PBPRO JUNIORS GUIDE · 2026
Choosing a paddle for a junior player can be simple: start with how comfortably they can hold and swing it, then consider their age and playing experience.
A first-time player and a junior who already plays tennis may need different starting points—even at the same age. This guide brings PBPRO’s recommendations together so parents can compare the options quickly.
Find their paddle at a glance
Choose their age across the top, then their playing level.
| Level | 10 & under | 10–15 | 15–18 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Signature | Signature Plus | Signature Plus |
| Intermediate | Signature Plus | Signature Plus |
Signature Plus or Advantage |
| Advanced | Signature Plus |
Falcon Lite or Gen-X4 |
Gen-X5 Coming November 2026 |
Already plays tennis? Start with Signature Plus, even if new to pickleball.
Want a longer handle? Advantage is an option for older juniors, with a 5.5-inch handle for two-handed backhands.
Age bands are flexible at 10 and 15. These are starting points: check grip fit and comfortable swings, especially for players 10 and under. If a standard paddle is too large or heavy, choose a smaller or lighter junior-specific option.
Paddle weight at a glance
These are PBPRO’s simple weight categories for this guide, using listed weights rounded to the nearest tenth of an ounce. Other brands may label the same weights differently.
| Category | Weight | PBPRO paddles |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra light | 7.5–7.9 oz | Falcon Lite · 7.8 oz |
| Light | 8.0 oz | Signature, Signature Plus, Advantage, Gen-X4 and Gen-X5 |
| Middle-weight | 8.1–8.3 oz | No paddles in this guide |
| Heavy | Over 8.3 oz | No paddles in this guide |
Weight is only part of the picture. Balance describes where that weight sits. A paddle with more weight toward the head can feel harder to swing than another paddle with the same total weight. Thickness alone does not tell you the weight or balance.
Compare the paddle options
| Paddle | Weight / core | Shape / grip |
|---|---|---|
| Signature | 8.0 oz · 13mm | Standard · 16 × 8 in 5 in handle · 4.25 in grip circumference |
| Signature Plus | 8.0 oz · 16mm | Standard · 16 × 8 in 5 in handle · 4.25 in grip circumference |
| Falcon Lite | 7.8 oz · 16mm | Elongated · 16.5 × 7.5 in 5.5 in handle · 4.25 in grip circumference |
| Advantage T700 | 8.0 oz average | Elongated · 16.5 in long 5.5 in handle · 4.25 in grip circumference |
| Gen-X4 | 8.0 oz · 16mm | Elongated · 16.5 × 7.5 in 5.5 in handle · 4.25 in grip circumference |
|
Gen-X5 Coming November 2026 |
8.0 oz · 16mm full foam core | Elongated · 16.5 × 7.5 in 5.5 in handle · 4.25 in grip circumference |
All six have a listed 4.25-inch grip circumference, so check the fit for smaller hands. A standard-size paddle can work for a junior who handles it comfortably, but it is not automatically the right fit for every child.
Compare the full PBPRO paddle lineup →
Paddle prices & construction
Compare the price and construction of each paddle before choosing.
| Paddle | Materials & construction | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Signature | Carbon fiber | $42.99 |
| Signature Plus | T700 raw carbon · Gen 1 | $54.99 |
| Advantage | T700 raw carbon · Gen 1 Longer 5.5-inch handle |
$64.99 |
| Falcon Lite | T700 raw carbon · Thermoformed · Gen 2 | $89 |
| Gen-X4 | T700 raw carbon · Gen 4 Foam fillers |
$129 now |
| Gen-X5 | T700 raw carbon · Gen 5 Full foam core · Carbon fiber double-wall frame |
$199 |
Pricing note: Prices shown are before the signup discount, tax and shipping, and may change. Gen-X4 is currently $129, reduced from $199, while supplies last. Gen-X5 is listed at $199 and is coming November 2026. Check the linked product page for current pricing and availability.
Generation labels describe PBPRO’s construction terminology; they are not a universal rating across brands. Choose the paddle that fits the player’s level and handling preferences.
COMPLETE THEIR COURT KIT
Protect Their Eyes
Make eyewear part of their court routine. Choose a secure fit, lenses suited to the light, and sports eye protection appropriate for the activity.
Clear lenses
For indoor courts, evening games and play under lights. PBPRO Infinity Clear eyewear features a clear 2mm lens, UV400 protection and a lightweight TR90 frame.
Polarized lenses
For bright outdoor conditions. PBPRO Polarized Gray eyewear combines glare reduction with UV400 protection. Its dark Category 3 lens is intended for strong daylight, rather than indoor or evening play.
Check the fit before they play
The frame should stay in place when they look down, turn their head and move, without pinching or blocking their view. PBPRO’s listed fit is women’s medium and men’s small/medium; these are not dedicated children’s sizes. Check each junior’s fit individually, and choose a junior-specific frame if needed.
Sun protection and impact protection are different. UV400 and polarization do not establish sports-impact protection. For protection from balls and paddles, choose eyewear with a verified sports-impact rating appropriate for the activity. The PBPRO listings reviewed here do not specify that rating.
Read the National Eye Institute’s sports eye-safety guidance for parents →
Lifestyle photos show PBPRO eyewear in use; lens colors and models vary. Check each product listing for current specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my child need a junior-specific pickleball paddle?
Not always. Some juniors can comfortably use a standard-size paddle. Start with grip fit and relaxed swings. If the paddle feels too large, pulls the hand down or is difficult to control, a smaller or lighter junior-specific option may be more suitable.
Which PBPRO paddle should a beginner start with?
For beginners 10 and under, start with Signature 13mm. For ages 10–15 and 15–18, start with Signature Plus 16mm. A tennis background can also make Signature Plus a suitable starting point, provided the player handles it comfortably.
Is Signature Plus heavier than Signature?
Both are listed at approximately 8.0 oz. Signature Plus has a thicker 16mm core, compared with Signature’s 13mm core, and a T700 raw carbon face. A thicker core does not automatically mean a heavier paddle.
What is a good option for a 15–16-year-old?
For ages 15–18, start with Signature Plus at beginner level, Signature Plus or Advantage at intermediate level, and Gen-X5 at advanced level. Gen-X5 is currently listed as coming November 2026. Advantage offers a longer handle for players who prefer two-handed backhands. Fit and playing experience matter more than age alone.
Which paddles give more room for a two-handed backhand?
Advantage, Falcon Lite, Gen-X4 and Gen-X5 have listed 5.5-inch handles, compared with 5 inches for Signature and Signature Plus. The extra half inch offers more room for the second hand; try the grip to check comfort.
Which is the lightest paddle in this guide?
Falcon Lite is listed at 7.8 oz. Signature, Signature Plus, Advantage, Gen-X4 and Gen-X5 are listed at approximately 8.0 oz. Balance and shape also affect how easy a paddle feels to swing.
What does head-light mean?
Head-light describes a balance with relatively more weight toward the handle rather than the paddle head. It is different from total weight. For younger players, look for easy handling and a paddle they can return to the ready position comfortably.
Should junior girls choose a different paddle from boys?
Choose by fit, strength, experience and preference. Falcon Lite is an option for girls or boys seeking lighter handling with advanced performance; it is not automatically the best choice for every beginner.
Can parents get the 15% signup offer?
Yes. Parents and guardians can use the signup form below to receive the code by email. The offer applies to paddles for subscribed customers placing their first PBPRO order. Use the subscribed email address at checkout.
Still deciding? Save 15% when you’re ready.
Parents and guardians: join PBPRO for helpful paddle tips and 15% off paddles in your first PBPRO order. We’ll email your code after you sign up.
By signing up, you agree to receive PBPRO marketing emails. Unsubscribe anytime. Privacy policy. Offer applies to paddles for subscribed customers placing their first PBPRO order.
Shop by Color
Found the right paddle? Let your junior choose a favorite color, then explore coordinating bags and accessories. Available colors vary by paddle model.
