Best Midweight Pickleball Paddle 2025

When I started searching for the best midweight pickleball paddle, I quickly realized that finding the perfect balance between power and control isn’t easy. After testing dozens of paddles and spending countless hours on the court, I’ve discovered what makes midweight paddles special. Most importantly, these paddles offer the sweet spot that 70% of recreational players prefer.

Today I’ll tell you all about the best midweight pickleball paddles in my eyes. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, choosing the right paddle weight can make or break your game. In this review, I’ll break down my top picks, share why they stand out, and help you find the middleweight paddle that matches your playing style and goals. Let’s get started!

A midweight pickleball paddle typically weighs between 7.6 and 8.4 ounces. However, many players actually consider paddles weighing 7.8 ounces or less to be lightweight. These days, most midweight paddles typically fall in the 7.9 to 8.2 ounce range.

This weight range provides an ideal balance of power and control that makes it the most popular choice among players. In fact, according to Pickleball Central, about 65-70% of paddle sales fall within this weight range.

The weight matters significantly because it affects how the paddle feels in your hand and performs during play. Moreover, midweight paddles reduce arm fatigue compared to heavier options while still delivering enough mass behind the ball for powerful shots.

“I’ve found that midweight paddles give me the perfect combination of control for soft shots and power for drives. It’s like having the best of both worlds in one paddle.” – Professional Pickleball Coach

Midweight paddles are ideal for several types of players. First, intermediate to advanced players who want versatility in their game will benefit most. Additionally, all-court players who need to transition between soft dinks and powerful drives find these paddles perfect.

Here’s who typically benefits from midweight paddles:

• Recreational players seeking a well-rounded paddle
• Intermediate players looking to improve their all-court game
• Advanced players who prefer balanced performance
• Players with moderate strength who want power without excessive weight

Furthermore, if you’re unsure about paddle weight, midweight is often the safest choice. According to Paddletek, these paddles are the most beginner-friendly option available.

The benefits of midweight paddles extend beyond simple weight considerations. Most importantly, they provide exceptional versatility that helps players excel in various situations.

Key Advantages:

• Perfect Balance: Midweight paddles offer the ideal combination of power and control
• Reduced Fatigue: Less arm strain compared to heavyweight paddles
• Good Maneuverability: Easier to handle than heavy paddles while maintaining stability
• Versatile Performance: Suitable for both doubles and singles play
• Consistent Power: Enough mass for powerful shots without being overwhelming

Additionally, midweight paddles help players develop their skills more effectively. Since they’re not too light or too heavy, players can focus on technique rather than adjusting to extreme paddle characteristics.

When shopping for the best midweight pickleball paddle, several features deserve special attention. Understanding these elements will help you make an informed decision that matches your playing style.

The core material significantly impacts how the paddle feels and performs. Here are the most common options:

• Polymer Core: Offers quiet play and excellent control – perfect for recreational players
• Nomex Core: Provides more power and a crisper feel – ideal for aggressive players
• Aluminum Core: Delivers lightweight strength and responsive feel
• Full Foam Core(Gen4 Core): This is the latest technology in 2025, using EVA foam as the core material
• Polymer Mix Foam Core(Gen3 Core): This is the technology from 2024, which blends EVA foam and honeycomb cores to further enhance Spin and power, as well as control

Based on my testing, polymer Mix Foam Core and Full foam cores are most popular because they provide the best balance of power and control. Moreover, they’re quieter than other materials, which is appreciated in many communities.

uh….What kind of core technology will there be next year?

The surface material affects spin, power, and durability. The main options include:

• Carbon Fiber: Offers excellent spin potential and durability
• Fiberglass: Provides good control and softer feel
• Graphite: Delivers precision and lightweight performance

In fact, most paddles today feature carbon fiber surfaces, which are becoming more and more popular thanks to their excellent spin potential, according to research from JOOLA.

Proper grip size is crucial for comfort and performance. Most paddles offer these sizes:

• 3 5/8” to 4 1/8″: Best for players with smaller hands
• 4 1/4″ to 4 3/8″: Ideal for average adult players
• 4 1/2″+: Perfect for players with larger hands or taller players

If you’re not sure which grip size to choose, it’s usually best to go slightly smaller — you can always add an overgrip to increase the size, but you can’t make a grip smaller once it’s too big.

Many players find a 4.125-inch grip comfortable because it fits well in the hand and still allows room for an extra overgrip if needed. On the other hand, a 4.25-inch grip can feel a bit bulky for some players and may be harder to hold securely during quick exchanges.

Paddle shape affects reach and sweet spot size. The most common shapes are:

• Standard/Widebody: Larger sweet spot, better for beginners
• Elongated: More reach, smaller sweet spot
• Hybrid: Balance between reach and sweet spot size

After extensive testing and research, I’ve identified the top midweight paddles that deliver exceptional performance. Each paddle offers unique advantages that cater to different playing styles.

Planker Paddle Specs：
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Paddle Height: 16.45”

Paddle Width: 7.4”

Core Thickness: 16mm

Face: 12k Ultra Weave Carbon Fiber with Durable Grit Surface

Core: Gen3 Fusion Polymer Honeycomb (Upgrade on original GEN3 core)

Average Weight: 7.9 – 8.0 oz(16mm paddle),7.7-7.8 oz(14mm paddle)

Grip Length: 5.5”

Grip Type: Black Ultra-Comfort Grip

Grip Circumference: 4.18”

Swingweight: 115-118

Twistweight: 5.8-6.5

Paddle Price：$69.99 on our website

Bottom Line：

First off, what really sold me on the Planker was how it feels when I’m at the kitchen line. It’s got that slightly textured carbon face that actually grips the ball a touch longer — I do get noticeably more spin on my third shots and dinks compared to my old T700 carbon fiber paddle.

One thing I don’t see people mention enough is the grip. The Planker’s handle is just the right size for me — not too chunky, not too skinny — and the cushion grip doesn’t get slick, even when I’m dripping sweat under the sun. It really gives me that secure, connected feel.

Power-wise, I’d say YES. Perfect for intermediate players who want more power in their game. This paddle delivers fast drives, crisp volleys, and solid overheads thanks to the Gen3 Propulsion Core. Just keep in mind — the extra pop means you’ll need good control for softer shots. If you’re ready to level up your power game, this paddle won’t disappoint.

Durability? So far, it’s holding up great. I play 3–4 times a week and bang paddles on the court more than I’d like to admit — no edge guard chips yet, no dead spots.

This Paddle has not yet applied for USAP approval, but we will do it soon. Anyway, that’s my two cents. If you want to try，let’s go!

Paddle Specs：
Surface:Textured Carbon Fiber
Core (mm):16
UPA-A certified:Yes
USAP certified:Yes
Warranty:12mo
Class: Professional (200+)
Average Weight: 8.1oz
Paddle Length: 16.5in
Paddle Width: 7.5in
Grip Type: White Feel-Tec Grip
Grip Length: 5.5in
Grip Circumference*: 4.25in

Paddle Price：$279.95 on JOOLA

Bottom Line：
I’m always hunting for that sweet spot between power and touch. When I heard about the JOOLA New Paddle Perseus Pro IV’s , I was curious: would it give me a little extra pop without sacrificing my soft game?

First Impressions: Build & Feel
Core & Surface
The Pro IV uses a gen4 polymer honeycomb core at 16 mm. At address, it feels firmer than most 14 mm paddles—kind of like the difference between a firm and ultra-firm tennis ball. The carbon fiber face has a subtle texture that promises spin.

Weight & Balance
Mine clocks in around 7.9 oz (midweight). It’s not head‑heavy, and I felt good maneuverability at the net and on third‑shot drives.

Grip
A 4.25” circumference grip with a tacky, slightly cushioned feel. It would be even better if the circumference of the grip were 4.125, because this is the grip size I like.

On‑Court Performance
Power
Because of that extra 2 mm core thickness, I noticed a crisper pop on drives. My drives felt firmer—and a bit more consistent. From the baseline, I could really let rip when needed, but it wasn’t so “hot” that I lost control.

Control & Touch
Soft dinks and drops still landed where I aimed. The firmer core didn’t deaden the feel; instead, it gave a steady, predictable response. It felt like I was getting the best of both worlds: enough give for touch shots, enough firmness for drives.

Spin Potential
The carbon fiber face’s micro‑texture grabbed the ball nicely. I could roll the ball off the paddle on serves and third‑shot drops with a convincing amount of topspin. It wasn’t the grippiest face I’ve tried, but it was noticeably better than smooth-faced paddles.

Comfort & Vibration Dampening
Despite the firmer core, I didn’t feel any harsh vibrations on off‑center hits. The honeycomb core does a good job of dampening unpleasant feedback. After a long practice session, my elbow and wrist still felt fresh.

Paddle Specs：

Paddle Weight: 7.9-8.2 oz
Paddle Face Material: Raw T700 Carbon Fiber Face
Paddle Core Material: TruFoamTM Core
Paddle Shape: Standard
Paddle Length: 16″
Paddle Width: 7.85
Grip Thickness: Standard –  4.125
Handle Length: Long –  5.25″
Core Thickness: 14 mm
Swingweight：111-114 (low)
Twistweight：6.7 (high)

Paddle Price：$279.99 on CRBN

I’ve always been intrigued by square‑edge paddles. They promise a larger sweet spot and more consistent responses across the face. When CRBN² launched the TF Genesis 2 with its TruFoam core and carbon‑composite surface, I knew I had to try it.

Build & Feel
Square Frame
The Genesis’s square profile gives you a true rectangle feel—no subtle curves. I immediately noticed a broader hitting area, which felt reassuring during fast exchanges at the kitchen.

Core & Surface
The TruFoam polymer core (a bit firmer than standard honeycomb) pairs with dual‑layer carbon‑composite faces. At address, it feels solid—kind of like a slightly stiffer 16 mm paddle without the extra bulk.

Weight & Balance
My sample came in at 8.0 oz (midweight). It’s lightly head‑balanced, so I could drive through low volleys without feeling like the paddle was dragging.

Grip
A 4¼” grip circumference with a lightly tacky overwrap. It’s thin enough to feel connected, yet cushioned enough to fend off blisters during marathon rallies.

On‑Court Performance
Power & Pop
That firmer TruFoam core delivers a satisfying pop on drives. I didn’t have to muscle every shot—the paddle’s rebound did the work. Basement baseline drives snapped through the court with minimal effort.

Control & Touch
Despite the square frame, I didn’t suffer any unpredictable bounces. Soft dinks and drop‑downs stayed true. The even surface tension across the face made it easy to place the ball where I wanted—even on off‑center hits.

Spin Potential
The carbon‑composite face has a subtle micro‑texture. I rolled serves and third‑shot drops with enough bite to confuse opponents. It’s not as aggressive as some rough‑textured paddles, but you’ll definitely feel some extra rotation.

Comfort & Feedback
Surprisingly, the firmer core doesn’t translate into harsh feedback. Off‑center smashes vibrated less than I expected—TruFoam absorbs shock well. After two hours of drilling, my wrist felt as fresh as when I started.

Who Should Consider the TF Genesis 2 Square？
Intermediate to Advanced Players
You’ll love the mix of power, consistency, and spin.

Square‑Shape Enthusiasts
Want that larger sweet spot? This paddle delivers.

All‑Court Players
From dink‑drills to baseline rallies, it adapts to every zone.

Paddle Specs：

• SURFACE MATERIAL: CARBON FIBER  & PET ELECTROPLATED FIBER. (aka TITANIUM)Please note that this material is referred to as “titanium” due to its appearance. We will continue to use this name, even though it does not contain actual titanium metal. The name is based solely on its look.
• CONSTRUCTION: THERMOCOMPRESSION FORMING – PERIMETER BALANCED DUAL FOAM EDGE WITH CARBON FIBER RING SEPARATING FLOATING PP CORE
• PADDLE TYPE: AERO HYBRID PLUS SHAPE
• LENGTH: 16.2″
• WIDTH: 7.8″
• GRIP LENGTH: 5.5″ ( Measurement includes the tapered area above the rubber band and grip wrap )
• GRIP CIRCUMFERENCE: 4.125″
• CORE: PREMIUM POLYPROPYLENE
• CORE THICKNESS: 16MM
• WARRANTY: 3 MONTHS
• TECHNOLOGY: CONNECTED REFLEX TECHNOLOGY™
• PLAYER LEVEL: ADVANCED BEGINNERS TO PRO-LEVEL PLAYERS
• PLAYING STYLE: FOR PLAYERS LOOKING FOR FASTER HAND SPEED, ENHANCED POWER, SPIN, LARGE SWEET SPOT, AND CONTROL
• WEIGHT RANGE: MIDDLEWEIGHT
• AVERAGE WEIGHT: 8.0 – 8.4 OZ
• SWING WEIGHT: 113 – 117
• TWIST WEIGHT: 7.1 – 7.3

Paddle Price：$170 on Honolulu

Is the honolulu jt2ti a good pickleball paddle？Oh YES.  But I chose the Plus version. I wanted a paddle that strikes a balance between smooth control at the kitchen and enough pop for aggressive drives. The hybrid aero-plus shape and floating core of the J2TI+ sounded like a perfect match.

Design & Feel

• Shape & Sweet Spot
  The hybrid aero-plus design offers a larger sweet spot than standard paddles and feels forgiving on off-center hits—remarkably consistent.
• Core & Surface
  It has a 16 mm floating poly core, surrounded by perimeter foam and carbon fiber, with a PET electroplated “titanium” weave on the surface .It feels plush and slightly muted on contact.
• Weight & Balance
  Weighing in around 8.0–8.4 oz with a swing weight of ~113 and twist weight of 7.1–7.3, it’s maneuverable without feeling head-heavy.
• Grip & Handle
  The grip length is 5.5″ (including taper) and 4.125″ circumference. Some players note the handle feels shorter due to tapers, so overgrip or tape is an option.

On‑Court Performance

• Control
  This paddle excels in touch shots—soft dinks, resets, and novelty plays feel intuitive. Control is consistently high thanks to the plush impact and steady sweet spot.
• Power & Pop
  The J2TI+ offers a noticeable pop boost over the original J2TI, though it remains tamer than its J2K+ cousin. After about 6 hours of break-in, drives felt crisper and more lively.
• Spin
  The surface has enough texture to generate spin effectively. Several players noted “excellent spin performance” and “grit” during rallies.
• Comfort & Vibration
  Thanks to its perimeter-balanced floating core, off-center hits didn’t sting. Vibration is dampened well, even during extended sessions.

Pros

• Plush feel with impressive control and consistent sweet spot
• Balanced power and pop after initial break-in
• Great spin potential thanks to textured carbon/PET face
• Well-dampened feedback, reducing harsh vibration

Cons

• Some players find the handle length/taper not ideal
• Power isn’t as explosive compared to J2K+ for players seeking raw pop

Who It’s For
Intermediate to advanced players who prioritize precision, spin, and control—but still want reliable pop.

All-court players who play both at the net and behind the baseline.

Those who don’t need a hard-hitting paddle but want a balanced, versatile option.

If you’re a power-first hitter or have large hands, you might want to customize with lead tape or grip alterations.

Final Verdict
I’m thoroughly impressed. The J2TI+ delivers the plush feel and control I love, with a satisfying bump in power and spin after breaking in. If you’re upgrading from a control paddle and looking for a Gen 3 hybrid that stays consistent across all zones, this one’s a keeper.

Just remember: adjust your grip if needed, and let the paddle settle in. Once it does, it can truly elevate your game.

Paddle Specs：
Core Thickness: 16mm
Paddle Length: 15.9″
Paddle Width: 8.0-8.1″ (tapered sides)
Handle Length: 5.5 – 5.6″ of usable space (5.3″ of gripped length)
Grip Circumference: 4.125″
Average Weight: 8.1 ounces
Swingweight: 108
Twistweight: 7.56
Spin: 2,300+ RPM
Paddle Face Material: 100% DuPont™ Kevlar®
Core Material: Polypropylene honeycomb

Paddle Price：$129.99 from Spartus

I wanted a paddle that offers fast hand speed, big sweet spot, and plenty of spin, without the inflated price tag. When I discovered the Apollo—with its Kevlar face and widebody shape—it checked all the boxes for a high-performance yet affordable paddle.

Build & Design
Face Material: The Apollo is the first widebody paddle made with 100% DuPont® Kevlar fiber. It’s grippy out of the box and durable.

Shape & Size: It’s a thermoformed, single-piece widebody paddle with injected edge foam, 16 mm core, and a powerful 8 x 15.9″ profile—offering an exceptionally large sweet spot.

Weight & Balance: Comes in around 8.1 oz with a low swingweight (108) and high twist weight (7.56), making it quick to move and stable on off-center hits.

Handle Specs: 5.5″ length, 4.125″ circumference—comfortable for most players, though a bit short for larger hands.

Performance on Court
Control & Feel
The Kevlar surface delivers a plush feel with sharp feedback. Users consistently praise how easy it is to place dinks and resets. The generous sweet spot means mishits still feel reliable—great for fast-paced net play.

Power & Pop
For a control-oriented widebody, it packs a solid punch. Reviewers report crisp drives and strong serves. Some add a few grams of lead tape for extra power, while others say it delivers boisterous pop right from the factory.

Spin
With 2,300+ RPM ratings, the spin is a standout feature. The Kevlar face makes aggressive rolls and deceptive slices feel intuitive. Players say spin feels “top-flight” and “easy to generate.”

Forgiveness & Stability
High twist weight and edge foam combine to stabilize the paddle—even on near-edge hits. Players love how forgiving it is during fast volleys and blocks.

Maneuverability & Hand Speed
Low swingweight means you can flick, adjust angles, and react quickly. Many report that it feels like an extension of your arm during intense trilateral exchanges.

Pros

• Grippy Kevlar face—high spin potential
• Large, stable sweet spot—great for consistency
• Excellent balance: strong combo of control, pop, and feel
• Lightweight and agile—quick hands at the net
• Very good value vs. premium paddles

Cons

• Short handle—might need an overgrip for larger hands
• Widebody may reduce reach for those switching from elongated paddles
• Requires cleaning to maintain surface performance

Who Is It For?
Players (intermediate to advanced) who want precision control, spin, and speed.

Dinkers and all‑court competitors who value consistency over brute force.

Anyone seeking a high‑end paddle without the high‑end price tag.

If you rely heavily on reach or prefer a long handle, consider adding lead tape or an overgrip for customization.

Final Take
The Spartus Apollo is a spin‑friendly, control-first widebody that doesn’t skimp on pop. Its massive sweet spot, fast swing, and plush Kevlar surface make it feel like a premium paddle at an accessible price.

If you’re looking to sharpen your soft game, up your spin, and still have the ability to deliver aggressive drives—give the Apollo a shot. Customizing grip and tape can help mold it to your play style. It might just become your go‑to paddle.

Understanding the differences between paddle weights helps you make the right choice. Each weight category offers distinct advantages and challenges.

From my experience, midweight paddles — especially around 7.8 ounces — strike the perfect balance for most players. They deliver plenty of power for aggressive shots while still giving you the control you need for touch and finesse. If you’d like to dive deeper into paddle weights, be sure to check out our guide: What Is The Best Weight For A Pickleball Paddle.

Choosing the right paddle weight depends on several personal factors. Most importantly, consider your physical strength, playing style, and experience level.

Consider Your Playing Style

-Power Players: If you like to drive the ball hard and hit big shots from the baseline, a slightly heavier paddle (around 8.2 oz ) can help you generate extra power with less effort.

-Control Players: If your game relies more on dinks, drops, and placement, go for a lighter or true midweight paddle (around 7.6–7.8 oz) that gives you quick maneuverability and better touch.

-All-Court Players: If you play a balanced game and like to mix power and finesse, a midweight paddle (7.8–8.1 oz) is the sweet spot — it gives you the best of both worlds.

Physical Considerations

Your body and playing habits also play a big role in picking the right paddle weight:

-Arm Strength: If you have good upper body strength, you’ll handle a heavier paddle comfortably and benefit from the extra pop.

-Previous Injuries: If you’ve had shoulder, elbow, or wrist issues (like tennis elbow), a lighter paddle puts less strain on your joints and can help prevent flare-ups.

-Playing Frequency: If you play long matches or several times a week, a lighter or midweight paddle helps reduce fatigue over time.

Pro Tip: Industry surveys show that approximately 70% of recreational players prefer midweight paddles(7.8oz) because they reduce fatigue while still offering power for drives. This makes midweight the safest choice for most players.

I’ve learned the hard way that a good midweight paddle deserves better than just being tossed in the garage. Here’s exactly how I keep mine fresh, powerful, and lasting longer than my friends’ paddles.

1️⃣ I Never Leave It in the Car
Sounds obvious, but I see so many players do this. I never leave my paddle in the car, especially in summer or freezing weather. Extreme temps can mess with the core and face, making the paddle feel dead faster than you’d think. I always stash mine inside my house — not even the garage, where it can still get too hot or cold.

2️⃣ I Clean the Face — but Not with Just Anything
Here’s my go-to: I use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe off grit and ball residue every couple of games. If I get stubborn marks, I use a Clean Magic Eraser very lightly — a tip I picked up from a pro player on YouTube. But I never scrub too hard; I’d rather have a mark than damage the grit.

3️⃣ My Secret Trick: Paddle Spray
About once a month, I do what I call a “paddle facial.” I love this spray — it’s made cleaning my paddles so easy. It doesn’t damage the surface at all and only takes a few seconds with a microfiber cloth and they’re good as new.

4️⃣ I Use Edge Tape — and Replace It
Reddit got me into this: I use edge guard tape not just for looks but to protect the rim from chips. When the tape starts to peel or gets beat up, I replace it right away. I also make sure it’s a snug fit so it doesn’t peel mid-game.

5️⃣ I Store It the Lazy Way (But It Works)
I used to hang my paddle on a hook, but I found laying it flat in my bag, face up, keeps it safer — no weird pressure on the edge guard. I wrap it in an old cotton t-shirt for extra scratch protection. Simple, free, and it works.

6️⃣ One More: I Rotate Paddles
I know not everyone does this, but I have two midweight paddles I rotate. It evens out wear and helps both last longer — plus I always have a backup ready if I crack one.

Finding the Best Midweight Pickleball Paddle can take your game to the next level. A true midweight paddle — around 7.8 to 8.2 ounces — gives you the perfect balance of power, control, and comfort for all-court play.

Whether you’re an intermediate player working on your soft game or an advanced hitter who wants pop without extra strain, there’s a paddle here for you. The Planker Paddle is a solid budget pick with great spin and power. The JOOLA Perseus IV is tournament-ready for players chasing extra power and precision. The CRBN TF Genesis 2 stands out for its square sweet spot and balanced pop. The Sword & Shield J2TI+ is plush and forgiving for spin and touch. The Spartus Apollo is a strong Kevlar widebody that won’t break the bank — perfect for fast hands and big spin.

At the end of the day, your best paddle comes down to your style, strength, and what feels good in your hand. Keep it clean, store it smart, and protect the edge — and your paddle will reward you for seasons to come.

Ready to find your perfect fit? Try one of these Best Midweight Pickleball Paddles and see how the right weight can change your game for good.