One of the most common questions from new players at Carpe Dink'em is some version of: "do I need to buy a paddle before I come, or can I just try it out first?" Short answer — you don't need one to start (we have hire paddles at every session), but once you're hooked, buying your first paddle can feel oddly overwhelming. There are hundreds of options, wildly different price points, and a lot of marketing language that doesn't mean much if you're just starting out.
Here's what actually matters.
Weight matters more than anything else on the spec sheet
Paddles generally fall into three weight categories: lightweight (under 7.3oz), midweight (7.3–8.4oz), and heavyweight (over 8.4oz). For most beginners, a midweight paddle is the safest starting point — light enough to move quickly for hands battles at the net, heavy enough to give you some pop on drives without your arm doing all the work.
Lightweight paddles are popular with players prioritising quick reactions and control, but they can feel underpowered until your technique catches up. Heavyweight paddles hit harder but are more taxing on the elbow and shoulder over a long session — worth avoiding early on if you're at all prone to tennis elbow or similar issues.
Core material: polymer is the standard for a reason
Most modern paddles use a polymer honeycomb core, and for good reason — it offers a good balance of power, control, and a forgiving sweet spot. Older nomex and aluminium cores still exist but are largely outdated for anyone playing regularly. Unless you have a specific reason to look elsewhere, a polymer core paddle is the sensible default.
Surface material: fibreglass vs carbon fibre
This is where most of the price difference comes from. Fibreglass (sometimes called "composite") surfaces tend to have a slightly larger sweet spot and more built-in power, which can be more forgiving for beginners still working on clean contact. Carbon fibre surfaces are stiffer, offer more control and spin potential, and are favoured by more advanced players — but that control comes at the cost of some forgiveness on off-centre hits.
If you're brand new, a fibreglass-surfaced paddle is usually the friendlier choice. You can always upgrade to carbon fibre once your technique and shot placement are more consistent.
Grip size and length — try before you commit if you can
Grip circumference typically ranges from about 4" to 4.5". Too small and you'll over-grip and fatigue quickly; too large and you lose wrist snap on volleys. If you've played tennis or racquetball, a similar grip size to what you used there is usually a safe starting point.
Paddle length varies too — standard paddles offer the most balanced feel, while elongated paddles trade some maneuverability for extra reach and power. As a beginner, stick with a standard-length paddle until you have a clear reason to deviate.
Price: you don't need to spend big to start
It's tempting to assume a $250+ paddle will make you better faster. In reality, a well-reviewed paddle in the $60–120 range will do everything a beginner needs, and the difference between that and a premium paddle mostly shows up once your skill level catches up to the equipment. Save the bigger spend for once you know your playing style and have a sense of what you actually want more of — power, control, or spin.
Try before you buy
The best way to figure out what you like is to actually hit with a few different paddles. At Carpe Dink'em, we have hire paddles available at every session — both basic and premium demo options — so you can get a feel for different weights and surfaces before spending your own money. It's the easiest way to avoid buyer's remorse on your first purchase.
Ready to try a few out? Book a session and grab a hire paddle when you arrive — no need to own one yet.