johns, the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion features a responsive honeycomb core that's 16 millimeters thick (hence the "CAS 16" moniker), a carbon abrasion surface for better control, edge-guard protection for durability and an elongated handle that's perfect for two-handed shots. It's a bit pricey when you can't find it on sale, but for those in need of a do-it-all paddle that beginners can grow with and veterans can take full advantage of, this is the one to get.
What the players say: "Great paddle. Been playing with it for a couple weeks now and has held up so far. Great control, power, fairly large sweet spot, and spin is great. I own a couple other paddles and this has been my go to recently."
The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.
Walmart
Head Radical Elite
Face: FiberglassCore: Polypropylene honeycombWeight: 8.1 ouncesPaddle length: 16 inches
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If you'd like to give pickleball a try without dropping a lot on a new paddle, Head's Radical Elite model will serve you well (no pun intended). Featuring a fiberglass surface for excellent feel and power, it's complete with a 4.25-inch handle and a polypropylene core that's perfect for mid-level play. Head's expertise in the tennis world plays a role in the paddle's Ergo grip, which should add some confidence to your play as well. Best of all, the paddle's $70 price tag makes it an affordable option, so you can get into the game with friends or play some pick-up in your free time without feeling guilty if you're not on the court day in and day out.
What players say: "Great feel, lightweight. Useful for all skill levels. I thought about a more expensive paddle, but bought one for my wife and she liked it so much I bought another for myself."
Amazon
Engage Pickleball Encore EX 6.0
Face: FiberTEKCore: ControlPro polymerWeight: 8.4 ouncesPaddle length: 16 inches
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As tempting as it may be to strike the ball with all your might as soon as it's lofted over the net, you'll still want a paddle that prioritizes control to ensure technical shots land where you expect them to, and the Encore EX 6.0 is a standout performer in that regard. Rated highly among former tennis players that are used to playing with larger rackets, the paddle features a rough-textured skin that allows you to put more spin on the ball, and a larger sweet spot makes up for potential mistakes.
Weighing over 8 ounces with a 15.8-millimeter thick polymer core, this paddle is technically on the heavier side, but the design is strategically engineered to ensure the core material doesn't detract from the control. This paddle, like all Engage paddles, complies with USAPA guidelines, and it's endorsed for sanctioned tournament play at US and international pickleball events. So while it may be a bit pricey up front, you can grow with this paddle and take it to tournaments once you're ready to level up your game.
What players say: "I need more control than power out of a paddle, and it allows me to play a game more similar to my tennis game, which has given me extra confidence to hit the shots I want to hit. Buy this one first if you're a tennis player looking for a paddle that will complement your tennis skills on the pickleball court."
Face: FiberglassCore: HoneycombWeight: 8.25 ouncesPaddle length: 16.5 inches
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While materials, weight and dimensions will affect any player's performance on the court, beginners should pay close attention to these details as they'll have a lasting impact on your long-term experience. When it comes to the On Holiday Classic Paddle, you get plenty of beginner-friendly features, from comfortable, sweat-resistant grips to a fiberglass face that provides a good balance of power and control. And as extra motivation, the Classic Paddle comes in a number of stylish designs that are sure to get you a few compliments on the court.
What players say: "They are extremely comfortable to hold and use," says updates writer Fran Sales. "I was actually skeptical they would be durable since they're so stylish, but they still look quite new after several uses. The fun designs make them stand out, too."
Face: GraphiteCore: Nomex honeycombWeight: 8.2 ouncesPaddle length: 15.5 inches
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You'll spot various Onix paddles at tournaments across the country, and the Graphite Z5 is no exception. The slightly elongated shape gives you extra reach and shifts the sweet spot upward, while the traditional width makes it easier to block shots or dink to your heart's content. But most importantly, all that real estate allows you to generate loads of power without sacrificing control. If that's your style, this paddle's for you.
What players say: "This is a great paddle for all levels. The weight is right in the middle so it's not too light or too heavy. Has a large sweet spot for consistent hits and a great surface for putting spin on the ball. The grip issues seem to be resolved and it feels great in my hand."
Face: GraphiteCore: Polymer honeycombWeight: 8 ouncesPaddle length: 15.75 inches
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After you've got a few seasons of play under your belt, odds are you're going to want to level up your paddle, at which point you should consider picking up the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro. Delivering unmatched accuracy, power and forgiveness, it features a large sweet spot and balanced weight to increase your finesse, speed and maneuverability. The textured graphic surface pairs with a tacky performance grip to improve accuracy and control through every shot, and Paddletek offers the Tempest Wave Pro in multiple colors to suit your style.
What players say: "High quality paddle with large sweet spot. Paddle absorbs shock well but has plenty of power. It's a fun paddle to play with because it can do so much."
Face: Acoustene compositeCore: Polypropylene honeycombWeight: 7.9 ouncesPaddle length: 15.8 inches
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In full disclosure, we haven't had the chance to test Owl's all-new Owl CX paddle, but weighing 7.7 ounces and measuring 7.9 inches wide, the Owl CX appears to feature a larger sweet spot for more power, and a branded Tru grip looks to offer confidence-inspiring control. The real talking point here is the brand's proprietary Acoustene composite material about the paddle face and edge guard that's designed to mute the classic paddle "pop" noise. According to USA Pickleball, the Owl paddle line delivers a decibel level below 80, while traditional paddles, by comparison, have a near-harmful decibel range of 85-plus. Whether or not Acoustene significantly affects play remains to be seen, but for now, this is the answer to the sport's noise complaints. Impressively, it's also the only paddle series that currently qualifies for USA Pickleball's new "quiet category" (more on that below), so you don't have to sacrifice quiet play for power.
Amazon
Joola Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16
Face: Carbon frictionCore: Reactive honeycombWeight: 8 ouncesPaddle length: 16.5 inches
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Once you've finally fallen in love with pickleball after a few months of play, you'll soon wonder how your game might improve if you were to invest in a new paddle. When that day comes, consider picking up the Joola Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16 paddle—it makes for a suitable upgrade over your beloved entry- or mid-level model. The elongated handle improves grip in the midst of a heated match while a carbon surface and frame add texture and support, helping you put some added spin (and flair) on those placed shots. The paddle's edge features a reinforced guard to strengthen the core and a carbon fiber core offers better feedback and control over that of an entry-level model.
What players say: "Fantastic paddle that has a lot control and spin. Worth every penny and seems to be more durable then last years model."
Face: FiberglassCore: Polypropylene honeycombWeight: 7.7 ouncesPaddle length: 15.9 inches
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When you're just getting started, shelling out over $100 for pickleball paddles, balls and a case can seem like a big commitment. For this reason, we recommend the Helium Pickleball Paddle Set for players looking to get into the sport without overspending. For $55, you get everything you need to play with your family or friends, including four paddles, four balls and a drawstring bag to stow your set.
What players say: "We have not been playing the game long but wanted our own paddles to get more into it," says one player. "So far they have been great." Another adds the Helium is the "perfect set for a family."
The Best Pickleball Paddles ComparedPickleball draws in players of all ages and abilities, and pickleball paddles aren't one-size-fits-all. With this in mind, it's important to find the right paddle for your specific needs, skill level and play style. In the following chart, we break down the features of our top picks to help guide you to your ideal choice.
Why Trust Forbes VettedThe Forbes Vetted team has published an extensive library of gear guides, covering tennis and racket sports, golf and water sports among many other activities. Whether you're looking for pickleball paddles for beginners or a capable pair of pickleball shoes, we've got you covered.
To identify and recommend the best pickleball paddles, I relied on my own expertise, consulted other players with broad ranges of experience and read customer reviews from those who bought a pickleball paddle with their own money.
Take a gander at the best pickleball paddles and you'll notice that while each model looks nearly identical from one to the next, they're not quite the same. In reality, a handful of factors differentiate one paddle from another, and how you blend these factors will dictate your play.
Overall SizeThe most popular pickleball paddle size is 8 inches wide and 15.75 inches long, with a grip circumference between 4 and 4.5 inches. This size is officially sanctioned by the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) and is the standard size used in most official pickleball tournaments.
While there are other sizes available on the market, the 8- x 15.75-inch paddle size has become the norm for most players—it offers a balance of power, control and maneuverability. It's worth noting that players of different ages and skill levels may have different preferences when it comes to paddle size, so some players may find that a larger or smaller paddle better suits their playing style.
Weight"Weight plays a significant role in hand speed, power and swing efficiency," says Schmits. "A heavily weighted paddle may have the mass to generate good power in baseline play, but may slow hand speed and reaction time during kitchen shootouts." On the other hand, "a paddle that is very light will not feel stable on off center hits, and with so little mass, will rely on the player to generate all the power."
To summarize, a heavier paddle (over 8 ounces) will add power and stability to every shot, but will come at the cost of speed. If you're a beginner, consider investing in a lighter paddle (less than 8 ounces) that allows you to focus on control before progressing to power.
ShapeA paddle's shape dictates its sweet spot, power and control. Elongated paddles (like the Head Radical Elite mentioned above) offer more power to help you drive shots, while a squared paddle has a bigger sweet spot and offers more control.
"We typically see longer handles and head shapes with higher level players, and those with a racquets background," notes Schmits. "Shorter, wider paddles are typically a good choice for beginner to intermediate, providing a lighter swing weight and good stability for off center hits during kitchen play."
ThicknessThickness refers to how thick the core of the paddle is. A thicker core (over 16 millimeters thick) offers a bigger sweet spot and greater potential for spins, which makes it harder for your opponent to return a shot. A thinner core (less than 16 millimeters thick) offers more power, but this comes at the cost of a smaller sweet spot and less control. Consider investing in a paddle with a thicker core if you're new to the game, as this will allow you to control and place shots before setting your sights on power.
Core TypeThe core of a pickleball paddle can be made of materials like polymer, aluminum or Nomex. According to Schmits, "all major manufacturers have moved to polymer cores; aluminum and Nomex cores are rarely used any longer. By varying cell size, cell wall thickness and thickness of the core itself, paddle makers can tune the responsiveness, stiffness and durability of the paddle."
Surface Texture"Surface roughness plays a critical role in creating spin," says Schmits. "While there is a tightly controlled upper limit to roughness, manufacturers produce paddles with different texture patterns, coatings and applications to create as much spin as possible."
Keep in mind that you can add texture to a paddle with tape or adhesive about the handle or frame, but very strict rules dictate how you can manipulate the face. Consult the official pickleball rulebook before modifying the face of your paddle to ensure it meets regulations.
Handle LengthThe length of the handle is largely a matter of preference. A shorter handle mimics the geometry of a Ping-Pong paddle, which gives you the opportunity to choke up on the grip, thereby reducing its rotational inertia to swing the paddle quicker, while a longer handle sacrifices some speed but plays a lot more like a tennis racket. Keep in mind that combined length and width of a paddle (including an edge guard and butt cap) cannot exceed 24 inches, per the official rulebook, so any length added to the handle will force the paddle to be smaller.
Grip SizeSimilar to handle length, a paddle's grip size will dictate comfort and control. "Paddles usually come in just one grip size," notes Schmits. "Players build up grips with overwraps to find a comfortable size. The grip should be large enough to avoid injury-causing over-clenching, but not so large that the wrist cannot be used to snap through an overhead."
Again, the combined length and width of a paddle cannot exceed 24 inches, so don't go overboard when refining the grip. The correct grip size should allow you to comfortably hold the paddle while maintaining a relaxed grip.
MaterialsFiberglass, graphite, carbon fiber—pickleball paddles are made with different materials that perform a bit differently in the midst of play. Beginner-to-intermediate paddles are usually made with fiberglass, while intermediate-to-advanced paddles are made with carbon fiber and graphite. Read on to find out what differentiates these materials from one another, and how they might impact your play.
Carbon fiber pickleball paddles deliver greater comfort and control when compared to less expensive paddles, which are typically made of wood or fiberglass. The carbon material makes the paddle lighter and more precise, but also durable. For these reasons, we recommend carbon paddles for intermediate or advanced players looking to level up their game. However, if you're a beginner, a fiberglass paddle may still be a good choice. They're generally more affordable than carbon fiber and graphite options, plus they can help generate more power.
Noise LevelPickleball is a pretty loud sport, so much so that non-players across the country are up in arms over the constant noise. Up until recently, it was a part of the game that both players and non-players were forced to accept, but USA Pickleball has since certified the first product in its new "quiet category" for recreational pickleball equipment: The OWL by OWL Sport. According to the sport's governing body, the quiet category "aims to reduce the sport's sound output and recognize pickleball products that reduce the sport's noise during play without negatively impacting performance."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)What Is The #1 Rated Pickleball Paddle?
According to our research and testing, the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 is the most highly-rated pickleball paddles. It provides an ideal balance of control and power for a wide range of players.
Is A Joola Or Selkrirk Paddle Better?
Although both brands make high quality pickleball paddles, Joola edges out Selkirk due to its overall performance. We especially appreciate the control, power and construction of the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 and the Joola Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16, our picks for the best pickleball paddle overall and paddle for spin, respectively.
Is There Really A Difference In Pickleball Paddles?
In short, yes. Despite appearances, subtle differences like grip size, weight, shape, thickness, core type and surface texture set pickleball paddles apart. All of these factors can drastically influence your gameplay and the overall longevity of the paddle. Some paddles come with more unique features that help provide offer an on-court advantage (like improved consistency, accuracy and power).
Pro Pickleball Paddles Vs. Regular Paddles: What's The Difference?
Introduction
Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity among sports enthusiasts. Given this growth, the equipment used, especially pickleball paddles, has become a focal point of discussion. Understanding the differences between pro pickleball paddles and regular paddles can make a significant impact on your game, no matter your skill level. According to Pickleheads, the sport's participation has skyrocketed, making it imperative for players to choose the right equipment.
What are Pro Pickleball Paddles?Pro pickleball paddles are designed with advanced players in mind. These paddles often meet specific industry standards, making them suitable for competitive play. Typically, pro paddles exhibit the following features:
Regular pickleball paddles are typically used by casual or beginner players. Understanding their characteristics can help you decide which paddle best fits your needs.
DescriptionRegular pickleball paddles are designed for players who are new to the game or play recreationally. These paddles offer a balance of performance and affordability, making them accessible to a broader audience.
FeaturesHere are some common features of regular pickleball paddles:
Understanding how pro and regular pickleball paddles affect game performance is crucial for making an informed choice.
PowerBy considering these performance aspects, you can better decide whether a pro or regular paddle suits your playing style and needs. Read more about the best pickleball paddles for both beginners and pros on Wired.
Cost ComparisonWhen comparing pro pickleball paddles to regular paddles, it's essential to consider the cost differences. Here's a simple breakdown:
Price RangeChoosing the Right Paddle for You
Selecting the right pickleball paddle depends on several factors. Here's what to consider when deciding between pro and regular paddles:
ConsiderationsChoose wisely based on your needs and preferences to get the most enjoyment and performance out of your pickleball game.
Benefits of Upgrading to Pro Pickleball PaddlesUpgrading to pro pickleball paddles can offer numerous benefits for players looking to enhance their game. Here are some key advantages:
Call to Action
If you're serious about improving your pickleball game, trying out different types of paddles can be a great move. Consider investing in a pro pickleball paddle for the following reasons:
For those interested, we recommend checking out high-quality brands known for their exceptional pro pickleball paddles. Take the first step toward a better game by exploring your options today.
By upgrading to a pro pickleball paddle, you're not just buying a piece of equipment; you're investing in a superior playing experience.
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