2024 Pickleball Paddle Market Research & Analysis Report

In 2024, Pickleball Continues Its Rapid Growth, Driving the Paddle Market Boom
To better understand the current state of the paddle market and player preferences, we conducted research on hundreds of commercially available paddles. Our analysis covers multiple dimensions, including paddle thickness, shape, materials, length, weight, and performance. Below is a detailed breakdown of our findings.

Our research shows that 16mm paddles appear most frequently, making this thickness the mainstream choice in the market. This thickness strikes a good balance between performance and comfort.

Most paddles have a thickness between 14mm and 16mm, with extreme thicknesses (either ultra-thin or ultra-thick) being rare and typically used in specialized or professional scenarios.

This trend indicates that players prioritize all-around performance over single specific features when choosing their paddles.

The research reveals that elongated paddles dominate the market. Here is a breakdown of the main paddle shapes:

1. Elongated Shape – The most popular shape, making up over half of the paddles on the market. This design increases reach and spin potential, making it a preferred choice for advanced players.
2. Standard Shape – The second most common shape, offering stability and better control, ideal for average players.
3. Wide Body Shape – Popular among beginners and defensive players due to its larger sweet spot and forgiving nature.
4. Hybrid Shape – Less common, typically designed for players with specific needs or unique playing styles.
5. Ergonomic Shape – Extremely rare and often experimental in nature.

Toray Carbon Fiber is currently the most widely used surface material in pickleball paddles. Its popularity is due to its high strength, lightweight properties, and excellent adaptability in manufacturing.

Other surface material trends observed include:

• Woven Carbon Fiber & Kevlar – For enhanced durability.
• Fiberglass – Offers a softer feel and is favored by players seeking more control.
• Composite Materials – Used to balance production costs and meet diverse performance requirements.

Polypropylene Honeycomb has become the dominant core material used in nearly all mainstream paddles. Its advantages include:

• Lightweight – Reducing the overall weight of the paddle.
• High Strength – Ensuring durability for long-term use.
• Cost-Effectiveness – Balancing performance and price.

Most paddles fall within the 16 to 16.5-inch length range, with 16.5 inches being the most common choice. This length offers a balance between control and reach, suitable for the majority of players.

The mainstream weight range for paddles is between 7.8 to 8.2 ounces, with 8.0 ounces being the most popular weight. This range provides the best balance between control and stability, ensuring that the paddle is not too heavy to handle while still offering sufficient power.

The spin performance of most paddles falls within the 1800 to 2400 RPM range, with the 2000 to 2200 RPM range being the most common. This indicates that most paddles are designed to achieve optimal spin performance within this range to meet the needs of the majority of players.

2024 Highest Spin Paddle

• Brand: Diadem
• Model: Hush
• Core Thickness: 18mm
• Spin Rate: 2776 RPM
• Features: Elongated shape, textured polyurethane surface, offering exceptional spin capability. Suitable for advanced players.

2024 Most Powerful Paddle

• Brand: JOOLA
• Model: Scorpeus 3 Anna Bright
• Core Thickness: 14mm
• Ball Speed: 62 MPH
• Features: Standard shape, carbon fiber + foam core construction, designed for players seeking explosive power.

2024 Lightest Swing Weight Paddle

• Brand: Electrum
• Model: Pro Stealth
• Swing Weight: 92
• Features: Wide-body design, edgeless construction, ultra-lightweight. Ideal for beginners or players who prioritize quick swing speeds.