Best Pickleball Paddles 2025
Best Pickleball Paddles 2025: Boost Your Control and Dominate the Court
If you’re searching for the Best Pickleball Paddles 2025, this guide was built for you. I’ve tested a variety of paddles over the past few months, on court, under pressure, and alongside players of all levels. This list reflects real world feedback, not just hype. My personal favorite? The Honolulu J2Ti+, stock setup, no added weight. It delivered impressive spin and intuitive control without sacrificing comfort. Let’s dive into how these paddles stack up so far in the 2025 lineup.
1. Honolulu J2Ti+: Stock Comfort, Surprising Spin
So far my favorite paddle of 2025. Played completely stock, no lead tape, no grip mods. Despite that, it provided fantastic spin potential, great touch around the net, and a plush feel during resets. This paddle bridges comfort and control better than anything else I tested.
- Surface: Carbon Fiber + PET Electroplated Fiber
- Core: 16mm Polypropylene
- Spin: 9.5/10
- Power: 7.5/10
- Control: 9.6/10
Read the full Honolulu J2Ti+ Review.
2. 11SIX24 Harachi X Power: Extended Reach + Custom Power
My second favorite paddle so far in 2025. I added weight at 4, 5, 7, and 8 o’clock to boost balance and pop. It’s an aggressive paddle with excellent top end power, especially when customized. Spin and plow through were exceptional. Highly recommended for players who can handle elongated frames.
- Surface: Raw Carbon + Fiberglass layer
- Core: EVA Foam ring + Honeycomb
- Spin: 9.3/10
- Power: 9.2/10
- Control: 8.3/10
Read the full 11SIX24 Harachi X Power Review.
3. Franklin C45: Lightweight Precision With Added Weight
This paddle caught me off guard. It felt fast in hand and consistent off the face. I added lead tape at 2, 5, 7, and 11 o’clock for better swing weight and forgiveness. Solid performer across soft shots, volleys, and resets. A true control/power hybrid.
- Surface: Triple-layer Carbon Fiber
- Core: Foam-channeled Poly
- Spin: 8.8/10
- Power: 8.9/10
- Control: 9.0/10
Read the full Franklin C45 Review.
4. CRBN 3 TruFoam Genesis: Spin Leader With Solid Foam Core
This paddle set a new benchmark in spin and comfort thanks to its solid TruFoam core. Spin was top tier and dwell time unmatched. Great control paddle that can still drive the ball with confidence. On paper, not a power paddle, but it surprised me with punchy volleys.
5. Proton Project Flamingo: Spin and Power Combined
A good option for players who want grit and pace. Slightly more aggressive feel but still capable of resets and soft play. A big win for topspin focused singles players.
6. Pickleball Apes Pulse V: Stability and Forgiveness
Wide, stable, and crisp. The Pulse V is great for newer players or anyone who prioritizes block defense and consistency. Kevlar/nylon blend adds to the distinct feel, and spin was respectable.
7. Avoura Rhapsody 13: Light and Quick
Speedy paddle for reactive players who want quick flicks and sharp dinks. Not as much pop as others but excellent maneuverability at the kitchen.
Quick Comparison Table
| Paddle | Main Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Honolulu J2Ti+ | Stock spin & control | Touch focused players |
| 11SIX24 Harachi X Power | Elongated reach + power | Heavy hitters & singles |
| Franklin C45 | Balanced hybrid | All court players |
| CRBN 3 TruFoam Genesis | Spin & durability | Advanced control players |
| Proton Flamingo | Gritty power spin | Baseline aggression |
| Pulse V | Forgiveness | Stable net defense |
| Avoura Rhapsody 13 | Quick handling | Speed focused doubles |
FAQ
If you rely on precise resets and dinks, the Pickleball Apes Pulse V and Franklin C45 both shine. The Flamingo and CRBN 3 TruFoam Genesis add spin forward control, while the Avoura Rhapsody 13 emphasizes rapid net play. The 11SIX24 Harachi X Power brings elongated reach, and the Honolulu J2Ti+ delivers comfort and spin right out of the box.
The CRBN 3 TruFoam Genesis and Honolulu J2Ti+ offer exceptional spin due to dwell time and carbon textures. Flamingo and Harachi X Power come close, while Franklin C45 also delivers strong spin with added lead tape.
Yes. All seven paddles have generous sweet spots and modern build tech. Beginners can learn with these and grow into them.
Browse around on PickleTip.com for paddle reviews, discount codes, and performance comparisons.
Best Pickleball Paddles 2025
These paddles represent the best of what 2025 has to offer so far. From control first builds to power focused designs, each paddle brings something unique. My top pick, the Honolulu J2Ti+, was shockingly effective even in stock form. If you’re ready to elevate your game, check out the full reviews and exclusive discount codes on PickleTip.
Coming Soon: A Surprise Contender
I’ve also been testing the Joola Perseus Pro IV 16mm, and I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect to like it. I’ve always leaned toward control paddles, and while the Hyperion C2 was a standout for me, most other Joola paddles haven’t impressed. Plus, with their higher price point, I’ve typically steered away. But this one changed my mind. The Pro IV felt dialed in right from the first session, controlled, smooth, and surprisingly well suited to my game. Full review coming soon, and yes… this paddle is very likely to be included in the next update of the Best Pickleball Paddles 2025 list.
