This guide, created by world-ranked pro players, passionate hobbyists, and paddle experts with engineering backgrounds, is divided into two parts:
Part 1 - Pro Tips and Quick Paddle Recommendations
Part 2 - Comprehensive Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Part 1 - Pro Tips and Quick Paddle Recommendations
Power vs. Control: A Key Decision
Hey guys, this is James Ignatowich. When it comes to choosing a paddle, the first question I always get is: Should I go for power or control? Honestly, this answer has changed for me over time because the game is evolving. A year ago, a lot of pro players favored control paddles, but now most have switched to power paddles. My advice is to choose the most powerful paddle you can somewhat comfortably control. Sure, you might miss a few shots at first, but that’s okay—it’s all part of the learning process.
The reason power is so important, especially as you're developing, is that it helps in a few key areas.
Shorter Volley Swings 👌🏻
With a powerful paddle, you don’t need to swing as much when hitting volleys (shots you hit in the air without letting the ball bounce). At higher levels, you’ll see pros keeping their swings compact and controlled at the net.
Learning this early is key because taking big, wild swings at the net can make it harder to react quickly and control the ball. By using smaller, quicker movements, you can improve your reaction time, which actually makes it easier to hit the ball with speed and accuracy.
A Powerful Paddle Reveals Technical Flaws
Another benefit is that a powerful paddle reveals technical flaws, especially in your soft game. When I started, I used a control-oriented paddle, and it allowed me to get away with bad habits, like using too much wrist on dinks. But once I switched to a paddle with more pop, those issues became really obvious, and I had to fix them. It actually improved my technique, and over time, I became better at my soft game.
When Control Paddles Make Sense
There’s still a place for control paddles, especially for players who already have plenty of power in their game. But for most players, especially those just starting out, I think using a powerful paddle will benefit you more in the long run.
Quick Power Paddle Recommendations
Part 2 - Comprehensive Guide: Everything You Need to Know
| Quick Links |
|---|
| Weight Grip Size Shapes Thickness Surface Material Core Material Test and Try Out Paddles Budget Considerations |
Paddle Weight
Besides power, the paddle weight is a fundamental characteristic that you must consider when purchasing a paddle. Paddles come in a range of weights, starting from approximately 6 ounces for the lightweight paddles and going up to 14 ounces for the heavy ones. If you are a beginner and are still developing the mechanics of your swing, you might select a paddle with an average weight to provide a good blend of power, maneuverability, and stability.
| Weight Ranges | |
| Shop Lightweight Paddles | Under 7.3 oz |
| Shop Mid-Weight Paddles | 7.3 to 8.4 oz |
| Shop Heavy Paddles | 8.5 oz and over |
Explaining Static Weight, Swing Weight, and More
Paddle companies now provide various weight characteristics that can be confusing to players, such as static weight (often just called 'weight'), swing weight, twist weight, and balance point. Each of these factors determines a player's perception of how the paddle feels in their hand.
Static Weight: The actual, unchanging weight of the paddle when it’s stationary.
Swing Weight: How heavy the paddle feels during a swing.
Twist Weight: How stable the paddle feels when the ball doesn’t hit the sweet spot.
Balance Weight: Whether a paddle feels heavier near the handle, the head, or spread evenly.
If you rely on hard drives from the baseline to score points, you might select a heavier paddle with a high swing and twist weight. If you rely on fast volleys at the kitchen line, you might select a lighter paddle with a low static weight and swing weight to improve your maneuverability.
Keep in mind, while a paddle with more weight can generate more power and feel more stable in your hand, the added weight will also reduce your swing speed (and thereby reduce ball velocity), make the paddle less maneuverable, and may even cause arm fatigue or injury, such as “tennis elbow” or carpal tunnel syndrome. To avoid these issues, be careful not to choose a paddle that’s too heavy.
| Feature | Lightweight Paddles (Under 7.3 oz) | Heavyweight Paddles (8.5 oz and over) |
|---|---|---|
| PROS | ||
| Maneuverability | Faster at the net, quick reactions. | More stable, less twisting on impact. |
| Swing Speed | Easier to swing quickly for volleys and dinking. | Generates more power for baseline drives. |
| Arm Comfort | Reduces strain on arm and wrist. | Feels stable, reducing vibration. |
| CONS | ||
| Power | Less natural power, more effort needed. | Slower for fast, dynamic shots. |
| Stability | Less stable on off-center hits. | Heavier, tiring for long play. |
| Target Players | Beginners, finesse players, or those with arm issues. | Power players or those needing stability and control. |
Grip Size
Grip Circumference
Most paddles come with grip sizes (circumferences) ranging from 4 to 4 ½+ inches, with 4 ¼ inches being the standard. You can measure your grip size below, but if you’re unsure of your size, opt for a slightly smaller grip (⅛ to ¼ inch smaller), as you can add an overgrip to increase size but cannot reduce it.
Smaller grips allow for more wrist action, aiding spin and control, while larger grips provide stability and reduce strain on wrist, elbow, and shoulder joints. Larger grips may also help players recovering from or avoiding tennis elbow injuries.
| Common Grip Sizes | |
| Shop Thin Paddles | 3 5/8" to 4 1/8" |
| Shop Standard Paddles | 4 1/4" to 4 3/8" |
| Shop Thick Paddles | 4 1/2"+ |
Grip Length
Grip length typically ranges from 5 to 6 inches, with the standard being 5.5 inches. Longer grips (up to 6 inches) are ideal for two-handed players, while shorter grips suit players using the index-finger-up method.
Customizing Your Grip
Overgrip wraps are thin, removable tapes applied over the existing grip to adjust the handle's size and feel. They’re great for slightly increasing circumference, improving sweat absorption, and adding extra tackiness without permanently altering the paddle.
On the other hand, replacing the grip involves removing the stock grip entirely and installing a new one. High-end paddles often come with premium grips from brands like Gamma or Pro-lite, but if you don't like the stock grip on your paddle, you can easily swap it out for something more comfortable.
How to Measure Grip Size
There are a few ways a pickleball player can measure their grip size.
1. Ring Finger Method
Use a ruler to measure the distance from the tip of your ring finger to the middle crease of your palm. This measurement corresponds to your ideal grip size. For example, 4.5 inches equals a 4.5-inch grip.
2. Height-Based Sizing (Less Exact)
You can also use your height to determine the correct grip size, but this method is less exact than the hand measurement method.
Use the following chart:
| Your Height | Grip Size |
| Under 5’2″ | 4″ Grip |
| 5’3″ to 5’8″ | 4 1/8″ to 4 1/4″ Grip |
| 5’9″ & taller | 4 1/2″ Grip |
3. Natural Grip Check
To check if the grip size is correct, grab the paddle with your natural grip. Now slide your index finger from the opposite hand between your fingers and the heel of your grip hand. You should be able to snugly fit your finger without moving the fingers wrapped around the grip.
If you have extra space between the heel of your palm and your fingers, and your index finger isn’t touching, the grip is too big. The grip might be too small if you have to move your fingers to get your index finger to fit in the gap. If you are choosing between two sizes, choose the smaller size.
Paddle Shapes
Standard
The preferred shape of world #1 Female Anna Leigh Waters. The Standard shape is usually 16” long by 8” wide. This wider body allows for a bigger sweet spot and is usually more forgiving. It typically has a lower swing weight, making it more maneuverable. This is beneficial for quick hand speed and sharp reaction time.
Elongated
Typically the longest of the three shapes, elongated paddles are 16.5”+. These paddles are usually the shortest in width at around 7.5”. The sweet spot is usually smaller and is higher up on the face. This shape is beneficial for adding reach as well as increasing power potential. Elongated is the preferred shape of most tennis or other racket sport players entering the sport of pickleball because of the range and power.
Hybrid
This shape is quickly becoming the favorite in all skill levels due to its overall well rounded playing style. Sitting right between the standard and elongated paddles, hybrid paddles are usually 16.25”L x 7.5-7.7”W. This paddle option offers a bit more reach without sacrificing too much control. While it combines some advantages of both ends, the difference is fairly subtle, and limiting yourself to this shape alone can cut down on options if you need something more specialized.
Video Explanation
Paddle Thickness
Paddle thickness is what makes the edge wider, or thinner on certain models. In general, the thicker the paddle, the more control, and the thinner the paddle, the less control, but more power. For the most part, paddles will be in 12mm, 14mm, and 16mm, with 16 being the most thick and controlled. Some paddles even go above 16mm, but as you increase that thickness, you sacrifice some pop from the paddle’s sweet spot, and power.
Players can sometimes achieve similar control with thinner paddles, but in my experience, thicker paddles offer more stability and control on volleys, dinks, and resets.
When testing new paddles, focus on how easily you can redirect pace—for example, during a volley, dink, or drop. Compare this to your current paddle to see if it gives you enough control to “push” the pace back while maintaining directional accuracy. Ultimately, this comes down to personal preference, so experiment to find what works best for you.
Surface Material
Graphite
Known for precision and control. The graphite face on both sides of the paddle is what differentiates this type of pickleball paddle.
This thin layer of graphite, typically only a few millimeters thick—about the thickness of a fingernail—offers a unique combination of lightweight durability and strength. Competitive players like the quick action off the graphite face.
Carbon Fiber
Provides similar benefits to graphite but with a firmer, more durable feel.
T-700 Carbon Fiber has become the industry standard surface. Durable and flexible, carbon fiber provides plenty of grip for spin, softness for extended dwell time and power. Furthermore, it can be layered to provide additional performance.
Fiberglass (Composite)
Offers more power but has a smaller sweet spot, best for aggressive players.
Before carbon fiber, fiberglass surfaces were the gold standard on the majority of paddles from entry level on to upper levels. Fiberglass provides power, but lacked a large sweet spot. Still, fiberglass has stood the test of time and is the choice of many power players. Fiberglass has recently been used as an additional layer along with carbon fiber to make the best of both worlds.
Hybrid
Many companies are trying assorted combinations and weaves using kevlar, PET electroplated fiber (aka titanium) and carbon fiber in an attempt to find a magic formula for performance, forgiveness and spin.
Core Material
Polypropylene Core
Polypropylene honeycomb cores have become the standard among pickleball paddle companies due to their playability, durability and soft feel. They are inexpensive and easily cut into any length, width or shape. Polypropylene honeycomb sheets also come in a variety of thicknesses and have different size cells, or openings. Thicknesses vary from a thin 10 mm to a thick 22mm, while most pickleball cores use the readily available 8 mm cells, but some are experimenting with 10 mm cells for added playability.
Nomex Core
Less common, Nomex honeycomb cores have a higher rigidity than polypropylene producing stiffness, durability and power. Nomex, like polypropylene, comes in a variety of thicknesses and cell sizes and is just as adaptable. However, the playability of Nomex is somewhat less than its polypropylene counterpart. Nomex is stiff, causing more vibration, an intense feel along with the power.
Aluminum Core
Aluminum is light weight and can be easily cut to size. Control and accuracy are the major playability attributes when it comes to aluminum cores. Both are outstanding without a loss of power. The major concern with aluminum cores is durability. Once the aluminum is dented or damaged, which is relatively easy, it cannot be repaired.
Thermoformed
Thermoformed paddles not a core type but rather an advanced way of constructing paddles, often paired with polymer cores for balance and performance. Here is a chart that can help clarify things.
| Feature | Polymer/Nomex Core | Thermoformed |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Describes the core material | Describes the manufacturing process |
| Performance | Polymer: Balanced; quieter. Nomex: Powerful, loud. | Thermoformed: More power, spin, durability |
| Durability | Traditional cores may delaminate over time. | Thermoforming improves structural durability |
| Construction | Separate face, core, edge guard | Heat-fused into a seamless solid structure |
| Common Face Material | Varies: fiberglass, carbon fiber | Often uses raw carbon fiber for performance |
Testing & Trying Out Paddles
When testing out a pickleball paddle, I focus on three primary categories: feel, performance, and durability. Each category has specific questions and factors to consider. Everyone has different preferences and these questions should help you organize your test to pick the perfect paddle for you.
Feel
The “feel” of a paddle is one of the most subjective but essential factors. Before diving into specifications like swing weight, static weight, or grip size, focus on how the paddle feels in your hand. Ask yourself:
• How does the paddle’s weight feel when holding it?
• Does the paddle feel balanced and comfortable as I swing it?
• Is the grip size too large, too small, or just right?
Taking note of these elements will give you a solid foundation to evaluate the paddle’s suitability before moving on to performance metrics.
Performance
Consider these questions during testing:
• Do you prefer a paddle that offers quick ball pop off the surface or one with longer dwell time?
• Does the paddle generate power with minimal effort, or does it require a larger swing?
• How big is the sweet spot, and where is it located on the paddle face?
• How easily can I execute key shots like drops, dinks, drives, and serves?
Remember, more power usually equates to less control so it is important to find that happy medium for both your skill level and play style.
Durability
Ask these questions:
• Does the paddle feel well-constructed and sturdy?
• Are there known issues with edge guard defects or cracked paddle faces?
• Is the paddle made with a thermoformed unibody design, or is it a non-thermoformed paddle (common in paddles released before 2024)?
Investing in a durable paddle can save you money in the long run and ensure consistent performance over time. Look for reviews or feedback from other players about the paddle’s longevity and whether the grit on the surface wears out too quickly.
Where to Test & Try Out Paddles
1. JustPaddles
For online options where you can try out paddles before you commit, check out JustPaddles.com. They have a 365-day return window for unused paddles. So, if you buy one and don’t end up using it, you’ve got a whole year to send it back, and they cover shipping both ways.
Now, if you actually want to try it out on the court, they offer the Paddle Assurance Program for $14.99. This gives you 30 days to play with the paddle. If it’s not right for you, you can return it for a full refund, even after use. And if you keep it, they give you a $14.99 credit toward your next purchase within a year.
It’s a solid setup to help you find the right paddle.
2. PickleballCentral
Another trusted retailer you can check out is PickleballCentral.com.
They have a 30-Day Paddle Test Drive program. Basically, you get a full 30 days to try out any paddle. If it’s not working for you, just send it back. You can get a full refund, but heads up—you’ll cover the return shipping for that option.
But if you go for store credit instead, they’ll actually cover the return shipping cost for you, which is pretty nice. Just a side note: this doesn’t apply to Gearbox paddles or used ones, so keep that in mind.
Budget Considerations
Entry-Level Paddles ($50–$100):
Who It’s For: Beginners, casual players, or anyone looking to try out pickleball without a big investment.
Entry-level paddles in this price range are often made of composite or basic graphite materials with polymer cores. While these paddles lack the advanced materials and precision of higher-end paddles, they are a significant upgrade over wooden paddles and will perform well for occasional or weekly play.
Mid-Range Paddles ($100–$150):
Who It’s For: Regular players or those who want better performance, control, and durability without spending a fortune.
Made from higher-quality composite materials, these paddles often have better shot consistency and reduced vibration. Players in this range will notice improved touch, power, and maneuverability, making them a great choice for frequent players looking to improve their game.
Premium Paddles ($150 and Above):
Who It’s For: Competitive, advanced, or serious players who want the best of the best.
Premium paddles are made with materials such as raw carbon fiber, advanced composites, or proprietary materials for responsiveness and high-level play.
Here are a few of our most popular lists to check out if you’re looking for recommended paddles:
On the last list, we track newly launched pickleball paddles and update the list every time we see new types of paddles hit the market. If you like to buy the latest and greatest, that’s a good place to start your search. If you still aren’t sure and want more options, check out our other top paddle recommendations.
We hope this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to choose a pickleball paddle. If you are just getting started and want to learn more, don’t forget to check out our Tips & Strategy or How to Play Pickleball: Easy-to-Follow Guide. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below and we’ll get back to you!
Contributing Authors
Hi, I am confused. Can you advise me as to whether I should be looking for a heavyweight or lightweight paddle (I will probably end up with a mid-weight)?
I am a table tennis player, but I play table tennis more like regular tennis, that is, I use table tennis technique to generate topspin, but I use longer strokes, unlike table tennis and take cuts at the ball. As a result, I am confused as to whether I would want a heavier paddle, in order to take advantage of my longer strokes and generate lots of pace, or the exact opposite, a lightweight paddle so that after I take my cuts at the ball, I would have more time for recovery – to get my feet into the right position. Should I just stick with a mid-weight paddle?
~J.J.
Hi J.J.
Sorry for not getting back to you sooner, somehow I missed this comment.
It sounds to me like a mid-weight would be the best compromise to give you enough
power on your stroke but still be light enough for the the touch and maneuverability you need on your slices.
By now I’m guessing you might have already selected a new paddle.
If so, please let us know what you bought and how it is working out for you.
Thanks-Matt
I would like to buy a paddle with the loudest ‘ping’. Can you give me a name of one that fits this category?
Hi Judy,
Nomex cores tend to give have more “pop” than aluminum or poly cores which have a softer touch and are quieter.
Nomex core: take a look at Gamma 2.0 series, the Onix Graphite Z5 or the Champion Graphite paddle.
Hope that helps-
Hi; I have a two handed backhand. Is there a paddle out there suited for me?
Hi Sue,
Sorry for not getting back to you sooner.
I’m guessing you may have already bought a new pickleball paddle…
For a two-handed backhand grip, you’re going to need more room on the handle so I would look for the longest handle you can find (which on current pickleball paddles would be 5 1/2 inches).
The 3 models I can find with longest handles are: Onix Sports Evoke Graphite, Crush PowerSpin Paddle, Venom 2 (Pickleball Inc).
Otherwise, you may just need to choke up on the handle and may have the top hand creeping up onto the paddle face a bit…
Hope that helps-Matt
Is there a paddle available made without honeycomb core? A friend has a paddle with honeycomb core and I can see and reel this honeycomb on the surface of his paddle ,
Hi John,
You might want to take a look at Gearbox Paddles, their newer paddles (Seven, Eight, GX5, G11) use “Solid Span Technology” that is solid molded core (No Honeycomb Core).
-Matt
Do you know the grip size on the Selkirk Sport Neo Composite paddle. It says thin grip but I need 4 in. This paddle is on our list for our community for noise control but if you can suggest any others I would appreciate it.
Hi Ann,
The Selkirk Sport Neo has a 4.125, although it’s just over 4″ it still considered a small grip and the 1/8″ shouldn’t make a huge difference. There are a few 4″ paddles on the market, including the Rally Tyro 2 and the Gamma 2.0 series but neither of those are considered “Quiet”.
For small grip that is also quiet I would think the Sport Neo would still be a good match.
At that same 4 ⅛” you could get the ProLite SuperNova but if you are just starting out that would probably be much more paddle than you really need (it’s a pro level paddle with a price tag to match) but might be something to keep in mind if you end up wanting to upgrade in the future.
You can find a list of small grip paddles here.
On that list, the first three are quiet paddles: the Prolite Supernova, Selkirk AMPED series and the Pickleball Elite
I am interested in the pistol grip(cross wise) paddle. I’m a control player with a paddle just over 8 oz. Could you recommend a paddle ( core, face, etc.) in the $ 100. + range. I like novel things.
Hi George,
Thanks for contacting us.
Wow, that’s a good question. I’ve seen people play ping-pong with a pistol grip paddle but never actually seen anyone play pickleball with one.
Years ago, I heard that Pop Paddles sold a pistol grip paddle called the “Trigger” but I don’t see it on their site anymore so maybe they discontinued it…
Let me know if you find one. Thanks-Matt
Which paddle face material is most conducive for utilizing spin shots? Fiberglas or graphite?
Is spin equally achievable with both materials?
What are characteristics of each?
Which paddle face material is most conducive for utilizing spin shots? Fiberglas or graphite?
What are characteristics of each?
Which paddle face material is most conducive for utilizing spin shots? Fiberglas or graphite?
My paddles tend to get soft or mushy on the corners. Is there a paddle with a stronger core that will withstand scraping on the floor on low shots?
Hi Jim,
Gearbox makes their paddles with a solid core (rather than multiple laminated layers) and are known to be strong. However, if the damage is from scraping the floor (vs soft spots from wear and tear from a high volume of hitting shots) I think most paddles will end up with some damage on the corners. That same company makes a “Gearbox Protective Bumper Tape” that and optional tape to be added to their (edgeless) paddles. You might want to try adding that to your paddle… hope that helps. -Matt
I’m thinking of purchasing another paddle that fits my hand better. I’m using a Manta Custom Pro Strike Force paddle. The issue I have is the length of the handle, it’s about 4 1/4 inches long. I find my hand running out of room and slipping down and off when I play. I tried taping up the end of it but that didn’t help much. I like a nice light weight one, with a longer more rounded handle, any suggestions? Thanks!
Hi Dean,
You might want to check out the new Prince paddles , there are two models out and they both have longer handles (5″ and 5.5″) and they come in two weight options to choose from. -Matt
Can you recommend a racquet with a long grip for a 2 handed backhand?
HI Matt,
I don’t know if this it out of date or not but what I’m looking for is information on the benefits of core construction – meaning the added benefits of a 16mm core over a 12 or 13mm core. For example, Ben Johns plays with the 16mm core Franklin but they also sell a 13mm – what’s the benefit of the 16mm over the 13mm ? From what I’ve read it looks like the 16mm offers a larger sweet spot and a softer touch – is that correct ? I like the solid feel of some of the 12mm or 13mm core paddles but wanted to ask.
Hey Steve, sorry for the late response. These companies that have thicker paddles are aiming to provide a larger sweet spot while maintaining power and feel. For what it’s worth, I personally have used both and really do not prefer the 16mm for some reason that I can’t figure out. Have you been able to try a 16mm?
thanks for getting back to me …. they seem ‘softer’ if that makes sense. There’s still plenty of pop but compared to the 12 or 13mm cores that I’ve used (not many, admittedly) the 16mm cores have a softer feel but not ‘dead’ at all. I guess the true test will come in play and having some off-center hits and see how they perform then.
That’s the perfect word for it, “softer”.
Thank you for explaining the difference between lightweight and heavyweight pickleball paddles. I am new to pickleball and am trying to get familiar with the equipment I need to purchase. It would be smart for me to consult a retailer who can help me decide on the best paddle for my needs.
Welcome aboard! I am glad you discovered pickleball, it is so much fun… If you are looking for a beginner paddle, this article may help steer you in the right direction, but please do not hesitate to ask us any questions!
Very informative thank you . Question I may have missed, some paddles have a smooth finish on face of paddles some are rough . Would have a suggestion either way please
Hey Franco! The rough texture on the paddles is to enhance the spin capability.
I am finding that all the review sites seem to cover American brands. Or so I assume they are. I have not seen any reviews on Pinnacle/Apex brand. I know they carry a Summit version which is graphite and a pro version that is composite but I just want to know if anyone has reviewed them or knows anything about them. Thanks. I live in Canada.
Hi Lori, we have not used these paddles, but they are now on the list to try out! We are currently recreating how we review pickleball paddles and will be excited to announce the method in early 2022.
good
Can you recommend a paddle good for a torn rotator cuff? I heard Prokennex is one that is recommended.
Thanks,
Peter
I am not familiar with that feeling, but I would try something that is lightweight and has minimal vibration like the Paddletek Ts-5 pro.
Hi: Can you recommend some mid-range price paddles for me? I am a tennis player (3.5-4.0) with 2 handed backhand and 4 1/8″ grip. I have just started playing pickle ball and would like to pick a good paddle that matches my level. I am in my late 50s – and every so often deal with minor tennis elbow.
Thank you!
Hi Jean. The Sticker Onix Stryker 4 may be a good fit. It has a grip size of 4 & 1/4th and the handle is longer than a typical paddle and is only $80. Weight = 6.8oz-7.4oz. However, if you want a true two handed paddle, I think the Gravity LH by Head will be a much better option. It has two grip size options of 3 7/8″ or 4 1/8″ with a 5 3/4″ grip length, and it’s only $100. But the Gravity is a little heavier at 7.9 oz, which could aggravate your elbow, but perhaps being able to grip it well with two hands could offset the weight difference.
Hey, thank you so much for this review, I am thinking of buying a pickleball paddle from you guys, website is amazing, glad I landed here. For any peer pickleball players that are also paranoid and picky with their paddles here haha, did you find this guide helpful? Just wanna make sure because I hate wasting my money, so far this one and pickleballperfect.com have the best paddle buying guides. I’m probably going to buy a lightweight pickleball paddle from the information you guys provided. Thanks so much! Have a good day everyone
Hi Hannah! Glad you found some useful information. Keep an eye on our paddle pages because we will be rolling out a lot of new reviews and it would be great to get some feedback. You can find these under the paddles tab in the menu bar. Also,
Dan, please see my question posted today, 9/25/23, citing your excellent article and my question regarding finding a correct Pickleball Paddle grip size (circumference). Thank you. Peter Jacobson
Dan, again thanks for your excellent article (Pickleball Paddle buyer’s guide). In case you don’t see my separate question … I’m asking why online sites don’t have Pickleball Paddle grip size (circumference) as a filter. Also, why is my size 4-1/2″ so very rare? Should I consider 4-1/4″ in order to find a reasonable choice of paddles? Thank you.
Hi, I think it’s ridiculous that I can’t highlight and right click. Makes it much more difficult to use the page while trying to search for more information. Won’t be using the site because of this.
I bought a cheap wood panel and glued sandpaper on the face is that legal
Hahah, brilliant. Have you used it?? What do your buddies think ha.
Dan Langston’s article “Pickleball Paddes – Read this before you Buy … ” is an excellent article – well written and very helpful. Similar to a tennis racquet, a Pickleball Paddle grip size (circumference) is important, as stated in Dan’s article. However, almost all online Pickleball Paddle websites DO NOT provide a grip size filter (seems ridiculous). I have a 4-1/2″ tennis racquet grip size (not unusual) and measure for a 4-1/2″ Pickleball Paddle grip size. However, 4-1/2″ on online sites is EXTREMELY RARE. Maybe 1/100 choices are that size. Not feasible to search 100 paddles to find one 4-1/2″ grip. Should I look at 4-1/8″ paddles to get a decent choice to choose from? Why do online buying sites ignore grip size in their filters?? Thank you.
Hey Peter! Sorry for the late reply, I’ve been extremely sick! So you are looking for paddles with a 4-1/2″ circumference? I’m sure you’ve thought of this, but I know a lot of people adjust the size by adding tape to the grip or taking it all off and then wrapping it to their liking.
Hi,
Instead of listing all the possibilities with pros and cons,
can you just tell me which one paddle you like to play with, and why?
This blog is like a breath of fresh air in the midst of all the negativity on the internet I’m grateful to have stumbled upon it
Hey Jazmine. When did you discover pickleball?