Skip to content

Blogs

Does a better pickleball paddle make a difference?

by cheng sangzi 05 Jan 2023

Whether you're new to the sport and looking for a good pickleball paddle, or a seasoned player who already owns one or more paddles, you're looking to buy a pickleball paddle or racquet, this I'm assuming you got to the page. call it wrong.

After reading the descriptions of some pickleball racquets on the market, you might think you're buying a futuristic gadget for a trip to Mars. “Nomex™ Honeycomb”, “Liquid Graphite Paddle Face”, “Polymer Paddle Core”… Purchasing a paddle can be confusing.

Honestly, I think this trend is hype... As more people start playing, brands are competing with each other and trying to make their paddles stand out from the crowd.

However, there are three important factors when buying a pickleball racket. Some of these new technologies make a difference when upgrading to a more advanced paddle. More on this below.

We've created this guide to help you cut through the noise, simplify the buying process, and find the perfect paddle for you.

  • Bring weights that you can play your best.
  • Grip size that fits comfortably in your hand.
  • Have a shape and build that suits your style of play.

And of course, the price of a paddle should be within your budget, as paddle prices can vary from $10 for a cheap wooden paddle to $150 or more for the best professional paddles.

If you're looking for paddles to recommend, here's a list of some of the most popular.


Weight:

Paddle weights range from approximately 6 (light paddle) to 14 ounces (heavy paddle). A few ounces may not seem like a lot, but hold a can of soup in your hand and shake it for a few hours.

The weight of the paddle determines the "feel" of the paddle in your hand and the type of action you get when playing the paddle on the court. In general, paddle weight is a personal preference and largely depends on your fitness level and style of play.

One important thing to remember is that you can always increase your size by adding an overgrip...but there is no way to decrease your grip size. So when in doubt buy a size down (1/8 to ¼ size smaller) before adding an overgrip. If necessary, tape it to match your grip size. Most paddles have a standard grip of 4 to 4 1/2 inches.

To check if your grip size is correct, grip the paddle with your normal, natural grip. Next, slip the index finger of your opposite hand between your fingertips and the heel of the gripping hand. It should fit snugly on your finger without moving your finger.

If there's extra space between your heel and your index finger and your index finger isn't touching it, your grip is too big.  If you choose between two sizes, choose the smaller size.

shape:

The official Pickleball rules for dimensions of approved pickleball paddles state that the overall length and width, including edge guard and cap, must not exceed 24 inches (60.96 cm). The length of the paddle cannot exceed 17 inches (43.18 cm). is not pallet thickness limit.

The most common classic shaped pickleball paddle is the "wide body", which is approximately 8 inches wide and 15 3/4 inches long (20.32 cm x 40 cm).

We recommend using a regular or wide paddle for most players. Extra long "blade" style pickleball paddles are best suited for experienced players looking for extra reach. Also, if you plan on playing singles, that's fine. If you plan to enter a tournament, make sure your new pickleball paddle meets USAPA guidelines.



Prev Post
Next Post

Thanks for subscribing!

This email has been registered!

Shop the look

Popular Products

VINSGUIR Pickleball Paddles - USAPA Approved Fiberglass Pickleball Set with Pickleball Rackets
Regular price
$29.99
Regular price
$79.99
Sale price
$29.99
VINSGUIR Pickleball Set of 4 Wood Pickleball Rackets and Balls with 4 Cooling Towels & 4 Pickleball Balls & 1 Carry Bag
Ideal Thickness & Optimal Size: Our wooden paddles boast a regulation size approved by official Pickleball governing bodies. The standard dimensions provide players with the right combination of surface area and weight, allowing for precise shots and enhanced control on the court. Premium Wood...
Regular price
$27.99
Regular price
$37.99
Sale price
$27.99
Vinsguir Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles Set Aurora Blue Vinsguir Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles Set Aurora Blue
Quick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Vinsguir Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles Set Aurora Blue
VINSGUIR Pickleball Paddle Set, USAPA Approved Fiberglass Pickleball Set,Pickleball Paddles, Pickleballs, Lightweight Carrying Bag, Pickle Ball Paddle Gifts for Beginners & Pros, Aurora Blue 【USAPA Pickleball Approved】 The Vinsguir Pickleball Set has been inspected by USA Pickleball and deemed acceptable for official tournament play....
Regular price
From $29.99
Regular price
Sale price
From $29.99
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Vinsguir Professional Graphite Pickleball Paddles Pros Use - Frosted Carbon Fiber Surface with Reinforced 16mm Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
VINSGUIR Pickleball Paddle, USA Pickleball Approved, Frosted Carbon Fiber Surface with Reinforced 16mm Polypropylene Honeycomb Core, Perforated Grip, Ideal for Novice and Professional Players About this item 【USA Pickleball Approved】The Vinsguir professional-level pickleball paddles were approved by USA Pickleball for official tournaments, which you...
Regular price
$45.99
Regular price
$89.99
Sale price
$45.99

Choose Options

Edit Option
Back In Stock Notification
this is just a warning
Login
Shopping Cart
0 items