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Onix Graphite Z5 for touch-focused intermediates; HEAD Radical Tour for newer players who want a modern all-rounder.
Two trusted names in pickleball, two different generations of design. The Onix Graphite Z5 is the granddaddy of widebody paddles, weighing 220 to 235 grams with a 14mm Nomex honeycomb core and graphite face. It is dated, but the wide shape gives a huge sweet spot and the touch is genuinely lovely on dinks. The HEAD Radical Tour is a more recent all-skill design at fifty quid that leans on the Radical family heritage from tennis. Buy the Onix Graphite Z5 if you are an intermediate player who values feel and a forgiving sweet spot more than the latest carbon technology, and you do not mind a slightly heavier swing weight. Otherwise go for the HEAD Radical Tour, which suits players still finding their style and benefits from a more contemporary build at a similar price. Honestly, the Z5 still earns its keep in 2026 for the right player, but it is a paddle you choose deliberately, not by default.
Hand-written editorial — not auto-generated. By Gary, RacketRise.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Pickleball Paddles | Pickleball Paddles |
| Sport | Pickleball | Pickleball |
| Skill Level | Beginner | Intermediate |
| Weight | — | 220-235g |
| Shape | Standard | Widebody |
| Core | Polymer honeycomb | Nomex honeycomb |
| Surface | Fibreglass | Graphite |
| Grip Size | — | 4 1/4" |
| Core Thickness | — | 14mm |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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The main differences are: Shape: HEAD Radical has Standard vs Widebody. Core: HEAD Radical has Polymer honeycomb vs Nomex honeycomb. Surface: HEAD Radical has Fibreglass vs Graphite. Overall, the HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle is best for beginners while the Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle suits intermediate players.
The HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle is the better choice for beginners thanks to its forgiving design and accessible price point. The Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is aimed at intermediate players and may be more demanding to use effectively.
The Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle (£60-80) costs more than the HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle (£50). Whether the premium is worth it depends on your skill level — if you are intermediate players, the extra investment in the Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle can pay off.