The Ultimate Guide to Women's Pickleball Paddles 2025

Seeking the best women’s pickleball paddles to boost your game? You’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we cover top paddle recommendations for different playing styles, key features to look for, and tips on choosing the perfect paddle to suit your needs.

Top Women's Pickleball Paddles for 2025

Here’s a quick overview of the top women’s pickleball paddles for 2025, each excelling in a specific category:

• Best Overall: Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 14.3

• Best for Control: Volair Mach 2 Forza (14mm)

• Best for Power: Paddlesshop Planker Paddle (16mm)

• Best for Quick Reactions: HEAD Extreme Tour Lite

• Best Value: Vapor Jelly Bean

• Best All-Court: Selkirk AMPED Pro Air – Epic

Best Overall: Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 14.3

Price: $250

Specifications The weight is between 7.5 and 7.8 ounces. This range specifies the upper and lower limits of the weight.

• Handle Length: 5.25 inches

Pros:

• Lightweight for quick exchanges

• Excellent spin and power

• Comfortable grip

Cons:

• Lots of pop can challenge touch shots

• Limited reach

The Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 14.3 is a premium pickleball paddle designed for intermediate to advanced players. Its features include:

• Lightweight design, weighing between 7.5 and 7.8 ounces, ideal for quick exchanges at the kitchen line

• PT-700 raw carbon fiber surface, enhancing spin and power

• Proprietary Bantam core, providing a lively feel and responsiveness

• Grip circumference of 4.25 inches, offering a comfortable hold during extended play

In my experience, the Bantam ALW-C excels in providing a balanced performance with a power rating of 9/10 and a control rating of 8/10. It is particularly effective for generating aggressive topspin, making it a favorite among competitive players. However, the increased pop might be a challenge for those still mastering touch shots. Overall, this paddle is a well-rounded choice for serious players looking to elevate their game.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5

• Design: 5/5

• Performance: 5/5

• Comfort: 4.5/5

Best for Control: Volair Mach 2 Forza (14mm)

Price: $180 (or $162 with code 10EFFECT)

Specifications

• Weight: 7.7 oz avg

• Length x Width: 15.88″ x 8.12″

Pros:

• Excellent maneuverability

• High spin rating

• Comfortable long handle

Cons:

• Less reach at the kitchen

• Lower power for a thermoformed paddle

The Volair Mach 2 Forza (14mm) is designed for players who prioritize control. Its features include:

• Widebody design

• Lightweight construction, with an average weight of 7.7 ounces

• Low swingweight of 110, enhancing player control during fast-paced games

• Spin rating of 98%, ensuring effective maneuverability and control

In my hands, the Mach 2 Forza stands out for its balance between power and precision. Key features include:

• A longer 5.5-inch handle that provides extra leverage for two-handed shots

• A 14mm core thickness that offers a softer feel, enhancing control and forgiveness

• Speed and spin capabilities that make it a top choice for players seeking better control on the court Though it may lack some power compared to its 16mm counterpart, these attributes contribute to its overall performance.

Rating:

• Price: 4.5/5

• Design: 4.5/5

• Performance: 4/5

• Comfort: 4.5/5

Best for Power: Paddlesshop Planker Paddle (16mm)

Price: $69.99 (or $62.99 with code 2025snake)

Specifications

• Weight: 7.9-8.0 oz

• Grip Circumference: 4.18 inches

Pros:

• Amplifies aggressive drives

• Durable 12K carbon fiber face

• Great spin potential

Cons:

• Not suitable for casual players

• Overwhelming for touch shots

The Paddlesshop Planker Paddle (16mm) is a powerhouse for players who thrive on aggressive drives and heavy hits. Key features include:

• Thermoformed 12k carbon fiber face

• Gen3 Propulsion Core, designed to maximize power and spin

• Average weight of 7.9-8.0 ounces, balancing responsiveness and power

This makes it ideal for intermediate players to advanced players.

From my perspective, this paddle truly shines in delivering raw power. The four layers of 12K carbon fiber ensure durability, while the Hyperion shape provides balanced control and power. However, its power-focused design may not be the best choice for players who rely on soft shots or precise dinks. The Planker Paddle is a formidable option for those who prioritize power and spin in their game.

Rating:

• Price: 5/5

• Design: 4/5

• Performance: 5/5

• Comfort: 3.5/5

Best for Quick Reactions: HEAD Extreme Tour Lite

Price: $149.95

Specifications

• Weight: 7.2 oz

• Length: 16 1/16”

Pros:

• Lightweight for fast swings

• Excellent spin capabilities

• Comfortable grip

Cons:

• Limited power

• Not as forgiving on off-center hits

The HEAD Extreme Tour Lite is designed for players who prioritize quick reactions and precise control. Key features include:

• Weighing just 7.2 ounces, allowing for faster swings, ideal for intense kitchen battles

• An aerodynamic diamond shape

• A unique Optimized Tubular Construction (OTC) honeycomb polymer core, which enhances touch and control

In my gameplay, the Extreme Tour Lite excels in providing quick reactions and precise control. The graphite carbon material coated with HEAD’s SpinOn texture offers excellent spin capabilities, while the HydroSorb Pro grip ensures a secure and comfortable hold. Though it may lack some power, this paddle is perfect for players looking to elevate their game with speed and precision.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5

• Design: 5/5

• Performance: 4.5/5

• Comfort: 4/5

Best Value: Vapor Jelly Bean

Price: $90 (with code MADNESS)

Specifications

• Weight: 8.0-8.3 oz

• Grip Circumference: 4.125 inches

Pros:

• Excellent control

• Comfortable, soft feel

• Good spin generation

Cons:

• Not as powerful as thermoformed paddles

• Softer feel might not be preferred by all players

The Vapor Jelly Bean offers exceptional control and comfort at an unbeatable price. Key features include:

• Designed for players up to a 4.5 skill level

• Provides a unique blend of feel and performance

• Widebody shape and fiberglass layer contribute to stability and forgiveness

• Great choice for control-oriented players

In my experience, the Vapor Jelly Bean excels in maneuverability and pace absorption. Its cold-pressed construction with foam creates a softer, denser feel, while the comfortable grip ensures prolonged play without discomfort. Though it may not be the most powerful paddle, its control and comfort make it an excellent value for money.

Rating:

• Price: 5/5

• Design: 4/5

• Performance: 4/5

• Comfort: 4.5/5

Best All-Court: Selkirk AMPED Pro Air – Epic

Price: $149.99

Specifications The weight ranges from 7.8 to 8.2 ounces. This is the specified weight limit.

• Thickness: 16mm

Pros:

• Incredible spin potential

• Great maneuverability

• Comfortable grip

Cons:

• Feedback on off-center hits can be harsh

• So many colors to choose from

The Selkirk AMPED Pro Air – Epic is an all-court powerhouse that revives one of the best-selling paddles of all time. This paddle features:

• Edgeless construction

• Exceptional spin potential, making it suitable for various playing styles

• A thickness of 16mm

• A weight range of 7.8 to 8.2 ounces, offering both power and maneuverability.

From my perspective, the AMPED Pro Air excels in:

• Delivering spin and control

• Featuring a fiberglass hitting surface that contributes to its bounciness, making shot placement essential

• Offering maneuverability and pop, making it a top choice for all-court play

However, it has a slight lack of forgiveness outside the sweet spot.

Rating:

• Price: 4.5/5

• Design: 4.5/5

• Performance: 5/5

• Comfort: 4/5

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Women's Pickleball Paddle

Choosing the right pickleball paddle can significantly impact your game. Consider the following regarding paddle weight:

• Lighter paddles are beneficial during long matches as they reduce arm fatigue.

• Heavier paddles provide added power.

• The weight of the paddle also affects your ability to react quickly at the net.

Grip size is another crucial factor:

• A grip circumference of around 4 to 4.125 inches is recommended for optimal comfort and control, especially for those who prefer a smaller grip size.

• This allows for better wrist action.

• It prevents injuries associated with improper grip.

Finally, consider the core material and surface texture of the paddle:

• A polypropylene honeycomb structure paired with foam walls enhances performance and control.

• Players often choose graphite and carbon fiber for enhanced control.

• Fiberglass offers more power.

Weight and Balance

The weight and balance of a pickleball paddle are critical factors that influence your playing style and comfort. Lighter paddles improve agility and allow for quick reactions, which is especially beneficial near the net. However, heavier paddles provide greater stability and power behind shots, though they may hinder precision and lead to arm strain. Choosing the best pickleball paddle can significantly enhance your performance on the court.

Midweight paddles offer a compromise between power and control, making them suitable for various play styles. The recommended weight range for paddles typically falls between 7.2 to 7.8 ounces to ensure a balance of performance and comfort.

When choosing the right paddle weight, consider your personal health, playing style, and previous experience with similar sports. This ensures that the paddle you select will enhance your game without causing undue fatigue or discomfort.

Grip Size and Comfort

Grip size can significantly impact a player’s comfort and control during play. A grip circumference generally ranges from 4 to 5 inches, affecting how comfortably players can hold the paddle. Choosing the right grip size can enhance performance and prevent injuries associated with improper grip.

Players should regularly check their grip size as it can change with wear and moisture over time. The HydroSorb Pro grip material is included to provide comfort and absorption of sweat, enhancing control during sport matches and managing heat.

Testing different grips during gameplay is crucial for finding the most comfortable and effective size. If the grip feels too large, players can wrap an extra overgrip to achieve a more comfortable fit.

Core Material and Surface Texture

The core material of a pickleball paddle significantly influences its performance and feel:

• A polypropylene honeycomb structure paired with foam walls contributes to excellent performance and control.

• Graphite and carbon fiber are often chosen by players for enhanced control.

• Fiberglass offers more power.

Surface textures like FiberFlex+ fiberglass paired with ProSpin+ NextGen Micro Texture significantly enhance spin capabilities. A unique surface made from two carbon fiber layers combined with fiberglass improves durability and responsiveness.

These various core and surface features enhance both control and spin, resulting in an improved overall gameplay experience. Innovative designs, including thermoformed foam edges, enhance the sweet spot and absorb vibrations during play.

Matching Your Playing Style

Selecting a paddle that matches your playing style and individual needs can significantly improve your performance and enjoyment of the game. Control-oriented paddles are ideal for those who engage frequently at the net, enhancing precision in shots like dinks and resets.

Power paddles are suited for aggressive players who rely on strong, fast-paced shots, providing extra weight for impactful strikes. For those who prefer a balanced approach, paddles that offer both power and control allow adaptability in their playing style.

Beginners are generally advised to start with control paddles to develop consistency before transitioning to more powerful options. Elongated paddle shapes are ideal for players seeking more power and reach, particularly those transitioning from tennis.

Summary

We’ve navigated through the best women’s pickleball paddles for 2025, each tailored to different playing styles and needs. From the all-around excellence of the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 14.3 to the power-packed Paddlesshop Planker Paddle, there’s a perfect paddle waiting for you. Remember, the key to choosing the right paddle lies in understanding your playing style and preferences.

In conclusion, whether you’re looking for control, power, quick reactions, or value, there’s a paddle in this guide that will elevate your game. Take the time to consider the key factors like weight, grip size, and core material to find the paddle that feels like a natural extension of your hand. Happy playing, and see you on the court!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a pickleball paddle?

The most important factor when choosing a pickleball paddle is your playing style—think about whether you value control, power, or quick reactions. This will help you find the perfect paddle for your game.

Why is the weight of the paddle important?

The weight of the paddle really matters because it impacts your endurance and performance. If you're looking for agility and quick responses, go lighter; for power and stability, a heavier paddle is the way to go.

How do I know the right grip size for me?

To find the right grip size, aim for a circumference of 4 to 4.125 inches and try out different grips while playing to see which feels the most comfortable for you. Your comfort and control are key!

What is the difference between a control-oriented paddle and a power paddle?

Control-oriented paddles focus on precision and maneuverability, perfect for net play, while power paddles are heavier and built for strong, fast shots. So, choose based on whether you want finesse or force in your game!

Are there paddles specifically designed for beginners?

Absolutely, beginners should go for control paddles since they're perfect for building consistency and precision. It'll make your learning experience way smoother!