The right pickleball paddle comes down to five things: your skill level, the paddle's weight, its shape, its thickness, and its surface material. This guide covers each one in plain terms, then shows which Slash paddle fits which player.
Quick answer
- New to the game or playing casually: a mid-weight (around 7.5 oz), elongated carbon fiber paddle with a 16 mm core is a forgiving, durable place to start.
- Improving and wanting more control and spin: a raw carbon fiber face gives a textured surface that grips the ball.
- Intermediate to advanced and wanting a different feel: a Kevlar blend surface with a multi-layer core changes how the paddle absorbs and returns the ball.
1. Skill level
Beginners benefit most from a paddle that is easy to swing and consistent. You do not need the most expensive option to enjoy the game, and you will learn your preferences faster by playing than by reading specs. As you improve, you will start noticing what you want more of: control at the kitchen, spin on serves and drives, or a softer feel on dinks.
2. Weight
Paddle weight is a trade-off. Lighter paddles are quicker at the net and easier on the arm. Heavier paddles carry more power but can tire your wrist and shoulder. A paddle around 7.5 oz sits in the middle, which is why many players start there. If you have elbow or shoulder soreness, lean lighter.
3. Shape: elongated vs. standard
Elongated paddles are longer and slightly narrower, which adds reach and leverage for drives and serves. Standard (wider) paddles have a larger sweet spot and are more forgiving on off-centre hits. All three Slash paddles are elongated, between 16.25 and 16.5 in long and 7.5 in wide.
4. Thickness
Thickness refers to the core. Thicker cores (16 mm and up) tend to be softer and more forgiving, and thinner cores (13 to 14 mm) tend to feel crisper and more powerful. All Slash paddles use a 16 mm core.
5. Surface material
The face affects spin, feel and durability.
- Raw carbon fiber has a textured, gritty surface that helps the ball bite for spin. Slash Pro and Slash Performance use Toray T700 carbon fiber faces.
- Fiberglass is typically more flexible and lively, with a bit more pop.
- Kevlar blend is used on the Slash Kevlar Blitz, paired with a multi-layer core of polypropylene honeycomb, epoxy foam, EVA foam and TPF shock-absorbing foam.
Which Slash paddle fits you?
| Paddle | Best for | Surface | Size | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slash Carbon Fiber Performance | Beginners and recreational players moving up from a starter paddle | Toray T700 carbon fiber | 16.5 x 7.5 in, 16 mm | about 7.5 oz | $80 |
| Slash Raw Carbon Fiber Pro | Intermediate and improving players | Raw Toray T700 carbon fiber | 16.25 x 7.5 in, 16 mm | 7.5 oz | $120 |
| Slash Kevlar Blitz | Intermediate and advanced players | Kevlar blend, Gen 4 technology | 16.5 x 7.5 in, 16 mm | 7.5 oz | $170 |
Prices are in CAD. The Kevlar Blitz includes a free paddle cover.
Grip and handle
Handle length affects two-handed backhands and leverage. The Pro has a 5 in handle with a 4.3 in grip, the Performance a 5.1 in handle with a 4.3 in grip, and the Blitz a 5.25 in handle with a 4.15 in grip. If you use a two-handed backhand, a longer handle gives you more room.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best pickleball paddle for a beginner?
A forgiving, mid-weight paddle with a 16 mm core is a good start. The Slash Carbon Fiber Performance is built for beginners and recreational players moving up from a starter paddle.
Is carbon fiber better than fiberglass?
Neither is better in every case. Carbon fiber is known for control and a textured surface that helps with spin, while fiberglass tends to feel livelier. Which one suits you comes down to your game and your feel preference.
Does a heavier paddle give more power?
Generally yes, but it can cost you hand speed and comfort. Around 7.5 oz is a common middle ground.
Can I use the same paddle for indoor and outdoor play?
Yes. The paddle stays the same. What changes is the ball: indoor balls are softer with larger holes, outdoor balls are harder with smaller holes.
How do I clean a carbon fiber paddle?
A raw carbon face can build up dirt that reduces grip. The Slash Carbon Cleaner is made for raw carbon surfaces only and should not be used on fiberglass.
What if I pick the wrong paddle?
Slash offers 30-day returns and a 6-month warranty. Check the store policies for the full terms.
Ready to choose? Browse the full Slash range.
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