Best Pickleball Paddles in Australia 2026 — Our Top Picks

Pickleball is growing faster in Australia than almost any other sport. Whether you're picking up a paddle for the first time or you're a seasoned player looking to upgrade, choosing the right paddle makes a significant difference to your game.

We've broken down the best pickleball paddles available in Australia in 2026 — covering every skill level, play style and budget.

What to look for in a pickleball paddle

Face material — Carbon fibre faces (especially T700 raw carbon) generate more spin and control than fibreglass or composite. If you're serious about your game, carbon fibre is the standard.

Core thickness — 16mm cores absorb more impact and give you a larger sweet spot, ideal for control players. 14mm cores are stiffer and faster, better for power hitters.

Weight — Most quality paddles sit between 220–240g. Heavier paddles generate more power; lighter paddles give you quicker hands at the kitchen.

USAPA approval — Always check your paddle is USA Pickleball approved, meaning it meets the highest standards for competitive play at any level.

Our top picks for 2026

Best overall: Facolos NEXX (16mm)

The NEXX is Facolos's most advanced paddle — a multidirectional T700 raw carbon face over an ElasticPP honeycomb core, with an aerodynamic frame for faster hands at the net. It's the paddle used by the Victoria Pro Team and Facolos ambassadors. If you compete, this is the one. $369.

Best all-rounder: Facolos Elite X (14 & 16mm)

The Elite X is the paddle serious Australian players reach for — T700 raw carbon spin and control in a shape that suits almost everyone. Prefer more reach? Try the Elongated edition. Want a bigger sweet spot? The Wide-Body is the most forgiving paddle in the range. $329.

Best value pro paddle: Drive Swift & Drive Extreme

The Drive Swift ($119) rewards fast, reactive players, while the Drive Extreme ($159) is built for maximum power. Both bring Pro Series construction well under $200.

Best for beginners: ExPower 2-Pack & Colorful Collection 2.0

Starting out? The ExPower 2-Pack (from $70) gets two players on court for less, and the Colorful Collection 2.0 ($99) is a forgiving, great-looking first paddle. Browse the full beginner collection for more.

Best for kids: Little Champions (14mm)

The Little Champions paddle ($60) is sized and weighted for junior players — the easiest way to get the next generation hooked.

For collectors: signature paddles

Limited-edition signature paddles from Mitch Hargreaves and Sahra Dennehy, plus the pre-order Gabe Tardio Signature — collector pieces that play as good as they look.

The bottom line

Match the paddle to your game: raw carbon for spin and control, 16mm for forgiveness, 14mm for speed. Every Facolos paddle ships fast Australia-wide, and you can demo before you buy at Runway Pickleball in Melbourne. Still unsure? Start with the full paddle range or read our guide on how to choose your first paddle.