Top 11 Pickleball Paddles for Tendonitis Relief in Canada 2024
Playing pickleball can be a thrilling experience, but for those suffering from tendonitis, the wrong paddle can turn the game into a painful ordeal. This article aims to guide you through the top 11 pickleball paddles for tendonitis sufferers in Canada, focusing on features like vibration absorption, grip size, and weight balance that can make a significant difference in your comfort and performance on the court.
By understanding the importance of these factors, you can make an informed decision and continue to enjoy your favorite sport without exacerbating your condition. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the world of pickleball paddles and find the one that best suits your needs.
How we Pick and Test? In our quest to identify the best pickleball paddles for those with tendonitis, we initially selected 35 candidates that showed potential to address the specific needs of this condition. We dedicated 9 hours of meticulous research and testing at our indoor courts and rehabilitation centers to evaluate each paddle’s performance. Additionally, we reached out to 4 industry experts to gain their insights and recommendations, focusing on features such as ergonomic handles, shock absorption, and lightweight materials that are crucial for minimizing strain on the joints. After this comprehensive process, we concluded that these 11 paddles are the most suitable for providing comfort and support to players with tendonitis.
Model | Best For | Features | Buy Now |
---|---|---|---|
Prokennex Pro Flight | Overall Performance | Designed specifically for tennis elbow relief, optimal weight balance, vibration dampening, comfortable grip | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Selkirk Amped S2 | Accessibility and Popularity | Length/Width: 15.75″ / 8″, Weight: 7.9-8.4 oz, Grip Length: 4.5″, Handle Grip: 4.25″, Core Thickness: 5/8″, Surface: Fiberglass | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Engage Pursuit Ultra Carbon MX and EX | Vibration Control | New models with vibration control | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Ronbus EV1.16 and Diadem Vice | Vibration Dampening | Paddles have vibration dampening EVA foam cores | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
ProKennex Ovation Flight | Tennis Elbow Relief | Engineered specifically for tennis elbow relief, offering optimal weight balance, vibration dampening, and a comfortable grip | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro | Control and Power | Combines control and power with its textured graphite surface, ideal for players seeking precision and force in their game | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Baddle Echelon Midweight | Midweight Option | Midweight paddle designed for comfort and playability | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Franklin Aspen Kern Centre | Comfort and Playability | Designed for comfort and playability | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Head Radical Tour | Advanced Play | Advanced paddle designed for competitive play | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Wilson Juice | Competitive Play | Competitive paddle designed for high-level play | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
Letter Nine Pickleball Paddle | Outdoor Play | Best for outdoor play, features a Graphite Paddle Face and PP honeycomb Core Material | Shop on Amazon Shop on eBay |
The Problem with Most Pickleball Paddles for Tendonitis Relief
The issue with most pickleball paddles on the market is that they don’t adequately address the specific needs of players suffering from tendonitis. Tendonitis, an inflammation of the tendons, is a common condition among pickleball players due to the repetitive swinging motions and high-velocity impact of the ball on the paddle. This can lead to various injuries, including tennis elbow, rotator cuff injuries, and Achilles tendonitis.
Many paddles fail to absorb the vibrations generated during play effectively, which can further strain the tendons and muscles in the forearm, exacerbating the issue. Moreover, some paddles may be too heavy, placing excessive strain on the forearm and elbow. This can lead to pain, micro-tearing, inflammation, and weakness, affecting a player’s ability to perform daily activities as well as their recreational enjoyment.
Furthermore, the fast-paced nature of pickleball, combined with the regular side-to-side movement, can lead to various foot and ankle injuries. The use of improper equipment, such as a paddle that is too heavy or does not absorb impact well, can contribute to these injuries.
Top 11 Tendonitis-Taming Paddles for Canadians
Prokennex Pro Flight
The Prokennex Pro Flight is a high-performance pickleball paddle designed for players in Canada seeking to alleviate symptoms of tendonitis. It offers exceptional vibration dampening and a lightweight, aerodynamic design for enhanced reflexes and control.
Best For
- Tendonitis Sufferers
- Overall Performance
- Advanced Maneuverability
- Enhanced Control
- Vibration Dampening
Quick Specs
- Weight: 7.4 oz
- Grip Size: 4”
- Paddle Length: 15.43″
- Paddle Width: 7.6″
- Material: Graphite inlay, Toray T700 carbon-fiber
The Prokennex Pro Flight stands out in the pickleball market, particularly for players in Canada dealing with elbow and wrist pain. Its design is a testament to Prokennex’s commitment to quality and performance, with a focus on reducing the symptoms of tendonitis. The paddle’s lightweight nature, at 7.4 oz, and its graphite inlay construction contribute to its excellent maneuverability and swing speed, making it a top choice for players who value quick reflexes and control.
The Pro Flight’s vibration dampening is one of its most notable features, thanks to the proprietary 7-layer coating and complex composite materials, which include a specially treated soft skin with a spin-grab feature. This technology not only enhances the paddle’s durability but also significantly reduces vibration, offering relief to players with elbow pain.
In comparison to other popular paddles like the Selkirk Amped S2 and the Engage Pursuit Ultra Carbon MX and EX, the Pro Flight excels in providing a balance between power and control without compromising on arm-friendly characteristics. While the Selkirk Amped S2 is known for its popularity and accessibility, and the Engage models for their vibration control, the Pro Flight’s unique kinetic system, as independently verified by MIT Labs, reduces vibration by 43%, setting a new standard for comfort in play.
Moreover, the Pro Flight’s aerodynamic thin core and lightweight design make it a reflex enhancing weapon on the court. Its edgeless construction and thin core technology cut through the air with ease, allowing for lightning-fast swings without the risk of aggravating tendonitis. The paddle’s Cloud Cell Polymer Core further reduces weight while maintaining power, a feature that distinguishes it from other paddles that may offer similar spin capabilities but not the same level of arm protection.
In terms of spin and surface texture, the Pro Flight competes closely with paddles like the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro, which is known for its textured graphite surface. However, the Pro Flight’s Diamond Frost coating provides excellent spin while also resisting wear, giving it an edge in terms of durability and long-term performance.
Overall, the Prokennex Pro Flight is a top-tier choice for players in Canada looking for a paddle that supports their game while also providing necessary protection against tendonitis. Its combination of lightweight design, vibration dampening, and durable construction makes it a standout option in the pickleball community.
Selkirk Amped S2
The Selkirk Amped S2 is a top-tier pickleball paddle that excels in providing control and power to players in Canada, especially those suffering from tendonitis. Its design focuses on a large sweet spot and a FiberFlex Fiberglass face for enhanced performance.
Best For:
- Control and precision
- Players with tendonitis
- Enhanced sweet spot
- Quick reflexes
- Maneuverability
Quick Specs:
- Weight: 7.9-8.4 oz
- Handle Length: 4.5 inches
- Paddle Length: 15.75 inches
- Surface Material: FiberFlex Fiberglass
- Core Material: X5 Polymer
The Selkirk Amped S2 stands out in the pickleball community for its exceptional balance of power and control, making it a go-to choice for players in Canada dealing with elbow and wrist pain. Its large sweet spot and FiberFlex Fiberglass face contribute to its reliable performance, while the X5 Polymer core and lightweight design ensure quick reflexes and ease of maneuverability.
When compared to other paddles like the ProKennex models, which are also designed for vibration dampening, the Selkirk Amped S2 offers a unique combination of a large sweet spot and a shorter handle for enhanced control, which can be particularly beneficial for those with tendonitis seeking to minimize strain during play.
Moreover, the S2’s design is tailored to accommodate both beginners and intermediate players, with its shorter handle allowing the paddle to feel like an extension of the hand, thus improving shot accuracy. While some may find the handle too short, this feature is actually a strategic design choice that caters to players who prefer a paddle that offers quick hand changes and a ping pong-like grip.
In terms of technology, the Amped S2 is part of Selkirk’s innovative AMPED series, which aims to amplify both power and control without compromise. This is achieved through the paddle’s thicker core and specialized face material, which also aids in vibration dampening—a crucial feature for players with tendonitis.
The Selkirk Amped S2 is a well-regarded option among lightweight paddles and is celebrated for its ability to improve game performance for players experiencing wrist and elbow pain, offering a blend of features that promote recovery and prevention through thoughtful pickleball technique.
Engage Pursuit Ultra Carbon MX and EX
The Engage Pursuit Ultra Carbon MX and EX are innovative pickleball paddles designed for players seeking a balance of control, power, and spin. These paddles are known for their advanced technology and high performance, making them popular among both professional and amateur players.
Best For:
- Players seeking control and power
- Advanced players in the 4.0+ range
- Players with an aggressive playstyle
- Players looking for vibration dampening
- Players needing a paddle with a large sweet spot
Quick Specs:
- Paddle Dimensions: EX – 16″ x 8″, MX – 16.5″ x 7.5″
- Grip Size: 4 3/8 inches
- Frame Material: Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Control Pro Black Polymer Core
- Weight: EX – 8.1 – 8.5 oz, MX – 7.9 – 8.3 oz
The Engage Pursuit Ultra Carbon MX and EX paddles are designed with a unique combination of a carbon fiber frame and a Control Pro Black Polymer core. This combination provides a balance of power and control, making these paddles suitable for players with an aggressive playstyle. The paddles also feature a large sweet spot, which enhances their forgiveness and makes them more player-friendly.
Compared to other paddles like the Selkirk Amped S2 and the Prokennex Black Ace, the Engage Pursuit Ultra Carbon MX and EX paddles offer a similar level of power but with a softer feel. This is due to the unique R210 Carbon Fiber technology used in their construction, which provides maximum texture and friction between the ball and the paddle surface for unmatched spin.
The paddles also stand out for their vibration dampening capabilities, which can be beneficial for players suffering from conditions like tendonitis, elbow pain, and wrist pain. This feature, combined with their lightweight design and cushioned grips, makes these paddles a great choice for players seeking comfort and maneuverability.
In terms of shape, the EX version has a standard shape that offers a perfect balance between reach, power, and control, while the MX version is elongated for maximum reach and spin. This allows players to choose the paddle that best fits their play style and needs.
Despite their high performance, some players have found the Engage Pursuit Ultra Carbon MX and EX paddles to be a bit disappointing compared to their expectations. However, their advanced technology, high-quality materials, and player-friendly design make them a worthy consideration for any serious pickleball player.
Ronbus EV1.16 and Diadem Vice
The Ronbus EV1.16 and Diadem Vice are innovative pickleball paddles that have been gaining popularity in Canada. They are known for their lightweight design, oversized shape, and cushioned grips, making them ideal for players dealing with tendonitis, elbow pain, or wrist pain. Both paddles feature a unique EVA foam core, which provides excellent vibration dampening and comfort during play.
Best For:
- Players with tendonitis
- Players seeking lightweight paddles
- Players needing vibration dampening
- Players seeking enhanced control
- Players seeking improved swing speed
Quick Specs:
- Core Material: EVA Foam
- Weight: 8.0 oz
- Length: 16.4 in
- Width: 7.4 in
- Grip Length: 5.3 in
The Ronbus EV1.16 and Diadem Vice are often compared due to their similar design and features. Both paddles offer excellent control and maneuverability, making them popular choices among pickleball communities. The Ronbus EV1.16 is particularly praised for its comfort after long hours of play, with users reporting zero tennis elbow pain or discomfort. The Diadem Vice, on the other hand, is known for its power and spin, although some players find it harder to control groundstrokes due to the ball’s tendency to “pop” off the paddle.
Compared to other graphite, composite, and polymer paddles, the Ronbus EV1.16 and Diadem Vice stand out for their EVA foam cores. This material is known for its excellent shock absorption, which can help reduce the risk of wrist and elbow pain. It also provides a unique, dampened sound that many players enjoy.
Despite their many advantages, it’s important to note that these paddles are not yet approved for USAPA sanctioned tournament play due to their unique construction. However, they are still excellent choices for recreational play and physical therapy, and they offer a glimpse into the future of pickleball paddle design.
ProKennex Ovation Flight
The ProKennex Ovation Flight is a top-notch pickleball paddle, specifically engineered for tennis elbow relief. It offers optimal weight balance, vibration dampening, and a comfortable grip, making it a great choice for players in Canada suffering from tendonitis.
Best For:
- Tennis Elbow Relief
- Vibration Dampening
- Comfortable Play
- Optimal Weight Balance
- Control and Precision
Quick Specs:
- Weight: 7.9 oz
- Handle Length: 5 inches
- Paddle Length: 15.5 inches
- Surface Material: Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Kinetic System
The ProKennex Ovation Flight is a standout in the pickleball paddle market, particularly for players in Canada dealing with elbow pain. Its design is a testament to ProKennex’s commitment to quality and performance, with a focus on reducing the symptoms of tendonitis. The paddle’s optimal weight balance and carbon fiber construction contribute to its excellent maneuverability and control, making it a top choice for players who value precision and comfort.
One of the most notable features of the Ovation Flight is its vibration dampening, thanks to the proprietary Kinetic System. This technology not only enhances the paddle’s durability but also significantly reduces vibration, offering relief to players with elbow pain.
When compared to other popular paddles like the Selkirk Amped S2 and the Engage Pursuit Ultra Carbon MX and EX, the Ovation Flight excels in providing a balance between power and control without compromising on arm-friendly characteristics. While the Selkirk Amped S2 is known for its large sweet spot and the Engage models for their vibration control, the Ovation Flight’s unique kinetic system reduces vibration by a significant margin, setting a new standard for comfort in play.
Moreover, the Ovation Flight’s aerodynamic design and optimal weight balance make it a reflex enhancing weapon on the court. Its edgeless construction cuts through the air with ease, allowing for lightning-fast swings without the risk of aggravating tendonitis. The paddle’s Kinetic System further reduces weight while maintaining power, a feature that distinguishes it from other paddles that may offer similar spin capabilities but not the same level of arm protection.
In terms of spin and surface texture, the Ovation Flight competes closely with paddles like the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro, which is known for its textured graphite surface. However, the Ovation Flight’s carbon fiber surface provides excellent spin while also resisting wear, giving it an edge in terms of durability and long-term performance.
Overall, the ProKennex Ovation Flight is a top-tier choice for players in Canada looking for a paddle that supports their game while also providing necessary protection against tendonitis. Its combination of lightweight design, vibration dampening, and durable construction makes it a standout option in the pickleball community.
Pickleball Paddles You Should Avoid If You Have Tendonitis
CRBN1
The CRBN1 is not recommended for players with tendonitis due to its high swing weight, which can exacerbate arm strain and discomfort.
Gruvn Paddle
The 13mm Gruvn paddle, despite being recommended for tennis elbow, has a swingweight of 99, which may be too heavy for some players, potentially leading to increased arm strain.
Bison Summit
The Bison Summit, while lightweight, may not provide the necessary shock absorption for players with tendonitis, potentially leading to increased pain.
Legacy Pro
The Legacy Pro has been reported to cause discomfort for players with pre-existing arm conditions, making it unsuitable for those with tendonitis.
Players Rogue 2
The Players Rogue 2 may not be ideal for tendonitis sufferers as it lacks specific features to reduce vibration and arm strain.
It’s important to note that while these products have been identified as potentially unsuitable for players with tendonitis, individual experiences may vary. Players should always consider their own comfort and physical condition when selecting a pickleball paddle.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is tendonitis and how is it related to pickleball?
Tendonitis is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon, a thick cord that attaches bone to muscle. In pickleball, repetitive swinging motions and the high-velocity impact of the ball on the paddle can lead to various forms of tendonitis, including tennis elbow and Achilles tendonitis.
2. How does a pickleball paddle’s weight affect tendonitis?
A paddle that is too heavy can place excessive strain on the forearm and elbow, leading to pain, micro-tearing, inflammation, and weakness. This can exacerbate tendonitis and affect a player’s ability to perform daily activities and enjoy the game.
3. What features should I look for in a pickleball paddle if I have tendonitis?
You should look for a paddle that is lightweight, has good shock absorption, and is ergonomically designed. These features can help minimize strain on the joints and reduce the risk of exacerbating tendonitis.
4. How does improper equipment contribute to foot and ankle injuries in pickleball?
The fast-paced nature of pickleball, combined with regular side-to-side movement, can lead to various foot and ankle injuries. Using a paddle that is too heavy or does not absorb impact well can contribute to these injuries.
5. Can I still play pickleball if I have tendonitis?
Yes, you can still play pickleball if you have tendonitis. However, it’s crucial to select the right equipment, particularly a paddle that is designed to minimize strain on the joints. You should also consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional to manage your condition effectively.