The best pickleball paddles with summer vibes (2026)
Most pickleball paddles still look pretty similar. Black carbon fiber. Dark graphics. Serious branding.
But summer is the perfect excuse for brands to loosen up and get creative.
From popsicles and peaches to flamingos and patriotic graphics, these are our favorite pickleball paddles bringing summer vibes to the courts in 2026.
1. JOOLA Rally Rocket Pro V
JOOLA Rally Rocket Pro V
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Few paddle releases have felt more like summer than the JOOLA Rally Rocket.
Part of JOOLA’s larger “JOOLA Pops” campaign, the Rally Rocket Pro V paddles feature popsicle-inspired graphics, a bold red, white and blue colorway and some of the most creative packaging we’ve seen from a major paddle brand. JOOLA even launched the paddle with an ice cream truck tour that is traveling across the country.
Whether you love the design or not, it’s hard to argue that any paddle has captured the feeling of summer better this year.
2. Proton Project Flamingo
The Proton Project Flamingo has become one of the most recognizable paddle designs in pickleball.
The bright pink colorway stands out from virtually everything else on the market and gives off instant tropical vacation vibes. While most brands continue to play it safe with darker graphics, Proton embraced something completely different.
Even more than a year after its release, it’s still one of the coolest-looking paddles in the sport.
Check out our full review of the Proton Project Flamingo here.
3. 11SIX24 Power 2 Peach Edition
11SIX24 Power 2 Peach Edition
Use code “KITCHEN” at checkout for $10 off!
The Power 2 Peach Series proves that a paddle doesn’t need flashy graphics to feel unique.
The soft peach-inspired colorway is clean, refreshing and unlike anything else currently available. It feels light, fun and perfectly suited for summer without trying too hard.
It’s also a nice reminder that sometimes a simple color choice can be just as memorable as a complex design.
Check out our full review of the 11SIX24 Power 2 Series here.
4. Friday Aura Pro Creamsicle
The name alone earns this paddle a spot on the list.
With its orange-and-cream design, the Friday Creamsicle looks exactly like the frozen treat that inspired it. It’s playful, nostalgic and one of the most fun paddle graphics we’ve seen from Friday.
If someone pulled this paddle out at a poolside resort, it honestly wouldn’t look out of place.
5. Selkirk Boomstik 1776 Limited Edition
Selkirk Boomstik 1776 Limited Edition
Use code “INF-KITCHEN” to get a gift card toward a future purchase!
Summer isn’t just beach vacations and frozen treats.
It’s also backyard barbecues and Fourth of July celebrations.
The Selkirk Boomstik 1776 Limited Edition celebrates America’s 250th birthday and embraces summer with a bold red, white and blue design that leaves absolutely no doubt about the theme. Love it or hate it, it’s a paddle that fully commits to the vibe.
Final thoughts
Most paddle rankings focus on power, spin and control.
This one doesn’t.
These paddles made the list because they bring a little extra personality to the courts. In a sport that’s supposed to be fun, we appreciate brands willing to take creative risks and give players something different to look at.
And honestly, we’d love to see more of it.
