A quality paddle can make the difference between good and exceptional pickleball play. But after paying top dollar on a reputable paddle, you might not want to see it all scratched. Keeping the paddle in the gym bag with other equipment could damage its surface. A pickleball paddle cover can prevent this, but which one should you pick from the myriad of options?
Find the best pickleball paddle cover for you in the options below.
7 Great Covers for Pickleball Paddles
Best Paddle Cover Overall
Pickleball-X Individual Paddle Cover
Designed by Franklin Sports for the brand’s Pickleball-X paddles, this individual paddle cover is the best for most players – including pros playing at US Open championships. It features a universal design that fits paddles of any shape – although it is more suitable for wide than elongated paddles.
A neoprene construction delivers sufficient cushioning in the bag and protection from the elements. The wide zip opening of these paddle covers also ensures easy in and out. A nice touch is the built-in fence clip that allows you to hang the cover on a fence while you’re playing.
Specs
- Size: 13” x 9”
- Material: Neoprene
- Racket Style: Standard and elongated
If you’re looking for a pickleball cover that can fit the entire paddle, this premium choice from Selkirk might be it. Made of PU leather, it is obviously best paired with paddles from the brand, but it fits all paddle styles. The easy zipper closure is wide enough to ensure easy in and out.
While the pliable leather exterior gives this cover a stylish touch, the interior is made of soft terry fabric. There are no stitches or other marks that could scratch the paddle. Designed as a stash pocket rather than a standard cover, it comes on its own, or you could get one with the purchase of a Selkirk paddle.
Specs
- Size: 18” x 9”
- Material: PU leather and terry cloth
- Racket Style: Standard and elongated
Pickleball paddle covers – just like the paddles themselves – can be quite expensive. If you don’t want to spend a lot, this option from HEYSKAY is a good alternative to more popular sports brands. It is universal but a better choice for standard paddles.
Despite its low price, it features loads of add-ons, such as a wrist strap for easy carrying (without a gym bag) and a mesh pocket where you can stash some balls or essentials, including your keys and phone. The cover also features two inner pockets for even more convenience.
Specs
- Size: 11” x 8”
- Material: Neoprene and mesh
- Racket Style: Standard
Best Universal Pickleball Paddle Covers
Neoprene Paddle Covers
Designed to keep the paddle face protected and trusted by many brands – including ONIX – this neoprene cover from Pickleball Central is a good choice for standard and wide paddle styles. It is made of neoprene and comes in fun colors, most of which match ONIX’s Z5 paddle colors.
This doesn’t mean that you can’t use it with paddles from any other brand. The generous size of these paddle covers fits paddles from standard to wide.
Specs
- Size: 10” x 12”
- Material: Neoprene
- Racket Style: Standard and wide
If you want more than a cover to protect the entire paddle, a pickleball bag might do the trick. A good choice is the SLK by Selkirk, which is the official bag for Selkirk pickleball paddles – although you can use it with whatever paddle you have, including paddles with an edge guard.
Like most paddle covers from the brand, it’s made of faux leather, even though the grain is very similar to canvas. Despite the looks, you can expect this cover to last. The wide zip brings easy access, while the soft interior protects the paddle face from scratches.
Specs
- Size: 17.6” x 9.25”
- Material: Faux leather
- Racket Style: Standard and elongated
This canvas paddle cover hits most points that are important for elongated paddles, but it lacks a hook or strap for easier storage and transport. Still, this is nothing but a minor downside.
Overall, the cover features a robust construction. It is made of waterproof polyester fabric, which means it resists elements. The padded interior protects the paddle from impact and shocks, while a soft oxford fabric liner minimizes the risk of scratches. This cover also features a wide zipper opening and various fun styles.
Specs
- Size: 12.75” x 8”
- Material: Canvas
- Racket Style: Elongated
Another option – if you don’t want to carry a backpack or bag – is this multifunctional cover from PBAW. It comes in three vibrant colors, and it is made of neoprene. A large zip opening allows you to easily fit the paddle in – or take it out.
But what makes it multifunctional is the presence of a convenient fence hook, a mesh pocket on one side, and interior pockets for essentials. The only downside is the size of the interior pockets. They are rather shallow, so we wouldn’t recommend them for storing keys or other objects that could potentially scratch your paddle. If you have more than one paddle, this cover also comes in a set.
Specs
- Size: 12.75” x 8”
- Material: Canvas
- Racket Style: Elongated
Paddle Covers Buying Guide
Cover Material
One of the most important things to check is the material. Some provide good coverage but are prone to weathering and discoloration. Others might be too thin to protect the paddle correctly. Elasticity is an important trait in universal covers. The most common materials include neoprene, leather, and canvas.
Neoprene
Neoprene is the most popular material for pickleball paddle covers. Neoprene is made of synthetic rubber, plus it is elastic, lightweight, and thick enough to ensure adequate cushioning. Neoprene isn’t generally waterproof but provides good UV protection. These covers can come in various colors and are easy to customize should you buy them for a school or club.
Leather
Whether faux or real, leather is a premium choice for pickleball paddle covers. It increases the paddle’s visual appeal even when stashed inside the case. Most leather pickleball paddle covers come from paddle brands, and they are more expensive than neoprene and canvas options.
Canvas
Canvas is a good choice if you need a waterproof paddle cover, but pay attention to the cover’s specs – not all covers in this range are made from waterproof fabric. Another thing to check is the cover’s interior to make sure it has no unwanted stitches that could scratch your paddle and enough padding to cushion shocks.
Cover Size
A quick look at cover options reveals that most manufacturers define their covers as universal. However, you should always check the actual dimensions. Some covers are best suited for standard or wide paddles, while others are best for elongated paddles.
Extra Features
Lastly, consider the add-ons. A built-in fence hook allows you to hang the cover on a fence while playing, protecting it from dirt and general damage. A mesh pocket provides valuable storage space for balls and other accessories, while interior pockets are ideal for your valuables.
Price
Generally speaking, pickleball paddle covers cost much less than pickleball paddles. While this cost is generally not high, premium options will set you back more than budget ones. Neoprene covers are generally under $20, but leather ones can cost $30 or more.
Key Takeaways
- Pickleball paddle covers can suit standard, wide, or elongated paddles. Some are universal and fit most pickleball paddles, but check the actual dimensions before buying.
- Neoprene is the best cover material, followed by leather and canvas.
- The best overall cover for almost any paddle is the Pickleball-X Individual Paddle Cover from Franklin Sports.