Welcome to the exciting world of pickleball! If you're new to the sport, you're probably wondering: How do I choose the right paddle? With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to help you understand the basics of pickleball paddles and explore some of the best options available, especially the ones we proudly stock at Pickld.
What to Look for in a Pickleball Paddle
When choosing a paddle, here are a few key things to consider:
1. Control vs. Power
Control paddles offer more precision and touch. Great for dinks, drops, and strategic play.
Power paddles generate stronger shots. Great for smashes and aggressive play.
2. Paddle Thickness
We recommend 16mm core thickness for new players. It offers the best balance between control and forgiveness.
3. Surface Material
Carbon fiber or kevlar surfaces grip the ball better and help generate spin.
4. Sweet Spot & Forgiveness
A wider paddle face or thermoformed design helps reduce mishits and gives you more margin for error.
5. Weight & Handle Length
Most paddles weigh between 7.8 - 8.4 oz. Lighter paddles = quicker reactions. Longer handles = better for two-handed shots.
Our Recommended Paddles for New & Developing Players
Update, August 2026: the Six Zero Double Black Diamond and Black Diamond that used to open this list have been discontinued, and we sold our last of each this month. The Coral range replaced them, so that is where we point you now.
🔷 Six Zero Coral 16mm
Tectonic Core Suspension for a plush, connected feel on soft shots
Diamond Tough carbon face: spin texture that lasts far longer than standard raw carbon
Hybrid or Elongated shape, in Ocean Blue, Coral Pink or Black
Perfect for: Players who want a solid all-rounder that helps develop control and soft game skills. The direct successor to the Double Black Diamond.
🔶 Six Zero Coral Pro 16mm
Diamond Tough raw carbon face for elite spin and a huge sweet spot
Three shapes: Widebody (most forgiving), Hybrid (balanced), Elongated (reach and put-away power)
Same Tectonic Core Suspension as the Coral, built for the pro tier
Perfect for: Players who want reach and put-away power without giving up the soft game. Pick the Elongated if you used to eye the Black Diamond for your drives.
🪶 Six Zero Coral Light Weight 16mm
Same Coral face and core, trimmed to roughly 7.6 oz with a slimmer 4 in handle
Swing weight 108: quick hands in fast exchanges at the net
Hybrid or Widebody, in Misty Blue
Perfect for: Players who value hand speed and control, or anyone with smaller hands.
❤️ Six Zero Ruby (16mm)
Aramid (Kevlar) face for unmatched durability and spin
Premium feel with control-focused performance
Perfect for: Serious players wanting a paddle that will last and grow with their skills.
💠 Six Zero Sapphire 2024 (13mm)
Lightweight and fast
Good balance of power and control
Ideal for players who want quick hands at the net
Perfect for: Beginners who want a comfortable, maneuverable paddle to start strong.
🟪 Six Zero Quartz (15mm)
Raw carbon face for spin
Forgiving and affordable
Available in fun gemstone colors
Perfect for: Budget-conscious players who still want great performance.
JOOLA Pro V Series
Update, August 2026: the JOOLA Pro IV paddles that used to sit here have been superseded and we no longer stock them. The Pro V generation replaced them, so these are the cards now.
🛡️ Perseus Pro V (16mm)
Ben Johns' elongated 16.5 in workhorse shape
16mm core and KineticFrame throat: soft, predictable feel with easier power on drives
Extra reach at the baseline, forgiving at the kitchen
Perfect for: Players wanting one paddle that covers every part of the court.
⚡ Hyperion Pro V (16mm)
Ben Johns' rounded elongated head: livelier, easier to reset at pace
16mm Honeycomb Propulsion core with the Gen 5 KineticFrame throat
Slightly lower swing weight than flat-top shapes for faster hands
Perfect for: Players who like to spin the ball and play with variety.
🌀 Scorpeus Pro V (16mm)
Widebody for a huge, forgiving sweet spot
Control-first: soft, planted feel on resets and dinks
16mm core, textured carbon face, KineticFrame throat
Perfect for: Players who win points at the kitchen line and want a paddle that helps them improve faster.
🪐 Kosmos Pro V (16mm)
Hybrid 16.3 x 7.7 in shape: reach and sweet-spot width in one paddle
16mm Honeycomb Propulsion core: controlled power, soft consistent feel
Federico Staksrud's all-court paddle
Perfect for: All-court players who refuse to choose between reach and forgiveness.
🎾 Agassi Pro V (16mm)
Elongated 16.5 in frame with a 5.5 in handle for two-handed backhands
Built with Andre Agassi: full Pro V construction, KineticFrame throat and 16mm core
A familiar swing weight for tennis-trained players
Perfect for: Tennis converts looking for familiarity and top-tier feel.
Final Thoughts
We know it can be hard to choose, so feel free to try some of these paddles at SUNS Pickleball sessions before you commit! We stock everything listed here and are happy to give personalized advice based on your play style and goals.
👉 Need help choosing? Chat with us at the desk or reply to this email!
🛒 Ready to gear up? Browse our full paddle collection at Pickld.
See you on the court!
– Pickld Australia
