{
  "id": 19967485,
  "title": "My 9 Favorite Pickleball Paddles From 3 Years of Testing (2026)",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/14/my-9-favorite-pickleball-paddles-from-3-years-of-testing-2026",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-14T10:37:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Wired",
    "slug": "wired",
    "url": "https://www.wired.com/story/best-pickleball-paddles/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Since the rise of pickleball's popularity, paddle manufacturers have been competing to create the best paddles. After three years of testing, here are my favorite picks for every type of player and skill level.\n\nTop Pick: Selkirk Vanguard Control Invikta\nThis paddle is the best overall choice for most players. Despite not being thermoformed, it offers excellent control, consistency, and power. The upgraded octagonal grip adds to the user-friendly design. The T700 raw carbon face and larger sweet spot contribute to impressive spin.\n\nBest Daily Use: Diadem Warrior BluCore\nDiadem's new BluCore paddle, now in its second iteration, is made with a durable closed-cell foam core. It's more resilient to temperature changes and has a lifetime warranty. Although it takes time to adjust to its feel, it's ideal for daily play. The aramid carbon fiber face ensures durability, and the foam core provides a soft, forgiving sensation.\n\nBudget Pick: Panel Sound Paddle Set\nIf you're new to pickleball, this set is a great starting point. For under $30, you receive two paddles and several balls. The graphite paddles may lack power and spin but offer consistent performance and a comfortable grip. They're USA Pickleball Approved, allowing you to compete in tournaments if desired.\n\nPower Player Choice: Joola Persus\nThis paddle, created for professional player Ben Johns, is the latest in a series designed for power. It features a thermoformed design, making it highly durable. Despite being a bit heavy, it delivers significant power. While slightly less powerful than its predecessor, the Persus compensates with exceptional control and consistency.",
  "summary": "Paddles are getting more sophisticated and expensive. We’ve tested 100+ over the years to find our favorites.",
  "key_points": [
    "Selkirk Vanguard Control Invikta offers control, consistency, and power",
    "Diadem Warrior BluCore paddle is durable with lifetime warranty",
    "Joola Persus is designed for power with thermoformed design"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}