If you're new to pickleball, chances are you're looking for the best beginner pickleball paddle to get started. With so many on the market, it's not easy choosing the pickleball paddle for you. That's why I created a list of the top paddles for beginners to help you.
Below you'll find a range of choices to suit different budgets and needs, from paddle sets to kids' paddles. Beginner paddles can be especially hit-or-miss, so I've personally tested each one on this list. Check out my top picks for beginner paddles in 2024:
Best beginner pickleball paddles at a glance
Best overall
Our Rating:
1. Vatic Pro PRISM Flash
The Vatic Pro PRISM Flash is the absolute best paddle for beginners. If you want to start your journey off right, this all-round performer is the one for you.
Best cheap
Our Rating:
2. GoSports GS1
The GoSports GS1 offers real value for beginners. Lightweight, forgiving, and easy to control, this is the only paddle I recommend in the $25 range.
Best $50
Our Rating:
3. PCKL Launch Series
My former number one, the PCKL Launch Series is still a top beginner paddle. If you don't want to spend $100, this is a great starter pick in the $50 range.
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Best set
Our Rating:
4. SLK NEO 2.0
The beginner pickleball set from Selkirk, the SLK NEO 2.0 comes with all you need to get started: a durable pickleball bag, 2 quality paddles, and 4 pickleballs.
Best for kids
Our Rating:
5. Oneshot Juniorshot Series
Young pickleheads will love the Oneshot Juniorshot Series. This mini paddle for kids comes in two sizes, has cool designs, and is made with some great tech.
Save 10% with code PICKLEHEADS10
Which paddle is best for you?
Before buying a paddle, it’s important to make sure it fits your game. That's why I created a 30-second quiz that recommends the best paddles for your play style and budget.
Give it a try and see if any of these beginner paddles make the list:
Find the perfect paddle
I've personally tested over 80 paddles. Take the quiz to see which ones fit your game best.
Take Paddle Fitting Quiz
Best pickleball paddles for beginners in 2024:
After rigorous testing, I've put together deep dives on each beginner pickleball paddle on my list. Check them out:
Best overall
1. Vatic Pro PRISM Flash
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The best investment for beginners
8/10
Power
10/10
Control
9/10
Spin
9/10
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You want to invest in your game:
if you have a $100 budget, you won't be disappointed with your investment here.
You want a paddle that can last as you advance:
this will serve you well as you progress into intermediate and even advanced levels.
You want a paddle that does a bit of everything:
this is an excellent control paddle, with plenty of spin, power, and forgiveness too.
Pass if:
You want a cheaper option:
try the GoSports GS1, my top budget pick at just $25.
You'd like a light paddle:
this feels heavier than the PCKL Launch Series, my favorite beginner paddle under $50.
You want a full set:
check out the SLK NEO 2.0, which has two paddles, four balls, and a bag.
Paddle weight
7.7-7.9 oz (14 mm paddle) / 7.9-8.2 oz (16 mm paddle)
Paddle length
16.3"
Paddle width
7.6"
Handle length
5.3"
If you want an edge over other beginner players, I really recommend starting your journey with the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash.
The PRISM Flash is one of my favorite ever pickleball paddles for what it offers. It's beginner-friendly but plays such a well-rounded game that I can see you keeping this as you advance through intermediate and higher levels.
It's more expensive than most beginner paddles. However, if you're able to invest, you'll get so much more performance and enjoyment with this paddle.
Who it suits
The PRISM Flash suits newcomers who want the Rolls Royce of beginner paddles. It has elite levels of control and forgiveness, and will also introduce more spin and power than most beginner options.
It's so good I also put it on my list of the best intermediate paddles, and I think it can even work for advanced players.
Save $10 and make this paddle an even better deal with code PICKLEHEADS
Features
Vatic Pro make strong, durable paddles at affordable prices. You won't find many beginner-friendly paddles with such advanced tech.
This paddle has a Toray T700 carbon fiber face, foam edge walls, and a unibody design. I normally expect to see these features in a $200 or more paddle from CRBN or JOOLA.
Design and feel
Vatic Pro paddles won't win any design awards. They look like so many other standard, black paddles. Don't let that fool you, though. Vatic Pro excel in making paddles that feel premium while costing way less than many others.
The same is true for the PRISM Flash. It has a plush feel, playing like a way more expensive paddle. One negative is that it does feel head-heavy in a way that reminds me of the Gearbox CX14E Ultimate Power.
Performance
Control is this paddle's best attribute. It's easily one of the best control paddles I've used. It's soft and plush, and accurate right from the get-go on dinks, drops, volleys, and just about any shot.
This will give beginners the confidence to start swinging hard and trying topspin shots, as you can also generate a lot of spin. It's right up there with the Legacy Pro and Pickleball Apes Pro Line Energy in terms of spin, which is incredible for a paddle under $100.
There's more than enough power for beginners too. You'll be able to start hitting hard drives and serves without being too overwhelmed.
Value for money
At $100, this is the most expensive paddle on this list. If you want to save $50, check out the PCKL Launch Series below. However, if you're willing to spend $100, this is the paddle I'd recommend for you. It shines across the board and will set you off on the right path straight away.
My verdict
The Vatic Pro PRISM Flash will give you an advantage right from the start of your pickleball journey, and help you grow in confidence as you move up through the levels. For me, it's the best investment for newcomers to the sport. With so many poor-quality cheap options out there, the PRISM Flash is the paddle I wish every beginner would start with.
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Best cheap
2. GoSports GS1
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The best bargain for beginners
6/10
Power
7/10
Control
5/10
Spin
8/10
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You want a solid budget paddle:
this is the best paddle I've played with in this low price range.
You're a beginner:
the 8" widebody face gives this a large sweet spot, making it very forgiving for newcomers.
You want a light paddle:
at just 7 oz, this is by far the lightest adult paddle on this list.
Pass if:
You're ready to invest more in your game:
if you've got a $100 budget, the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash is the best investment for beginners.
You want a full set:
you'll prefer the SLK NEO 2.0 on this list.
You're shopping for a kid's paddle:
check out the last paddle on this list, the Oneshot Juniorshot.
Amazon
Paddle weight
7 oz
Paddle length
15.75"
Paddle width
8"
Handle length
4.25"
If you're a new player who doesn't feel like spending $50 or more on a paddle just yet, you can't go wrong with the GoSports GS1. For just $25, you'll get a fast paddle with plenty of control and forgiveness to start you off on your pickleball adventure.
At this price, you'll find a lot of wooden (don't do it!) and poor-quality paddles, but I was pleasantly surprised by the GS1. This one offers real value and is the only paddle I recommend in the $25 range.
Who it suits
The GS1 suits the beginner who is still getting a feel for the game and doesn't want to invest a ton of money just yet. It plays way better than most paddles in its price range. This means you can start to enjoy the game and grow your confidence before you're ready for a step-up paddle.
This is also a good choice for teenagers as it's really lightweight and has a short 4.25" handle, making it a nice transition from a youth paddle.
Try the GoSports GS1 & see how far budget paddles have come
Features
At just 7 oz, this is a really lightweight paddle. It's quick and maneuverable at the kitchen. The 13 mm honeycomb core and fiberglass face get decent pop while still playing soft on your control game.
The 8" paddle face width gives you plenty of playing surface, so it's nice and forgiving for beginners, minimizing mish*ts as you get a feel for the game.
As I said above, the handle length is really short (just 4.25"). You definitely won't be trying any two-handed shots with this, but most beginners won't be ready yet for that anyway.
Design and feel
The design is fairly standard, but that's what you'd expect from a $25 paddle. What's more important is that it's got a comfy grip and a good feel to it. It doesn't have the stiff wooden feel of so many cheap Amazon paddles, which is one of the reasons it stands out for me.
Performance
The first thing I noticed with the GoSports GS1 was its speed. It's a whole 0.5 oz lighter than the next lightest adult paddle on this list, the SLK NEO 2.0.
This will help you to build confidence in your reaction time and make you competitive at the kitchen. The honeycomb core takes pace off the ball to help you control your shots better.
I find this paddle very forgiving thanks to its wide face. I barely have any mish*ts. Despite there being some slight texture on the face, I don't get much spin sadly. However, the thin 13 mm core helps me generate enough power that I think will satisfy most beginners.
Value for money
If you're eager to get on the courts but not ready to spend a lot of money, this is my top choice for you. It's the standout of any paddle I've tried in this price range, playing way better than almost all budget Amazon offerings.
My verdict
The GoSports GS1 shows how far paddle manufacturing has come in the last couple of years. I remember when budget Amazon paddles were literally made of wood! Now, you get much more for $25 with the GS1. This paddle is made from fiberglass, with a honeycomb core and a comfy grip. This would have cost you at least $50 in 2021.
Today’s best deal
Best for $50
3. PCKL Launch Series
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A high-performance beginner paddle at a great price
6/10
Power
7/10
Control
6/10
Spin
10/10
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You don't want to spend $100:
this offers great value, currently retailing for $60 ($50.99 after discount).
You want a forgiving paddle:
this is one of the most forgiving paddles I've ever played with.
You're gifting someone a paddle:
with a really cool design and great performance, this is a top pickleball gift for beginners.
Pass if:
You want spin in your game:
the top paddle in this list, the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash, will suit you more.
You want a youth paddle:
the Oneshot Juniorshot Series on this list is my favorite paddle for kids.
You'd prefer a paddle set:
check out the SLK NEO 2.0 on my list for similar performance in a great set.
PCKL
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Amazon
Paddle weight
7.9 oz
Paddle length
16"
Paddle width
8"
Handle length
5"
The PCKL Launch Series will set you up for success in pickleball. A super-forgiving paddle with a widebody face and an eye-catching design, it's long been a fan favorite for newbies to the sport.
I find this paddle easy to control, and hard to mish*t. I'm confident it'll give you confidence starting out.
Who it suits
This suits beginners shopping in the $50 range. If that's you, this is the best paddle you can buy, coming from a well-respected brand too. It's a solid starter pick. It makes a great pickleball gift too because it not only plays great, but it looks cool too.
Save 10% on the PCKL Launch Series with code PICKLEHEADS
Features
Compared to the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash, this has a much wider face at 8". That makes it such a forgiving paddle—one of the most forgiving I've ever used. Its sweet spot is very generous, which beginners will love.
The face is made from fiberglass with a little texture and it gives you a satisfying pop when you hit the ball. The polypropylene core is responsive, boosting your touch game.
Last but certainly not least, the comfort grip really impressed me. I've been playing with the PCKL in hot Arizona weather and it feels so good I could have sworn I was playing with a $150 or more paddle.
Design and feel
My PCKL Launch is the neon green model and I really dig the look. I think beginners will love taking this out on the courts.
The feel of the paddle is one of the top reasons I keep recommending it to beginners. It feels more expensive than it is. It's durable, well-built, lightweight, and fast straight out of the box. That will boost your confidence as you learn the game.
Performance
I hardly have any mish*ts thanks to the huge sweet spot that goes right to the edges of the paddle face. There's a responsive feel too that makes this play more like a mid-range paddle rather than a cheap one. You can hit the ball and know it's going to land where you want it to.
While I like the pop you get off the face, it is a bit too much on technical shots. Beginners won't mind that, though, as they'll like the power they can get.
I assumed the textured face would give me spin, but I was disappointed. I scored this 5/10 for spin. If you want a pure spin paddle, try the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash instead. If you're happy to focus on control for now, the PCKL will serve you well.
Value for money
The PCKL Launch Series is a bargain at $60 retail (or $50.99 after the Pickleheads discount). There are a ton of paddles at the $50 price point, but this one plays so much better than any others I've found in that range. It's been one of my favorite cheap paddle choices for ages now.
My verdict
While the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash takes my top spot, the PCKL Launch Series will suit many beginners. If you're not ready for a lot of spin and power just yet, you'll get a lot out of this paddle. It's lighter, more forgiving, and softer. Plus, you'll save $50.
Today’s best deals
Save 15% with code PICKLEHEADS
Best set
4. SLK NEO 2.0
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The best starter set for newbies from an elite brand
6/10
Power
7/10
Control
6/10
Spin
9/10
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You want the best pickleball set:
there are a ton of cheap sets you can buy, but if you want the best of the best, I'd recommend this one.
You want a brand you can trust:
this is made at the renowned Selkirk Labs, so you can trust the quality and customer service.
You're shopping for pickleball gifts:
this is my favorite beginner pick in my list of the best pickleball gifts in 2024.
Pass if:
You don't need a whole set:
the PCKL Launch Series on this list plays similarly.
You want a cheaper paddle:
you'll prefer the GoSports GS1, which costs just $25.
You want more spin and power:
check out the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash, my favorite overall paddle for beginners.
Amazon
Paddle weight
7.5 oz
Paddle length
15.6"
Paddle width
7.8"
Handle length
5.25"
If you're starting your pickleball journey with a partner, this is my top pick for you. The SLK NEO 2.0 bundle is one of the best deals in pickleball.
If you're a beginner who wants a full pickleball set, you can't go wrong here. You'll get two paddles, four high-quality pickleball balls, and a great backpack. These are all made by Selkirk, one of the best and most innovative manufacturers in pickleball.
Who it suits
This is for anyone who wants the full toolkit to start playing pickleball and actually enjoying it too. Since the paddles are actually good, you'll grow in confidence and start learning a lot about the game.
If you're shopping for pickleball gifts for someone, this is also a smart choice. It's miles better than the cheap sets you can find on Amazon in my opinion.
See what makes the SLK NEO 2.0 the best set on the market
Features
The paddle face is a composite of fiberglass and graphite, so you can expect some decent power. The honeycomb core also helps to reduce vibrations. The large sweet spot makes it really forgiving, which will help give confidence to beginners.
I really like the Selkirk ultra-comfort grip on these paddles too. Just because it's a budget paddle doesn't mean you have to settle for sweaty, uncomfortable hands. It feels like a way more expensive grip and it's managed to withstand the Arizona heat with no problems.
Design and feel
These paddles look great for their price. Like the PCKL Launch, they stand out from other budget offerings. You have two color choices: one green and one purple paddle, or one blue and one red paddle.
The feel of these paddles surprised me too. They're quick in hand battles but sturdy and durable.
They understandably don't feel as premium as Selkirk's expensive paddles like the Selkirk LUXX or the VANGUARD Power Air Invikta. That said, it's clear they were made with way better tech, materials, and R&D than their competitors in this price range.
Performance
The best attribute of these paddles is their forgiveness, which is exactly what beginners need. While it's a tad lower than the PCKL Launch in this category, the large sweet spot means mish*ts are super rare.
It does have a touch more spin than the PCKL, though, which will excite a lot of newcomers. I was so excited to find a beginner paddle that could actually generate spin.
Power and control match the PCKL Launch Series. So, all in all, you're getting a finely balanced set of paddles here that rival one of the best beginner paddles on the market.
Value for money
I still think this set from Selkirk is one of the best bargains in the game. For $80, you get two top-quality paddles from one of the top brands in pickleball, as well as four pickleball balls, and a good-quality pickleball bag. Most other sets can't compete with this.
My verdict
Still tried and true, the SLK NEO 2.0 keeps its place as the best pickleball set for beginners. With this, you and a friend can hit the courts ready to play a competitive game. It will give you plenty of forgiveness, good power, control, and spin, and a feel for what premium paddles are like.
Today’s best deal
Best for kids
5. Oneshot Juniorshot Series
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The best beginner paddle for youth players
5/10
Power
6/10
Control
4/10
Spin
7/10
Forgiveness
Buy if:
You want a paddle made for kids:
with short handles, super-fun designs, and low swing weights, this is thoughtfully designed for youngsters.
You're shopping for a toddler or a kid:
the toddler size suits players under 8 years, while the kid's size is for under 12s.
You want good value:
considering the superior construction and performance, I think this is very fairly priced at $45.
Pass if:
You're not a kid:
these are youth paddles, so adults should check out any of the paddles above.
Your child is over 12:
teenagers are probably ready for an adult-sized paddle, like the GoSports GS1 with its short handle and low weight.
You want a full pickleball set:
the SLK NEO 2.0 on this list is my favorite paddle set for beginners.
Oneshot Pickleball
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Pickleball Central
Amazon
Paddle weight
5.3 oz (toddler) / 6 oz (kids)
Paddle length
12.4" (toddler) / 14.8" (kids)
Paddle width
6.9" (toddler) / 7.4" (kids)
Handle length
3.5" (toddler) / 3.9" (kids)
The Oneshot Juniorshot is just one of many paddles for kids, competing with companies like JOOLA, GAMMA, and ONIX. Personally, though, this one stands out to me. For one, it comes in two sizes, with a paddle for kids under 8—something I've yet to see from other manufacturers.
It's made from top materials and the specs are thoughtfully adapted to kids of all ages. I also think kids will love the patterns and designs of this paddle. This is so important for making them want to get out on the court and interested in the sport.
Who it suits
What I love about this paddle is that the brand took younger kids into consideration. You can choose a "toddler" paddle for kids under the age of 8, and I've even heard of a 2-year-old who plays with it.
Then there's the "kids" size for players aged 8-12. The grip sizes and weights are different to suit these different ages.
Try the Juniorshot Series & see why it's the favorite of so many young pickleheads
Features
A lot of thought went into making this paddle. The toddler version (under 8s) is 12.4" long, weighs 5.3 oz, and has a 3.5" grip circumference. The kids' version (under 12s) is 14.8" long, weighs 6 oz, and has a 4" grip.
These are well-built, sturdy paddles that are way better than cheap Amazon offerings in my opinion. The face is fiberglass and the core is polypropylene honeycomb. This will help starters get a real feel for the game.
Design and feel
The designs created by Oneshot are so cool, and I think kids will love them. There's a Jurassic dinosaur model, as well as space, ocean, and classic themes.
The feel is sturdy but light, giving kids a taste of what a premium adult paddle will feel like.
Performance
The Juniorshot focuses on the things that will help new young players get used to the game. Control and forgiveness are the best attributes, which will help them build confidence on the court.
There's a nice little pop off the fiberglass face too, which I think will excite young players. There's no spin but I didn't expect there to be. For now, it's about learning how to play pickleball, and these light paddles, with comfortable short handles for small hands, do that right.
Value for money
You can always buy a cheap kids' paddle on Amazon for around $20, and that's totally fine. However, if you want the young player in your life to fall in love with the game, you'll have much more success with the Juniorshot.
I think $45 is a great price for a paddle that was built with young players in mind.
My verdict
With really tasteful designs, thoughtful specs for kids, two choices of size, and solid performance, the Oneshot Juniorshot paddles stand out from other youth paddles. It's my top pick for young starter pickleheads.
Today’s best deals
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How we picked the best pickleball paddles for beginners
To decide my list, I focused on everything we need from a paddle as beginners. I'll go into a lot more detail about how to choose the right paddle later, but for now, here are some of the top criteria I used when choosing my list:
- Durability: a beginner paddle should withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
- Price: there's no need to break the bank on your first paddle. Once you advance, you can treat yourself to something pricier.
- Usability: as a beginner, you need a reliable all-round paddle that'll help you to advance your skills.
- Comfort: I don't want anyone getting blisters—comfort is just as important as performance.
Brandon Mackie with the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash pickleball paddle
How to choose the best beginner paddle
When choosing the perfect paddle to set out on your pickleball career, there are several factors to consider:
Weight
The general guide is that lightweight paddles are best for beginners because they offer better control. Heavier paddles require more strength but provide more power.
Lighter paddles allow you to learn the skills and techniques you need more quickly—skills you'll need to know before you start thinking about generating maximum power from your shots.
Pickleball paddles can be loosely classified into three weight categories:
- Lightweight: 7.6 oz and under
- Midweight: 7.6-8.2 oz
- Heavyweight: 8.2 oz and over
You'll notice that my list focuses a lot on paddles that fall into the light and middle-weight categories, as these are most suited to beginners.
Grip circumference
After weight, the next thing to consider is grip circumference. The right grip circumference for your needs is determined both by your hand size and personal preference.
Here's a quick test to find your approximate grip size:
- Open your paddle hand face up and find the three creases in your palm. Now get a ruler and measure from the tip of your ring finger straight down to the middle crease. This figure is the circumference of your pickleball grip (around 4-5").
- Once you have this figure, try a grip of this size. You should also try a quarter inch on each side of it to see which one feels the most comfortable.
Brandon Mackie demonstrates how to grip the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash pickleball paddle
Handle length
The handle length of pickleball paddles ranges from around 4.5-5.5". If you have big hands, go for a longer handle. People coming to pickleball from tennis also tend to prefer a longer handle.
A long handle can provide more leverage and therefore power. This can make it more difficult to maneuver, especially for beginners. However, if you tend to hit two-handed backhands, the extra length is certainly useful.
Materials used in paddle construction
Modern paddles use a range of high-tech materials in their construction. The descriptions of each—with the variations in core materials and neck reinforcements—can be hard to understand. However, beginners don't need to worry too much about this just yet.
Nearly all modern paddles use a honeycomb-shaped design in the core of the paddle, surrounded by a frame. These are usually made from some type of plastic composite, sometimes combining fiberglass, carbon fiber, and/or graphite.
All of these materials are used because they are lightweight and super strong.
Durability
When you're investing in your first pickleball paddle, you want something that'll stand up to the wear and tear of plenty of practice.
Paddles manufactured poorly, or made with cheap materials, can quickly fall apart—sometimes in a matter of months.
All the paddles on my list are well-rated for durability but be sure to read reviews for any mention of paddles falling apart shortly after purchase.
Design/style
Finally, choose a paddle that you like the look of, and that suits your style. There are so many color options out there to choose from, like the PCKL Launch Series. Pickleball embraces colorful and wacky looks, so don't hold back!
Brandon Mackie with the PCKL Launch Series pickleball paddle
Do expensive pickleball paddles make a difference?
As a beginner, there's no need to spend a fortune on your pickleball paddle. There are lots of affordable, quality paddle options that will do everything you need and more.
When you graduate to a higher level, you can think about splashing out on a new intermediate pickleball paddle or even an advanced paddle.
For now, though, you need to get out there and put in the hours! Just like any other sport, the equipment matters, but it's the player that makes the biggest difference.
On a tight budget? Check out more pickleball paddles under $100
What's the difference between fiberglass & graphite pickleball paddles?
Since wooden paddles were replaced with super-light modern materials, the majority of paddle makers use carbon fiber, fiberglass, or graphite for their paddle faces. Each material has its pros and cons, and it can be hard to choose which performs better on the courts.
Fiberglass, sometimes listed as "composite", is generally cheaper. It's also very flexible, meaning that when it hits the ball, there's a tiny amount of give on the paddle face. This allows for more "feel" of the ball, while the flex transfers more pop and power to your shot than a graphite paddle.
Graphite is a lighter material than fiberglass and is more expensive. On a paddle face, a wafer-thin layer of graphite is all that's needed to provide a super-rigid surface. This stiffness provides more of a ricochet effect than fiberglass, which transfers to more accurate direction and ball placement.
How do pickleball paddles affect your game?
As a beginner, you may wonder whether your paddle actually makes a difference to your performance on the court. The short answer is yes.
To efficiently advance your game and develop your pickleball skills, it's important to have a strong, lightweight paddle that performs well on the court. That doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune—all the paddles on my list fulfill those criteria.
Remember: the paddle doesn't make the player, and a paddle is no substitute for lots of practice and court time—no matter how fancy it is.
Bottom line
That's it for my list of the best pickleball paddles for beginners in 2024. My top choice this year is the Vatic Pro PRISM Flash. At $100, it might be pricier than other beginner paddles, but for me, it's the best investment for your game.
There are other great options too, depending on what you need. To recap, here are my top five beginner paddles again:
- Vatic Pro PRISM Flash - best overall
- GoSports GS1 - Best cheap
- PCKL Launch Series - best $50
- SLK NEO 2.0 - Best set
- Oneshot Juniorshot Series - Best for kids
