Pickleball has become increasingly popular for players of all ages, including kids. It offers a fun way for children to stay active while learning coordination and teamwork.
A pickleball paddle designed for kids can make the game more enjoyable and easier to play. Kids’ paddles differ from adult paddles in size, weight, and grip.
They are usually lighter and smaller to fit better in smaller hands. This helps kids control their swing and improve their skills without getting tired quickly.
Choosing the right paddle can help a child feel more confident and comfortable on the court. When picking a paddle for kids, focus on weight, size, and grip size.
A paddle that is too heavy can cause fatigue. One that is too large can be hard to hold.
Grip size must match a child’s hand to prevent slipping and improve control. We tested several kid-friendly pickleball paddles to find the ones that offer the best mix of comfort, control, and durability.
Best Pickleball Paddles for Kids
We tested and reviewed several pickleball paddles to find the best ones for kids. Our list focuses on paddles that offer the right balance of size, weight, and durability for young players.
JOOLA Ben Johns Junior Paddle
This paddle works well for kids starting pickleball thanks to its light weight and smaller grip size.
Pros
- Very light, easy for kids to handle
- Smaller grip fits young hands well
- Durable carbon fiber face with good control
Cons
- Grip might feel a bit small for older kids
- Weight close to adult paddles for very young players
- Design may not appeal to all kids
The JOOLA Ben Johns Junior Paddle feels just right for kids between 4 and 14. It’s light enough for beginners to swing without getting tired quickly.
The small grip fits little hands well. The carbon fiber surface and polymer core give the paddle a good mix of power and control for kids who are still learning.
It feels sturdy and should last through plenty of games. The shark design excites kids who want something cool.
The grip might be too small for older kids moving to adult-sized paddles. Very young kids might notice the weight isn’t much lighter than a grown-up paddle.
Mayboom Pickleball Paddles
The Mayboom paddles are a solid choice for kids because they are lightweight, easy to hold, and come with everything you need to start playing.
Pros
- Very light, perfect for kids’ smaller hands
- Comfortable grips that don’t slip even when sweaty
- Comes with balls for indoor and outdoor play plus a carry bag
Cons
- Grip might be too thick for very small hands
- Fiberglass surface can show scratches over time
- Paddle size might feel large for very young kids
These paddles felt balanced and smooth during games. The weight around 7.8 ounces means kids don’t get tired fast.
The grip is soft but firm, making it comfortable even for young players. The wide sweet spot on the paddle’s face helped beginners hit the ball more consistently.
Having both indoor and outdoor balls was a nice bonus for switching locations. The carry bag is handy for trips to the park or school.
The paddle surface can get scratched after rough use, but it didn’t affect performance.
Helium Family Pickleball Set
This set is a good choice for families wanting lightweight, easy-to-handle paddles for kids and adults.
Pros
- Very light paddles, comfortable for kids and adults
- Comes with both child and adult paddle sizes
- Includes balls and a drawstring bag for easy storage
Cons
- Kid paddles may be too small for older children
- Some reported missing balls in the package
- Not ideal if you prefer heavier paddles
These Helium paddles are easy to hold, especially for younger kids. The light graphite frame doesn’t tire out small hands.
The mix of adult and child sizes worked well for family games, letting all ages join in. Kids around 10 or 11 might need the larger paddle to feel comfortable and have better control.
This set comes with four balls and a bag, making it easy to keep everything together.
Nexopick Kids Pickleball Paddle
This paddle fits kids’ hands well and offers good control for young beginners learning pickleball.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy for kids to swing
- Grip designed perfectly for smaller hands
- Fun, colorful designs keep kids interested
Cons
- Some may find the paddle less durable over time
- Designs may not appeal to all children
- Sweet spot isn’t noticeably larger despite claims
This paddle feels light, making it easier for kids to play longer. The grip is soft but firm, which helps avoid slipping when hands get sweaty.
The paddle’s size helps keep control tight during practice. Kids enjoyed the bright, kid-friendly designs.
The paddle didn’t show extra durability after rough outdoor play. The sweet spot wasn’t clearly bigger compared to other kid-sized paddles.
Niupipo Kid Pickleball Paddle Set
This set offers everything needed for kids and adults to start playing pickleball comfortably.
Pros
- Lightweight paddles made for easy handling by kids
- Durable fiberglass face gives good power and quiet hits
- Comes with both outdoor and indoor balls plus a convenient carry bag
Cons
- Junior paddle handles feel a bit short for some players
- Indoor balls included may not last long outdoors
- The wide paddle shape can take time to get used to
The Niupipo set works well for families wanting to play together. The kids’ paddles are light and sized right for younger players under 12.
The fiberglass surface adds enough pop to enjoy the game without feeling heavy. The included balls mostly worked well indoors.
Outdoor use will wear these out faster, which is normal with softer balls. The grip felt soft and cushioned, helping control the paddle even after a few rounds.
The wide paddle shape offers a larger sweet spot, but it can feel strange if you’re used to slimmer paddles.
Buying Guide
When we choose a pickleball paddle for kids, we look for lightweight options. A lighter paddle helps kids swing more easily and control the ball better.
Weight usually ranges from 6 to 8 ounces for children.
The size and grip are also important. The paddle should be the right length for a child’s height.
Grip size should allow their hand to wrap around comfortably without slipping. Too large or too small grips can cause fatigue.
We pay attention to the paddle material. Common materials are wood, composite, and graphite.
Wood paddles are heavier but cost less. Composite and graphite paddles are lighter and offer better control.
The shape and surface texture help control the ball. A wider paddle face helps kids hit the ball more easily.
Surface texture can add spin and precision, but it’s less important for beginners.
| Feature | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6-8 ounces | Easier for kids to swing |
| Grip size | Fits child’s hand comfortably | Better control and less fatigue |
| Material | Lightweight like composite or graphite | Improves play and durability |
| Paddle size | Matches child’s height | Comfortable handling |
| Surface texture | Smooth or lightly textured | Helps with ball control |
We suggest testing the paddle in hand before buying. This helps you check comfort and ease of use.
