Picking the right pickleball racquet is the first step to enjoying the sport and improving your game. For beginners, the right racquet helps with control, power, and comfort. While the terms “paddle” and “racquet” are often used interchangeably in pickleball, many new players in India refer to it as a racquet, especially those transitioning from tennis or badminton. Understanding key elements like weight, core material, grip size, and face surface can help you make a smarter buying decision.
Weight of a Pickleball Racquet
Pickleball racquets are categorized by their weight, which affects speed, power, and fatigue levels. Beginners should aim for a racquet in the midweight range.
Lightweight (6.8 to 7.2 oz)
Easier to swing and control, ideal for finesse play, but may lack hitting power.
Midweight (7.3 to 8.4 oz)
Offers the right mix of control and power, recommended for new players.
Heavy (8.5 oz and above)
Delivers strong hits but can feel harder to maneuver, especially during long rallies.
Choosing a midweight pickleball racquet helps beginners get used to timing and shot placement without straining the wrist or shoulder.
Core Material
The racquet’s core affects touch, responsiveness, and noise level. Three popular core materials are available in India:
Polymer Honeycomb
Quiet, durable, and soft-feeling. This is the most beginner-friendly option due to its balance and comfort.
Nomex Core
Harder and noisier. Produces more power but sacrifices control, often used by aggressive players.
Aluminum Core
Lightweight and control-oriented but not as durable or powerful.
Beginners should look for polymer core racquets to maintain better control and reduce joint stress.
Face Material of the Racquet
The outer face impacts feel, spin, and responsiveness. Most beginner pickleball racquets are made of one of the following:
Fiberglass Face
Offers excellent power with a soft touch. It’s widely used by new players due to affordability and performance.
Graphite Face
Lightweight and highly responsive, suited for those who want more finesse and quicker wrist movement.
Carbon Fiber Face
Premium material known for its stiffness and spin potential. Best for advanced players due to higher cost.
A fiberglass face is often the best starting point for anyone buying their first pickleball racquet.
Grip Size and Comfort
Grip size matters as much as any other factor when selecting a racquet. A grip that’s too small can lead to elbow strain, while one that’s too large reduces wrist control.
4.0 to 4.25 inches
Suitable for players with smaller hands or who prefer better wrist action.
4.5 inches and above
Offers more stability, useful for those with larger hands or who prefer a firmer hold.
Measure your grip from the base of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. Many racquets available online in India now mention exact grip circumference, making it easier to buy the right one.
Racquet Shape and Edge Guard
The shape of the racquet determines the sweet spot and overall playability. Widebody racquets offer a larger hitting area, ideal for reducing mishits. They’re particularly helpful for beginners who are still mastering hand-eye coordination.
Edge guards protect the racquet from scratches and ground impact. A full edge guard is preferred for durability, especially for outdoor play or shared-use environments.
Entry-Level Pickleball Racquets Available in India
Most beginner-friendly racquets fall in the price range of ₹2,500 to ₹6,000. Look for models that balance cost with durability, especially if you plan to play regularly. Some global brands like ONIX, Gamma, and Paddletek are now available through Indian e-commerce platforms. Local distributors also stock fiberglass polymer-core racquets suited for first-time players.
Always check for product authenticity, core material description, and user reviews before placing an order online. Some clubs in major cities also offer demo racquets for testing before purchase.
