How to choose a pickleball paddle
Three things matter most when choosing a pickleball paddle: your skill level, whether you favor power or control, and how the paddle feels in hand. Newer players usually want a larger sweet spot and a forgiving, control-friendly paddle. As your game develops, you can move toward paddles that add power and spin without giving up control. Weight and grip matter too — but the quiz above handles those trade-offs for you based on how you actually play.
The Friday paddle lineup — which is for who
- Friday Original — best for beginners. Forgiving, easy to control, and our most budget-friendly paddle.
- Fever 101 — a spin-and-feel paddle for players who like to shape their shots.
- Fever 102 — the upgraded Fever, and the one we recommend for most players chasing Gen-3 feel and spin.
- Aura Pro — our best-seller. Built for raw power, with incredible feel for a power paddle; the go-to for intermediate, advanced, and competitive players.
- Aura — the control-first option, with a softer, more touch-oriented feel for players who prize placement.
Pickleball paddle FAQ
Which Friday pickleball paddle is right for me?
It comes down to your level and play style. Beginners do best with the Friday Original. Intermediate and advanced players usually choose the Aura Pro — our best-seller — for its raw power, with incredible feel for a power paddle, or the Aura for a softer, control-first feel. If you want Gen-3 feel and spin, go with the Fever 102. The 60-second quiz above gives you a personalized match.
What's the best Friday paddle for beginners?
The Friday Original is our top recommendation for beginners — it's forgiving, easy to control, and the most budget-friendly. If you want a bit more spin and pop as your game develops, the Fever 101 is a great step up.
Which paddle do most intermediate players choose?
Most intermediate players choose the Aura Pro — it's our best-seller, built for power, with incredible feel for a power paddle. The Aura is a great alternative if you want a softer, control-first feel. Players who want more spin and a Gen-3 feel often prefer the Fever 102.
What's the difference between the Aura and the Aura Pro?
The Aura Pro is our best-seller, built for power — and it has incredible feel for a power paddle, so you don't trade away touch to get pop. It's the go-to for intermediate, advanced, and competitive players. The Aura is the control-first option, with a softer, more touch-oriented feel. Choose the Aura Pro for power or the Aura for control.
What's the difference between the Fever 101 and Fever 102?
The Fever 102 is the newer, upgraded Fever and the one we recommend for most players who want Gen-3 feel and spin. The Fever 101 remains a strong value option with a similar character. When in doubt, go with the 102.
Should I choose a power paddle or a control paddle?
If you already place your shots well and want more put-away power, go with the Aura Pro — our best-seller — or the Fever 102 for spin-based power. If you're still developing consistency, prioritize control: the Aura and our beginner paddles are more forgiving, since it's easier to add power to your game later than to rein in a paddle that's too hot.
How much do Friday pickleball paddles cost?
We believe in delivering premium gear at accessible prices. Friday paddles will always get you excellent performance at a great deal. The Friday Original is the most budget-friendly, while the Aura Pro sits at the top of the range. Check each paddle's product page for current pricing, and use the budget step in the quiz above to match within your range.
Last updated: June 2026