When you want a quality pickleball paddle, you can rely on Paddletek pickleball paddles. These are among the best-selling and most-used paddles currently available. Even professionals play with these paddles.
If you want to get a top-of-the-line paddle, you should take a moment to review and compare the Paddletek paddles.
Paddletek Company Info and Background
Paddletek is a major name in the pickleball industry. They are not one of the oldest companies, but they are known for making reliable, durable paddles. The company even has a guarantee against dead spots.
If you notice a dead spot in your paddle within five years of purchase, the company will cover it with their limited warranty. You do not get that guarantee from any other pickleball paddle manufacturers.
Besides the warranty, there are other reasons to consider buying one of these paddles. The company produces a variety of products to suit all types of pickleball players, from those that have never played the game to seasoned pros.
The company was established in 2011. It was started as a hobby and soon grew to become a major business. The company recently relocated from their original home in Scottsdale, Arizona. They are now located in Niles, Michigan and maintain a small team of dedicated employees.
Paddletek also started producing paddles for another trusted company. Last year, they announced a new partnership with Prince, the popular tennis equipment manufacturer. They now produce Prince-branded paddles, along with their own line of paddles.
Top Paddletek Paddles for All Pickleball Players
There are over a dozen different Paddletek pickleball paddles that remain in production. With so many options, finding the right paddle requires research.
Some of these paddles are well-rounded options that are suitable for all players. The company also produces a few high-end options for the pros. Here are the most-recommended paddles:
- Tempest Wave
- Element
- Phoenix LTE
- Phoenix Pro
- Bantam EX-L
- Bantam TS-5
- Power Play Pro
- Horizon
- Helo
- Stratus
- Ranger
Pros of Choosing a Paddletek
Why should you consider getting one of these paddles? All paddles from this company are made in the United States and include the same guarantee against dead spots.
Most of these paddles also feature the advanced ProPolyCore designed by the company. This core uses a patented technology that offers more sound dampening.
Most of these paddles are suitable for play in quiet zones, such as communities or neighborhoods that have restrictions against loud noises. As pickleball paddles tend to make a loud noise when the ball strikes the playing surface, some people appreciate the quieter paddles.
Besides helping keep gameplay quiet, the polymer core offers exceptional weight distribution, which helps spread the sweet spot. While most manufacturers claim that their paddles have large sweet spots, Paddletek delivers on these claims.
The polymer core is just one feature that most of these paddles have in common. They also typically feature a polymer facing. The polymer is responsive and includes a textured surface to help provide more spin control.
The combination of the polymer core and polymer facing helps create more balance, which is a common theme when comparing these paddles. Here is an in-depth look at the top choices.
Paddletek Tempest Paddle Review
The Paddletek Tempest Wave is at the top of the list of options. It is a popular paddle that offers the following features:
- 16-inches long
- 8-inches wide
- 4.25-inch grip size
- 5-inch handle
- ProPolyCore core material
- Graphite facing
Pros and Cons
Out of the various Paddletek paddles, Tempest is one of the best-selling choices. It is also used by several professional pickleball players.
With the Tempest, you get a large playing surface and sweet spot. It also features a graphite surface, which gives the paddle more grip. The extra grip gives you more control over the ball and the spin that you put on it.
The inside of the paddle includes the advanced ProPolyCore material that is patented by the Paddletek company. This material dampens sound, making these paddles suitable for use in areas where you need to keep noise to a minimum.
The Tempest is also highly durable. It can take a beating without affecting its performance. It is also backed by the limited lifetime warranty and the guarantee against dead spots. The only issue that some may have is the price. It is the most expensive paddle and the highest-quality option from Paddletek.
Who should use this paddle? Anyone that wants a quality paddle should consider using the Tempest Wave. It is the most versatile and balanced paddle from Paddletek.
Paddletek Element Paddle Review
The Element pickleball paddle is another best-seller. It is a medium-weight paddle with standard paddle dimensions and these details:
- 7.875-inches wide
- 15.75-inches long
- 4.25-inch grip size
- 4.5-inch handle
- ProPolyCore core material
- Enamel finish
Pros and Cons
The main benefit of choosing the Element is the price. This is an affordable paddle. Despite the lower price, it is still a durable and reliable option. It also features great balance, which should suit agile players.
You can get quick reactions near the net and move swiftly with this agile paddle. It also has a large playing surface and minimal weight. Most people also like the feel of the ultra-cushion contour grip.
The drawbacks include the edge guard and thin facing material. The edging creates a bit of lip around the edges, which some players find annoying. The thin facing material limits the satisfying pop that you sometimes get with a solid hit.
Who should use this paddle? The Element is reasonably priced and a quality option for novices or advanced players. It delivers superior speed, maneuverability, and comfort. If you prefer maneuverability over power, you should enjoy this paddle.
Paddletek Phoenix LTE Paddle Review
The Phoenix LTE is another great option from this trusted paddle manufacturer. It has a large playing surface and great weight distribution, thanks to these features:
- 15.75-inches long
- 8-inches wide
- 4.125-inch grip size
- 4.5-inch handle
- ProPolyCore core material
- Polymer surface
- Weighs 7 to 7.3 ounces
Pros and Cons
The LTE is one of the lightest paddles from this company. It weighs just seven ounces. It also features a larger grip size.
Who should use this paddle? If you play one-handed, you may prefer the stability that you get with this paddle. For those who play two-handed or have smaller hands, the grip size may be a little too big for comfort. However, it is also one of the more affordable options.
Paddletek Phoenix Pro Paddle Review
The Phoenix Pro pickleball paddle is a lot like the LTE. They both have great balance. However, the Pro version is a lot heavier and has a smaller grip size. Here are the primary technical details:
- 15.75-inches long
- 7.875-inches wide
- 4.25-inch grip size
- 4.5-inch handle
- Polymer surface
- ProPolyCore material
- Weighs 8.4 to 8.85 ounces
Pros and Cons
The Phoenix Pro is a heavy paddle. It also has a small grip, which makes it easier to switch hands or use a two-hand grip. It is a slightly long paddle with a narrower body. With the longer body, you get more reach and a decent playing surface.
The textured surface helps add spin control. There are no major drawbacks. Overall, the Phoenix Pro is a well-balanced paddle with a large surface area.
Who should use this paddle? The narrower body makes it better suited for more experienced players. It is also one of the heavier paddles. The weight may cause too much stress for smaller or younger players.
Paddletek Bantam Paddle Review
With the Paddletek Bantam EX-L, you get lots of power. It is a little heavier compared to other options, which adds to the overall force that you generate. Some of the main features include:
- 7.875-inches wide
- 15.75-inches long
- 4.25-inch grip size
- 4.5-inch handle
- Advanced ProPolyCore2 core material
- Polymer facing
Pros and Cons
There are two separate Bantam paddles. The EX-L Bantam pickleball paddle includes a polymer surface and core and provides more weight.
The Bantam TS-5 contains most of the same features that you get with the Bantam EX-L. The main difference is the weight. The TS-5 weighs between 7.2 and 7.5 ounces. It is a little lighter compared to the EX-L, which may make it better suited for beginners or those that find the EX-L too heavy.
Both options help reduce noise when playing, thanks to the vibration dampening technology used in the advanced ProPolyCore2 core material.
Who should use these paddles? These are perfect for intermediate to advanced players who want more power with a full-size paddle.
Power Play Pro Pickleball Paddle Review
If you want more power, you should consider the Paddletek Power Play Pro. It has a tapered head, which makes it a little head-heavy. You get more power on the higher sweet spot and more control toward the inside. Other features include:
- 15.75-inches long
- 7.75-inches wide
- 4.5-inch handle
- 4.25-inch grip size
- Weighs 7.9 to 8.2 ounces
- ProPolyCore core material
- Poly surface
Pros and Cons
The paddle includes the polymer core used in most of the paddles from this company. It offers superior vibration dampening compared to the typical polymer core, which reduces noise. It also distributes the sweet pot better and offers more power. In fact, the polymer core is one of the reasons that people love this brand.
The Power Play is an interesting paddle. The tapered design moves the sweet spot closer to the outside. It is also relatively heavy, which typically adds power.
Who should use this paddle? The power provided by this paddle makes the Power Play best suited for aggressive players that play away from the net.
Paddletek Horizon Paddle Review
The Horizon has an elongated body. In fact, it is the longest that you can get. It measures 17-inches long. You also get these features:
- 17-inches long
- 7-inches wide
- 4.5-inch handle
- 4.5-inch grip size
- Weighs 7.2 to 7.4 ounces
Pros and Cons
The longer paddle is great for those who need more reach. When you are playing singles matches, you need to cover the court on your own. With this paddle, you get the reach you need to avoid constantly running from one side to the other.
It is great for singles matches due to the extra reach. It also moves the sweet spot toward the end of the head.
The drawback to the longer body is that you get less width. This is a narrow paddle, which also makes the sweet spot narrow. You may find that your accuracy is affected by this design.
Who should use this paddle? If you are a skilled player that simply wants more reach, this is a great choice.
Paddletek Helo Paddle Review
The Helo looks like the Horizon paddle. Both options feature elongated bodies that provide more reach a boost of power. The main details of the Helo include:
- 17-inches long
- 7-inches wide
- 4.5-inch grip size
- 4-inch handle
- Weighs 7.2 to 7.4 ounces
- ProPolyCore core material
Pros and Cons
Along with the Horizon, this is the longest paddle allowed by the USAPA for tournament play. With the longer shape, you get more reach for covering more of the court. It also adds power. The extra power is perfect for putting away shots from the back of the court.
Due to the elongated design, the Helo is best used in singles matches. It may also feel more familiar to tennis players. The amount of reach is comparable to the average tennis racquet.
Should you use the Helo or Horizon? There are suitable differences between these two choices. The Helo has a slightly shorter handle. It also includes the advanced ProPolyCore, which is not added to the Horizon. Overall, the Helo offers a little more power and sound dampening but also costs a little more.
Paddletek Stratus Paddle Review
The Stratus is a lightweight paddle with a small grip. It is perfect for finesse players that want to remain near the net. Here are the details:
- 15.5-inches long
- 7.75-inches wide
- 4.5-inch handle
- 4.125-inch grip size
- Polymer core
- Composite facing
Pros and Cons
Like most Paddletech products, the Stratus is USAPA-approved. Unlike most of the paddles from this company, the Stratus does not have a polymer surface. It features a composite fiberglass facing. It offers more pop and power.
However, the Stratus is already a lightweight paddle designed for agility. With the composite facing, it becomes more well-rounded.
Who should use this paddle? Due to the lightweight design and small grip, it is a great choice for junior players or those with smaller hands. As mentioned, the Stratus is also suitable for anyone who wants to play close to the net and needs more control.
Paddletek Ranger Paddle Review
The Stratus is small enough for younger players, but it’s not the only option. The Ranger is designed specifically for junior players. It has a smaller grip size, weighs less, and has a decent core. Other features include:
- 15.5-inches long
- 8-inches wide
- 5-inch handle
- 4-inch grip size
- Weighs 6.5 to 6.9 ounces
Pros and Cons
The manufacturer knows that younger players may not need the power that you get from a high-end polymer core. With the Ranger, kids get a mid-quality poly core and a vinyl facing. These materials help keep the cost down without impacting the performance too much.
The only issue that you may notice is that the Ranger is not USAPA-approved. Younger players cannot use this paddle for the newly-created USAPA Juniors tournaments. However, it still makes a great practice paddle.
Who should use this paddle? It was designed specifically for younger players. It is also a step above the inexpensive paddles that are typically recommended for juniors. With this product, young players can enjoy the same quality materials used in standard paddles.
Conclusion – Who Should Use Paddles from Paddletek?
Paddletek pickleball products are well-made and available in a variety of styles. After comparing these paddles, you should have no problem finding at least one paddle that meets your needs.
You now have a wide selection of Paddletek pickleball paddles. When choosing, remember to consider whether the paddle is suited to your play style. If you want a high-end, balanced paddle, the Paddletek Element Paddle is a top choice.
The Tempest Wave pickleball paddle is the leader of the pack. It includes the latest design features and stands out due to its quality core and traditional body shape.
However, the Paddletek Tempest paddle is also the most expensive choice. If you want to save money, the two Bantam paddles are Wonderful options. Both options include the advanced polymer core used in the Tempest paddle.
Keep in mind that these are not the only pickleball paddles. There are several paddle manufacturers worth checking out. If you want a wider selection, compare these paddles to the paddles from some of the other companies.
In the end, Paddletek is not an old company. They have less than ten years of experience in designing and manufacturing paddles. However, in a short time, they have produced several of the best paddles available. If the pros use these paddles to win tournaments, you can trust that you are getting a good product.
2 thoughts on “Best Paddletek Pickleball Paddles 2023 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide”
I bought a Pro Tempest paddle this past summer from William Bartmann one of our Ambassadors and a fraction or ding has appeared on the surface. I would like to have it replaced or repaired. What do I need to do?
Hi Bill, You can email at ([email protected]) for more information regarding the replacement or repair.