Best Pickleball Paddles for Kids & Young Players
Are you ready to get your kids excited about pickleball? As a pickleball player, I know how important it is to have the right paddle. A good paddle can make a big difference in how much fun they have and how well they play. Choosing the best pickleball paddles for kids can be a game changer and a lot of fun.
The right paddle helps kids learn faster and enjoy the game more. It’s not just about hitting the ball; it’s about building confidence and having fun. Whether your child is just starting or already loves the game, finding the right paddle is key. Let’s dive into the top picks that will help your kids become pickleball champions.
5 best pickleball paddles for kids
Finding the right paddle can help your child develop their skills and love for the game. Here are the top five pickleball paddles for kids that are highly rated by other young players and their parents.
A Quick List of Top Pickleball Paddles by Onix
1. JOYMOVE Fun and Durable Pickleball Paddles Set for Kids and Young Players
Product Specifications
Since I’ve reviewed many paddles for adults, I thought I’d check out some of the kids’ paddles, too, and hold them to the same standards. The Pickleball Paddles for Kids, Child Size Paddle by JOYMOVE caught my eye. They looked fun and promised to be lightweight and easy for kids to use. I decided to test them out with my younger nephew to see if they lived up to the hype.
Manufacturer claimed the paddles were lightweight fiberglass with a small grip for kids. When I tested them, the 3 ⅝ inch grip fit perfectly in my nephew’s hand. The material felt sturdy yet light, making it easy for kids to handle and swing.
They mentioned that paddles provided good control and long play without fatigue. I saw this in action. My kids played longer without tired arms. The anti slip, sweat absorbent grip kept the paddles secure and the kids comfortable during vigorous games.
The JOYMOVE set had two paddles, four balls, and a cute bag. My kids loved the marine animal design and extras like stickers and a keychain.
These paddles were great during play. They offered good control, power, and spin. The lightweight design helped my kids swing faster. The small grip and light build were perfect for young players aged 3 to 11.
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CONS
My Verdict
I chose the JOYMOVE paddles as the top pick. They blend fun and function perfectly. The bright design and lightweight fiberglass make them easy for kids to use. The small grip ensures comfort and control. These paddles are great for young beginners, helping boost their skills and love for pickleball.
2. JOOLA Ben Johns Junior Ultimate Pickleball Paddle for Young Champions
Product Specifications
JOOLA is a famous brand for its paddles in the market, and the JOOLA Ben Johns Junior did not disappoint. They claimed it’s perfect for kids, featuring a smaller grip and durable, lightweight construction. They said the paddle has a honeycomb polymer core for power and control, with a carbon fiber face for durability.
In my testing, the claims were true. The 4.75 inch grip fits small hands well. My 10 year old nephew and 8 year old niece loved it. They said it felt comfortable and secure. The tacky grip tape helped them swing confidently.
The paddle, only 7.9 ounces, was easy for kids to use without getting tired. The carbon fiber face made it strong. I saw they could hit powerful serves and control their shots well during play, thanks to the honeycomb polymer core.
This paddle is good for boys and girls. Kids liked the fun design and were excited to play. My beginner nephew found it easy to control his shots and improve quickly. My niece, who has experience, loved the power she got from her swings.
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CONS
My Verdict
Despite its excellent features, I placed the JOOLA Ben Johns Junior in the second position in my best pickleball paddles for kids review. While it’s an outstanding paddle, our first pick option had a slightly better grip for kids just starting out. But overall, this paddle is a fantastic choice for young pickleball players looking to improve their game and have fun.
3. Juniorshot Series Ocean U12 The Ultimate Pickleball Paddle for Kids
Product Specifications
If you love pickleball and have kids in your life, these paddles are the best. They are the perfect weight and well made for kids. I recently tested the OneShot Pickleball Juniorshot Series paddle and was thoroughly impressed.
Manufacturer said the paddle was small and light for tiny hands, and it was true. Kids found it easy to hold and swing. The grip was just right for them, comfy and non slip. It felt nice and stayed secure while playing.
They said this paddle was great for control and power, and my testing confirmed it. Kids could control their shots well, making it easier to hit the ball accurately. It offered good power for young players, keeping the game exciting.
The Junior Shot paddle impressed me with its strong but light material. Kids played rough, but it stayed tough. Boys and girls loved it and got better at pickleball fast. It’s perfect for kids under 12, especially beginners, giving control and power.
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My Verdict
I placed this paddle at the 3rd position in my best pickleball paddles for kids review. However, for its price and quality, it remains one of the best choices for young pickleball players
4. Helium POW Kids Pickleball Paddle Premium Quality & Fun Design
Product Specifications
When I first heard about the Helium Pickleball Paddle for Kids, I was super excited to try it out with my kids. My kids love pickleball as much as I do, so I had to see if this paddle lived up to the hype.
The paddle was super light and easy for my kids to hold and swing. The grip size was just right for their small hands, making it comfy for both my son and daughter to play without any trouble.
The paddle’s composite graphite surface and high polymer honeycomb core impressed me. It balanced power and control well. My kids hit the ball with force and stayed in control.
The colorful design of the paddles caught our attention. My kids loved the vibrant colors, making the game even more fun. These paddles are great for both boys and girls.
In my experience, the paddle held up well to rough handling and multiple games. My son was excited to have his own paddle and bag, It made him feel special and motivated to play more.
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My Verdict
I placed the Helium Pickleball Paddle at the fourth position in my top pickleball paddles for kids review. While it’s an excellent paddle for beginners and young children, there are a few paddles as my top picks, that offer slightly better value or features that might suit some kids more, depending on their playing style and needs. Nonetheless, the Helium Paddle remains a top choice for any young pickleball enthusiast.
5. B. toys Kids Wooden Pickleball Paddle Set Vibrant Fun for Young Players
Product Specifications
When I first saw the B. toys Kids Pickleball Game Wooden Paddle Set, I was immediately drawn to its vibrant colors and kid friendly design. As a parent and a pickleball enthusiast, finding a paddle set that is not only fun but also functional is key.
One of the standout features is the easy grip handles on the paddles. The handles are just the right size for kids’ hands, providing a comfortable and secure grip, which is crucial for control and accuracy on the court.
The material of the shaft, made of wood, adds a nice balance to the paddles. It’s sturdy enough to withstand enthusiastic play yet lightweight for easy handling by kids. This set is truly a whole package, as it comes with 2 paddles, 4 balls, and a convenient drawstring bag for storage and portability.
In terms of performance, these paddles offer decent control and power for kids learning the game. The shots felt smooth and consistent, allowing for enjoyable rallies.
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CONS
My Verdict
I’ve placed it at the 5th position in this good pickleball paddle for kids review. While it’s a great starter set and offers good value for the price, we can consider it as one of the best and cheap pickleball paddles for kids, some fellow player mentioned minor durability issues with handles. Overall, though, for young pickleball enthusiasts looking for a fun and functional paddle set, the B. toys Kids Pickleball Game Wooden Paddle Set is a solid choice.
What to Consider When Choosing a Youth Pickleball Paddle
Size and Weight: Opt for paddles designed specifically for kids, with smaller dimensions and lighter weight for easy handling.
Grip Comfort: Look for paddles with ergonomic grips that fit well in small hands, ensuring comfort and control during play.
Material Quality: Choose paddles made from durable materials like wood or composite, capable of withstanding regular use and impact.
Noise Level: Consider paddles that offer a balance between power and noise reduction, especially important for indoor play or quiet neighborhoods.
Ball Control: Seek paddles with a smooth surface and adequate grip texture, allowing young players to control their shots with precision.
Price and Value: Compare prices and features to ensure you’re getting a paddle that offers good value for your budget, considering the included accessories and overall durability.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a youth pickleball paddle that enhances your child’s playing experience.
My Final Verdict
After careful analysis, I concluded that the top pick for youth pickleball paddles is the Pickleball Paddles for Kids, Child Size Paddle, known for its easy grip and comfortable handling, perfect for young players starting their pickleball journey. In 2nd place, the JOOLA Ben Johns Junior paddle stands out for its quality construction and balanced performance, suitable for kids looking to improve their skills. The OneShot Pickleball Juniorshot Series secures the 3rd position, offering a blend of control and power, ideal for intermediate players seeking versatility.
For those prioritizing durability and performance, the Helium Pickleball Paddle for Kids ranks 4th, featuring a sturdy build and smooth shots. Lastly, the B. toys – Kids Pickleball Game Wooden Paddle Set claims the 5th spot, providing a colorful and fun option for beginners with its inclusive package and kid friendly design.
Parents or guardians seeking reliable and age appropriate pickleball paddles for their children can benefit greatly from these top picks. Each paddle caters to different skill levels and preferences, ensuring a fulfilling and enjoyable playing experience for young pickleball enthusiasts.
