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Choosing 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?

Built for Everyone. Crafted for Play.

We created Angry Penguins to make choosing a paddle simple — and playing pickleball more fun.
No hype. No inflated prices. Just beautifully balanced paddles designed for real players who value performance, purpose, and a little bit of edge.


BUILT LIKE THE BEST — WITHOUT THE PRICE TAG

Every Angry Penguins paddle includes:

  • Thermoformed carbon construction for strength and precision

  • 3K or T700 textured carbon face for spin and control

  • Edge-foam injected core for an expanded sweet spot

  • Polypropylene honeycomb core for feel and durability

  • Pro-style grip and balance for all-day comfort

You’re getting the same pro-level build found in $400+ paddles — at half the price.
That’s not cutting corners. That’s cutting through the noise to make premium paddles genuinely accessible.


SIGNATURE & TOURNAMENT READY

Every Angry Penguins paddle shares the same DNA — precision carbon build, balanced weight, and crafted feel.

Some models form part of our Tournament Series, carrying official USAPA certification for sanctioned competition.
Others belong to our Signature Series, sharing the exact same carbon construction, engineered for everyday and club play without the certification cost.

Different approvals. Same performance. Same edge.


DESIGNED FOR HOW YOU PLAY

Every player is different — so we built paddles to match your style:

  • The Flipper (16 mm) – for control, comfort, and soft hands

  • The Abyss (14 mm) – for speed, power, and fast-paced play
    Both available in two colourways, carefully balanced for all-day play without arm fatigue.

From first-timers to seasoned players, Angry Penguins paddles are made to unlock your potential and amplify the joy of every rally.

Because great paddles shouldn’t just be for the pros — they should be for everyone who plays with heart, intent, and a touch of rebellion.


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.