Two Pickleball Paddle Gifts for Two Different Players

Gift Guide

A good paddle gift should fit the way someone likes to play. These two elongated 16 mm options take different approaches: one centers on a performance-focused raw-carbon build, while the other arrives as a gift-ready paddle-and-cover set.

For the performance-focused player: DJ Young Starion Gen 4 Pro+ 16mm

The Starion Pro+ suits a player who wants an elongated paddle with a raw T700 carbon-fiber surface, a 16 mm polypropylene honeycomb core, and foam reinforcement around the edge and handle. The 5.7-inch handle gives it a little more handle length than the Loco below, which may appeal to players who use a two-handed backhand.

The manufacturer lists the paddle at 225–235 grams, with a 16.5-inch length, 7.4-inch width, and 4.25-inch grip circumference. It is associated with PPA and MLP professional Darrian Young. We have not personally tested this paddle, so our comparison is based on current manufacturer and supplier specifications.

See the DJ Young Starion at Happy People Gift Co.

For the player who would appreciate a complete set: Bread & Butter Loco Elongated Azul with cover

The Azul bundle pairs Bread & Butter’s elongated Loco with a coordinating Mad Pickler cover. Its T700 raw-carbon-fiber face, fiberglass layer, and 16 mm dual-density EPP and EVA foam core create a distinct construction from the Starion. The included cover also makes this the more immediately gift-ready option.

The manufacturer lists a weight of 8.0–8.2 ounces, a 16.5-inch length, 7.375-inch width, 5.5-inch handle, and 4.25-inch grip circumference. USA Pickleball lists the Loco Elongated 16mm as Pass on its approved paddle list. We have not personally tested this paddle.

See the Loco Azul set at Happy People Gift Co.

Which one should you give?

• Choose the Starion for someone who talks about raw-carbon feel, spin, handle length, and performance construction.
• Choose the Loco Azul set for someone who wants an elongated USA Pickleball-approved model and would appreciate an included cover.

Both products are sold by Happy People Gift Co. and shipped by supplier The Mad Pickler through Shopify Collective. Current checkout estimates delivery in 3–5 business days; that is a delivery estimate, not a stated dispatch time. Most eligible physical products may be returned within 30 days of delivery under Happy People Gift Co.’s policy, and customers pay return shipping for preference returns. Review the product page and return policy before ordering because exclusions can apply.