15 Cute Pickleball Paddles You Need (in 2023)

I’m a firm believer that yes, your pickleball paddle should be functional. But it should also look cute!

Along with incredible advancements in paddle technology, there are so many brands in 2023 that have taken basic, bland pickleball paddles and made them look COOL!

These are paddles that will make you proud to carry them onto the court, and paddles you can have fun matching to your outfit.

Your pals, teammates, and even opponents will ask, “Where’d you get that cute paddle from?!”

From candy-colored retro paddles to modern designs and trendy collabs with local artists, the list below has something for everyone.

The best part? Most of these paddles are designed in the USA by small, female-owned businesses like Recess Pickleball and Play Paddles!

Whether your goals are competitive or recreational, these designer paddles will help you make sure your pickleball game is as fierce and fashionable as ever.

Read on for our roundup of the trendiest pickleball paddles on the market in 2023.

Our Top Pick for cute pickleball paddles: Recess Pickleball

There are lots of cute paddles below, but our favorite stylish pickleball paddles always come from Recess Pickleball. I’ve written an in-depth review of Recess pickleball paddles where I discuss the quality, value, and how my paddle has held up over the last year.

You can shop Recess paddles directly on their website for 10% off your first paddle. You can also find some of their designs and paddle sets on Amazon!

Upstate | Recess Pickleball Paddle

5.0

• Shop directly on Recess for 10% off your first paddle
• Durable fiberglass surface
• Designed in the USA
• High-quality honeycomb core

Buy Now on Amazon Buy Now on Recess

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

With all these cute pickleball paddles, you’re sure to take your game to the next level this year.

Whether you’re looking for a great gift for the pickleball player in your life, a fresh new paddle to get you noticed on the court, or something that’s just plain nice, we’ve got you covered.

Plus, companies like Recess and Nettie Pickleball Co. are small businesses that deserve your support.

Get ready to have fun and play like a pro – it’s time to hit the courts with confidence and style!

What should I look for in a pickleball paddle?

Shopping for a new pickleball paddle can seem like an overwhelming process – there are so many brands, sizes, shapes and materials to choose from!

But don’t worry: if you follow just a few simple tips, you’ll be sure to find the perfect paddle for your pickleball needs.

First off, look at the weight of the paddle. Heavier paddles are best for newer players who are still developing their accuracy and skills, while more advanced players should look for lighter paddles that have more maneuverability.

You should also consider the size and shape of the paddle head – larger heads provide more control and a larger sweet spot for hitting the ball, while smaller ones offer better ease of use.

And don’t forget about grip – you want something that is comfortable for you and allows you to easily switch between forehand and backhand shots.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what kind of paddle suits your playing style. Don’t be afraid to test out different options until you find the one that feels right! And if you’re ordering online, be sure to read the reviews.

Do expensive pickleball paddles make a difference?

If you’re looking to improve your pickleball game, investing in a quality paddle can make a difference.

Higher-quality pickleball paddles are usually much lighter and made with more durable materials and provide enhanced control, power, and spin. Additionally, expensive paddles often come equipped with larger sweet spots and are less likely to suffer from wear and tear over time.

While it’s true that higher-quality models tend to cost more, the investment is worth it for serious players looking to take their game to the next level.

However, you should not pay more than $100 for a pickleball paddle unless you are absolutely certain that you will be playing regularly or are looking for specific improvements. There are tons of great pickleball paddles on the market for less than $100—like these five awesome models.