🏆 1. Our Top Picks for New Top Rated Pickleball Paddles in 2025
🎯 Why I Picked These Paddles
Let me be real — I’ve played pickleball almost every week. After trying lots of paddles, some were “meh” and some were “wow!” (top rated pickleball paddles)
These are the new top rated pickleball paddles in 2025 that truly felt amazing in my hands — especially as an intermediate player.
🥇 Quick List – Top 5 Picks for 2025
Here’s a table that shows my favorite picks and why I liked them:
| Paddle Name | Best For | Why It Rocks 🚀 |
|---|---|---|
| JOOLA Hyperion 3S | Best Overall | Great mix of power + spin |
| Selkirk Vanguard 2.0 | Best Control | Soft feel and accurate |
| Onix Z5 Graphite | Best Budget Under $100 | Solid for less money |
| CRBN 2X Power Series | Best for Offensive Players | Hard shots, big smashes |
| Head Radical Elite | Best for All-Court | Balanced and lightweight |
✅ Why These Are Top Rated in 2025
Every paddle on this list checks 3 boxes:
- ⭐ Great for Intermediate players
- 🏓 New or upgraded models in 2025
- 🔥 Reviewed by real players like me
⚠️ Pro Tip: Don’t Just Go for the Looks!
Some paddles look cool but don’t play well. Make sure the paddle feels good in your hand. Try a few before buying, if you can.
🏓 2. What Makes a Pickleball Paddle Great for Intermediate Players?
When I moved from beginner to intermediate, I realized I needed a better paddle.
Not just any paddle — one that fits my game style. So here’s what I learned 👇
🪶 Paddle Weight: Light, Medium, or Heavy?
Pickleball paddles come in different weights:
| Weight Type | Best For | What It Feels Like ⚖️ |
|---|---|---|
| Light (7.0 oz) | Quick hands & soft shots | Fast but less power |
| Mid (7.5–8.2) | Balanced play (Best for most) | Just right for control |
| Heavy (8.3+) | Power hitters | Big smashes, less speed |
🧠 My Tip: I started with a mid-weight paddle — it helped with both control and power!
✋ Grip Size and Comfort
If your paddle grip is too big or too small, your hand will get tired fast.
I always say: “If it doesn’t feel right, it won’t play right.”
⚖️ Control vs Power — What Do You Need?
Here’s how I figured out what I needed:
| Style of Play | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Soft game, dinks | Go for control paddles |
| Smashes, fast hits | Go for power paddles |
| Mix of both | Choose all-court paddles |
At the intermediate level, many players like to play smart and aggressive — so you’ll want a paddle that gives both control and some power.
✅ Bonus Tip
Try paddles from your club or friends before you buy. That’s how I found “the one.”
🥇 3. Top Rated Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players (2025 Guide)
I’ve personally tested these paddles. Some I borrowed, some I bought, and some I wish I bought sooner!
Here’s my 2025 guide to new top rated pickleball paddles for intermediate players — each one picked for a reason.
⭐ Best Overall Intermediate Paddle
🏓 JOOLA Hyperion 3S
This paddle is 🔥 in 2025! I love the control and power mix. It’s not too heavy, and the grip feels solid.
Why I Loved It:
- Super responsive
- Great for volleys and dinks
- Spin-friendly surface
Best For: Players who want to level up fast!
💁♀️ Best Paddle for Women Players
🎀 Selkirk Amped Epic Lightweight
This one is made with a slimmer grip and lightweight feel. I gave it to my sister to try — she loved how easy it was to swing.
Why It Stands Out:
- Soft feel
- Good balance
- Made for smaller hands
🎯 Best Paddle for 3.5 Level Players
🏆 CRBN 1X
When I hit 3.5, I wanted more pop on the ball. CRBN 1X was perfect. The carbon face gives that “crack” sound and sharp spin.
Why I Recommend It:
- Strong control
- Clean power shots
- Feels pro-level
🧠 Best Paddle for Control & Accuracy
📌 Selkirk Vanguard 2.0
This paddle feels like it knows where I want to hit! I had fewer mistakes with this one.
Why I Use It for Soft Games:
- Cushion feel
- Easy touch on net shots
- Good for defense
💪 Best Intermediate Paddle for Power
🔥 CRBN 2X Power Series
Ready to smash? This paddle gives pop, speed, and pressure to your opponent.
Why It’s Powerful:
- Carbon fiber face
- Big sweet spot
- Still balanced for control
🎖️ Honorable Mention: Solid All-Rounder
🏅 Head Radical Elite
When I just want to play without overthinking, this paddle works. Simple, smooth, and solid.
Why It Deserves a Spot:
- Great for all styles
- Affordable
- Not too heavy or light
💰 4. Best Budget Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players
Not everyone wants to spend $150+ on a paddle — I get it. I was in the same boat.
Here are the best new top rated pickleball paddles in 2025 that cost under $100 — and still feel awesome.
🤑 Top Budget Paddle
🏓 Onix Z5 Graphite Paddle
This paddle is a legend. It’s budget-friendly, and honestly, it plays like a pro paddle.
Why It’s Great for Under $100:
- Light but strong
- Great for control
- Feels better than its price
🥈 Runner-Up Budget Choice
🤓 Niupipo MX-06
I found this paddle online and thought, “Why not?” It surprised me! It’s solid, comfy, and super cheap.
Best For Casual Play or Backup Paddle.
❓ Budget vs Premium – What Should You Pick?
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Cheap and simple | May lack features/power |
| Premium | High-tech materials | Costly for some players |
| Mid-Range | Best mix of both worlds | Slightly more than budget |
🧠 My Rule: If you play once a week, budget is fine. If you play 3+ times, go mid or premium.
💡 Final Tip for Budget Buyers
Look for sales or bundle deals online. Sometimes, I’ve seen great paddles go for 60% off if you time it right!
👧 5. Best Pickleball Paddle for Intermediate Female Players
🎀 Why Female Players Need the Right Paddle
Let me tell you something I noticed when playing with women at my local pickleball club — many of them use paddles that are just too heavy or don’t fit their hands.
That’s why paddles made for women matter, especially at the intermediate level. They offer better grip, lighter weight, and more comfort, which makes a big difference during long games.
🥇 My Top Picks for Female Intermediate Players (2025)
| Paddle Name | Grip Size | Weight | Why It’s Great 💕 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selkirk Amped Epic L | 4″ | Light | Soft touch + smaller grip |
| JOOLA Vision CGS | 4.125″ | Midweight | Power + pretty design |
| Paddletek Tempest Wave | 4.125″ | Light | Great control + comfort |
These are all new top rated pickleball paddles perfect for intermediate women in 2025!
🤲 Why Grip Size Matters
One of my friends had wrist pain from using a thick handle. After switching to a smaller grip paddle, she said, “This feels made for me!”
If your paddle fits your hand right, you’ll have more control and feel less tired.
💡 Quick Tip for Women Players
Try lighter paddles (under 8 oz). They’re easier to swing, and perfect for net play, dinks, and fast rallies.
⚖️ 6. Best Control Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players
🎯 What Is a “Control Paddle”?
Control paddles help you place the ball exactly where you want it. They’re soft, smooth, and great for dinking, blocking, and smart play.
I play doubles a lot, and having control really helped me win more points — especially at the kitchen line!
🧠 Best Control Paddles in 2025 (For Intermediate Players)
| Paddle Name | Control Rating 🎯 | Why I Recommend It |
|---|---|---|
| Selkirk Vanguard 2.0 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Best for smooth soft play |
| Paddletek Tempest Wave | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Feels light and accurate |
| Engage Encore Pro | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Helps place every shot |
These are the new top rated pickleball paddles for intermediate control in 2025 — I’ve tested them and loved them.
🕹️ When Should You Use a Control Paddle?
If you:
- Like soft net shots
- Play smart and calm
- Want fewer unforced errors
Then control paddles are for you!
✨ Pro Tip from Me
When I first used a control paddle, I didn’t miss the ball as much. It slowed my game down — in a good way! I felt in control (finally!).
💥 7. Best Power Paddles for Intermediate Players
🔨 Want to Smash? These Paddles Hit HARD
Some of us love to attack — and that’s okay! When I wanted to level up my offense, I looked for paddles that gave me serious pop on every hit.
These are power-focused paddles that many intermediate players in 2025 are switching to.
💪 Top Power Pickleball Paddles (New for 2025)
| Paddle Name | Power Rating 💥 | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| CRBN 2X Power Series | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Heavy smashes + spin |
| JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Pro-level attacks |
| Gearbox CX14E Power | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Speed + strength |
These new top rated pickleball paddles in 2025 were built for players who love big swings and bold points.
🔥 How to Know You Need a Power Paddle
You should get a power paddle if:
- You love fast-paced rallies
- like to hit hard from the backcourt
- You’re strong with your forehand
That’s me all the way — and trust me, these paddles bring the fire.
⚠️ A Quick Warning
Power paddles are fun, but they can be harder to control. Start with one that still gives some feel, like the JOOLA Perseus.
🌟 8. Best All-Court Pickleball Paddles of 2025
🏓 Want One Paddle That Does Everything?
As an intermediate player, I often play both singles and doubles. Some days I like soft play, other days I smash the ball.
That’s why I LOVE all-court paddles — they offer balance between control, power, and spin.
🥇 New Top Rated All-Court Paddles in 2025
| Paddle Name | Strength Combo ⚖️ | Why It’s Good for All-Court Play |
|---|---|---|
| JOOLA Hyperion 3S | Power + Spin + Control | Top performer in every area |
| Selkirk Halo XL | Control + Reach | Great for mixed doubles |
| Head Gravity Tour | Spin + Control | Lightweight & smart feel |
These paddles are ideal for intermediate players who like to do it all — and that’s what makes them top rated in 2025.
🎾 Why I Use an All-Court Paddle
I used to switch paddles between games. Not anymore.
Now I use the JOOLA Hyperion 3S — it’s my go-to because I know I can:
- Smash
- Block
- Spin
- Dink
…all with the same paddle.
🧠 Best For Doubles, Singles, and Club Matches
If you want to play anywhere, anytime — an all-court paddle is a smart choice. It lets you grow your game without needing to upgrade often.
💡 Final Tip
Go for a midweight paddle with a textured face. It gives you power, feel, and spin — all in one!
👶 9. Paddle Guide for Every Skill Level
🧗♂️ Every Player Has a Level — Know Yours
When I first started playing pickleball, I didn’t know what level I was. I just hit the ball and had fun.
But later, I learned that there are different skill levels — beginner, intermediate, and advanced. And yes, each level needs a different type of paddle.
📊 Skill Level Table – Which Paddle Do You Need?
| Skill Level | Rating | What You Need in a Paddle |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 2.0–3.0 | Light, easy control, big sweet spot |
| Intermediate | 3.0–4.0 | Balanced, more spin & power |
| Advanced | 4.0–5.0 | High-speed, pro-level control |
When I hit 3.5, I knew it was time to move to a better paddle — and that changed everything.
🪜 How to Know When to Upgrade
Here are 3 signs it’s time to level up your paddle:
- Your current paddle feels too slow
- You’re playing smarter, with more control
- You want to win more — and need a better tool
Trust me, using a new top rated pickleball paddle at the right level in 2025 makes the game way more fun.
🧠 10. Top Questions About New Top Rated Pickleball Paddles (FAQs)
Real Questions I Had as an Intermediate Player ❓
When I was moving up in pickleball, I had so many questions. I looked online, asked friends, and even bugged the local pro 😂
So here are the top questions (and answers!) to help you in 2025.
What Is a Good Intermediate Pickleball Paddle?
A good paddle for intermediate players should:
- Be midweight (not too heavy or light)
- Have a textured face (for better spin)
- Give a mix of power and control
That’s why I love the JOOLA Hyperion 3S — it’s a new top rated pickleball paddle that’s made for leveling up in 2025.
Are Expensive Paddles Worth It?
Sometimes, yes.
More expensive paddles often have:
- Better grip
- Stronger materials (like carbon fiber)
- Special tech (for spin or shock absorption)
But I’ve also found amazing paddles under $100 — like the Onix Z5. It’s about what feels right for YOU.
What Paddle Do Pros Recommend?
Many pros in 2025 are using:
- JOOLA (Ben Johns series)
- CRBN paddles
- Selkirk Vanguard
I tried some of them, and I can say — these aren’t just for pros. They actually helped me play better too.
Can I Use an Advanced Paddle as an Intermediate?
Yes, but be careful.
Some advanced paddles are harder to control. I tried one and kept hitting balls out 😅
Start with a good intermediate paddle, then move up when you’re ready.
Is There a Best Brand for Intermediate Players?
In 2025, these brands have made the best new top rated pickleball paddles:
- Selkirk
- JOOLA
- Paddletek
- CRBN
Try a few if you can — everyone’s hand and style are different.
🧾 11. Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Paddle for 2025
💬 My Honest Advice
I’ve gone through bad paddles, borrowed paddles, and finally found “the one.”
If you’re an intermediate player, getting a paddle that fits your style is the biggest game-changer.
🧠 Pick Based on How You Play
Ask yourself:
- Do I love soft dinks? Go for control.
- Do I smash and attack? Go for power.
- Do I mix it up? Go all-court.
Your paddle should match YOU.
🛍️ Try Before You Buy (If You Can)
One of the smartest things I did was try my friend’s paddle before buying. It helped me avoid wasting money.
If you’re at a club, ask someone to try theirs for a few minutes.
🚀 Why The Right Paddle Makes a BIG Difference
After switching to a new top rated pickleball paddle in 2025, my shots got sharper, and I felt more confident.
It’s not magic — but it feels like it. And once you get that perfect paddle, you’ll never go back.
🌟 (Bonus Rewritten) 8. Best All-Court Pickleball Paddles of 2025
🏓 What Is an “All-Court” Paddle?
These paddles are like superheroes — they do everything well.
I use one when I’m not sure if I’ll play soft, fast, or mixed doubles. They give me control, spin, and power in one paddle.
🥇 New Top Rated All-Court Paddles for 2025
| Paddle Name | Best Feature ⚡ | Why It’s All-Court Ready |
|---|---|---|
| JOOLA Hyperion 3S | Power + Spin + Feel | Plays great in any situation |
| Selkirk Halo XL | Control + Reach | Perfect for touch and rallies |
| Gearbox CX14H | Balance + Comfort | Feels smooth all around |
These paddles are perfect for intermediate players in 2025 who want to play every style of game.
🧠 Why I Love My All-Court Paddle
Some days I smash. Some days I dink. And sometimes I just want to enjoy a casual rally.
That’s why I always keep my JOOLA Hyperion 3S in my bag. It adapts to how I play, not the other way around.
✅ Best for Doubles and Versatility
If you play with different partners or in mixed formats, an all-court paddle is a smart pick.
You won’t need to switch paddles. You’ll just play — and win more.
💡 Final Tip
Choose an all-court paddle if you’re still growing as a player. It gives you the freedom to explore your style and level up with confidence.