How to Choose a Pickleball Paddle

When playing pickleball, whether you’re new to the game or a veteran, you need to know how to choose a pickleball paddle that fits your needs and the one you are comfortable handling during the game. Choosing the right pickleball paddle is important as it makes or breaks your game and determines how your body reacts after the game because using the wrong type of paddle can cause injuries if you will use the wrong type of paddle.

Many people are now discovering the health benefits of playing pickleball. As the popularity of the sport grows, a lot of sports shops are also offering a diverse selection of pickleball essentials like paddles. There are tons of paddles available in different variants. But, how do you choose a pickleball paddle? Below are the four important factors you need to consider when choosing a pickleball paddle.

• Materials
• Weight
• Grip Size
• Shape

As you read further, we will explain how each of the factors affects how you choose a pickleball paddle and the game in the long run.

Materials

Checking the type of material used in making the paddle is very important. It should be the first thing that you need to consider when buying a paddle. It can affect your overall experience with the paddle, and it has its advantages and disadvantages for each type of material.

Wood

Wood is the cheapest type of material available for a paddle. Despite its low price, it is very durable. However, they are the heaviest and out of trend.

Because it's cheap and durable, most beginners prefer wood paddles. But if you are planning to make the sport part of your fitness journey, then you should consider buying other types of paddles like composite or graphite which we will also discuss in this article.

Composite

Paddles made of composite material are what most professionals prefer. It has a surface made out of carbon fiber and its core is also made out of a composite material. Composite paddles can also be made out of polymer or aluminum and Nomex can also be used for the cores as an alternative.

With its textured surface, a paddle made of composite material can create more spins on your every shot. It is also lightweight which makes it easier to handle.

Graphite

Graphite is the best choice for a pickleball paddle. It’s light which allows you to handle it easier and help you make a precise shot. A graphite paddle is perfect if you want total control over your game. Because of this, it’s becoming the top option for professional players.

Weight

The weight of the paddle is also another important factor that you need to consider because it affects your control and power in every swing, thus, impacting your overall performance.

In other words, choosing a paddle based on its weight will still depend on you. It depends on whether you are more comfortable with a lighter one or a heavier one but each comes with its sets of pros and cons.

Lightweight Paddle

A lightweight paddle offers more accuracy in every swing. It only weighs around 7.2 ounces or below. Most beginners prefer a lightweight paddle as it is easier to handle.

A lightweight paddle can also provide you with more excellent wrist action and quicker response, especially when you’re closer to the net. However, because it is light, one of the drawbacks is that it provides less power.

If you think you need more power on every shot, then you might need to consider getting a heavier one.

Midweight Paddle

A midweight pickleball paddle weighs between 7.3 ounces to 8.4 ounces and it is highly recommended for beginners as it is not too heavy or light. It offers a fair amount of control and power on every swing.

Heavyweight Paddle

A heavyweight pickleball paddle weighs 8.5 ounces and over. If you want more power on your every shot, then you should choose a heavyweight paddle.

The powerful shots from a heavy paddle come at the expense of control. You won't precisely control the direction where you want the ball to go. With too much weight, it can also cause some wrist, arm, and even shoulder injuries.

Grip Size

The grip size of your paddles is another important factor that you need to look into. You need to choose the one that fits your hand perfectly. If you want to get some more wrist action, you can choose a smaller grip. For more stability, then you can opt for a larger grip instead.

Considering your height is the easiest way for you to identify which grip size is appropriate for you without going through all the hand measurements and printouts. It may not be the exact method being used, but it works for most people.

Shape

Below are the most common shapes available for a pickleball paddle:

• Standard – it follows the standard shape size of 16 inches long and 8 inches wide.
• Elongated – Shape size is between 16 to 17 inches. It is thinner than the standard.
• Paddles with Long Handles – This is perfect for two-handed players as it has a longer handle but a smaller face.

Despite the many variants in shape, the official length and width of a paddle should not go beyond 24 inches.

Final Thoughts

The paddle can either make or break your game. It can contribute a huge impact on your overall performance. Take all the time that you need and make sure to try all the available paddles. Choose the one that you are comfortable handling, the one that you think is right for you before buying it. After all, it is still based on your personal preference.

We at FullScope Sports offer a variety of sports equipment that you may need. You may check out our website to check availability for pickleball paddles, or you may visit our physical store directly. We are open Mondays to Saturdays from 10 am – 6 pm.

Shop for a pickleball paddle now and enjoy playing the game with your family and friends.