I’m currently playing with is the Volair Mach 2 Forza

I started playing with the Volair Mach 2 Forza Pickleball Effect Edition after deciding to move on from the Joola Colin Johns Scorpeus 3 (which I loved but wasn’t worth the drama of using an ‘illegal’ paddle). After many demos & borrowing friend’s paddles, I decided on this paddle. I had played with both the Mach 1 & 2 Forza paddles but the Mach 2 closely resembled the Joola in both size & feel. Getting the ‘Pickleball Effect Edition’ was a bonus as this is a beautiful paddle with a portion supporting charity. I was very impressed with the packaging, eraser, replacement grip & weighted tape that came with the paddle as well.

If you decide to purchase a Volair, use the code VOLAIRMIRACLE for 10% off your purchase.

Paddle Basics

A barrier that exists in all sports is the lingo & definitions around the equipment needed and used in the game. Pickleball is no different. Below I will list the basic equipment needed for a beginning pickleball player. However, everyone experiences & playing styles are so varied that I encourage new players to borrow or try out different paddles and balls before committing to any one brand or style. You will find that most pickleball players are eager to lend their equipment and try something new, so don’t be afraid to ask to hit with someone’s paddle for a few points to test it out. I also have a wide variety of paddles that I can bring to lessons for students to use. Below are some my personal recommendations that suite my playing style.

Paddles

  • Size is regulated by USAPA and cannot exceed 24 total inches with maximum length of 17 inches and a maximum width of 7 inches. You will find that paddles come in many various shapes, but they cannot exceed the 24 total inch guidelines. Play with different paddle shapes to determine your preference.
  • Weight is NOT regulated by an governing body. Many players add lead weights to their paddles for both power and control depending on wear on the paddle the weight is place. Weight cannot be added to the playing surface. Some players may opt for the lightest possible paddle. Experimentation is key, so play around with weights and tape.
  • Manufacturing now plays a big part in how a paddle “plays”. Paddles are either molded (hot press) or comprised of laminate layers cut out and glued together (cold press). From my experience these paddles play very differently. Most paddles, especially budget friendly models, are cold pressed.
  • Grip & Handle length will also vary. Most grips will mimic or be very close to a tennis racket grip but may very on grip thickness. Handle length is usually around 5 inches but you will some short handle grips out there that are only about 3 inches.
  • Thickness is also a variable. Paddles generally range from 13mm to 16mm. Thinner paddles usually offer more power, while thicker paddles offer more control.
  • Materials are varied and companies always seem to have a “new” type of advanced material that is exclusive to their brand of paddles. Again I suggest trying as many paddles as you can before committing to a purchase.
    • Fiberglass/Composite are traditionally smooth however some will have a grit paint or logo that helps with texture for spin.
    • Carbon paddles are usually black and have a gritty, uneven feel. This texture helps generate spin for players that use spin.
    • Wood is cheap and should be used for burning things. Don’t buy a wood paddle.
    • Quiet paddles are new to the market. I currently own the new OWL CX Control paddle. This paddle is MUCH quieter then a traditional paddle and plays similarly to a fiberglass or carbon paddle.

If this all confusing and overwhelming, then don’t worry about it. Borrow a paddle or buy an inexpensive paddle on Amazon, Walmart or Dick’s Sporting Goods. Or better yet use one of the many paddle finders out there like the one on Pickleball Central and input your level of play, budget, etc. and pick one of their suggestions.