Joseph works as an editor in one of the magazines dedicated to video games. Here, at RecRoomPick, he’s given the opportunity to enjoy the reverse of the medal – the no less engaging world of offline games.
Ryan knows everything when it comes to gaming, both online and offline. Since his early years he’s been in love with arcades, air hockey, and foosball. Finally, he’s given the opportunity to share his knowledge and opinion on the hobby of his life (and even get paid for it!).
Last updated: October 11, 2024
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Pickleball has been gaining popularity over the years across America and the world because it is a fun and exciting racquet sport suitable for all ages. This is one of the best sports to play with family and friends because it is very easy to set up and works perfectly in social environments. To start playing, you’ll need the best pickleball set you can find.
A pickleball set comes with everything you need for two to four players to start playing immediately. Some of the items that you can expect to find in a top-quality pickleball set include paddles, a net and carrying bag, line tape, a rulebook that contains the court dimensions, as well as some pickleballs and a bag to contain them together with the rest of the equipment. It is usually more convenient to shop for a pickleball set instead of getting the separate paddles, balls, and nets separately.
To help you make the right choice for your family, we researched the best pickleball sets on the market and looked at the most important features you should consider before picking one. These factors include what’s included in the set, the construction of the paddle, as well as the dimensions and weight.
We spent days researching the best pickleball sets on the market, and we featured the seven best models we found in the comparison table below. You will also find in-detail reviews for each of the sets, together with a buying guide that provides you with all the information you need to make the best choice.
"The Helium Pickleball Paddles Set of 4 is perfect for anyone who loves to play pickleball. The lightweight construction and non-slip grip make it perfect for competitive play. The large paddle surface area provides for optimal control and spin. Plus, you can play doubles with your friends!."
"The Diller pickleball paddle 2 player bundle provides unbeatable performance and durability. This set includes two paddles made with 7-ply hardwood and four balls. The lightweight and strong wood provides excellent power, control and spin to help you dominate the court!."
"This Anything Sports 3 in 1 Pickleball set is the perfect portable choice for pickleball enthusiasts. It comes with 4 paddles, 4 balls, and a net that s easily assembled. The paddles are constructed with carbon fiber and graphite for lightweight play, while the edge guard ensures excellent control."
The Helium Pickleball Paddles Set of 4 is the perfect choice for someone who wants to play doubles with their friends.
This set offers four paddles and four balls, so you can play a full game. The paddles are constructed with graphite and fiberglass for strength and durability.
They feature a polypropylene honeycomb core that provides an impressive amount of power and control when playing.
The paddles have a large surface area of 15.9 x 7.75 , giving you ample room to maneuver and make shots. The lightweight construction means that the paddles are easy to handle and won’t tire you out.
The non-slip grip ensures that your hands stay in place during play, providing improved accuracy and control.
All of these features combine to make the Helium Pickleball Paddles Set of 4 an excellent choice for doubles players.
So, if you are looking for an affordable , yet reliable set of paddles to play a game of pickleball with friends and family, the Helium Pickleball Paddles Set of 4 is likely the best choice for you.
Extra features: official size pickleball net; pickleballs meet USAPA standards; paddles with wrist straps; comes in a carry bag for easy transportation
Our editor’s choice is the GSE Games & Sports Expert Professional Pickleball Complete Set, which comes with everything you need to start playing right away, whether you are a beginner or have a lot of experience with the game. We like the fact that this set provides good quality balls and paddles that come with enhanced grip for extra comfort. Included in the set are a pickleball net, a steel support pole frame, four hardwood pickleball paddles, 6 official outdoor pickleballs, and a heavy-duty nylon carrying bag. The set also includes assembly and game instructions.
Many of the users tested the GSE Games & Sports Expert Professional Pickleball Complete Set liked the fact that is it sturdy and that the pole carries the weight well. This pickleball set is an excellent choice for clubs, tournaments, community centers, or simply playing in the park.
What we like most about this pickleball set is the very sturdy seam welding that offers great resistance against splitting for enhanced durability. The metal frame has also received positive reviews from users and the paddles are some of the strongest we have seen in this type of set. The GSE Games & Sports Expert Professional Pickleball Complete Set is very easy to assemble or disassemble and you should be ready to play in minutes.
A well-made set with high-quality paddles that provide a comfortable grip, the JP WinLook Pickleball Paddle Set is ideal for every kind of player, ranging from beginners to advanced. The paddles come with a high-quality graphite carbon fiber surface and they can certainly take a beating. Many of the users who tested them liked the fact that they come with a quality bag so you can transport and store the set with ease.
Users raved about how each part of the JP WinLook Pickleball Paddle Set is of high quality, including the carry case, which is something rare to find in the world of pickleball sets. The super-soft handle is comfortable and non-slippery at the same time. The paddles are suitable for all ages, and you get two of them in the set, together with three balls so you can start playing right away.
Some of the reviewers mentioned that the balls included in the set may be a bit flimsy, which means that they may break quicker than expected. Other than that, this is a type of pickleball set that will satisfy just about any level of player.
Another thing that you may not find in all of the pickleball sets on the market is warranty. The JP WinLook Pickleball Paddle Set comes with a one-year warranty for your peace of mind. According to reviewers, the customer service is also excellent and highly responsive.
Produced by family-owned business Amazin’ Aces, the Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddle Set is one of the first sets released by the company. This is a beginner to intermediate paddle and it is one of the best options on the market if you want to start playing without spending too much on a pickleball set, but also don’t want a basic starter set.
The paddles are constructed from graphite and have a polymer core. The set also includes a mesh carry bag, as well as four balls so you can get started immediately. The lightweight paddles are a result of using cutting-edge technology and premium materials in the manufacturing process. Each paddle weighs 8.3 oz. and offers optimized weight distribution. Users who tested this set liked the hand-stitched contour grip and the classic shape of the paddle that makes it very easy to handle. According to users, the sweet spot of the paddle is right in the center, and the balls hold up just fine even after a lot of use.
When you purchase the Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddle Set, you receive a free e-book that contains all the rules you need to start having fun with the game. You also receive a one-year warranty with this set for extra peace of mind.
This pickleball set is a particularly good option for those who are looking for a set for beginners that is USAPA-approved. The XS XSPAK Graphite Pickleball Paddle Set comes with two quality paddles that are bound to stand the test of time. They have a graphite face and a polypropylene honeycomb core and they are lightweight at 8 oz.
Users who reviewed the XS XSPAK Graphite Pickleball Paddle Set mentioned that the paddles are ideal for pop shots. The honeycomb core is among the quietest and softest out there, which makes these paddles an ideal option for those who want to play in places with noise restrictions, such as a country club, for example.
We liked that the edge guard of the paddles keeps it safe, and the overall durability is not bad at all. Because it has a soft core and is lightweight, this paddle may not offer you the same level of power as some of the other options we reviewed. This is a very good thing for control players, but those looking for a power game may end up disappointed. The XS XSPAK Graphite Pickleball Paddle Set is a very good investment if you’re all about pinpoint accuracy.
Available in multiple color options, the Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle was one of the first products released by the Amazin’ Aces company. This is also the most affordable set you can buy from this brand, and it comes with two paddles and four balls to get you started right away. While the paddles are not USAPA-approved, they offer a very comfortable grip and they are lightweight, providing a surprisingly good balance for this price tag.
The paddles are constructed with a graphite face and honeycomb polymer core, and they are a bit on the heavy side, weighing 8.1 oz. This is one of the best choices on the market for those who have never played pickleball, and most of the users tested them mentioned that the quality of the construction is just what you would expect from this company, but for a very budget-friendly price.
We liked that the paddles come with a low-profile edge guard and that they have a hand stitched grip, so they remain comfortable no matter how many hours you intend to play. As with any other products available from the company, you will receive a one-year warranty and free instructional eBook with the Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle.
The Diller Pickleball Paddle 2 Player Bundle includes two hardwood, 7-ply paddles made of lightweight and strong wood that is approved for USAPA pickleball play.
The dimensions of the paddles measure 15.5 x 7 inches, and they weigh between 9 – 10.6 oz, making them perfect for long games and fast shots.
Each paddle comes with a wrapped perforated cushion grip and a safety wrist strap for added comfort and control. The paddle set also comes with four pickleballs so you can start playing right away!
This bundle is perfect for beginner and intermediate players who are looking to improve their game. The hardwood construction offers superior control, power and spin for a more enjoyable pickleball experience.
You ll be able to enjoy the game longer and take your pickleball skills to the next level! At just $26.99, this paddle set is an excellent value for the money.
Why did it make our list?
Lightweight and strong wood construction
Wrapped perforated cushion grips for added comfort
This Anything Sports pickleball set is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a portable way to enjoy pickleball.
The set includes four paddles, four balls and an easy-to-assemble net with a carrying case. The paddle construction features carbon fiber, graphite and edge guard technology providing users with excellent playability and durability.
The paddles also feature a comfortable grip and wide body shape that makes it easier to hit successful shots.
Additionally, the USAPA approved carbon fiber paddles are ideal for both recreational and competitive players.
This set is an excellent choice for those looking for a complete set of pickleball equipment in one convenient, affordable package.
What stands out?
Portable Pickleball set
Easy to assemble net with carrying case
Comfortable grip and wide body shape paddles
USAPA approved carbon fiber paddles
Affordable price
What cons did we manage to find?
Paddles may not be as durable as other sets
Things to Consider
There are multiple factors to take into account when shopping for a pickleball set, and we have created the buying guide below to help you make the correct decision for your playing level.
What is pickleball?
Pickleball has become one of the most popular sports around the world in recent years and the reason behind its fulminating ascension is the fact that it is an exhilarating, fun sport that is also capable of improving your fitness levels.
Pickleball is a racquet-type sport that combines elements of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton. You can play both indoors or outdoors with a slightly modified tennis net and on a badminton-sized court. The game can be played as singles or doubles and was invented in 1965 by three dads who are on a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington. The origin of the game’s name is slightly debatable, but it is believed that it was named after the dog of one of the initial players, called Pickles.
Why it’s worth getting a pickleball set
By choosing to buy a pickle ball set, you can be ready to play straight away, as you get all the elements needed to get you started. This is a very fun sport that the entire family can get into, and a quality pickle ball set is the easiest way to get everyone started.
Features to consider when choosing a pickleball set
You should take into account multiple factors when choosing a pickle ball set. These include the material the panels are constructed from, as well as their dimensions and weight. You should also make sure that the set comes with all the accessories you may need, including a net and a carrying case for your equipment. Other elements that you should think about our portability and the type of terrain you intend to play on.
What does the set include?
A standard pickle ball set includes two or four paddles, two or more balls, a net and a carry case for the equipment. Some models, such as the Verus Sports TG410 Complete Pickle Ball Set
also include a base for the net, which makes the set portable. The number of balls and paddles differs from one set to another, but you should expect to find at least two of each in a set.
Paddle construction and dimensions
The materials the paddles are made from varies from one manufacturer to another, but generally you should expect to get either plywood or graphite paddles. Graphite models usually have a graphite face and honeycomb polymer core structure, such as the Amazin’ Aces Signature Pickleball Paddle. Dimensions also vary, with bigger paddles generally being a very good choice for beginners because they offer you extra surface to catch the ball.
Paddle weight
Paddles weigh anywhere between 7.8 and 10 oz., with many players preparing lightweight ones because they are more comfortable in the long run. The paddles of the JP WinLook Pickleball Paddle Set only weigh 7.8 oz., for example, and generally you can expect the plywood models to weigh significantly more.
Where will you be playing?
You can play pickleball either inside or outside, which makes it a great sport because it is nonseasonal. Where you decide to play is a matter of personal preference, and keeping it indoors is a preferred way for those who don’t want to be constricted by the random whims of nature. However, keep in mind that pickleball can be noisy, and as such indoor playing may be a drawback for some. Playing in the outdoors has its own benefits, including exposure to the sun that produces vitamin D and serotonin.
Portability
Portable pickleball sets are convenient for those who want to take their game to the park or the beach. In most cases, these sets include a base for the net that you can make stable by filling it with water or sand.
How to play pickleball
The game is played on a smaller version of a tennis court, roughly equivalent to a badminton court. You can learn to play in as little as 15 minutes. Some of the sets reviewed above come with instructions for playing the game. The basic rules are that you need to play to 11 and win by 2, and you can only score a point while serving. When the ball is served, the opponent needs to let it bounce before hitting it, and when the ball returns to the person who served it, it needs to bounce once again before the original server hits it. This is known as the double bounce rule. There is also a no-volley zone 7 feet from the net on its side, and once the ball bounces, the player can hit it while inside the no-volley zone.
It only takes about 15 minutes to learn the basic rules of pickleball, which makes this sport a great option for the entire family, as it is suitable for all ages.
There are multiple theories about how the sport got its name. It may come from Pickles, the dog of Joel Prichard, one of the people credited with inventing the game. Another possibility is that the game got its name from the pickle boat, because Joel’s wife had been a competitive rower and the game reminded her of the pickle boat.
Pickleball is an excellent game for seniors because it offers aerobic exercise with a minimal chance of injury. Because the games only last 10 or 15 minutes, they work great for seniors because they can catch their breath in between games. And because there is no running involved, the game is very easy on the knees.
Wrapping It Up
Pickleball is a fun and popular sport suitable for the entire family, and choosing the best pickleball set is essential to be able to enjoy it to the fullest. Our editor’s choice, the GSE Games & Sports Expert Professional Pickleball Complete Set is a great starter set for families who want to try their hand at the game for the first time, but also for those who already have some experience with the game. If you’re looking for a set with very sturdy and comfortable paddles, we recommend the JP WinLook Pickleball Paddle Set. And finally, if you are looking to pick up a set that is designed with beginners in mind, look no further than the Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddle Set, which is manufactured by a well-known company in the world of pickleball. No matter what set you decide to go for, don’t forget to check the weight and dimensions of the paddles to make sure they are comfortable for the entire family to handle.