Beginner Pickleball Paddles & Starter Gear

Don't just read reviews about the "best" paddle—play with it. Browse our collection of beginner pickleball paddles and starter gear designed for forgiveness and control. Not sure which to buy? Rent or Demo any paddle in this collection to find your perfect match before you commit.

Beginner Pickleball Paddles Starter Paddles Lightweight Paddles Forgiving Sweet Spots Demo Program Rent or Buy

Stop Guessing. TRybe-It Before You Buy.

  • ✅ Become an Alpha Ultra member to TRybe-It beginner pickleball paddles with $0 due at checkout.
  • ✅ Access our paddle demo program to test shapes, weights, and grips in real games.
  • ✅ Unlock member-only pricing on the best starter paddles from top brands.
Become Alpha Ultra & TRybe-It For $0 How Rental Works

Join Alpha Ultra now to test beginner gear with low upfront cost. Keep the one you love, return the rest.

Beginner Pickleball Paddles: Rent or Buy – Page 2

  • GATORSTRIKE™ Vincimus AIR CONTROLLER­

    GATORSTRIKE™ Vincimus AIR CONTROLLER­

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    GATORSTRIKE™ Vincimus AIR CONTROLLER­

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  • FRDM 3.0 Pickleball Paddle - Power and Precision

    FRDM 3.0 Pickleball Paddle - Power and Precision

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    FRDM 3.0 Pickleball Paddle - Power and Precision

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  • CRUSH Freestyle Performance Paddle (new colors)

    CRUSH Freestyle Performance Paddle (new colors)

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    CRUSH Freestyle Performance Paddle (new colors)

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  • CRUSH RQT Pickleball Paddle – Power & Control Performance Paddle

    CRUSH RQT Pickleball Paddle – Power & Control Performance Paddle

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    CRUSH RQT Pickleball Paddle – Power & Control Performance Paddle

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  • Core Collection

    Core Collection

    Core Collection

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  • Dinker

    Dinker

    Dinker

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  • Checker

    Checker

    Checker

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  • Premier

    Premier

    Premier

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  • Aesthetic Solids - Ace

    Aesthetic Solids - Ace

    Aesthetic Solids - Ace

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  • Pink and Rust

    Pink and Rust

    Pink and Rust

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  • Checkered Flower

    Checkered Flower

    Checkered Flower

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  • Black Squiggle

    Black Squiggle

    Black Squiggle

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  • Dipped - Ace

    Dipped - Ace

    Dipped - Ace

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Common Questions About Beginner Pickleball Paddles

Which beginner pickleball paddle should I buy?
There is no single "best" paddle for everyone. We recommend choosing a lightweight beginner paddle with a large sweet spot (like the ones in this collection) and then using our TRybe-It program to test it. If it feels right, you can buy it; if not, swap it for another.
Why should I rent a paddle before buying?
Reading reviews isn't the same as playing. By renting or demoing a paddle first, you can see if the grip size, weight, and surface texture actually fit your playstyle. GearTrybe lets you test beginner paddles on the court so you don't waste money on gear you don't like.
What is a forgiving pickleball paddle?
A "forgiving" paddle has a large sweet spot, meaning you still get a good shot even if you don't hit the ball perfectly in the center. These are ideal for beginners because they help keep the ball in play while you learn the mechanics of the game.
How heavy should a starter pickleball paddle be?
For most new players, a paddle between 7.3 oz and 7.8 oz is ideal. This weight range allows for quick hand speed at the kitchen line without causing arm fatigue. Heavier paddles offer more power but can be harder to control for beginners.
Can I buy these paddles after I rent them?
Yes! If you love the beginner paddle you are renting, you can purchase it directly. Alpha Ultra members often get exclusive discounts on buyout options for the gear they are testing.

Beginner Pickleball Paddle Shopping & Demo Guide

Don't get overwhelmed by specs. When shopping for beginner pickleball paddles, you only need to focus on three things: Weight, Core, and Grip. Use this guide and our TRybe-It program to find your winner.

1. Weight: Go Light to Start

  • Why it matters: Heavy paddles can cause "tennis elbow" for new players.
  • What to shop for: Look for paddles labeled "Lightweight" or "Mid-weight" (under 8.0 oz).
  • The Test: Rent a light paddle and play for 30 minutes. If your wrist feels tired, try an even lighter option.

2. Core: Polymer is King

  • Why it matters: The core determines the sound and "pop" of the paddle.
  • What to shop for: Polymer (plastic) honeycomb cores are the industry standard for beginner paddles because they are quiet and soft.
  • The Test: Listen to the sound when you hit the ball. A softer sound usually means more control, which is great for beginners.

3. Grip: Comfort Over Everything

  • Why it matters: If you can't hold it comfortably, you can't control it.
  • What to shop for: Standard grips are usually 4.25 inches. If you have smaller hands, look for a "thin grip."
  • The Test: You should be able to fit one finger between your palm and fingertips when gripping the handle.

Ready to find your paddle? Scroll up to browse our collection of beginner pickleball paddles and start your $0 TRybe-It today.