The Best Pickleball Paddles for Faster Hands
Last Edited
Aug 27 2024
Category
Gear
When it comes to dominating at the kitchen line, fast hands are a must.
Unlike tennis, where you can hang back and rally, pickleball is all about the firefight—the rapid exchanges at the net where quick reactions and precise paddle placement can make or break your game.
Sure, you can (and should) drill for faster hands. But you can also supplement with the right pickleball paddle.
The Thing About "Fast" Paddles...
When you're standing just 14 feet away from your opponent at the kitchen line, your paddle's speed is a critical element to consider.
But it’s not just about how fast you can move, it’s about what happens when you get there.
Finding the sweet spot and controlling the ball with pinpoint accuracy is what separates the pros from the rest...in other words, "fast" paddles are also typically designed to be "control" paddles.
Many of the best pickleball paddles for faster hands also offer exceptional control, ensuring you’re ready for every volley, block, or smash.
Here are a few paddles which are not only lightweight and fast to maneuver, but also offer precise accuracy and control benefits:
ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pickleball Paddle
Starting off, the ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace is a marvel of maneuverability and power.
Known for its thin profile and shock-absorbing tungsten beads, this paddle is designed to get you to the ball faster without compromising on pop.
It’s a perfect blend for those who want speed in their hands and stability in their hits, making it ideal for players looking to up their kitchen game.
Selkirk Power Air Invikta Pickleball Paddle
The Selkirk Power Air Invikta is as aerodynamic as they come. Yes, it’s the paddle with a hole, but that’s more than a gimmick.
The design reduces drag and allows for lightning-fast swings, making it a top pick for bangers and counter-attackers.
Plus, if you add a bit of weight to the perimeter, advanced players will unlock even more potential, combining speed with added mass for those crucial net battles.
If you really want to invest in your game, consider the best ball machine on the market. Only the ERNE pickleball machine allows you to run through pre-programmed drills to master every shot in the playbook.
JOOLA Anna Bright Scorpius 14mm Pickleball Paddle
The JOOLA Anna Bright Scorpius is a widebody paddle that’s all about stability and power.
Despite its broader face, the thermoformed construction and elongated handle make it surprisingly nimble at the net.
If you’re struggling with the raw power of this paddle, the 16mm Colin Johns version offers a bit more control without sacrificing too much speed.
CRBN 2X Power Series 14mm Pickleball Paddle
CRBN made a name for themselves with their paddles' spin, but the CRBN 2X Power Series is all about adding power to the mix.
With its thermoformed build, this paddle balances speed and stability, making it a versatile choice for those seeking an edge at the kitchen line.
The 16mm offers a larger sweet spot, while the 14mm is for even faster hands and increased maneuverability.
Proton Series One Type A Square 11mm
With its NanoTac-treated Carbon Fiber surface, this paddle offers unmatched grip and control, keeping the ball on the face longer for just an unreasonable amount of spin.
But the real magic happens in the speed department. The 11mm Polypropylene Honeycomb core is engineered for rapid rebounds, allowing you to reset and reload faster during intense hand battles.
The paddle's octagonal handle brings your hand closer to the action, ensuring that every shot is quick and deliberate. All this tech comes in a package that's only 8.0oz.
Feel like playing pickleball now? Check out all our favorite gear at Pickleball Central.
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