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Whether you are an amateur or a professional pickleball player, sometimes it is possible to be confused about the best paddles to choose. This is because there are many options available based on the materials used to make the pickleball paddles. Today, we want to focus on graphite vs composite pickleball paddles to see how they differ from each other and which one you should get.
Since pickleball is now a world-famous game, it is important that you always have the best pickleball paddles. Looking at the graphite and composite paddles should help you make an informed decision about which would be the best for you. Let us get into the comparison already.
| PRODUCT | BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Gamma Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddles |  | Check Price |
 | HEAD Graphite Pickleball Paddle | | Check Price |
 | TICCI Pickleball Paddle Set 2 Premium Graphite Paddles | | Check Price |
 | Selkirk Latitude Widebody Composite Pickleball Paddle |  | Check Price |
 | Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle | | Check Price |
The Comparison
To help understand more about graphite vs composite pickleball paddles, we will look at some various factors that bring out a clear distinction between the two.
The material
The first thing that makes the two different should be the material. Looking the composite pickleball paddles, we find that they are made of a mixture of different ingredients. In most cases, it will be a combination of polyester and Nomex content for the paddle core. As for the body, the manufacturers will use another combination of contents to produce a foam-like body having a softer texture than the core.
As for the graphite paddles, the manufacturer will use a layer of graphite to form the top section of the paddle. Majority of the material used in constructing the paddle will be graphite to give it a set of qualities associated with graphite.
The weight
Another thing to keep in mind will be the weight of these two paddles. The composite paddles are known to be lightweight in comparison to the graphite paddles. This is because they are made using light substances. For many, the composite paddles will have the mattress feeling, which is light and soft.
The graphite pickleball paddle will be made of graphite material. It is a hard material and not as soft as the composite paddles. It is why they tend to be heavier than the composite paddles. Do not worry as the weight is not too much to discourage you from getting the graphite paddles.
The cost
Still on graphite vs composite pickleball paddles, the cost is another huge difference. Comparing the prices, we find that the composite paddles will on average cost between $45 to $145. As for the graphite paddles, they can cost anywhere from $60 to $145. As such, it would always cost a lot more to own the graphite paddles as the graphite material can be expensive to manufacture and use.
If they are both out of your budget, then you should consider getting yourself other types of pickleball paddles. Some of the cheaper options are the wooden paddles. They cost from $13 to $36. However, if you want the best performance, always consider to spend more.
The possibility of injuries
When looking at graphite vs composite pickleball paddles, you would also want to consider the possibility of ending up with injuries. When you look at the composite paddles, they are lighter and softer. The chances of them causing injuries to your wrist are low. The graphite paddles might cause slight injury as they are heavier. Also, injuries can only come up if you do not balance your swing. As such, you should take your time to learn more about how to swing properly.
The grip
Whenever you are buying a pickleball paddle, you would want to know which one has the best grip. It is why under graphite vs composite pickleball paddles, we have to consider the grip too. In this case, it comes down to the size of the paddle rather than the material. For many, they will find it comfortable to swing better with the composite pickleball paddles. This is because it feels soft in the hand in comparison to the graphite paddles.
Still, the graphite paddles can be ideal for someone who needs something sturdy. The sturdy feeling can help you swing accurately without worrying that the paddle would easily come off the hand. On overall, both composite and graphite paddles can provide the user with the right grip depending on the size.
Top 5 Pickleball Paddles
Our Top Pick
Our Top Pick: Gamma Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddles
Product Name: Gamma Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddles
Product Description: Playing pickleball can only be great if you get the right paddle. This one is one of the best in the market for its performance. For many, they will find it being lightweight enough at 8 ounces. It should feel light in the hand so that you can take the swings better and faster. Since it has a textured fiberglass face, it should be appealing in terms of grip and overall performance. Those who have used these paddles claim that they have helped them improve their game. You can always boost your play on the court with ease. Having the Aramid honeycomb core goes a long way to boost its power and control. As such, it will be an ideal set for both beginners and professionals.
Availability: InStock
- Comfort
- Lightweight
- Value for money
- For beginners
Overall
Summary
The set is all about providing you with the best performance paddles. They are designed to offer the best in terms of power and control. Also, the material used to make them stand out for durability. You will not need to buy new paddles every few months.
Pros
✔️Good for power and control
✔️They feel sturdy in the hand
✔️Good for beginners and professionals
Cons
❌Some think it has a cheap feel
Runner’s Up
HEAD Graphite Pickleball Paddle
Coming from a highly rated brand such as HEAD, we find that the model is going to be worth the money spent on it. HEAD has constantly been improving their equipment to make it stand out. For this one, you will enjoy the graphite advantage. Having the graphite hitting surface is good for providing the best feel and control of the pickleball.
To make it even better, the model comes textured on the face of the paddle. Having the right texture goes a long way to boost grip and increases the spin of the ball once it hits the face. Also, you would end up with a better shot placement than before.
For this paddle, you will notice that it is better designed for the pros. It comes with HEAD’s most advanced tech. The aim of their tech is to help the pros to play better than before. The use of a honeycomb core further improves the gaming experience. You will no longer have to worry about the vibrations.
TICCI Pickleball Paddle Set 2 Premium Graphite Paddles
There is no doubt you are going to love its premium fiberglass face. The use of fiberglass material makes it lightweight and strong at the same time. If you feel the paddle in the hand, you will notice that it is lighter than what you get with the other pickleball paddles in the market.
To make it worth the money spent on it, the paddles are also made of a durable polymer honeycomb core. Such a core is good for durability and overall performance. As such, you will always end up controlling the balls better. Such a core is also good for withstanding the strong strikes from the balls as you keep playing.
The paddles come with a comfortable and ergonomic grip. Such type of grip is what you need if you want to avoid injuries while playing pickleball. The ergonomic grip also helps to maximize the balance while at the same time minimizing slipping.
Selkirk Latitude Widebody Composite Pickleball Paddle
It is always comforting when you buy a USAPA tested and approved paddles for your next game. That is what you get whenever you buy this pickleball paddle. It is made with professionals in mind, so you can expect it to live up to your expectations for the best pickleball paddle.
You will also note that this composite paddle comes with a wide paddle face. The wide face is good for the best ball control and spot placement. As such, you will find yourself improving your game while playing with this paddle.
Since it is also lightweight, you do not have to worry about it causing injuries to your hand. To make it even better, it has the powercore polymer core that ensures the best durability and performance. You will find that it is easier to neutralize the spin coming from the opponent’s shot.
The paddle also comes with a thin grip handle. The handle is designed in a way that improves the grip while at the same time feeling comfortable in the hand. You will now have a better control over the ball than before.
Franklin Sports Pickleball Paddle
The manufacturer understands the importance of making the best paddles it is why this one stands out for the price. This paddle is made using advanced material that ensures the best durability and performance. The polypropylene honeycomb core will create a strong and durable surface that you will enjoy using for years to come. Even with continuous pounding on the court, the unit still lives up to its durability expectations.
The comfortable grip is also something worth mentioning about this pickleball paddle. It is designed in a way that it fits in your hand better than the other options in the market. Also, the handle is non-slip so that you have a better control over the ball.
Well, it is also lightweight to make it better. It weighs 7.7 ounces, which is something you would want in a paddle. Having the fiberglass surface layer goes a long way to boost its durability.
Buying Guide for Pickleball Paddles
Material
The pickleball paddles will come being made of different types of materials. The most common include composite, wood, and graphite. It is why we had to look at the graphite vs composite pickleball paddles comparison above. The comparison helps you to understand the differences in the materials so that you can pick the best one.
Most would want something durable, so expect the most pickleball paddles to be made of composite and graphite materials.
The Weight
The weight is important to determine the overall usability of the paddle. It is always good if you can choose a lightweight paddle. It will help to improve your reaction time and swing speed. Also, the heavier paddles can lead to injuries over time. It is why you would want a lighter paddle.
The Size
The size plays an important role when it comes to the ease of controlling the paddles. We recommend that the paddle should not exceed more than 24 inches. You should look for paddles that measure 8 by 16 inches or sometimes 5 by 19 inches as the best options. Look at the product description to learn more about the size of the pickleball paddle.
The Grip
The grip also goes a long way to determine the usability of the paddle. It will be great to have a model with the best grip. Having the best grip will improve the overall shot accuracy and control of the paddle. Look at what the manufacturer offers in terms of the grip before making up your mind.
Conclusion
The graphite vs composite pickleball paddles comparison is important for those new to such paddles. From the information above, it is now easier for you to make up your mind knowing which is the best product to buy. We have also reviewed some of the top options to consider in terms of paddles. Even if you are a beginner, you now have an idea which paddle would be ideal for you to start using today.
