In the world of pickleball, the difference between winning gold and going home empty-handed often comes down to not just raw skill, but to the gear you trust in your hands. As devoted pickleball players ourselves at PickleballMate, we’ve seen firsthand how paddle technology evolves as fast as the game itself. The 2025 season has been a showcase in how pros from Anna Leigh Waters to Ben Johns are fine-tuning their weapon of choice to stay on top—and what that means for the rest of us weekend warriors, club regulars, and anyone itching to upgrade their arsenal.
What Do the Pros Actually Use—And Why Does it Matter?
Everyone wants to play like a pro, but not everyone realizes the subtle impact the right paddle has, especially as you level up. In 2025, we’re seeing a convergence of science and art in paddle tech—materials, thickness, and designs fine-tuned for precision, control, and power. As more players join local clubs (and we all strive for that perfect shot near the kitchen line), understanding what drives champions can directly impact your own gameplay—and prevent a costly mistake in the gear department.
Anna Leigh Waters: Still Setting the Pace
Anna Leigh Waters, dubbed the undisputed GOAT of women’s pickleball, continues to lean on the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 14.3mm. This isn’t a generic off-the-rack paddle—it’s engineered for her quick playmaking, demanding maximum control and a satisfying put-away near the net. If you play doubles or mixed, the need for a responsive, control-focused paddle becomes especially clear.
- Paddle Core: 14.3mm, prioritizing fast hands and acute feedback
- Why It Matters: Lets you react to hard drives and accurately reset in the kitchen—great for high-level and aspiring competitive players alike
Despite her legendary status, 2025 has been more challenging for Waters, underscoring how critical optimizing equipment is, even for the best. That relentless push for performance is something we all relate to, whether we’re battling for a club championship or just trying to notch that next win in open play.
The Challenger Wave: New Paddles, New Threats
Just as telling as Waters’ dominance is the current crop of challengers retooling with high-tech paddles of their own. Look at top competitor Catherine Parenteau—she’s armed herself with the Selkirk Project 008, a paddle favored for tournament sharpness and fast hands at the net. The ongoing paddle “arms race” has leveled the playing field dramatically in 2025, making matchups more unpredictable and exciting than ever.
- Cutting-Edge Construction: Many paddles now feature elite carbon fiber faces for faster rebound and consistent touch
- Player Personalization: Pros are working directly with brands to develop models tailored to their grips, playing tempo, and technique
- What This Means for You: More choice—in both control and power models—that translate to real differences in your feel and performance
| Champion | Paddle Model | Known Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Anna Leigh Waters | Paddletek Bantam ALW-C | 14.3mm core, balanced for speed and touch |
| Catherine Parenteau | Selkirk Project 008 | Tournament-proven control, advanced composite face |
Ben Johns: Mixed Doubles Maestro (and Why Paddle Synergy Counts)
Ben Johns remains a figurehead in pickleball excellence, and while his exact 2025 paddle isn’t widely disclosed, his partnership success in mixed doubles with Waters is no accident. Their equipment compatibility—matching paddle performance to strategy—lets them switch seamlessly between power and controlled resets in high stakes moments. This is a valuable lesson for any player: your paddle isn’t just about personal preference; it’s about optimizing for your style and your partnership, especially if you play doubles regularly.
The Paddle Innovation Race: 2025’s Hottest Trends
- Specialization: We’re seeing more pro-specific paddles designed for unique play characteristics—like the ALW-C for Anna Leigh Waters’ aggressive yet touch-oriented style
- Core Thickness: Modern paddles, often in the 14mm range, favor maneuverability and control. For many advanced and club players, this means better reactivity at the kitchen and less arm fatigue over long matches.
- Premium Materials: Carbon fiber faces and polymer honeycomb cores are standard among the best. This construction maximizes energy transfer and ‘pop’ on the ball, vital for quick resets but also for putting away those high volleys.
Takeaway: The days of generic, one-size-fits-all paddles are over. Whether you’re building your game for competitive leagues or just want to add more consistency to your daily doubles session, matching your equipment to your real needs is a game-changer.
From Pro to Club: How to Choose Your Paddle in 2025
It can be tempting to purchase the exact paddle your favorite star uses—but it’s wiser to seek out what will suit your play. Here’s how we recommend breaking down your decision:
- Analyze Your Playstyle: Need more control at the kitchen, or do you prefer to drive and slam? Core thickness and face material make a noticeable difference.
- Test When Possible: Many clubs offer demo days. Nothing compares to feeling the paddle in real play—especially when you’re learning what works for you under pressure.
- Don’t Be Swayed by Hype Alone: Pros often get paddles customized for their grip and swing speed. Use their choices as a guide, but filter through your own unique play and comfort.
- Value & Durability: Remember, the best paddles blend playability and reliable construction. Investing in quality—without overpaying for marketing fluff—will bring more wins and fewer injuries.
Joining the Ranks: Lessons From the Champions
As 2025 unfolds, the gap between seasoned pros and passionate club players is shrinking, largely thanks to the democratization of high-tech, pro-inspired paddles. Whether you’re chasing the intensity of Anna Leigh Waters or aiming for the mixed doubles chemistry of a Ben Johns partnership, there are some universal lessons:
- Continuous Evolution: Even champions regularly update their gear. Don’t get stuck in a rut—stay open to adjustments as your game matures.
- Match Your Gear to Your Goals: Are you pushing for tournament placements, or just mastering consistent rallies with friends? Your ideal paddle (and budget) may change based on these targets.
- Community Wisdom: Don’t underestimate the value of talking to other players and reading trusted guides. We’ve built our content for pickleball junkies who, like us, want trustworthy, non-generic advice without all the hype.
Thinking of Leveling Up? Get the Best Guidance
At PickleballMate, we obsess over the details—from court dimensions to nuanced reviews of the year’s hottest paddles. If you’re ready for that next purchase, or you just want the inside scoop before demoing a paddle at your club, check out our latest reviews and buying guides. We know what matters to active, community-focused players like you—real insight, honest recommendations, and the resources to help you play smarter.
Looking for more gear, performance tips, or to connect with passionate local players? Dive into our PickleballMate blog for the strategies, guides, and insider advice trusted by dedicated players across the US. Whether you’re aiming for gold or just that next personal best, we’re right here with you—every step (and shot) of the way!
