How to Choose Pickleball Paddle

 

If you've been playing pickleball for any length of time, you've probably asked yourself three questions:

• Should I buy a new pickleball paddle?
• What kind of paddle should I buy?
• With so many options, how do I know which one is right for me?

Without going into a comprehensive analysis of the pros & cons of every pickleball paddle on the market, in this article, I'll give you some guidelines to choose a pickleball paddle that works for you and your game in particular.

(By The Way: Have you heard that Wilson has recently entered the market with their own pickleball paddle? The sport is definitely on the rise!)

 

 

 

WEIGHT

The three main things to look at are weight, grip size and materials.

The pickleball paddle is one of the most important pieces of equipment in your entire game. The more popular pickleball becomes, the more paddles there are to choose from. So how can you know which paddle is right for you?

WEIGHT

Pickleball paddles range anywhere from 6 ounces to 14 ounces, and the weight will affect the power and control. A lighter paddle gives you more control but less drive. Conversely, a heavier paddle gives you less control but more power and drive. Perhaps most importantly, a heavier paddle can cause elbow strain and fatigue in your arm. You may want to start with paddle that is not too heavy until you build up more strength, however it is a bit of a Catch-22: less arm strength means you will need more help driving the ball with any real power. Therefore, consider selecting a mid-weight paddle between 7 ounces and 8.5 ounces. You may still be tempted to go light, but consider this: the lighter the paddle the more energy and swing you will need to hit the ball with force, which can inflame an injury or cause more pain.

Weight is one of-- if not the-- most important factors when choosing a pickleball paddle.

In fact, you can put weight in the same category as "feel." How does the paddle feel when you pick it up? How does it feel when you have been holding it through an entire game? How does it feel when you swing it?

 

Grip

 

The next factor to look at is grip size.

Choose a grip size that fits your hand. A paddle with a grip that is too large can slip in your hand and cause injuries. Smaller grips give you more wrist action, which in turn leads to more control and spin. A larger grip can provide more stability.

But how do you know which grip size is right for you?

You can print out this handy grip size chart and measure your hand from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. Or, if you don't have access to a printer or a ruler, there is the height test. This is not as exact as the other tests but it's easy:

If you are under 5'2″ you need a 4″ grip.
If you are 5'3″ to 5'8″ use a 4 ¼" grip.
And 5′ 9″ or taller use a 4 ½" grip.
If possible, try a variety of paddles. If you aren't sure between two sizes, it's safer to go with the smaller size. If you have access to some paddles to try grip each paddle with your normal grip, slide the index finger of your other hand between your fingertips and the heel of your gripping hand. If the paddle is the right size your finger will fit snugly without you have to move your fingers.

 

Material

 

Composite paddles are a happy medium. They are in the mid-range of price yet come in a variety of weights and sizes.

Wood paddles are the heaviest paddles, yet they are also the least expensive. New players or players who are unsure of investing in equipment may be tempted to purchase a wood paddle. This is fine, however, keep the weight issue in mind.

Pickleball paddles are made out of three main materials: wood, composite or graphite.

The best way to choose a paddle is to try a few and see what feels right and helps your game the most. If this isn't an option, go with a mid-weight, the right grip size (at least for your height) and a composite material. You will get a great paddle and discover what to look for in the future!

Graphite are the most expensive, however they can be light and powerful.