Pickleball is a fast-paced, entertaining game that mixes ping-pong, badminton, and tennis aspects. Whether you play for fun or competition, you need a good paddle to improve your game and enjoy the sport. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best pickleball paddle for intermediate players?
This article will review the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players and help you find the one that suits your style, skill level, and budget. We will also share some tips on how to choose the right paddle size, weight, shape, and material for your needs. By the end of this article, you will have a better idea of what to look for in a pickleball paddle and how to take your game to the next level.
Our top picks for the Best Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players at First Glance are:
- Best Overall – Ronbus R1.16 Pickleball Paddle
- Best for Control – Six zero double black diamond
- Best for Budget – Legacy Pro Pickleball Paddle
- Best Elongated – Vatic Pro V7 16mm Pickleball Paddle
- Best for Power – CRBN 1X 14mm Power Series Paddle
- Best Under $100 – Six Zero Sapphire Pickleball Paddle Review
Best Overall – Ronbus R1.16 Pickleball Paddle
Technical Specifications of Ronbus R1.16
- Paddle Shape: Hybrid
- Paddle Core thickness: 16mm
- Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Paddle Face: Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber
- Average weight: 8.2 oz
- Swing Weight: 117
- Grip size: 4.25″
- Grip length: 5.5″
- Total length: 16.5″
- Paddle Width: 7.5″
- Warranty: 6-month warranty
- Edge Guard: Yes
- Read Full review of Ronbus R1.16
The Ronbus R1.16 Pickleball Paddle is a budget-friendly gem that doesn’t compromise on performance. Crafted from high-quality Toray T700 carbon fiber, its surface offers durability and excellent grip for precise shots. The polypropylene honeycomb core strikes a balance between responsiveness and forgiveness, ensuring a solid feel and enhanced durability. With dimensions designed for a harmonious blend of power and control, and weighing in at 8.2 ounces, it caters to various playing styles.
The handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, and the paddle’s spin control, balanced power, and control make it a versatile choice. The forgiving sweet spot ensures accuracy, making it ideal for those engaging in dinking battles at the net. Durability is a strong suit, with a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of competitive play. Its thoughtful design also prevents the exposure of the honeycomb core, enhancing the paddle’s longevity.
While it may lack certain features found in higher-end paddles, its affordability and performance make the Ronbus R1.16 a top pick for players seeking quality without breaking the bank. Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting, the R1.16 offers a balanced playing experience that’s hard to beat at its price point. Give it a try, and you may discover your new favorite pickleball paddle for your next match. With the R1.16, Ronbus delivers an impressive overall package that stands as a reliable tool for honing your skills on the court.
Best for Control – Six Zero Double Black Diamond
Technical Specifications of Double Black Diamond Control 16mm Paddle
- Paddle Shape: Hybrid
- Core thickness: 16mm
- Paddle Face: Toray 700 Raw carbon fiber
- Average weight: 8.1 oz
- Grip length: 5.5”
- Swing Weight: 114
- Grip size: 4.25”
- Paddle Core: 8mm Honeycomb polymer
- Total length: 16.3”
- Width: 7.5” to 7.7″
- Warranty: 6 months for defects
- USAPA Approved
The Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control 16mm Paddle is a game-changer in the world of pickleball equipment. At its core, lies a face crafted from the cutting-edge Premium Japanese Toray nano-engineered 700K carbon textured surface. This material provides an extraordinary grip, granting players unparalleled control over their shots. The interwoven layers of carbon not only bolster its strength but also provide a controlled pop, delivering powerful and precise shots on the court.
The core thickness of this paddle strikes a perfect balance between power and control, allowing players to unleash aggressive shots while maintaining pinpoint accuracy. Its durability ensures it can withstand even the most intense gameplay sessions, delivering consistent performance shot after shot.
The handle of the Double Black Diamond is a testament to precision engineering. Featuring a 3D carbon forged elongated handle, it’s designed for maximum strength and performance. This technology reduces vibration and provides a highly responsive feel, resulting in a comfortable grip that empowers players to execute shots with confidence. The elongated handle accommodates double backhand players, ensuring a secure and comfortable grip for hands of all sizes. Additionally, the custom Six Zero perforated leather grip enhances traction, enabling players to maintain control during intense rallies.
Innovative Carbon Fusion Edge Technology sets this paddle apart in terms of durability and responsiveness. By fusing the top and bottom faces of the paddle, it creates a tighter and crisper feel with an enlarged sweet spot. This technology contributes to a more controlled and satisfying playing experience.
The Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control 16mm Paddle offers premium control combined with a textured surface for maximum spin. It provides players with a remarkably crisp response, feeling like a seamless extension of their arm. This paddle is poised to elevate your game on the pickleball court, delivering top-tier control and performance. We have reviewed Six Zero Double Black Diamond 16mm and also 14mm also their comparison of 16mm vs 14mm in detail make sure to read it.
Best for Budget – Legacy Pro Pickleball Paddle
Technical Specifications for the Legacy Pro Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Shape: Elongated
- Paddle Core thickness: 16mm
- Paddle Face: Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber
- Average weight: 8.0 oz
- Handle length: 5.3″
- Swing Weight: 120
- Grip size: 4.125
- Paddle Core: 8mm Polymer honeycomb cells
- Edge Guard: Anti-Abrasion TPU
- Paddle Total length: 16.5 in
- Paddle Width: 7.5 in
- Additional: Injected Foam, Thermoforming, Unibody Design
- Read full review of the legacy pro pickleball paddle
The Legacy Pro Pickleball Paddle is a game-changer for intermediate players seeking to elevate their performance without breaking the bank. This paddle has caused quite a stir in the pickleball community, and its popularity is on the rise. It’s impressive to see a new contender like Legacy challenge established brands like Joola, Selkirk, and CRBN.
For intermediate players, the Legacy Pro can be a game-changer, particularly if you’re transitioning from a beginner paddle. The power and spin it offers feel almost effortless. However, it does require some skill to fully harness its potential. Players still working on control might face a learning curve, but once mastered, the Legacy Pro becomes a formidable tool on the court.
Crafted from raw Toray T700 carbon fiber, the face of the Legacy Pro is a marvel of engineering. This material ensures exceptional durability and a textured surface for enhanced grip, enabling players to impart more spin and control. The paddle’s core boasts a substantial 16mm thickness, emphasizing durability and playability. Injected foam reinforces the core, adding responsiveness to your shots and giving the paddle a lively feel.
With dimensions that strike a balance between power and control, the Legacy Pro offers an extended sweet spot, making off-center hits more forgiving. Weighing around 8.0 ounces, it achieves a harmony of maneuverability and power generation. The handle, though slightly shorter at 5.3 inches, doesn’t compromise on control or maneuverability.
In terms of performance, the Legacy Pro excels in power, control, spin, and durability. Its innovative design, featuring a 16mm polymer core, injected foam, and Torre T700 carbon fiber face, delivers impressive stability and grip. The edge guard enhances control, and the weave pattern improves spin potential. The paddle’s unique feel combines plushness with rapid ball exit.
While the Legacy Pro has some minor drawbacks, like potential handle length issues for players with larger hands, and power control challenges in doubles play, its overall performance and value make it a top contender in the pickleball paddle market.
Best Elongated – Vatic Pro V7 16mm Pickleball Paddle
Technical specifications of Vatic Pro V7 Carbon Fiber 16mm
- Paddle Face: TORAY T700 Carbon Fiber
- Thermoformed edges
- Unibody Construction
- Average Weight – 8.1-8.5 oz
- Paddle Total Length – 16.5 in
- Paddle Width – 7.5 in
- Grip Circumference – 4.125 in
- Grip Length – 5.3 Inches
- Grip has polyurethane to absorb shock and help with tennis elbow
- Paddle Core: C7 Polymer Honeycomb
- Core Thickness – 16mm
- Edge Guard: Anti-Abrasion TPU
- Paddle Shape: Elongated
- Swing Weight: 119
- Read full review of vatic pro v7
The paddle face is constructed using Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber, a material known for its exceptional strength and durability. What sets the Vatic Pro apart is the addition of a heat-compressed texture on the face, providing both aesthetic appeal and improved ball control. This unique combination of materials and texture results in a face that delivers power and precision.
The core of the Vatic Pro features a C7 Polymer Honeycomb core, known for its durability and balanced performance. This core material strikes a perfect balance between power and control, allowing players to execute aggressive shots with finesse. The honeycomb structure enhances durability, ensuring the paddle remains reliable over many matches.
In terms of dimensions and weight, the Vatic Pro V7 16mm offers an extended length of 16.5 inches, providing added reach and leverage. The 7.5-inch width offers a generous sweet spot, ensuring more consistent and controlled shots. Weighing approximately 8.1 ounces, the paddle strikes a balance between power and maneuverability.
The handle of the Vatic Pro measures 5.3 inches in length, offering players flexibility in hand placement for different shots and playing styles. The grip size, measuring 4.25 inches in circumference, caters to a broad range of hand sizes, ensuring both comfort and control. The handle is designed with player comfort in mind, minimizing vibrations and providing a secure grip.
The Vatic Pro also features an Anti-Abrasion TPU Edge Guard, providing protection to the edges of the paddle and contributing to its overall durability. Additionally, grip inserts enhance the feel and comfort of the handle, ensuring a secure grip during play.
Thanks to the edge foam injection, the Vatic Pro boasts a generous sweet spot, a particularly valuable trait for an elongated paddle like this one. The thermoforming process adds an impressive level of pop to every strike. And if you’re after some serious spin action, the 14mm Vatic Pro Flash version with its tighter, gritty surface face truly shines in this department.
What’s even more intriguing is that the Vatic Pro shares a striking resemblance with the new CRBN 1X/2X Power paddle line. They not only play similarly but are also produced under comparable specifications in the same factory as the CRBN. The key distinction? The Vatic Pro comes with an $80 price advantage, making it an exceptional premium choice for intermediate players looking to elevate their game. This paddle isn’t just about cutting-edge technology; it’s also about offering remarkable value in the world of pickleball gear.
Best for Power – CRBN 1X 14mm Power Series Paddle
Technical Specifications of CRBN 1X 14mm Paddle
- Paddle Shape: Elongated
- Core thickness: 14mm
- Paddle Face: Toray T700 Carbon Fiber
- weight: 7.9-8.1OZ
- Grip length: 5.5″
- Swing Weight: 117
- Grip size: 4.25″
- Core: Honeycomb polymer
- Handle length: 5.5″
- Grip circumference: 4.25″
- Foam-injected edge walls
- Unibody design
- Read full reiew of the CRBN 1X 14mm
The CRBN 1X 14mm Power Series Paddle stands as a pinnacle of innovation in the realm of pickleball equipment. This comprehensive review aims to dissect its construction, performance, and suitability for various players.
Crafted with thermoform technology, the unibody design is a testament to CRBN’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of paddle construction. Unlike conventional paddles, the seamless integration of carbon fiber throughout ensures durability and transforms the tactile experience for players.
For spin enthusiasts, the CRBN 1X is a revelation. Its carbon fiber face, coupled with foam-injected edge walls, produces spins that defy convention. Whether launching topspin groundstrokes or executing wicked serves, the 1X provides an unrivaled spin potential.
In terms of power, the CRBN 1X doesn’t pull punches. Tailored for aggressive players, it imparts a level of authority that can dominate any court. The seamless carbon fiber face minimizes energy loss, resulting in remarkable pop and power. However, this potency demands precision and finesse to fully harness.
While forgiveness may not be its primary feature, the 1X offers a generous sweet spot. It may be less forgiving for beginners, but for seasoned players, the feedback is invaluable. Vibrations from the paddle offer crucial insights, aiding in honing one’s game.
Available in 14mm and 16mm versions, players can select based on their playstyle preferences. The 14mm option emphasizes spin potential and power, ideal for aggressive players. On the other hand, the 16mm strikes a balance between power and control, offering a more forgiving experience.
Best Under $100 – Six Zero Sapphire Pickleball Paddle Review
Technical specifications of Six Zero Sapphire Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Shape: Elongated
- Core thickness: 13mm
- Paddle Face: Toray 700 Raw carbon fiber with textured epoxy coating
- Average weight: 7.9-8.0 oz
- Grip length: 5.6”
- Swing Weight: 108
- Grip size: 4.25”
- Paddle Core: Honeycomb polymer
- Total length: 16.5”
- Paddle Width: 7.5”
- Warranty: 6-month for defects
- Read full review of Six Zero Sapphire Pickleball Paddle
The Six Zero Sapphire Pickleball Paddle, a remarkable addition to the world of pickleball equipment. Six Zero, a company known for its innovative approach and commitment to improving paddles, has gained recognition in the pickleball community. Dale, the owner, is passionate about the sport and constantly pushes the boundaries of paddle design.
In this review, we focus on their budget-friendly yet impressive offering, the thermoformed Six Zero Sapphire. While the Diamond series often steals the spotlight, the Sapphire is a hidden gem that deserves attention. It has earned a place on my list of top pickleball paddles for intermediate players and is an excellent choice for those seeking a quality paddle under $100.
Thermoformed paddles, like the Sapphire, have gained popularity for their ability to deliver powerful shots, excellent spin, and durability. What sets the Sapphire apart is that it’s the only thermoformed paddle available for under $100.
In terms of quality, the Sapphire stands out in its price range. The construction is top-notch, surpassing many other paddles in the under $100 category. The shape of the paddle is noteworthy, reminiscent of the Franklin Signature series but with improved feel and performance.
Performance-wise, the Sapphire proves itself as a well-balanced paddle suitable for all types of courts. It offers impressive power, reliable spin, and good control.
One feature worth mentioning is the 5’6″ elongated handle. This is a boon for players like me who use a two-handed backhand, offering the right handle length. Even if you don’t use a two-handed backhand, the elongated handle allows for a lower grip, providing more power in your swing.
I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the Six Zero Sapphire Pickleball Paddle, especially considering its price. Six Zero is crafting exceptional paddles with meticulous attention to detail. If you’re in search of a high-quality paddle without breaking the bank, the Sapphire is definitely worth considering.
How to Know That You Are an Intermediate Player in Pickleball?
People of all ages and ability levels can enjoy the sport of pickleball. But how do you know your skill level and how to improve it? In this section, we will explain how to know that you are an intermediate player in pickleball and how to measure your progress using the pickleball rating system.
What is an Intermediate Player in Pickleball?
An intermediate pickleball player has mastered the basic skills of the game and can play consistently and strategically. Intermediate players have good ball control, shot placement, court awareness, and teamwork. They can also handle different shots, such as lobs, dinks, volleys, and drives.
According to the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA), the official governing body of the sport, intermediate players are usually rated between 3.0 and 4.0 on a scale of 1.0 to 6.0. The rating system is based on a player’s knowledge of the rules, ability to execute specific shots and strategies, and consistency and accuracy. You can find the detailed definitions of each rating level on the USAPA website.
How to Determine Your Pickleball Rating?
There are several ways to determine your pickleball rating, but participating in a sanctioned tournament or league is the most common method. USAPA or its affiliates organize sanctioned events and follow the official rules and regulations of the sport. Playing in a sanctioned event will give you an official rating based on your performance against other players of similar or higher skill levels.
Another way to determine your pickleball rating is by taking a skill assessment. A skill assessment is a test that evaluates your ability to perform various shots and skills in pickleball. The skill assessment sheets for each rating level are on the USAPA website. You can take the skill assessment by yourself or with a partner, but it is recommended that you have a certified instructor or referee to observe and score you.
A third way to determine your pickleball rating is by using an online tool. Some websites offer online tools that estimate your pickleball rating based on your answers to questions about your skills and experience. These tools are not official or accurate, but they can give you a general idea of where you stand.
How to Improve Your Pickleball Rating?
You must practice regularly and challenge yourself to improve your pickleball rating and become a better player. Here are some tips on how to improve your pickleball rating:
Play with different partners and opponents. Playing with different people will expose you to different styles, strategies, and levels of play. You will learn from their strengths and weaknesses and adapt your game accordingly.
Join a club or group. Joining a club or group will allow you to play pickleball and meet other players who share your passion. You will also benefit from other members’ coaching, feedback, and support.
Take lessons or clinics. Taking lessons or clinics from a qualified instructor will help you improve your technique, tactics, and mental game. You will also get personalized advice and tips on overcoming your weaknesses and enhancing your strengths.
Watch and learn from others. Watching and learning from other players, especially those who are better than you, will help you gain new insights and ideas on how to play pickleball. You can watch live matches at tournaments or online videos of professional players.
Have fun. Having fun is the most important thing in pickleball. Enjoy the game, have a positive attitude, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Remember that pickleball is a lifelong journey of learning and improvement.
How to Choose the Best Pickleball Paddle for Intermediate Players?
To improve your game and enjoy the sport more, you need a good paddle that matches your playing style and needs. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best pickleball paddle for intermediate players? In this article, we will help you find the answer by reviewing some of the main criteria for choosing the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players. These criteria include:
Weight:
The weight of the paddle affects its power and control. Generally, heavier paddles provide more power but less control, while lighter paddles provide more control but less power. Intermediate players should look for paddles with a medium weight (between 7.5 and 8.5 ounces) to balance power and control.
Material:
The material of the paddle affects its durability and performance. Paddles can be made from wood, composite materials (such as fiberglass or carbon fiber), or graphite. Wood paddles are cheap and sturdy but heavy and lackluster. Composite paddles are durable and versatile but may be expensive. Graphite paddles are light and responsive but may lack durability.
Shape:
The shape of the paddle affects its sweet spot and maneuverability. Paddles can have different shapes, such as square, rectangular, oval, or tear drop. Square or rectangular paddles have larger sweet spots but may be less maneuverable. Oval or tear drop paddles have smaller sweet spots but may be more maneuverable.
Size:
The size of the paddle affects its hitting surface and grip size. Paddles can have different sizes, such as standard (8 x 15 inches), widebody (8 x 16 inches), or oversize (8 x 17 inches). Standard paddles have smaller hitting surfaces but larger grip sizes. Widebody or oversize paddles have larger hitting surfaces but smaller grip sizes.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best pickleball paddle for intermediate players can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider and options to choose from. However, by knowing your playing style, preference, and budget, you can narrow your search and find the perfect paddle. Whether you want more power or control, spin or speed, comfort or durability, there is a paddle that suits your needs. The best pickleball paddles for intermediate players are the ones that help you improve your game and enjoy the sport.
