Choosing the right pickleball paddle can make all the difference in your play. From materials to grip sizes to core and surface choices, there are plenty of decisions to make. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, you’ll want to choose the right paddle that matches your skills and playing style. Ultimately, it’s a personal decision that will improve your game and make you feel like a champion on the court.
Choosing The Right Paddle
When you play pickleball, choosing the right paddle is essential to improving your game. The right paddle can make a big difference in your performance–from the power of your drive to your accuracy at the net. Paddles come in a variety of shapes and core materials, including wood, polymer honeycomb, Nomex, and aluminum. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand what each one offers before you buy.
A hard, polymer core absorbs more energy and gives you a wider sweet spot and consistent feel across the face of the paddle (better control). On the other hand, a soft, Nomex core dampens the shot and allows you to put less power behind it. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the correct paddle is crucial to your success. The best way to choose your paddle is to try different models until you find one that works for you.
Materials
The materials that are used to make pickleball paddle can have a significant impact on the performance of your paddle. Fiberglass, graphite and carbon fiber are all great choices if you want a lightweight, strong and fast paddle. There are four core materials that can be found in a pickleball paddle. These include a wood, polymer, Nomex and aluminum core.
Using different materials in the core of your paddle can provide you with a variety of benefits including better control, more power and a quieter texture on your swing. Nomex is a popular choice among many players because of its ability to absorb energy and create more pop when it hits the ball. Composite paddles combine a polyester honeycomb core with Nomex to create a soft and quiet texture that offers more spin on your shots. They are also very popular because of their versatility and affordability. They are available in a variety of weights and prices.
Grip
A pickleball paddle’s grip is one of the most important factors that determine how well you play. The right grip will keep your paddle firmly in your hand and help you to hold the ball with more confidence. A grip that is too small can lead to a loss of control and force your strokes into the net. A grip that is too large can cause wrist and elbow strain. The best way to test a paddle’s grip is by using a ruler. Measure the distance between your index finger and the heel of the paddle’s handle.
Weight
The weight of a pickleball paddle can play an important role in how hard the ball hits, how fast it goes through the air, control and placement. It can also affect how tired your arm, elbow and wrist feel after a long match. The heavier a pickleball paddle is, the harder it feels and the more power it will generate. However, heavier paddles can also cause fatigue and lead to injuries such as tennis elbow.
Lightweight pickleball paddles are a good option for players looking for speed and control. They also benefit table tennis and racquetball players who put a lot of wrist action into their shots.
Heavy pickleball paddle are more popular with professional players. They tend to put lead tape around the edges of their paddles to add even more weight to the shaft.
The Bottom Lines
Pickleball is a low-impact sport that blends elements of tennis, ping-pong and badminton. Its small court, one-fourth the size of a tennis court, and easy-to-learn rules make it a great way for beginners to get in on the action. A paddle is the primary tool used to play pickleball. Choosing the right paddle for you can have a big impact on your game.
