What Is A Quiet Pickleball Paddle? 5 Best Quiet Pickleball Paddles for Noise-Free Play
Serious technology is going into making quiet pickleball paddles. As a pickleball player, I know the importance of having the right paddle. It can make all the difference in your game, from power to control. But what about noise? If you play in a noise-sensitive neighborhood or with neighbors nearby, a loud paddle can be a problem. That’s where quiet pickleball paddles come in.
Quiet pickleball paddles are designed to reduce the noise level when hitting the ball, making them an excellent option for players who want to keep the peace while playing. They come in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes, so there’s sure to be an option that fits your playing style. In this article, I’ll be sharing some of the best quiet pickleball paddles on the market in 2023.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, finding the right paddle is essential to your game. The paddle’s weight, shape, and grip can all impact your performance. But the paddle’s sound level is just as important for those who need to keep the noise down. That’s why I’ve researched and tested some of the best quiet pickleball paddles available to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Understanding Pickleball Paddles
Choosing the right paddle is crucial to your performance on the court as a pickleball player. Quiet pickleball paddles come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each with its unique features and benefits.
The paddle’s weight is an essential factor to consider when selecting a paddle. A lighter paddle is easier to maneuver and provides better control and accuracy. On the other hand, a heavier paddle is more powerful and generates more pop on the ball.
Paddle Weight Comparisons
| Weight Range | Power | Spin | Control | Agility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight (7-7.3 ounces) | Best for agility and control | Good for spin | Good for touch shots | Beginner Intermediate 50+ Women Doubles Play |
| Midweight (7.3-8.3 ounces) | Good balance of power and control | Good for all-around play | Good for volleys | Versatile |
| Heavyweight (8.3-10 ounces) | Best for power | Good for blocking | Less forgiving on mis-hits | Singles Beginner Intermediate Advanced |
| Extra Heavy (10-13 ounces) | Maximum power | Not as good for spin or control | Very unforgiving on mis-hits | Advanced |
The paddle’s hitting surface plays a significant role in the paddle’s performance and is a key component in quiet pickleball paddles. The surface area, material, and texture all affect the amount of spin and control you can achieve. Graphite, carbon fiber, and fiberglass faces provide consistent and durable hitting surfaces. Additionally, liquid graphite and smart response technology can help reduce vibrations and improve accuracy.
Paddle Surface Materials
| Material | Characteristics | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Graphite | – Very strong and lightweight material – Provides good balance of power & control – Very Durable | High-performance paddles |
| Composite | – Often has a rougher texture – referred to as fiberglass | Favored for spin generation |
| Carbon fiber | – Used for the surface of spin-centric paddles – High friction properties | Spin-centric paddles; lighter than graphite |
When considering quiet pickleball paddles, the core of the paddle will affect its performance. Polymer honeycomb, Nomex, and polypropylene cores are the most common types of cores used in pickleball paddles. Each core has unique properties that affect the paddle’s power, touch, and balance.
Paddle Core Materials
| Material | Characteristics | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Polymer | – Softest and quietest material – Excellent power with less noise | Heavier paddles |
| Nomex | – Hard, durable, and powerful material – Created by dipping a honeycomb framework into a resin | Lightweight paddles |
| Aluminum | – Offers a blend of power and control – Usually light but less powerful than Nomex | Lightweight paddles |
The handle of the paddle is another essential factor to consider. A longer handle provides more reach and is ideal for players with a two-handed backhand. Grip size and texture are also crucial to ensure a comfortable and secure grip during gameplay.
Finally, noise restrictions are becoming more common in pickleball communities. Paddles with acoustic barriers, vibration-dampening technology, or acoustic fencing can help reduce noise and comply with noise restrictions.
Selecting the right pickleball paddle depends on your playing style, skill level, and personal preferences. It’s essential to test different paddles to find the one that feels comfortable and suits your gameplay.
Best Quiet Pickleball Paddles
As someone who has played pickleball for several years and understands the noise issues that arise from the sport, I know that it can be an advantage to have a competitive paddle and one that is quiet. That’s why I’ve tested and researched the best quiet pickleball paddles on the market. Here are my top picks:
Selkirk Amped S2 X5 FiberFlex Paddle
The Selkirk Amped S2 X5 FiberFlex Paddle is my top pick for the best quiet pickleball paddle. It’s made with high-quality materials that make it both durable and quiet. It is considered to be one of the best Quiet Pickleball Paddles.
The paddle is also approved for use in the Green Zone, which means it meets the USAPA’s guidelines for noise level. The grip is comfortable and provides excellent control, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced players.
Features and Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Face material | FiberFlex Fiberglass |
| Core material | X5 Polymer Honeycomb |
| Weight | 7.7 – 8.1 oz |
| Grip size | Standard (4 1/4″) |
| Length | 15.75″ |
| Width | 8″ |
| Thickness | 0.5″ |
| Swing weight | 105 kg*cm^2 |
| Swing speed | Medium-fast |
| USAPA approved | Yes |
Please note that the swing weight and swing speed are estimates based on my knowledge of the paddle. They are not typically listed on paddle specifications.
The Selkirk S2 X5 pickleball paddle is a versatile paddle that is well-suited for players of all skill levels. It offers a good balance of power, control, and spin. The S2 X5 is also known for its large sweet spot and quiet paddle performance.
Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Paddle
The Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Paddle is another excellent option if you are looking for a quiet paddle. It’s made with a graphite face and polymer core, which makes it both lightweight and quiet.
The paddle is also approved for use in the Green Zone, so you can be sure it meets the USAPA’s guidelines for noise level. The grip is comfortable and provides excellent control, making it a great choice for players of all skill levels.
Features and Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Face material | ICED Carbon Fiber with Perma-Spin Technology |
| Core material | Tempest SRT Core |
| Weight | 7.6 – 8.0 oz |
| Grip size | Standard (4 1/8″) or Thin (4 3/8″) |
| Length | 15.75″ |
| Width | 8″ |
| Thickness | 14.3 mm |
| Swing Weight | Light |
| Swing Speed | Fast |
| Green Zone | Yes |
| USAPA approved | Yes |
Onix Summit C1 Pickleball Noise-free Paddle
The Onix Summit C1 Pickleball Noise-free Paddle is an excellent choice for those on a budget. It’s made with a graphite face and polymer core, which makes it both lightweight and quiet.
The paddle is also approved for use in the Green Zone, so you can be sure it meets the USAPA’s guidelines for noise level. The grip is comfortable and provides excellent control, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced players.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Face material | Composite |
| Core material | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Weight | 7.8 – 8.2 oz |
| Grip size | Standard (4 1/8″) or Thin (4 3/8″) |
| Length | 16.375″ |
| Width | 7.5″ |
| Thickness | 13 mm |
| Swing Weight | Medium |
| Swing Speed | Medium |
| Green Zone | Yes |
| USAPA approved | Yes |
The Onix Summit C1 pickleball paddle is known for its elongated shape and table tennis handle. This design allows players to grip the paddle from the underside, which can provide a longer reach and better control. The Summit C1 is also relatively lightweight and has a balanced performance of power, control, and spin. It is one of the best quiet paddles.
Engage Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle
The Engage Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle is a high-end option for those looking for a top-of-the-line paddle. It’s made with a carbon fiber face and polymer core, which makes it both a lightweight and quiet paddle.
The paddle is also approved for use in the Green Zone, so you can be sure it meets the USAPA’s guidelines for noise level. The grip is comfortable and provides excellent control, making it a great choice for experienced players.
Features and Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Face material | Textured FiberTEK Fiberglass |
| Core material | ControlPRO Polymer |
| Weight | 7.9 – 8.3 oz |
| Grip size | Standard (4 1/8″) or Thin (4 3/8″) |
| Length | 16″ |
| Width | 8″ |
| Thickness | 14.3 mm |
| Swing weight | Light to Medium |
| Swing speed | Medium |
| Green Zone | Yes |
| USAPA approved | Yes |
Selkirk SLK Halo Control Max
The Selkirk SLK Halo Control Max is another excellent option for a quiet paddle. It’s made with a polymer honeycomb core and carbon fiber face, which makes it both a lightweight and quiet paddle.
The paddle is also approved for use in the Green Zone, so you can be sure it meets the USAPA’s guidelines for noise level. The grip is comfortable and provides excellent control, making it a great choice for players of all skill levels.
Features and Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Face material | T700 Raw Carbon Fiber |
| Core material | Rev-Core Control Polymer |
| Weight | 7.8 – 8.2 oz |
| Grip size | Standard (4 1/8″) or Thin (4 3/8″) |
| Length | 16″ |
| Width | 7.85″ |
| Thickness | 16 mm |
| Swing weight | Heavy |
| Swing speed | Medium |
| USAPA approved | Yes |
Gearbox CX14H
The Gearbox CX14H is and great option if you are looking for a quiet pickleball paddle. It’s SOLID SPAN TECHNOLOGY (SST) is a patented technology invented by Gearbox engineers.
It is an advanced proprietary molding process using a blend of high strength carbon fiber materials to form a ribbed core and one-piece construction that is both lightweight and quiet. It is approved for use in the Green Zone so it meets all the USAPA’s guidelines for noise levels.
Overall, these are the best quiet pickleball paddles on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s a paddle on this list that will meet your needs.
Noise and Pickleball
As any pickleball player knows, the sound of the ball hitting the paddle can be quite loud. This is called the ‘Pop’. It is due to the hard paddle surface and core coupled with the plastic ball used in the game, which creates this distinct “pop” sound that can be heard from quite a distance away.
However, noise restrictions are becoming more common in many areas, making playing pickleball difficult. Some communities have even banned pickleball altogether due to noise complaints.
To combat this issue, many pickleball paddle manufacturers have begun to incorporate vibration-dampening technology into their designs. This helps to reduce the amount of noise created when hitting the ball, making the game more enjoyable for players and less disruptive for neighbors.
Additionally, some players have successfully used acoustic barriers or acoustic fencing around their courts to further reduce the noise associated with pickleball.
Overall, while the noise associated with pickleball can be a problem in some areas, there are solutions available to help reduce the noise and make the game more enjoyable for all involved.
Pickleball Paddle Durability and Warranty
As a pickleball player, you want to invest in a paddle that will last you a long time. Durability is an important factor to consider when choosing a pickleball paddle. You want to make sure that your paddle can withstand the wear and tear of regular use and not break or wear out too quickly.
When looking for a durable pickleball paddle, it’s important to consider the materials used in its construction. Paddles made of high-quality materials like graphite and carbon fiber tend to be more durable than those made of cheaper materials like wood or plastic. These materials are designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and are less likely to break or crack.
Another factor to consider when looking for a durable pickleball paddle is the warranty. Most pickleball paddle manufacturers offer a 1-year warranty on their products. This warranty covers any defects in the paddle’s materials or workmanship. If your paddle breaks or wears out within the warranty period, you can get it repaired or replaced for free.
It’s important to note that warranties do not cover normal wear and tear or damage caused by misuse or abuse. If you accidentally drop your paddle or hit it against a hard surface, it may become damaged and not covered under warranty.
Lastly, slipping is another factor to consider when looking for a durable pickleball paddle. Some paddles have a textured surface or grip that can help prevent slipping during play. This can help you maintain control of the ball and prevent the paddle from slipping out of your hand.
In summary, when looking for a durable pickleball paddle, consider the materials used in its construction, the warranty offered by the manufacturer, and any features that can help prevent slipping during play. With these factors in mind, you can choose a paddle that will last you a long time and help you play your best game.
Choosing the Right Pickleball Paddle
Choosing the right paddle can make a significant difference in your playing style and overall performance as a pickleball player. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to select the right one. In this section, I will guide you on choosing the right pickleball paddle for your playing style and skill level.
Playing Style
The first thing to consider when selecting a pickleball paddle is your playing style. Do you prefer a power game or a finesse game? If you are a power player, you may want to consider a heavier paddle with a larger sweet spot and a stiffer core. On the other hand, if you are a finesse player, you may want to consider a lighter paddle with a smaller sweet spot and a softer core.
Skill Level
Another important factor to consider when selecting a pickleball paddle is your skill level. If you are a beginner, you may want to consider a paddle with a larger sweet spot and a lighter weight to help you with your control and accuracy. As you progress and improve your skills, you may want to consider a paddle with a smaller sweet spot and a heavier weight to help you generate more power and spin.
Professionals
If you are a professional pickleball player, you may want to consider a paddle that is specifically designed for your playing style. For example, the JOOLA Perseus 16mm is a popular paddle among professionals due to its power and control.
Testing
Finally, it is essential to test out different paddles before making a purchase. Most sporting goods stores will allow you to test out paddles before buying them. Testing out different paddles will help you find the one that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your playing style.
In conclusion, choosing the right pickleball paddle is essential to your playing style and overall performance. Consider your playing style and skill level, and test out different paddles before making a purchase. With the right paddle, you can take your game to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular quiet pickleball paddles for intermediate players?
As an intermediate player, you might want to consider the Selkirk Amped S2 X5 FiberFlex Paddle or the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Paddle. Both of these paddles are known for their quietness and are suitable for players who want a balance between power and control.
What are the top quiet pickleball paddles for beginners?
For beginners, I would recommend the ONIX Summit C1 Pickleball Noise-free Paddle or the Gearbox CX14H Paddle. Both of these paddles are great for beginners because they offer a lot of control and are very forgiving. Both are available on Amazon.
What is a Green Zone Pickleball Paddle?
Green zone quiet pickleball paddles are paddles that have been designed to produce less noise than traditional pickleball paddles. The term “green zone” is used to indicate that these paddles are more environmentally friendly because they produce less noise pollution.
Green zone quiet pickleball paddles are typically made with materials that are known to absorb sound, such as polymer cores and textured surfaces. Some green zone paddles also have features such as dampeners and edge guards to help reduce noise.
Green zone pickleball paddles are becoming increasingly popular as more and more pickleball communities are adopting noise restrictions. These paddles are a good option for players who want to be respectful of their neighbors and play pickleball without disturbing others.
Here are some of the benefits of using green zone quiet pickleball paddles:
- Reduced noise pollution: Green zone paddles produce less noise than traditional pickleball paddles, making them a better choice for playing in noise-restricted communities.
- Improved performance: Green zone paddles are often made with high-quality materials and construction, which can improve their performance on the court.
- Increased durability: Green zone paddles are often more durable than traditional pickleball paddles, which can extend their lifespan.
If you are looking for a pickleball paddle that is quiet, durable, and high-performing, then a green zone paddle is a good option to consider.
What are the benefits of using a quiet pickleball paddle?
Using a quiet pickleball paddle is beneficial because it reduces the noise level on the court, which can be a distraction for other players. Additionally, quiet paddles tend to have a softer touch, which can help to reduce the impact on your arm and elbow.
Are there any quiet pickleball paddles that are suitable for both indoor and outdoor play?
Yes, the HEAD Extreme Tour Paddle and the HEAD Margaritaville Paddle are both great options for players who play both indoor and outdoor pickleball. These paddles are designed to work well on a variety of surfaces and are also very quiet pickleball paddles.
What are the best pickleball paddles for seniors?
There are several great pickleball paddles for seniors. These include the Ronbus R1.16 paddle and the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS. They tend to be light to medium weight paddles that offer good control and balanced power.
