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Ahh, the feeling of brand-new sports equipment. Did you just get your perfect pickleball paddle, and now you need a way to carry it around?
Maybe you splurged on a custom design, and want something that will protect it in any condition.
Whatever the case, here are our picks for the best pickleball paddle covers available in 2022!
Best Pickleball Paddle Covers in 2022
Before we go anywhere, make sure that you are buying something that you will actually use.
A lot of people make the mistake of buying a pickleball paddle cover that is either too big or too small. It just sits in their closet while their paddle takes a beating.
If you're ready, here are our top picks:
Best Overall for Men: Franklin Pickleball-X Individual Paddle Cover
The Franklin individual cover is our top pick. It’s light, inexpensive, durable, stylish, and from one of the most trusted brands in pickleball. There’s absolutely nothing to hide about this paddle cover. It’s a great choice for everyone - not just men.
Specifications:
- Color: Black/Green
- Size: One size, 13”L x 9”W x 0.625”H
- Weight: 0.25 lbs
- Material: Neoprene
- Fence hook: Yes
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Fits most paddle sizes
- Comes with a fence hook
- High-quality materials
Cons:
- Limited options
- No customization
Best Overall for Women: Big Dill Pickleball Co. Paddle Cover
There’s something to be said for supporting the Big Dill Pickleball Co. This woman-owned, Salt Lake City-based company is making waves in the pickleball industry with its quality products and slick designs. This one will make you stand out while keeping your paddle protected from anything.
Specifications:
- Colors: Lime green
- Size: One size, 11.4”L x 8.5”W x 0.5”H
- Weight: 0.31 lbs
- Material: Neoprene
- Fence hook: No
Pros:
- Women-owned, US-based company
- Attractive minimalist design
- Premium materials
Cons:
- Doesn’t fit wide or long paddles
- No fence hook
Best Lightweight Option: Neoprene Pickleball Paddle Cover 2.0
Photo by PickleballCentral
Pickleball Central’s branded cover is likely the most popular in the world. This simple protective glove is everything you’re looking for in a pickleball paddle cover. It comes in a variety of colors, can fit any size of paddle, and comes from a trusted marketplace.
There’s a reason why after more than 400 reviews it still rates as a 5-star product.
Specifications:
- Colors: Lime, Pink, Gray, Blue
- Size: One size, 12”L x 10”W
- Material: Neoprene
- Fence hook: No
Pros:
- Variety of colors
- Fits all paddles
- Quality materials
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- Simple design
- No fence hook
Best Budget Pick: Gonex Pickleball Paddle Bag
Hold on, $55.99 isn’t a budget pick… Until you realize it comes with two paddles and four balls!
The Gonex pickleball set is one of Amazon’s best sellers, with a 4.7 rating after more than 3,000 reviews. This is the kind of product inexpensive enough to make sense for a single weekend of fun. But with the bag, it’ll last much longer.
Sure, it may not be the premium product that serious pickleballers will want. But for someone picking up the sport, it’s the perfect package.
Specifications:
- Colors: Gray bag, green/black paddles
- Material: Polyester
- Fence hook: No
- Paddles: USAPA Approved
Pros:
- Everything needed for a game of pickleball
- Low price
- Lightweight design
Cons:
- No individual cover
- Lower quality material
Best Premium Protection: Selkirk Premium Pickleball Paddle Cover
From one end of the spectrum to the other, Selkirk pickleball paddle covers are among the best available. The well-known brand has released a top-end design that looks great and fits any of its various paddles.
With terry fabric inside to avoid scratches and a durable leather exterior, this is the kind of cover that a more serious player will want.
For a stylish Selkirk paddle cover, the price isn’t out of this world. And better yet, the company often offers it as a bonus when you buy one of their premium paddles.
Specifications:
- Colors: Black
- Size: One size, fits all paddles
- Material: Leather exterior, terry cloth interior
- Fence hook: No
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Stylish
- Extremely durable
- Fits all paddles
Cons:
- More expensive
- No fence hook
Most Durable: Franklin Sports Pickleball Bag
If you’re worried about your pickleball paddle cover lasting because you are pretty rough with it, why not just get a bag? The Franklin sling is the official bag of the U.S. Open. It’s designed to last for your entire pickleball career.
Able to hold several paddles, balls, a water bottle, and other accessories, you’ll be arriving in style and comfort. Amazingly, it’s not even that much more expensive than some of the premium paddle covers. It can do so much more!
Specifications:
- Colors: Black/Green, Charcoal Gray, Gray/Blue, Gray/Gray, Gray/Pink
- Size: 18.5”L x 13”W x 8”H
- Material: Polyester
- Fence hook: Yes
Pros:
- Light weight
- Extremely durable
- Can hold everything
- Various colors
Cons:
- May still want individual covers
- More expensive
Best Personalized Cover: Custom Padded Pickleball Cover
Want to get something that no one else has? How about these inexpensive personalized pickleball paddle covers, custom-made for you with images and text that you provide?
There’s nothing fancy about these but they do the job and can have whatever you want on them.
Specifications:
- Colors: 40 different colors
- Size: 11.5”L x 8.5”W
- Material: Polyester
- Fence hook: No
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Customizable
- Water-resistant
Cons:
- Does not fit wide-body or elongated paddles
- Lower quality materials
Additional Pickleball Paddle Covers
Okay, so those are some of the best paddle covers on the market, but we aren’t finished yet!
If you need something specific like a wide paddle cover, or just want something a little more exciting, we’ve got recommendations for that too.
Best Full-Length Cover: Gearbox Pickleball Full Cover
Some people don’t like having their paddle’s handle showing, especially if they have installed an expensive overgrip that they don't want to be ruined. In that case, the Gearbox full-length cover is the perfect option.
It actually can hold two paddles, is lightweight, and has an extra pocket for your phone or keys. This isn’t going to be the perfect answer for everyone but it’s extremely effective for a couple that is always playing together or a doubles team that wants to arrive in style.
Specifications:
- Colors: Black/Red
- Size: 18”L x 9”W
- Weight: 0.56 lbs
- Material: Polyester
- Fence hook: No
Pros:
- Holds two paddles
- Fully covers handle
- Sleek design
Cons:
- Will not fit all paddles
- No fence hook
Best for Wide Paddles: JOOLA Pickleball Wide Paddle Cover
So, you have purchased the JOOLA Radius paddle, and it fits your game perfectly. The only problem… it doesn’t fit your pickleball paddle cover. You’ll have to get one that is specifically made for your wide-body paddle.
Made from neoprene like some of the best, and from another trusted brand in pickleball, this is the answer if you’re already buying a JOOLA paddle.
Specifications:
- Colors: Black
- Size: 11.5”L x 9”W
- Material: Neoprene
- Fence hook: No
Pros:
- Fits wide paddles
- Trusted brand
- Thick, durable sleeve
- Backed by #1 player Ben Johns
Cons:
- Does not fit some elongated paddles
- No variety in colors or design
- No fence hook
Best Pattern Design: Zero Zero Two
Photo by PickleballCentral
There is just something that stands out about the Zero Zero Two design that makes it pop. Reminiscent of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles color scheme, you’ll love the way it looks as you walk up to the courts.
It also is big enough to fit most paddles and comes at a reasonable price point.
Specifications:
- Colors: Black/Lime
- Size: 12”L x 9.5”W
- Material: Neoprene
- Fence hook: No
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Durable materials
- Fits most paddles
Cons:
- Not branded
- XL version not yet available
Best Themed: Palms-O-Aces Padded Pickleball Cover
Okay, so you want something with a little more flavor? How about the Palms-O-Aces line of floral patterns and vacation themes?
These visually striking designs make the perfect gift for someone who might be traveling with their pickleball paddle or the flamingo-lover in the household. You will certainly stick out on the court with one of these!
Specifications:
- Colors: 15 different styles
- Size: 11.5”L x 8.5”W
- Material: Canvas
- Fence hook: No
Pros:
- Flashy, exciting themes
- Unique designs
Cons:
- Less durable materials
- Does not fit wide-body or elongated paddles
Best Cover with Hook: Franklin Pickleball-X Carry Bag
Most of these covers don’t come with a built-in fence hook. While that’s not a dealbreaker for many people, it is a really nice feature.
The Franklin individual case and full-sized pickleball bag have them, but so does the single paddle case. A carrying strap, interior padding, and all the other benefits of the Franklin name come along with this option and make it a perfect solution for someone on the go.
Specifications:
- Colors: Black/Optic Yellow, Gray/Gray, Gray/Pink
- Size: 17”L x 10”W x 1”H
- Weight: 0.35 lbs
- Material: Canvas exterior, padded interior
- Fence hook: Yes
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Extra protection
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- Not many color options
- No customization
How to Choose the Best Paddle Covers for Pickleball
We’ve shared our recommendations. But how do you know which one will be right for you? Here are some factors to consider before purchasing a cover for your paddle:
Size
Make sure that the cover you choose can actually fit your paddle! There are different sizes available, and some covers can accommodate multiple paddles. The standard is 11.5" by 8.5". But, it's always best to check the measurements before you buy.
Material
The most common materials for paddle covers are neoprene and polyester. Neoprene is a little more durable, while polyester is typically less expensive.
If you're looking for something to protect your paddle in any condition, you might want to consider a waterproof material like vinyl. Some manufacturers even make leather covers that can give your paddle a luxurious look while providing extreme durability.
Weight
Among the obvious factors to consider, weight is sometimes overlooked. If you'll be carrying your paddle around a lot, you might want to consider a lighter cover. Conversely, if you're looking for something to protect your paddle while it's stored away, a heavier cover might be best.
Durability
The strength and toughness of a cover can often go hand in hand with its weight, but not always.
Some covers are made with multiple layers of different fabrics to increase durability. Others might have reinforced stitching or thicker material. If you're looking for something that will protect your paddle in any condition, make sure to find a cover that's built to last.
Shape
If you have a non-standard paddle or one with an unusual shape, you might need to look for a cover that's specifically designed to fit it. Most covers are made to fit the traditional paddle. But there are a few manufacturers that make covers for odd-shaped paddles as well.
Zipper Strength
A pickleball paddle cover isn't worth much if it can't zip up!
All of the covers on our list have high-quality zippers, but it's always best to check before you buy. A weak zipper can ruin an otherwise great cover. So, make sure to find one that's not going to snap off or wear out quickly.
Cushioning
Planning on throwing your paddle in the back of your car? You might want to consider a cover with some cushioning. Many covers have a padded interior, which can help protect your paddle from bumps and scratches.
Color and Design
No one ever said you can't look good while playing pickleball!
Most covers come in a variety of colors and designs. So, you're sure to find one that matches your personality. If you want something that's going to stand out, there are even a few manufacturers that make custom covers.
Price
Pickleball is a casual sport for most players, so don't spend huge amounts on a cover if you're only going to play a couple of times a year. That said, a higher-quality cover will usually last longer and provide better protection, so it's worth considering if you play often.
Why Do I Need a Pickleball Paddle Cover?
A pickleball paddle cover is a great way to protect your investment. Whether you just bought a new paddle, or you've had the same one for years, a cover can help extend its life.
Pickleball paddles are made of different materials, and each has its benefits and drawbacks. Wood paddles are typically the most durable, but they also score lowest on performance.
Graphite paddles are lightweight and offer good power, but they're not as durable as wood. Composite paddles are a mix of different materials. They offer a good balance of power and weight.
No matter what material your paddle is made of, it's susceptible to damage. A cover can help protect it from scratches, dents, and other wear and tear. If you have a custom paddle or one with special graphics, a cover can also help keep it looking new.
Paddle Cover vs Pickleball Bag - Which is Better?
A lot of this comes down to personal preference, but there are some key differences between paddle covers and pickleball bags.
Pickleball paddle covers are typically smaller and lighter than bags, making them easier to carry around. They're also less expensive, which is great if you're on a budget. However, they don't offer as much protection as a bag.
Pickleball bags can be larger and more durable, making them ideal for storing your paddle when you're not using it. They often have multiple compartments for holding other pickleball gear, and some even come with wheels for easy transport. Of course, all this comes at a higher price tag.
So, which should you choose? If you're looking for something to protect your paddle and nothing else, a cover is a great option. If you need something to store your paddle in between games or when you're not using it, a bag is a way to go.
What are Pickleball Paddle Covers Made Of?
Pickleball paddle covers are typically made of neoprene, polyester, or vinyl. Neoprene is a durable synthetic rubber that's often used in wetsuits. It's thick and padded, which makes it great for protecting your paddle from bumps and scratches.
Polyester is a type of plastic that's often used in fabric. It's thinner than neoprene, but it's also less expensive. Vinyl is a type of plastic that's often used in food packaging. It's thin and flexible, which makes it great for covering oddly shaped paddles.
Bottom Line
So, there you have it. Twelve excellent options for the best pickleball paddle covers in 2022. We hope this article helped you find the perfect cover for your needs.
If you're looking for a new cover or have some recommendations of your own, let us know on social.
