How to choose your pickleball paddle

The shape of a pickleball paddle is important as it affects the size of the sweet spot, power, and maneuverability. The combined length and width, including any edge guard and butt cap, cannot exceed 24 inches, and the paddle length cannot exceed 17 inches according to the rules. The three common paddle shapes are elongated, widebody, and classic. Elongated paddles offer more reach, power, and spin but have a smaller sweet spot and less maneuverability. Widebody paddles have a wider face and a shorter length, offering the largest sweet spot and high maneuverability, but with a sacrifice of reach and power. Classic paddles offer a balanced mix of power, spin, forgiveness, and maneuverability. When choosing a paddle, the shape should complement the core and facing.

The length of the handle can vary between 4.5 to 6 inches, and adding length to the handle reduces the surface area of the paddle face. The longer the handle, the more power and spin you can generate. Lower-level players generate more power on average with shorter, wider paddles because they are not as consistent at hitting the center of the paddle. The weight of a paddle ranges from 7 to 8.5 ounces, with anything in the 7-7.6 oz range considered lightweight, 7.6-8.2 oz considered midweight, and anything above 8.2 oz considered heavyweight.

A lighter paddle is easier to maneuver, while a heavier paddle produces more power with less swing, increasing stability and reducing errors. Players can add lead tape to the edge guard of their paddles to adjust their weight.

When searching for a new pickleball paddle, it’s crucial to consider the core material and thickness, facing layer, shape, weight, and handle length to find the perfect paddle to complement your game. Learning about the materials and designs of paddles will help you make informed decisions and find the right paddle for you.

Thin = power, thick = control

Core = Poly is standard

Longer Handle = two-handed backhand.

Play with a ping pong grip = shorter handle.

Tennis players love octagon handles. Get the right grip size!

Elongated = more power, the smaller sweet spot

Heavier = more power but slower hands. Can start lighter and add weighted tape if you want.

Carbon face has the most grit for max spin.

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