Top 5 Best Pickleball Paddles for Spin in 2022

When it comes to pickleball paddles, you will find that there are a lot of different types. From the length to the style, finding a pickleball paddle that suits your playing needs is more challenging than you might think. 

The truth is that depending on the design of the paddle, it will accentuate certain features of a player’s ability. There are paddles designed for power and some that are designed to help with spin. To choose the best one for a given attribute of the game, you will need to pay attention to the design and what that design is crafted with. 

You want a good level of spin control. So we thought we would whip up this quick guide to help you understand what to look for in a pickleball paddle when it comes to spin. We also took the time to give you a look at the top 5 best pickleball paddles for a spin. 

In a Hurry? Here’s Our Top Picks…

Spin – What Is It? Why Is It Important?

No matter your experience level in your pickleball adventure, you will undoubtedly hear the world spin quite a bit. But what exactly does that mean? Spin means adding a bit of arc to the ball’s path when serving. Adding spin to your shot can help throw off your opponent when it comes to the ball’s path. This will increase the chance that they will be unable to return the service giving you a point.

However, taking your serve and adding spin relies on the paddle you choose to play with. Making spin one of the things you practice will also help with the accuracy of your shots because you have to have a lot of control to add some spin. But this tactic is also one that you have to use sparingly so that it doesn’t become too predictable. There are, of course, features that you should look for when looking for a pickleball paddle specifically for a spin. 

How to Choose A Pickleball Paddle for Spin

Like with anything, how the paddle is designed and what it is crafted with will play a big part in its overall performance. If you are looking for a good paddle that offers you better spin capabilities, then you will want to look at the five features below. If you find the right combination of features, you can match it to your style and select a paddle that enhances your performance. And that, after all, is what every player is looking to do.

Here are the features that have the most impact on the overall performance of a pickleball paddle, especially when it comes to spin: 

Surface

One of the most important features of spin and a pickleball paddle is a material that the surface of the face is covered with. Because the companies that make the paddles know this, more paddles are being outfitted with unique surface material they call spin technology material. There are several different types of these materials. Things like liquid graphite and specialized graphite can be seen on many paddles.

The liquid graphite is designed for increased texture. This gives the ball extra grip, and this can help the player add spin to their serves and shots. Typically, however, it is not a good idea to look at graphite paddles for a spin. Still, this special graphite goes on rougher than the traditional material. 

Some companies opt for fiberglass technology to help with spin. Most companies that use this option coat the fiberglass over a polymer core, giving the paddle face more texture. Like with the graphite, this texture allows the ball to have a better grip, which ultimately allows you to control it better. One other material that you might want to look for is a carbon fiber finish. 

This also offers a nice texture on paddles but tends to jack the price up a bit. On top of a higher price, the paddle’s weight also takes a hit, so this is a good option for someone looking for power but superior control over spin. 

Shape/Size

When it comes to pickleball paddles, another feature has to pay attention to when it comes to spin is the sweet spot. This, of course, is determined by the size of the paddle face. The larger the face, the bigger the sweet spot. In order to give your ball the right amount of spin, it has to land in just the right spot, so this is a major factor.

Most people say you should look for a paddle that is about 15″ long and 8″ wide. This is the standard size pickleball paddle, and it offers the best shape when it comes to the sweet spot. There are also paddles that are designed with larger dimensions that can enhance not only your spin but also your reach and power.

If you are looking to optimize your sweet spot, you might want to choose a wider paddle. Though this will affect your reach, so be careful to balance the features to ensure you get the right paddle for your style of play. 

Core 

You should also take a good look at what the core material of the paddle is. The core helps with bounce and weight. That means the material used will affect your play as well as things like your spin capability. The harder the core material, the player will have to contend with less power and a higher pop noise when striking the ball.

Most paddles are constructed using one of three different materials – Nomex, aluminum, or polymer. Nomex gives the paddle a harder core because they are typically constructed with a tighter honeycomb design. This also leads them to be noisier and less powerful. However, they do give the player a lot of control.

Aluminum cores, on the other hand, have smaller honeycombs but are lightweight. The lighter paddle will lend the player less power but more control, just like a Nomex core. The last material used is a polymer. This type of paddle will have a larger honeycomb design making it less noisy. If you are looking for a paddle that gives you the best of all the features, this might be the right option for you. 

Grip Length/Size

Spin shots rely on the grip size and length as well. You need good wrist action to add extra spin, which means you have to have a good grip on the handle of the paddle. Choosing the right grip will depend on two things – your hand size and the way you play. If you are someone that has smaller hands, then you will want a thinner handle. This will typically mean looking at a grip size of 4 – 4 ¾”.

The length of the paddle will vary depending on the model. If you go with a shorter grip, you will have better control, especially if you have small hands. It will affect your reach, though. 

Durability

The last feature we think that you should look at when choosing your pickleball paddle is its overall durability. Though this has very little to do with your spin capabilities, it will ensure you are getting the most back for your investment. 

Other Factors to Consider

When you are looking for a spin, there are, of course, certain features you need to look at. But you need to start off with a good paddle before you look at those. So we thought it would be good to look at the basic features that make a good pickleball paddle. If you combine these with the ones above, you will be sure to find the perfect paddle for your experience, budget, and playing style.

Here are the factors that make a good paddle:

Weight

When you ask an experienced pickleball player, the weight of the paddle is the most important thing when choosing your paddle. You will be looking at paddles that weigh from 6-14 oz. The weight you choose will play a part in the feel of the paddle when you are plating with it. This tends to be a personal preference that is also affected by your playing style. 

Lighter paddles can help with better ball control and maneuverability. These also tend to put less stress on your shoulder and elbow, which reduces the chances of fatigue and stressing those areas of your body. On the other hand, the lighter paddle takes away power, and you will need more power behind your swing to have a good shot. 

The heavier paddles will give you more power and take less force to hit a hardball. They also make hitting balls deep much easier. That being said, they will put more stress on your arm and often give the player less control over their shots.

Material

Pickleball paddles come in a couple of different materials. You can find paddles in wood, graphite, and composite materials. Of these three options, the wooden option is the cheapest, but they also are not as durable as the other materials. (See the section above for more on the other two options.)

Noise

There are many places where there is a noise restriction, so you have to pay attention to the pop of the paddle. When you are looking for the paddle that offers the lowest level of pop, then polymer paddles are the way to go. You will be able to tell the level of pop by the rating on the box, and then you can choose one according to the rules of the court you are playing on. 

Edges

When you are looking at paddles, you will find some that are described as edgeless. These types of paddles lack a protective guard around the edges. The guards are meant to help keep players from dealing with chipping. Choosing an edgeless paddle will give the player more face surface, which most often equates to a larger sweet spot. 

Price

The last thing that tends to play a part in the decision-making process is the price. You want to get the most value for your hard-earned money, and that means paying attention to the features and benefits of each paddle. Along with this, though, you have to consider the budget you have to work with. 

So looking at everything, you will want to find the one that matches the needs and the money you are willing to spend. By choosing the one that fits all your needs, we are sure you will find the right pickleball paddle for you and your pickleball needs. 

Pickleball Paddle for Spin Reviews

There are many types of paddles out there that are amazing. But when it comes to finding the right one for you to be able to add more spin, there are a few that stand out amongst the crowd. Here is our in-depth look at five of these that you might want to invest in:

1. Engage Encore Pro

Engage is a USA-based brand that is well known in the pickleball world. This paddle is a great option manufactured by them, especially for a player looking to add a bit of spin. It is crafted using a polymer honeycomb core that is wrapped in a fiberglass skin. 

The paddle is designed with a unique frame that helps keep the ball in contact with the paddle longer. The addition of the textured face is what makes it the best for spin. This paddle is a mid-weight option that weighs up to 8.3 oz. It comes with a standard grip of 4.5.” Along with this, the player will have the ability to choose between four different colors.

Who is this product for? 

This paddle has little to no drawbacks and is very comfortable to use. For this reason, it is a versatile choice and is perfect no matter the level of experience the player has. But because of the balance and size, those that are not only looking for spin but power might get a bit more from this paddle than others. 

Specifications 

• Textured surface
• Specially designed with the aid of champions
• Standard size
• Fiberglass
• Array grip
• Weight 7.8oz 

The use of the polymer core may limit its power capability, but it helps with the pop. This, paired with the liquid graphite face, allows the paddle to optimize a player’s spin capabilities. Because of the design of this paddle, it has an excellent balance which is key when it comes to the spin of the ball. 

This primarily comes from the polymer core, which enhances a player’s control but, as we have said, takes away a bit from their power. The finishing of the paddle with the liquid graphite helps improve the sweet spot so that the player can have better control of their spin. It also is designed with a comfortable grip and a lightweight material. This means that a player can enjoy the game for hours and not get super fatigued. It also gives the player a better grip which helps with control and spin.

This paddle is a super choice for almost any player solely because the design was crafted with guidance from some of the world’s best players. But just because it has this on its resume doesn’t mean it is perfect, so let’s talk about a few things that could be better. Though the weight is fairly light, it may still feel a bit heavy for those players that are just starting out. Along with this, if you are a player working on a tight budget, you may find this paddle being a bit pricey. 

Pros

• The paddle is designed with a large sweet spot for enhanced control
• Special grip design that helps make it more comfortable to use and gives player more power
• Crafted with a specialized skin for improved time for the ball staying on the paddle
• The paddle is designed by collaborating with pickleball champions

Cons

• For beginners or hobbyists, the weight of the paddle may be a bit heavy
• Some may find the price to be a bit steep

2. Onix Composite Z5

Some pickleball paddles are timeless, and that describes the Onix Composite Z5. The paddle is constructed with a Nomex honeycomb core and finished with a graphite face. When it comes to the shape, the overall design is a widebody frame coming in at about 8″. 

Because of its wide body, the paddle has a larger sweet spot for improved power and heightened ability to add spin to the player’s shots. This paddle weighs in at about 8.7 oz, which means it is heavier than other options. When it comes to grip size, you are looking at the standard 4.5″ grip. 

Who is this product for? 

The widebody makes it hard to miss shots, and for that reason, it is a great option for beginners. A lightweight build also makes it a popular choice for more advanced players. But players that like extra pop at the baseline may well be the player that gets the most from the paddle. 

Specifications 

• Nomex, paper honeycomb, and fiberglass face
• 4 ¼” grip size
• Widebody paddle
• Weight: .5 lbs.

The paddle offers a little extra weight due to the Nomex core, which helps with the power of your shot. This material is dense and utilizes a smaller honeycomb design, which, along with power, allows the paddle to offer more durability. When it comes to the design of this paddle, every feature is expertly crafted to improve upon the previous model’s performance. The shift to a heavier body adds power but also reduces the amount of control you have. That being said, though, the new features definitely give the player a more balanced paddle.

The paddle is also designed to give the player a bit of control, which is perfect for adding spin. The grip used in the construction makes the paddle super comfortable to use even over a long game period. However, with a wider body construction, the player will have to contend with wind resistance more than other paddles. 

Because of this, you may find that your arm will get fatigued quicker, especially if you are an aggressive player. Along with this, there are a few other issues that you might want to consider. The weight is nice for people that have experience with heavier paddles. For those that don’t, though, they might find using the paddle a little challenging. Also, there are some people that find the new grip not as durable as the previous model. 

Pros

• Designed with a wide body for easier control 
• Added a bit of weight to build for more power
• The face of the paddle is crafted to give a good pop
• Price versus value outshines many of its competitors

Cons

• The weight may be too heavy for some players and styles of play
• Some find the new grip design less than quality

3. Head Radical Pro

The Head Radical Pro is crafted to give the player a larger sweet spot than the standard pickleball paddle. This means that the paddle will offer more power. That larger face coupled with the thicker core and special grip help improve the playability of the paddle.

When designing this paddle, the engineers at the company opted to use an OTC construction made of a honeycomb core of polypropylene. This helps with the pop and the feel, which gives the paddle a wide versatility of playability. The paddle is finished with a fiberglass finish that helps with the feel of the ball and power. 

Who is this product for? 

This paddle, because of its balanced construction and budget-friendly price, is perfect for almost any player. It can be beneficial for beginner players just as much as for more experienced players. 

Specifications 

• Polymer honeycomb core
• Fiberglass finish
• Extreme spin texture technology
• Ergo grip technology
• 4 ¼” grip size
• Weight: .03 lbs.

This paddle was made particularly so that a player would have better control and be able to create a good spin. Because of the overall design, the paddle offers more grip due to the composite surface finish. This company may not be as well known as others in the pickleball world, but it has found a way to craft one of the best paddles on the market. 

For beginners, the longer length will help with your reach, and that, coupled with the textured surface, will improve your game performance. In essence, every feature that the designers put into this paddle is geared towards delivering more control and spin, but they also take a bit of the power away. 

But even with their careful construction of the paddle, there are some issues that certain players may find distracting and unnecessary. The first of these is the shape of the paddle itself, which is in a teardrop-like frame. It may help with accuracy, but the sweet spot is smaller than most would like. 

Also, the designers opted to add large edge guards. This can cause the ball to catch a bit, and this might detract from your control. But the biggest issue of all may be the length. Though it does help with reach for more experienced players, it may be a bit too long for their tastes. 

Pros

• Crafted with an increased face for a bigger sweet spot
• Made with a thick polymer core for enhanced durability
• Designed with a fiberglass surface that improves spin and pop capability
• Build of the paddle offers a balanced feel for less chance of hand fatigue

Cons

• The grip can be a bit too long for some players 
• Design makes it not the best option for beginning players

4. Venom Pickleball Paddle

This paddle is not constructed with a traditional shape when it comes to pickleball paddles. The paddle’s face is designed with a teardrop shape, making it resemble a tennis racket rather than a pickleball paddle. 

When it comes to the paddle’s core, it is crafted with a Nomex core, and the paddle is finished with a fiberglass surface. This, of course, means it is a little heavier but can offer the player more power than other models. The paddle also comes in the standard grip, which makes it a versatile choice when it comes to playability. 

Who is this product for? 

Though this paddle is a great piece of gear, it will take a little practice to master its control. For this reason, it is probably best suited for experienced players. 

Specifications 

• Fiberglass surface
• Nomex core
• 4 ¼” grip
• Weight: 8 oz.

The designers at Venom opted for the teardrop shape to give the players more control over the ball. That, combined with the long handle, may help a player increase their accuracy. This is, of course, dependent on the playing style of the player. They also looked to help craft a paddle that is not only great for control (which helps with spin) but gives the player a bit more power as well. 

The Nomex core adds weight to the paddle, and with this paddle, that weight is focused more towards the front of the paddle face. This will give the player more power, especially when it comes to overhead swings. However, when it comes to underhand swings, there will be less power available for that player. Along with the heavier face, the paddle is fitted with a long handle as well. 

This might be great if you like to play two-handed because it will give you more space for your hands to fit comfortably. However, for those that play a single-handed game, it might be super uncomfortable and detract from the control they have a bit. Also, the paddle price may be a bit steep for those working with a limited budget.

Pros

• Special design that allows the paddle to have heightened power, control, and spin
• The paddle comes with a protective guard from improved durability
• For those looking for extra power, this paddle would be good
• Crafted with a longer handle that could help improve your game

Cons

• The weight of the paddle might be challenging for some players to get used to
• The price is a bit higher than some would like to spend on a paddle

5. ProLite Rebel PowerSpin Composite

Besides the fact that this pickleball paddle looks awesome, the product’s design gives it superior control over spin. This also means that its overall performance is top-notch. The paddle is crafted with a lightweight material that helps improve the speed of a player’s return. Along with this, the paddle is designed with a smaller grip for extra control of these shots. 

The paddle is designed with a polymer honeycomb core that is great for playability as well as durability. When it comes to weight, the paddle weighs just 7.8 oz. On top of that, the surface is finished with a patent spin technology to help elevate the paddle’s spin capabilities. 

Who is this product for? 

This paddle could be a welcomed addition to any pickleball player’s gear. However, for those that have small hands, the thinner grip could end up being super uncomfortable. For that reason, we think this paddle is best for beginners that have average or even larger hands. 

Specifications 

• Textured power spin surface
• Extra-long paddle face
• Contoured handle 
• Comfort grip
• 4 ¼” grip size
• Weight: 8.3 oz.

In comparison to other pickleball paddles from this company, the paddle is longer than most. But even with the longer side, it isn’t much narrower, which is nice. The paddle is crafted with a polymer core and finished with a fiberglass surface. 

This combination allows for better control of the ball. It also means that adding any type of spin is super simple with the paddle. The body of the paddle utilizes rounded edges and that longer body to enhance the paddle’s sweet spot. This gives the paddle a surface that is more forgiving and perfect for those beginners to the game. The thicker handle, though, may be a problem for some. 

That being said, the design is not a great option for those with small hands. Even with the contoured grip, the control and grip of the paddle are not ideal for a lot of players. On top of that, the material does give it a bit more weight which might not work well for certain players and their styles. 

Pros

• Spin control is made better with the textured surface
• The build of the paddle face is rounded for a larger sweet spot
• Aesthetically appealing thanks to its bold graphics
• Designed with a medium grip and a long handle for improved control and power

Cons

• Some have found the overall design of the paddle to be a little narrow
• Because of materials used in construction, the paddle is a little heavy

FAQs

Even with all that knowledge and our in-depth look at the top 5 pickleball paddles for spin, you may still have some questions. So we scoured the internet and found some of the most commonly asked questions and answered them below. Hopefully, these extra bits of knowledge will help you in your final decision-making process. 

How do you get more spin on your shots?

Having the right paddle that has a good-sized sweet spot and grip is important to your spin capabilities. But that is not all you need. Having the right routine will also help improve your spin. Spin is not easy to add to your shots, so many experienced players suggest starting with accuracy and then working your way to adding spin. You have to have patience and practice before you will be able to execute a shot with spin. 

When serving a ball in a competition, is spin legal?

For those players looking to make more than a hobby out of pickleball, you may be concerned with the rules. You will have to look at the rules of the International Federation of Pickleball. To answer this in the simplest way, spin is a legal tactic in the game. But if the move you use is illegal, then the spin will also be illegal.

What is a liquid grip?

If you are looking to improve your grip, you might decide to invest in a grip enhancer. This is a spray you can apply to your paddle’s handle to help give it a grippier texture. But liquid grip (also known as liquid graphite) can also be used. This is a substance used by some companies to help improve spin.

When should you avoid spin?

The idea of adding spin is a tactic used to confuse your opponent. By adding spin, you make it hard to guess the path the ball will be taking. But if you use it too much, it becomes a liability as your opponent will read your shots and be able to return them with ease. 

Spin can also make your shots harder as it affects the control you have over the ball itself. On the other hand, if you have practiced enough, you will be able to have excellent accuracy, and that can help improve your game greatly. 

How do you hold a pickleball paddle?

There are multiple grips you can take advantage of in your game, and it all depends on what you are trying to achieve and what is the most comfortable for you. The most common grip is known as the continental grip, and it is quite simple to master. 

Here are the steps:

• Reach toward the paddle with your palm facing toward the handle itself. It should look like you are about to shake somebody’s hand.
• Then wrap your hands around the paddle.
• You want to make sure your thumb and index form a “v” shape and that it is pointing towards you.

There are also three other grips that might be useful for you. These are called the strong, weak, and neutral grip. The neutral grip is basically the continental grip we talked about above. The strong grip, though, differs greatly. This grip is perfect for someone who likes to play aggressively and loves executing overhead smashing shots.

Here is how you execute the strong grip:

• You will start with your hand in the neutral grip. 
• Then rotate your grip in the direction of your dominant hand.
• Once this is done, adjust until you feel comfortable.

The weak grip isn’t used much, but it is still worth understanding. For those that are looking to play with extra spin, this could be a good grip to use occasionally. 

Conclusion

Spin is important when it comes to creating a plan of attack that will end in a positive result for you. By finding the right paddle and practicing, you will be able to ensure that the tactic is successful. But it is only possible with the right paddle, practice, and patience. You want to find a paddle with a larger sweet spot and is crafted with materials that help control. Then it is all about your technique.

If you’re looking to spice up your pickleball game, then trying to utilize spin more might be a good idea. This, of course, will only be successful with practice and the right gear. That is why we have looked at the top 5 best pickleball for spin and a ton of other information that can be combined to help you with your end goal.