Best Pickleball Paddle Sets

If you are new to pickleball and need equipment for two players, the most convenient solution is often a ready-to-play set. A pickleball paddle set typically includes two paddles, a few balls, and sometimes a bag. This saves you the trouble of sourcing each item separately and ensures everything works together from the first point. Whether you are buying for yourself and a partner or as a gift for a family, a well-matched set can have you on the court in minutes.

This guide is for players who want a complete set to get started with a friend. We reviewed the contents of five sets, checked each paddle’s USA Pickleball approved status, and compared paddle materials, core thickness, and included accessories. Our picks cover a range of budgets and needs, from composite paddles with thick cores to simple wood options for casual play.

Our Picks

Best Overall: JOOLA Essentials Paddles & Balls Set

The JOOLA Essentials Paddles & Balls Set includes two JOOLA Essentials paddles with a fiberglass face and a 12 mm polymer core, two JOOLA Primo balls, and an Essentials sling bag measuring 18 by 12 by 2.5 inches. The bag fits two paddles and up to four balls, leaving room for extras. Both paddles are on the USA Pickleball approved list. This set suits players who want a quality composite paddle set with a bag right away. Buy on Amazon (paid link). Skip it if you need more than two balls or prefer a lighter paddle.

Best for More Balls: Franklin Dagger 2-Player Set

The Franklin Dagger 2-Player Set includes two Dagger paddles with a fiberglass face and a polypropylene core, plus four Franklin X-40 outdoor balls. Franklin lists the paddle at 15.4 x 7.7 inches with a 4.9-inch handle, and lists both the paddles and the balls as USA Pickleball approved. With four balls included, this set includes the most balls in this group. Buy on Amazon (paid link). Skip it if you want a bag included or need a published core thickness.

Best Thick-Core Option: SLK Neo Fiberglass Bundle

The Selkirk SLK Neo Fiberglass Bundle comes with two SLK Neo Fiberglass paddles (fiberglass face with spray-on texture, 14 mm polypropylene honeycomb core), three Selkirk Pro S1 balls, and a SLK sling bag. The SLK Neo Fiberglass Widebody is on the USA Pickleball approved list, and Selkirk markets the paddle for beginner to intermediate players. The 14 mm core is the thickest among the sets here. Buy on Amazon (paid link). Skip it if you have smaller hands (the 4.25 inch grip may feel large).

Best Wood Starter Set: Onix Recruit Starter Set

The Onix Recruit Starter Set includes two wood paddles (10 mm thick, 4.5 inch handle length, 4 inch grip circumference) and two one-seam balls. This is a basic set intended for casual play. The wood construction and small grip size make it an entry-level option for trying the game without a big investment. Note that the paddles are not confirmed on the USA Pickleball approved list, so they may not be suitable for sanctioned play. Buy on Amazon (paid link). Skip it if you want a composite paddle, a bag, or need the set to be tournament legal.

Best Simple Starter Pack: HEAD Kickstarter Pack

The HEAD Kickstarter Pack includes two HEAD Kickstarter Plus paddles, two balls, and a carry bag. This set covers the basics: two paddles, two balls, and a bag in one package. The approval status for sanctioned play is not confirmed. Buy on Amazon (paid link). Skip it if you need more than two balls or prefer a set where the paddles are verified for league use.

How to Choose a Pickleball Paddle Set

What Comes in the Box

Every set in this guide includes two paddles and at least two balls. Some sets add a bag, and a few offer extra balls. If you plan to play outdoors, you may appreciate a set with four balls, such as the Franklin Dagger set. For carrying convenience, look for a set with a bag, like the JOOLA or SLK bundles.

Paddle Material (Wood vs Composite)

Most modern sets use composite paddles with fiberglass faces and polymer or polypropylene cores. These are generally lighter and more responsive than wood. The Onix Recruit is the only set here with wood paddles, which are heavier and less consistent but cost less. For players who think they will play regularly, a composite set is a better investment. For more on paddle types, see our pickleball paddles overview.

Number and Type of Balls

Sets include either two, three, or four balls. The Franklin Dagger set provides four balls, which is helpful for outdoor play where balls can get lost or wear out quickly. The JOOLA and HEAD sets include two, while the SLK bundle gives three. All balls in these sets have one-seam construction for better flight stability. For outdoor-specific recommendations, read our outdoor pickleball balls guide.

Bag or No Bag

Some sets come with a bag, which makes it easy to carry paddles and balls to the court. The JOOLA and SLK sets include sling bags sized to fit the contents. The Franklin and Onix sets do not include a bag. If you already have a bag or do not mind carrying gear separately, you can skip this feature. Our pickleball bags guide can help you find one on its own.

Approval for Sanctioned Play

If you plan to join tournaments or leagues that follow USA Pickleball rules, your paddles need to be on the USA Pickleball approved list. The JOOLA, Franklin, and SLK paddles in these sets are all approved. The Onix Recruit and HEAD Kickstarter paddles have not been confirmed as approved, so they are best for recreational use only. See our beginner paddle guide for more on approved equipment.

Grip Size

Grip circumference affects comfort and control. The Onix Recruit has a 4 inch grip, suitable for smaller hands. The SLK Neo Fiberglass has a 4.25 inch grip, which may feel large for some players. The other sets do not specify grip size, but the included paddles are designed for average adult hands.

How We Picked

We selected these sets based on a review of manufacturer specifications, contents lists, and USA Pickleball approved status. We also considered independent expert coverage of the paddles. Our evaluation process does not involve physical trials. For details on how we review equipment, read our complete guide to how we review.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many paddles come in a set?

All the sets we recommend include two paddles, which is the standard for a starter set designed for two players. Some sets, especially those aimed at families, may include four paddles, but we focused on the two-paddle format here.

Can I use these sets outdoors?

Yes. The balls included in these sets are designed for outdoor use. The paddles work on any court surface. The Franklin Dagger set, with four balls, is especially suitable for outdoor play where balls can be lost.

Do I need to buy anything else to play?

You will also need a pickleball net. If you do not have access to a court with a permanent net, you might need a portable net. See our pickleball nets guide for recommendations.

Are these sets good for beginners?

Yes, each set is designed for players new to pickleball. The composite paddles in the JOOLA, Franklin, and SLK sets offer a good balance of control and power. The Onix Recruit set is the most basic option for those who want to try the game with minimal cost. Our best pickleball paddles for beginners page has more information.

What if one paddle breaks?

Most sets do not include replacement paddles, but because the set supplies two paddles, you have at least one intact paddle to use if one breaks. Many brands sell individual paddles, so you can replace a broken one without buying another set.

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