What Pickleball Coaches Are Actually Playing With (And Why It Matters)
A look inside the paddle choices of pros and coaches—and why they’re more personal (and influential) than you might think.
When it comes to choosing a pickleball paddle, many players look to the pros and coaches for guidance. And while that’s not a bad place to start, the truth is—it’s deeply personal.
Gina Cilento (left) with some of her NPL teammates on the Denver Iconics
Just ask Gina Cilento, a professional player, 2025 MVP for NPL and longtime coach.
“It’s like wine,” she says. “Just because a bottle of red has a high price tag doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for you. The same goes for paddles. You like what you like.”
For Gina, paddle selection has been a journey. From switching to an elongated shape that better matched her tennis background, to testing new models while staying loyal to what feels like “home” in her hands, her choices are based on what helps her play her best—and coach her best.
As a coach, Gina emphasizes how important it is to match gear to a player’s strengths and needs. Some players generate natural power and need more control. Others struggle to find pop and need a paddle that helps them drive.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all,” she says. “I usually recommend paddles that balance out what a player is missing.”
That’s exactly what Lee Whitwell, pro player, APP Next coach and co-owner of Game ChangeHer Events, sees too.
“Coaches aren’t swayed by hype,” Lee says. “We test gear across dozens of students and conditions. What we end up playing with is usually durable, balanced, and forgiving.”
In short: coaches don’t just talk gear—they live it.
Lee Whitwell with some pickleball players.
Their paddle needs to hold up for hours of drilling, deliver consistent performance under pressure, and help students improve. And like it or not, players mimic their coach’s gear. That’s why coaches are so intentional about what they use.
Yes, some coaches are sponsored. But most choose gear they trust—because they have to.
So, What Should You Look For?
Something that supports your style, not your favorite pro’s
A balance of touch and power that matches your strengths
A paddle that feels like an extension of your hand
Both Gina and Lee agree: the best paddle for you is the one that helps you play smarter, with more consistency and confidence. And sometimes, the paddle that looks the flashiest might not be the right one.
The takeaway? Ask your coach what they’re using—and why. Test different paddles. Experiment with shapes, weights, and materials. Because just like wine, the best pick isn’t about price or popularity. It’s about what works for you. So before you grab the flashiest paddle on the shelf—ask yourself: does it actually work for you?
