10 Best Pickleball Paddle For Kids 2025 in the United States

The Niupipo Pickleball Paddles set is a versatile choice for families looking to enjoy pickleball together. It includes two adult paddles and two junior paddles, making it suitable for both adults and kids, which is a definite strength. The paddles are made of fiberglass and feature a lightweight design, weighing 7.62 ounces for adults and 6.35 ounces for kids. This lightweight nature helps prevent fatigue during play, a big bonus for longer games. Plus, the wide body shape offers a larger hitting surface, enhancing the playing experience for beginners and more skilled players alike.

On the grip side, these paddles come with a comfortable, sweat-absorbent grip that feels good during play. The grip size of 4.5 inches fits well for most hands, making transitions between hits easier. Another highlight is the USAPA approval, ensuring that these paddles meet the standards for official play.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the fiberglass material provides a good amount of power, it may not have the same level of control that some more advanced players seek in higher-end paddles. Additionally, while the set is designed for kids, young players may still find the junior paddles slightly heavy depending on their size and strength. The inclusion of a carry bag and multiple balls makes this set family-friendly, but the performance can vary based on individual play styles and expectations. The Niupipo Pickleball Paddles set is a wonderful choice for families and kids, especially those just starting in pickleball, but might not satisfy the needs of competitive players looking for more specialized equipment.

The Sportbit Kids Pickleball Paddle is specifically designed with children under 12 in mind. Its lightweight carbon fiber construction, at just 5.7 oz, makes it easy for young players to handle. The smaller grip size fits well in tiny hands, contributing to comfort and better control during play.

The paddle features a child-friendly design with various fun patterns, which is great for keeping kids engaged and excited about the sport. Additionally, the set includes a handy bag for easy transportation and storage, which is a thoughtful touch for busy families. Safety is also a priority with this paddle, as it has passed rigorous safety certifications, ensuring it's suitable for children.

However, the paddle may not be ideal for older kids or those with more advanced playing skills. As a beginner-level paddle, it might not provide the same level of performance that a more experienced player would require. Yet, with a customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, it's clear that most users find it an excellent choice for its intended age group. This paddle is best suited for young children just starting out in pickleball, fostering family bonding and promoting an active lifestyle.

The Franklin Sports Activator Pickleball Paddle and Ball Set offers a solid entry point for beginners in pickleball and comes with two wooden paddles and two USA Pickleball approved X-40 balls. This set is robust and aimed at offering durability with its 7-ply wood construction and a plastic edge guard to prevent damage, which is great for lasting use.

The paddles weigh about 0.64 kilograms each, which might be slightly heavy for young kids but manageable. The 4-inch grip size is a standard fit, but it may feel large for smaller children's hands, which could affect their control and comfort during play. The wooden material of the paddles provides sturdiness but lacks the lightweight feel and finesse of more advanced composite or graphite paddles.

The paddle shape is not specified but considering it’s a beginner set, it’s likely to have a standard, user-friendly shape. This set is excellent for family play and for children to get started with pickleball, though parents should consider the weight and grip size relative to their child’s age and hand size. It is an affordable, durable, and approved starter set for learning and casual play, but parents looking for a more tailored fit for younger kids might want to explore options with lighter weights and smaller grips.