How to Choose the Right Pickleball Paddle

A Simple Guide for a Complicated Market

Choosing a pickleball paddle shouldn't feel like rocket science. Yet with hundreds of brands, confusing specs, and prices from $30 to $450+, it's no wonder players feel overwhelmed.

Here's everything you actually need to know.

There are:

Hundreds of brands
Dozens of materials and constructions
Prices ranging from $30 to over $450 AUD
Different thicknesses, textures, certifications, and discount offers

So how do you know what actually matters?

Let’s break it down.

Part 1: What to Look For When Buying a Paddle

1. Core Thickness

Affects control and feel.

16mm – Thicker core = More control, softer feel, less vibration
New players often prefer 16mm for forgiveness and comfort
14mm – Thinner core = More power, faster response, extra pop
Experienced players may choose 14mm for aggressive play

2. Surface Material

Determines spin, durability, and feel.

3K or T700 carbon fibre - Premium lightweight material for high-performance, great for spin and control
Fibreglass or composite – Heavier, less consistent, often used in entry-level paddles

3. Build Method

Impacts strength and play consistency.

Thermoformed - heat-sealed for durability with foam-injected edges = stronger, more responsive
Layered/pressed paddles – Often glued together and less durable long-term

4. Surface Texture

If spin matters to you, texture counts.

Textured carbon helps grip the ball longer = more spin, more finesse
Painted or smooth paddles won’t deliver the same level of ball control

5. Certification

USAPA certification is required if you’re playing in official USA and Global Pickleball Federation sanctioned tournaments
For everyday play — including social, club, and even local comps — it’s not necessary

6. Feel and Fit

Balance, grip comfort, swing weight, shock absorption — these matter more than specs on paper. If you can’t try before you buy, choose a brand that supports you post-purchase.

7. Price

Know what you’re paying for.

Price Range (AUD)	What You're Likely Getting
$30–$80	Entry-level paddles (plastic/fibreglass)
$90–$160	Mixed construction with some upgrades
$180–$330	Thermoformed, carbon-faced paddles (pro-style build)
$350+	Similar tech, often with added retail markups

Part 2: Why Buy an Angry Penguins Paddle?

Designed for Everyone. Built for Maximum Fun.

We created Angry Penguins to simplify your paddle choice — and elevate your game — without the confusing marketing or inflated pricing.

Built Like the Best

Every Angry Penguins paddle includes:

Thermoformed construction
3K or T700 Textured carbon face
Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
Edge-Foam injected for expanded sweet spot
Pro-style balance, grip, and finish

Same pro-level construction as $400+ paddles. Half the price. Zero compromise on quality.

That’s not a compromise - it’s a choice we made to make premium paddles more accessible — for all players.

Trusted by Australian pickleball players

Designed for All Abilities, All Ages

Choose The Flipper (16mm) for control, comfort, and soft hands
Choose The Abyss (14mm) for speed, power, and fast-paced play
Both are available in two colourways
Carefully balanced for all-day play without arm fatigue

We believe great paddles should be accessible to everyone, not reserved for elite players. From first-timers to weekend enthusiasts, Angry Penguins paddles are crafted to unlock your potential and amplify the joy of every game.

What’s Included

✅ Neoprene paddle cover
✅ Free shipping in Australia
✅ 12-Month (Limited) Warranty
✅ Angry Penguins Rewards
✅ Paddle Forward Recycle Program

We aim to be the brand players recommend.

Our paddles combine professional-level construction with transparent pricing, all supported by passionate players who know the game inside out.

First serve or championship point, casual fun or serious competition — we've designed paddles that rise to every occasion.

Shop Angry Penguins Paddles now

Still unsure? Contact us — we’ll help you choose.