Midweight pickleball paddles are the perfect balance between power and control, making them a top choice for a wide range of players.
Typically weighing between 7.6 and 8.4 ounces, these paddles offer enough mass for strong shots while remaining light enough for quick reactions at the net.
Whether you are an improving beginner or a competitive intermediate player, a midweight paddle can enhance consistency, comfort, and overall performance.
In this ultimate buying guide, we break down the top 10 best midweight pickleball paddles and explain key features to help you choose the right one for your playing style.
10. Onix V-Sonic III Paddle
The Pickleball Paddle for Advanced Players blends elite‑level control with explosive power, perfect for tournament‑ready athletes.
A Titanium‑Carbon hybrid face stacks a T700‑12K carbon fiber base beneath a titanium‑alloy woven surface, delivering an “externally light, internally rigid” feel that lets you place soft dinks and thunderous drives with pinpoint accuracy.
The V‑SONIC III kinetic core—a 16 mm polypropylene honeycomb—creates a pop that launches balls up to 52 mph while maintaining consistent energy transfer on every shot.
Designed with an extra‑wide round‑top, the paddle offers a massive sweet spot that forgives mishits and stabilizes your swing, whether you’re a rising star or a seasoned pro.
The anti‑fatigue multi‑layer grip absorbs vibration, reducing arm strain and ensuring smooth power delivery from hand to paddle. A thermoformed one‑piece construction fuses face and core, eliminating dead spots for uniform performance across the entire surface.
Weight is meticulously balanced: static weight 7.9 oz, swing weight 110 Kg·cm², and twist weight 6.0 Kg·cm², giving you faster swings without sacrificing power.
Certified USAPA approved, the paddle arrives in a pro kit with a neoprene zippered cover, cleaning eraser, sweatband, and replacement grip tape—everything you need to stay competition‑ready.
Pros
- Titanium‑Carbon face for elite control
- V‑SONIC III core boosts ball speed
- Extra‑wide sweet spot minimizes mishits
- Anti‑fatigue grip reduces arm strain
- USAPA approved for tournament play
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- Requires regular grip maintenance
- May feel heavy for beginners
9. Selkirk Sport Amped Control Pickleball Paddle
The Selkirk Sport Amped Control pickleball paddle is built for players who demand precision, spin, and durability in every rally.
Engineered in the USA, this mid‑weight paddle (Invikta Red) combines the next‑gen FiberFlex+ fiberglass face with an ultra‑durable micro‑textured spin coating, giving you elite‑level touch and explosive spin that stays consistent match after match.
The 16 mm X5 polypropylene honeycomb core dampens vibrations while expanding the sweet spot, delivering a softer feel and pinpoint accuracy whether you’re at the baseline or closing at the net.
A low‑profile EdgeSentry edgeguard protects the paddle’s edges without sacrificing balance, and Selkirk backs the whole package with a limited lifetime warranty.
Trusted by pros and tested on courts worldwide, the Amped Control lets you command the game with confidence and finesse.
Pros
- Elite FiberFlex+ face for elite touch
- Micro‑textured spin coating adds grip
- Expanded sweet spot for consistent hits
- Low‑profile EdgeSentry guard enhances durability
- USA‑assembled, champion‑tested design
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- Red color may not suit all tastes
- Midweight feel not ideal for ultra‑light players
8. Onix Mix2 Pickleball Paddles
Elevate every game with the Onix Mix2 Pickleball Paddles — a versatile 2-paddle set crafted for players of all skill levels.
These lightweight, USAPA-approved paddles deliver a well-balanced feel for both power and control, making them ideal for beginners, intermediate players, and weekend pros alike.
Enjoy an enlarged sweet spot and durable fiberglass surface that promotes smooth ball contact and consistent, accurate shots.
Designed for comfort and extended play, the ergonomically cushioned grips reduce fatigue while enhancing wrist mobility for better spin and precision.
Whether you’re playing casual matches with friends or raising your competitive edge, this paddle set offers reliable performance and long-lasting fun on any court.
Pros
- USAPA-approved for official play
- Lightweight with enlarged sweet spot
- Durable fiberglass construction
- Comfortable ergonomic grip
- Suitable for all ages & skill levels
Cons
- No carry case included
- Balls included may be basic quality
- Not premium pro-level tech
7. Gearbox GX2 Integra Pickleball Paddle
The Gearbox GX2 Integra XL pickleball paddle delivers a mid‑weight carbon‑fiber feel that lets you dominate the net and the baseline.
Its IntegraXL shape expands the sweet spot, giving you clean, consistent contact on every swing.
At the heart of the paddle lies the SST 2.0 carbon core, a ribbed structure that boosts control, reduces vibration, and provides a soft, responsive touch for dinks, drops, and soft resets.
The one‑piece molded carbon‑fiber construction eliminates delamination and edge failures, ensuring the paddle stays rigid and reliable session after session.
Certified USAP‑approved, the GX2 is tournament‑ready and trusted by competitive players at all levels, making it a versatile choice for anyone seeking precision and stability on the court.
Pros
- Expanded sweet spot for consistent hits
- Ribbed carbon core dampens vibration
- Ideal touch for dinks and drops
- One‑piece build prevents edge cracks
- USAP‑approved tournament reliability
Cons
- Slightly heavier for ultra‑light players
- Premium price reflects high‑end materials
- Limited color options currently
6. JoncAye Fiberglass Pickleball Set
The JoncAye BLITZ Pickleball Set delivers everything you need to jump straight into the game.
Inside the sturdy, zip‑top bag you’ll find four high‑performance fiberglass‑graphite paddles, two outdoor and two indoor USAPA‑approved balls, four lead tapes for court placement, and a set of extra grip tapes.
Each paddle features a lightweight 8‑oz composite PP honeycomb core that mutes the “pop” of impact, making play quieter for neighbors.
The large sweet‑spot surface gives beginners and intermediates confidence while the perforated, stitched cushion grip stays dry and secure, even during long rallies.
Certified by USAPA for tournament play, these paddles meet official standards, so you can compete or just have fun with family and friends on any court.
Pros
- Complete ready‑to‑play set
- USAPA‑approved for tournaments
- Light 8‑oz paddles, easy swing
- Large sweet spot for control
- Quiet honeycomb core design
Cons
- Not ideal for advanced power hitters
- Grip size may be large for small hands
- Bag lacks separate compartments for accessories
5. Selkirk Sport Vanguard Hybrid Pickleball Paddle
The Selkirk Sport Vanguard Hybrid Pickleball Paddle blends cutting‑edge engineering with classic craftsmanship.
Hand‑crafted in the USA, each paddle uses premium materials and Selkirk’s proprietary QuadCarbon technology, delivering a carbon‑fiber surface that maximizes dwell time, consistency, and ball control.
The Polypropylene X5 core provides a responsive midweight feel, while the Epic‑shaped face offers a large sweet spot and a longer handle for powerful two‑handed swings.
Certified USAPA‑approved, this paddle meets tournament standards and is trusted by pros such as Tyson McGuffin and Kaitlin Christian.
Whether you’re grinding out rallies in a competitive league or enjoying a casual game with friends, the Vanguard Hybrid gives you the perfect balance of power, precision, and durability—all wrapped in a striking red finish that stands out on the court.
Pros
- Hand‑crafted quality, USA made
- QuadCarbon surface for superior control
- Broad sweet spot for consistent hits
- USAPA‑approved tournament ready
- Long handle enables two‑handed power
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- Midweight may not suit ultra‑light players
- Red finish may show wear over time
4. Selkirk Vanguard Control Pickleball Paddle
The Selkirk Vanguard Control paddle blends a time‑tested traditional build with cutting‑edge technology, giving you the confidence to place precise third‑shot drops and resets.
Its advanced non‑thermoformed construction and raw QuadCarbon fiber face generate extra spin and punch, while the X5+ 16 mm polypropylene honeycomb core—engineered in Selkirk Labs for Project 006—delivers a soft feel, larger sweet spot, and superior vibration dampening.
The T700 Raw QuadCarbon fiber face is fabricated in the USA, providing a textured surface that maximizes ball rotation.
An upgraded octagonal grip enhances maneuverability and shot accuracy, making this midweight paddle a balanced choice for control‑oriented players seeking both feel and performance.
Made in the USA, the Vanguard Control epitomizes durability and consistent playability, ideal for competitive and recreational matches alike.
Pros
- Precise control on every shot
- Enhanced spin from QuadCarbon face
- Larger sweet spot, softer feel
- Vibration‑absorbing X5+ core
- Comfortable octagonal grip
Cons
- Slightly heavier than ultralight models
- Premium price point
- Limited color options
3. Selkirk Sport SLK Atlas Pickleball Set
Experience the next level of pickleball with the Selkirk Sport SLK Atlas Max Paddle Set.
This family‑owned brand delivers uncompromising quality, pairing a raw carbon‑fiber face with a Rev‑Control honeycomb polymer core for a perfect blend of spin, control, and power.
Each paddle weighs roughly 8 oz, offering a balanced midweight feel that suits both casual outings and high‑stakes matches.
The textured surface amplifies spin potential, while the large sweet spot keeps off‑center hits on target.
The bundle doesn’t stop at paddles—inside you’ll find a durable SLK sling bag, three hybrid+ balls, and a second paddle, giving you everything you need to dominate the court right out of the box.
Pros
- Raw carbon‑fiber face for superior spin
- Rev‑Control core softens impacts
- Large sweet spot improves accuracy
- Balanced 8 oz midweight design
- Complete set with bag and balls
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- Not ideal for ultra‑lightweight players
- Requires regular surface cleaning
2. Selkirk Sport SLK Atlas Pickleball Paddle
The Selkirk Sport SLK Atlas MAX delivers tournament‑level performance with a sleek, raw carbon‑fiber face that maximizes spin and precision on every shot.
Its Rev‑Control polymer honeycomb core provides a responsive, stable feel while expanding the sweet spot for consistent power and soft impact.
Weighing in at roughly 8 oz, this midweight paddle strikes the perfect balance between power and maneuverability—ideal for players who want quick reactions without sacrificing control.
The ultra‑cushion grip, sized at 4.25″ circumference and 4.85″ length, absorbs moisture and dampens vibration, letting you play longer with reduced fatigue.
Certified by USAPA, the Atlas MAX meets all tournament standards, so you can bring your A‑game to any court with confidence.
Pros
- Raw carbon fiber spin control
- Large, forgiving sweet spot
- Balanced midweight feel
- Ultra‑cushion, moisture‑absorbing grip
- USAPA tournament approved
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- May feel heavy for ultra‑light players
- Limited color options
1. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 pickleball paddle brings tournament‑level technology to every court.
Developed with world‑number‑one Ben Johns and the PPA Tour, this USAPA‑approved paddle blends a carbon abrasion surface (CAS) with a 16 mm polypropylene honeycomb core for unmatched spin, control, and durability.
The multi‑step sand‑blasting process textures the surface, giving you extra bite on every shot, while the hybrid‑ply layering pairs a responsive top layer for delicate dinks with sturdy lower layers that unleash powerful drives.
Feel the difference of the Response polymer honeycomb core: it compresses on impact, reducing vibration and extending the paddle’s lifespan.
The elongated Sure‑Grip handle features a perforated anti‑slip ridge that wicks away moisture, delivering a secure, comfortable hold even during intense rallies.
Whether you’re blocking at the net or delivering a deep drive, the Hyperion’s balanced weight and 16 mm thickness provide a smooth, confident swing.
Pros
- Carbon abrasion surface boosts spin
- Hybrid‑ply layering enhances control
- Polypropylene honeycomb core reduces vibration
- Sure‑Grip handle stays dry and firm
- USAPA approved for tournament play
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- May feel heavy for beginners
- Limited color options
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a “midweight” pickleball paddle and why choose one?
A midweight paddle typically weighs 7.5‑8.5 oz. It offers a balanced blend of power and control—lighter than heavyweight paddles (which favor power) but heavier than lightweight models (which emphasize maneuverability). This weight range is ideal for players who want enough heft to generate pop on shots while still being able to react quickly at the net.
Which midweight paddles consistently rank highest for performance and value?
Here are three top‑rated midweight paddles (as of 2024) that receive strong praise for quality, durability, and price‑to‑performance ratio:
| Paddle | Weight | Core Material | Surface | Approx. Price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selkirk Amped S2 | 7.8 oz | X5 Polypropylene | Textured Composite | $119 |
| Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro | 7.9 oz | Polymer | Rough Texture | $115 |
| Onix Z5 Graphite | 8.0 oz | Nomex | Smooth Graphite | $105 |
*Prices vary by retailer and sales; these are typical online listings.
How should I pick the best midweight paddle for my playing style?
- Assess your primary need –
- Power: Look for a slightly denser core (e.g., polymer) and a thicker face.
- Control: Favor a paddle with a larger sweet spot and a textured surface.
- Consider grip size – A comfortable grip (usually 4 in–4 ¼ in) reduces fatigue and improves swing consistency.
- Test the feel – If possible, demo a paddle; a good midweight should feel stable in your hand without “wobbling” on off‑center hits.
Conclusion
Choosing a midweight paddle strikes the perfect balance between power and control, making it an ideal choice for players who want versatility without sacrificing feel.
Prioritizing factors such as weight distribution, grip comfort, and surface texture ensures consistent performance across a range of shots, from aggressive drives to delicate dinks.
Durability and material quality also play crucial roles, as they affect both longevity and responsiveness on the court.
By focusing on these core attributes, you can select a paddle that enhances your game, adapts to your evolving skill set, and ultimately delivers a more enjoyable and competitive pickleball experience.
Carole de Monclin