I have always been fond of pickleball paddles. Now, I proudly own about 30 to 40 paddles, many of which are designed for intermediate players; therefore, I am finally writing about the paddles that are best for intermediate players. The best pickleball paddle for intermediate players is one that provides value and is made from the best materials for pickleball paddles that allow them to achieve strength, control, and spin.

Essential Considerations For Intermediate Pickleball Paddles

The best pickleball paddle for intermediate players hinges on individual strengths and areas needing improvement. Think about your gameplay when evaluating:

Paddle Weight:
Most intermediate players perform best with a medium-weight paddle. The paddle should feel well-balanced in your hand.

A lighter paddle enhances quickness and potential control. A heavier paddle might increase power. Adjusting paddle weight is something you can do as your skill and gameplay develop.

Grip Size:
A comfortable grip is vital for good performance on the court. If your grip causes fatigue or hand pain, you won’t perform optimally. Comfort and security are important for improving endurance during play.

Consider grip thickness and texture. Choose a grip thickness that allows your fingers to comfortably and completely encircle the handle. Select a grip texture that provides a secure feel. Many players add an overgrip to customize the fit.

Paddle Material:
Once you’ve recognized your strengths, paddle materials can significantly affect your game.

Need a light, responsive paddle? Graphite or carbon fiber paddles might be best. Looking for more power with greater control? Try a composite or fiberglass paddle.

Paddle Core:
The core can dramatically change paddle performance.

Some players prefer a softer feel, which enhances control; they might like a polymer (or polypropylene) core. Others prefer a firmer feel, boosting power; they might consider a Nomex core.

Polymer cores are very common and are a good choice for intermediate players still learning about their game.

Best Pickleball Paddle for Intermediate Players:

Here are 3 of my recommendations of paddles that I used, and each one is the best pickleball paddle for intermediate players.

1. Joola Hyperion Ben Johns CFS 16:

It is a paddle with a sweet sweet spot that allows players to use it efficiently and offers great control. This is why the paddle delivers powerful performance. This paddle suits any play style. It boosts your dinks, drop shots, serves, and groundstrokes—virtually every type of shot in pickleball. You’ll notice its power from the get-go, though its key strength is control.

The Ben Johns Hyperion features a distinctive carbon friction surface (CFS) on its face. After trying it out, I can say for sure that this paddle creates a massive amount of spin. I could achieve consistent, aggressive topspin serves. It’s a best pickleball paddle for intermediate players to level up. It could even help pickleball players aiming for professional status.

2. Vatic Pro Prism Flash 16mm:

The Vatic Pro is an incredible paddle and one of the best options for intermediate players. After using this paddle, I noticed a significant improvement in my game, allowing me to beat opponents I had never defeated before. I love this paddle so much that I purchased both the 14mm and 16mm versions.

Like lots of amazing paddles, it’s made from raw carbon fiber. It has excellent spin and enough power to let you swing hard and play an advanced game for intermediate players. What’s amazing is that it is a carbon fiber paddle that also comes with a really nice paddle cover.

Basically, if you are looking for a power paddle, consider the 14mm paddle, and if you are looking for control or spin, consider the 16mm paddle.

I have used this paddle as one of my control paddles, and I was extremely pleased with its performance. I was spot-on, very good with my third shot drop, and highly accurate with my serves and drives. Additionally, I managed to achieve incredible trajectories due to the massive spin I could impart on the ball.

3. Six Zero’s Double Black Diamond control:

However, the Double Black Diamond paddle is ideal for an intermediate player who wants to start using the latest paddle technology.

This is due to the fact that the Double Black Diamond is (right now) the only one of these new paddles designed as a control-oriented paddle. This means that with this paddle, you will be able to utilize the power, spin, and pop that this newer technology provides, all while still maintaining solid control over the ball.
Six Zero’s Double Black Diamond is a good choice for players already using a standard 16 mm raw carbon paddle but would like just a little extra power. While there is a short adjustment period to get used to it, adding lead tape helped provide a more cushioned, familiar feel.

How to Choose an Intermediate Paddle:

Paddles vary in shape, weight, length, and size; some are better for control, while others prioritize power above all else.

You need to pick the paddle that works best for you based on a number of factors, namely, your style of play. There’s never a one-size-fits-all recommendation for a paddle, regardless of skill level.

That doesn’t mean that there isn’t a best paddle for you as a intermediate player.  You just have to get clear on what you want and what you’re willing to spend to get it.

Here are the key steps to choosing your paddle:

Find and define your style of play at first, e.g., you may be like the soft finesse game of dinking and subtle shot placement. Or do you want to drive the ball hard and overwhelm your opponents with speed and aggression? If you answer the first option, any control or all-court paddle would be the best choice for you. If the other side of you makes the stronger player, then you can take care of your game by choosing a power paddle as an option.

Make clear your special needs. Are you likely to be the victim of tennis elbow and want a paddle that can absorb part of the shock? Do you take a two-handed backhand, and do you require a paddle with an elongated grip? Are you of shorter stature, and would you prefer a paddle with a longer face? Solve them by finding a paddle with an elongated face for better reach.

Quantify your investment capability. As a intermediate player with a skill level of 3.5+, you are undoubtedly well-suited for a game that demands a significant investment in equipment. Some will tell you to go for a $75 paddle for the intermediate level; others will say it is better to go for a high-end paddle. It’s up to you to decide. Personally, I went for the best paddle I could get, and I didn’t regret my purchase. Remember, it’s not the price that counts or other people’s opinions—it’s the best choice for you and your budget.

It’s never a bad idea to test out a paddle before you buy it. Local players often demo or lend out paddles. If you have access to an opportunity like this, try out a few paddles to really get an idea of what type you’re drawn to.

FAQs:

Q. What grip does Ben Johns use?

Ben Johns uses a JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16 paddle with two It’s Fun to Feel Good grips from Jigsaw Health as under grips. He then incorporates a white Yonex Super Grap overgrip.

Q. Where are JOOLA paddles made?

JOOLA paddles are made in Siebeldingen, Germany.

Q. What is the difference between JOOLA CFS and CAS?

JOOLA CFS technology stands for ‘carbon friction surface’, which means the texture is built into the carbon fiber itself. To contrast, a ‘carbon abrasion surface (CAS)’ refers to a gritty layer that’s added on top of the paddle face.