
Looking for the perfect pickleball paddle to gift a friend, partner, or family member? You’re in good company. With pickleball’s explosive growth and its reputation for bringing people together, gifting a paddle isn’t just about equipment, it’s about sharing a lifestyle.
At ARTI Pickleball, we believe the best gifts are both personal and playful. Whether your loved one is a first-time player or a court regular, here’s how to pick a paddle they’ll actually want to use (and show off).
Step 1: Know Their Playing Style
The key to a great paddle gift is matching it to how your recipient plays—or wants to play.
Ask yourself:
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Are they just getting started, or are they already obsessed?
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Do they prefer power, control, or a balance of both?
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Do they play in a community where quiet paddles matter?
Each answer helps narrow down the right ARTI paddle type for their game. Not too sure? You can take our Paddle Quiz to steer you in the right direction!
Step 2: Pick the Right Materials
Fiberglass — Our Starter Series paddles are built from durable fiberglass, offering a forgiving sweet spot and a slightly heavier feel for more stability. They’re perfect for beginners who want to grow their game while still serving looks on the court.
Carbon Fiber — For players chasing precision and performance, our Blonde, State, Exotic Tripimal, and Elite Mastery Series paddles deliver control with lightweight power. They’re engineered for consistency and crafted for those who take their dinks (and their style) seriously.
Step 3: Think About Weight
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Lightweight (6–7.5 oz) → Easy to maneuver, great for control players.
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Midweight (7.6–8.4 oz) → Best for most players—balanced feel and versatility.
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Heavyweight (8.5+ oz) → Maximum power for those who love to drive the ball.
If you’re unsure, go midweight—it’s the sweet spot most players prefer.
Step 4: Choose the Right Grip
Comfort is everything. The right grip size prevents strain and keeps gameplay effortless.
Pro tip from the ARTI team: grip the paddle like a handshake (snug but not tight).
Step 5: Don’t Forget Style
Pickleball is as much about expression as it is about play. From our state-inspired paddles to limited-edition designs, ARTI paddles bring personality to every swing. Whether your recipient loves minimal aesthetics or bold, colorful statements, the right design turns their paddle into a reflection of their vibe.
Step 6: Add a Personal Touch
Want to make it extra special?
Pair the paddle with an ARTI bag, hat, or one of our State Collection designs that show off where they play. Every detail adds thoughtfulness and makes the unwrapping moment that much better.
Why a Pickleball Paddle Makes the Best Gift
Pickleball isn’t just a sport, it’s a community. Studies show it boosts physical health, social connection, and mental well-being. So when you gift a paddle, you’re really giving someone more movement, laughter, and connection in their life.
Final Rally
The perfect pickleball paddle gift isn’t about perfection, but about intention. With ARTI, you’re giving something built to last, play beautifully, and look even better doing it.
So go ahead: wrap up some fun, confidence, and court time. That’s the kind of gift people remember.
Cheers,
ARTI Team
Citations:
Russell, D. (2024). Understanding pickleball noise at the source: The vibroacoustics of the pickleball paddle and ball. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America. https://doi.org/10.1121/10.0027696.
Stroesser, K., Mulcaster, A., & Andrews, D. (2024). Pickleball Participation and the Health and Well-Being of Adults-A Scoping Review.. Journal of physical activity & health, 1-14 . https://doi.org/10.1123/jpah.2024-0092.
