How to choose pickleball paddle

Pickleball paddle is a game changer if you select it perfectly. It provides an extra edge to you over your opponent. Paddle is an important piece of equipment in pickleball. The choice of the perfect pickleball paddle is the recipe of your victory in pickleball.

The choice of your pickleball paddle solely depends upon your skill level. It means that you have to pick the paddle wisely which can resonate with your skill level. Every pickleball paddle has its own features and functions. First you have to identify your requirements then opt that paddle which can fulfill your requirements.

But, No matter what your skill level is, there are some fundamental features that must be in your pickleball paddle like paddle type, shape, face, grip size and weight. It all depends upon your play style.

Do you also want to know about the How to choose pickleball paddle guide? to make the most out of it. Then stay here until this article is compiled for you.

How o choose Pickleball Paddle- Complete Guide

Here is a comprehensive guide about the factors you should consider before choosing a pickleball paddle. After reading this guide you will be able to pick the right paddle.

5 Features of choosing the right Pickleball Paddle

These 5 features are the basic criteria to pick the right Pickleball Paddle. Here we will discuss it one by one in a detailed way.

(1) Pickleball Paddle Types

There are a lot of brands that manufacture different types of pickleball paddles. You will observe multiple variations and its sub versions. Having clarity of mind will help you choose the paddle that meets your needs. In the sea of variations, the paddles are classified into 2 major categories according to its Power and Control.

(1.1) Pickleball Paddles based on power

Pickleball, the fast pace game. You have to maintain the pace of the game otherwise disappointment is your end product. Selection of power pickleball paddles will fulful the requirement to maintain the pace. Although it is a game of small court dimensions, you should go with the power paddle.

(1.2) Control Pickleball Paddles

Feature of controllability in pickleball paddle means that your paddle will have the ability to control the shots of your opponents. It has large sweet spots, allowing you to absorb speed and play with precision. As we know that pickleball is the game of logic and high accuracy. By choosing that type of pickleball paddle you will be able to tweak the ball with the help of a paddle.

Main Features

Features	Power Paddles	Control Paddles
Shape	elongated	Standard longer
Core Material	Face fiberglass	Face carbon fiber
Surface Material	Thermoformed	classic
Core Thickness	Thinner	Thicker
Handle Length	Longer	Shorter

(2) Paddle Shape Material

The shape of the pickleball paddle matters a lot. Official guidelines specify that pickleball paddle shape should be between 17 inches and 24 inches. It depends upon your skill level and expertise. Shape matters a lot and helps you controle the ball and adjust the power also. There are multiple shapes and designs available. But note this ;point in your mind that the more area of a paddle the larger you have “Sweet Spots” and the more you will have controlling features.

There are three types of shapes in pickleball paddles. All these shapes are specialized for different players and levels with different features.

Elongated Shapes
Widebody Shapes
Classic Shapes
Standard Shape

(2.1) Standard Shape

Standard shaped pickleball paddles are especially designed for new pickleball players. Its main feature is to have large sweet spots which works as a power booster. The most common pickleball paddle. It has a wide shape with 16’ but less than a wide shaped body paddle. It has a long handle with 7.75’’ which makes it more reachable and adds spin as well. It is also called the classic shape and falls inbetween the shapes of widebody and elongated shapes.

If you do not rate your skill and your mind is unclear about what pickleball should I pick which resonates with my skill level then it is my honest advice to go for this paddle. It is all in 1 solution. It can be easily used by everyone.

(2.2) Widebody Shapes

These paddles are well known for their wideness. This guide is for How to choose pickleball paddle for beginners. Its shape is designed for new players. It helps the player to not miss any shot due to its wide body. Its shape is 8.5 inches wide and its whole length is about 15.5 or 16 inches. It also provides the large sweet spots which can help the player for a better reach and power. It is also mid-weight.

So, If you are a new player of pickleball then the wide body shaped pickleball paddle is the perfect match for you. This is a rarely used paddle.

(2.3) Elongated Shapes

Its dimensions are 16.5″ x 7.5″. It offers good spin, best reach due to its longer length, and good forgiveness quality. It has smaller sweet spots. It perfectly resonates with the advanced player. Because when the player gets some first hand experience then they realise how to play shot and when to play shot and how much power is needed to cross the net. On the other hand it provides more reach, spin and reach due to its length.

So, most of the senior athletes choose this elongated shaped paddle due to their features. If you also have some previous years of knowledge and want to upgrade then give it a try. It also noted that the professionals also use it in the PPA tours. This is also a less common paddle.

(2.4) Hybrid Shapes

This shape is the combination of elongated and standard shaped pickleball paddle. It has better reach, spin, and sweet spots. It can be chosen by the mid level of pickleball players.

If you have spent some time and have an intermediate level skill set then it is the perfect match for you. It provides the blend of two paddles which offers good reach, forgiveness and spin also.

How to Choose the Right Paddle Shape?

There are some clear fundamental steps to choose the pickleball paddle. Firstly, you have to identify your level or experience, then the 2nd thing you should have a clear mind about your requirements, then the last step is to find the paddle with a feature which falls on your criteria. This is a comprehensive way to Choose the Right Paddle Shape.

How Does the Shape Impacts What Paddle I Choose?

As we know that pickleball is growing at an unpredictable speed. Different types of players get into that. It means that they have different skill levels.

Just like any other equipment, the shape of a pickleball paddle can significantly impact your game. Wide-body paddles offer a larger sweet spot for easier hitting, while elongated paddles provide more reach for better net play. In this way the Shape Impact What pickleball Paddle you Choose. Choose a shape that suits your playing style and maximizes your strengths on the court.

(3) Pickleball Paddle Core Materials and Thickness

After the shape of the pickleball paddle it comes to analyze the core material and thickness before picking up. Thick core has more energy while the thin core has little energy. As we discussed above, the power and control factors. Just like that the thick core material will allow more energy and provide more control and add extra power to the paddle.

The standard core thickness is 16 mm. This thickness is used by most of the player like Ben Jhons and etc. This thickness is also famous for an optimized performance and best stability among the new players also and opting it.

The other class falls in the thinner core pickleball paddles. It ranges from 10 mm and 14 mm. This thickness is good for power and control but not much suitable for a good stability.

Important Note

This is my research base knowledge. The thick core paddles have great softness and control power and stability while the thin core pickleball paddle offers good power and control but little softness which is the important factor for stability. The stability itself matters a lot.

How Does the Core and Its Thickness Impact Which Paddle I Choose?

The core and its thickness significantly affect your pickleball paddle choice. A thicker core typically provides more power and durability, suitable for aggressive players. Meanwhile, a thinner core offers better control and touch, preferred by finesse players. Consider your playing style and skill level when selecting the core thickness.

For most players, a core thickness of around 7-8mm strikes a good balance between power and control. However, if you prioritize power and durability, opt for a thicker core (10mm or more). Conversely, for finesse and touch, consider a thinner core (5-6mm). Experiment to find the thickness that best suits your game.

Should You Pick a Thinner or Thicker Core?

You shoud pick a thick core pickleball paddle because it offers good softness and stability. You can play accurate shots with a paddle having a thick core. That’s why you choose a thick core paddle.

(4) Pickleball Paddle Face and Materials

The material of the face and the whole paddles decide its features and functions. It decides the outcome of the paddle. All the rocket sciences are here. Either you will win the match or lose the match. The functions like power, control, softness, and stability are found here.

According to my experience there are three types of paddle faces materials. Here will discuss one by one which will create ease for you to choose a perfect pickleball paddle.

(4.1) Fiberglass (Composite) -Power Materials

Fiberglass paddles are revered for their ability to generate significant power on the court. The composite construction provides excellent strength and durability, making it a preferred choice for players who rely on aggressive and forceful shots to dominate their opponents.

It is also called a composite paddle. It has lower stiffness than carbon fiber and graphite. It works on the trampoline technology to create sweet spots in itself.

(4.2) Carbon Fiber -Balanced Finesse and Power

Carbon fiber paddles offer a balanced blend of finesse and power, catering to players who seek versatility in their gameplay. The lightweight yet sturdy nature of carbon fiber allows for precise control over shots while still delivering ample power when needed, making it a popular choice among intermediate to advanced players.

Its power is less than the fibergalss paddles. It offers high elasticity which transfers little power to the ball.

(4.3) Graphite -Finesse Materials

Graphite paddles are renowned for their finesse properties, providing players with exceptional control and touch on the court. The graphite construction offers a responsive feel, allowing players to execute precise shots with ease. These paddles are favored by players who prioritize accuracy and finesse over sheer power.

It is more similar to the carbon fiber paddle and It feels better than this. It offer karge sweet spots with good power. These faces are mostly found in mid weight paddle which feel easy.

(4.4) Hybrids

Hybrid paddles combine different materials to offer a unique combination of characteristics tailored to individual preferences and playing styles. By blending the strengths of various materials, hybrid paddles provide players with a customized experience, allowing them to maximize their performance on the court while addressing specific needs, whether it’s power, finesse, or a balance of both. It is all in 1 solution. It is the least common face material.

How Does the Facing Materials Impact What Pickleball Paddle I Choose?

The facing material of a pickleball paddle impacts its feel and performance. Textured surfaces, like graphite or composite. It offers enhanced spin and control, suitable for finesse players. Smooth surfaces, such as fiberglass or carbon fiber, provide more power and less spin, ideal for players who rely on aggressive shots.

(4.5) Size of Sweet Spots

The size of the sweet spot on a pickleball paddle refers to the area of the paddle’s surface where optimal contact with the ball occurs. Paddles with larger sweet spots offer forgiveness for off-center hits, providing more consistent performance. Players, especially beginners, may benefit from paddles with larger sweet spots as they allow for more accurate shots and reduce the likelihood of mishaps.

The exact size of the sweet spot on a pickleball paddle can vary depending on factors such as paddle design, materials used, and individual player preferences. Generally, sweet spots range from around 20 to 30 square inches in size. However, advancements in paddle technology have led to the development of paddles with larger sweet spots, some exceeding 40 square inches, providing even greater forgiveness and consistency on the court.

Factor	Influence on Sweet Spot	Impact on Control	Impact on Power	Impact on Spin	Paddle Examples
Shape	Wide-body paddles offer larger sweet spots, ideal for power hitters.	Medium	High	Low	Selkirk AMPED Epic, Head Radical Pro
Core Thickness	Thicker cores provide larger sweet spots for power; thinner cores for control.	Low	High	Medium	Paddletek Bantam EX-L, Gamma Mirage
Handle Length	Longer handles aid reach and consistency in hitting the sweet spot.	High	Low	N/A	Onix Sub-Zero, Engage Encore Pro
Surface Material	Textured surfaces enhance sweet spot feel; smooth surfaces add power.	High	Medium	High	Selkirk Prime, ProKennex Kinetic Pro

(5) Paddle Handle Length of the handle

The standard length of a pickleball handle is 4.5 to 6 inches. If you have some back end experience in pickleball then you can go with long as well short handles. The longer handle will result in more power and spin. Beginner level pickleball players can generate more spin with the short handles as well. As we have discussed earlier about the paddles, they have different types of shapes and length. Just like that there are different lengths of handle you will find for different skill levels.

There are three types of handles according to the length.

(5.1) Standard Handle Length

The standard handle length ranges from 5 inches to 5.25 inches. You can use it easily because it provide good space inbetween the its face and handle area.

Its length is typically measured around 5 inches, providing a balanced grip suitable for most players across different skill levels. This length offers sufficient room for both one-handed and two-handed grips, accommodating a wide range of playing styles.

(5.2) Long Handle Length

Long handle lengths, often extending to 5.25 inches or more, are favored by players seeking added reach and leverage, particularly beneficial for two-handed backhands or players with larger hands. This extended length can enhance stability and control, making it popular among intermediate to advanced players looking for precise shot placement.

(5.3) Short Handle Length

Short handle lengths, typically measuring 5 inches or less, are great for players who like a tight grip or want to move fast near the net. With a short handle, you can easily move your wrist for quick shots and transitions. It’s perfect for players who play aggressively or focus on finesse. Plus, it gives you a bigger sweet spot for better shots.

Selecting the appropriate handle length depends on individual preferences, playing style, and skill level. Beginners may find standard handle lengths most comfortable, while experienced players may benefit from the added versatility of longer handles or the agility provided by shorter handles.

How Does the Handle Length Impact What Pickleball Paddle I Choose?

Handle length impacts paddle choice. Short handles (<5 inches) offer agility near the net, while longer handles (>5 inches) aid in reach and control. Choose based on style: short handles suit quick movements, while longer ones provide extended reach.

(6) Measurements of Hands and Grip

Three Ways to Determine Hand Size

(1) Height Test: it will be in table form
- If you’re below 5’3″, go for a 4″ grip size.
- If you’re between 5’3″ to 5’8″, opt for a 4.25″ grip.
- If you’re above 5’8″, choose a 4.5″ grip size.
(2) Finger Test:
- Hold your dominant hand up, palm facing you.
- Measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger.
- This measurement suggests the perfect grip size. If unsure, go for the smaller size.
(3) Index Finger Test:
- Grip a paddle as you normally would.
- Slide your index finger between your fingertips and thumb.
- If it fits snugly, you’ve got the right size.
- Too tight? It might be small. Too much room? It could be too big.

Follow these simple steps to choose a comfortable and effective grip, boosting your performance on the pickleball court. By performing all the above steps you will come to know about the circumference of your grip and will become easy to select suitable paddle.

Printable Grid Sizer Chart should be added

How to choose pickleball paddle?

I have followed these simple methods to measure my grip size for a pickleball paddle, holding my dominant hand up with my palm facing towards me. Measure from the middle crease of my palm to the tip of my ring finger. This measurement helped me to get my ideal grip size.

(7) Pickleball Paddle Weight

Many brands produce pickleball paddles. The standard pickleball paddle weight starts from 7 to 8.5 ounces but some brands keep it weight from 6 to 14 ounces. The choice of weight depends upon you and your skill level. The selection of right pickleball can improve your performance. Pick wisely and use it logically. Lightweight paddles enable quick shots and swift movements, while heavier paddles provide more power and stability.

There are four types of weights we have found in a pickleball journey.

(7.1) Ultra Light

These paddles weigh less than 7.4 ounces. These paddles are good for mobility from one place to another place. These are the rarest pickleball paddles in the market and mostly used by the new players. It offers good swing but little power and stability. The reason behind these features is it’s ultra lightweight. You can go with this paddle if you are a beginner level player. It is also recommended for the players who prioritize finesse and precision over power.

(7.2) Light-Weight Paddles

These paddle weights weigh from 7.4 to 7.7 ounces. Lightweight paddles offer great speed and easy swing. Ideal for intermediate players, these paddles provide excellent mobility while offering slightly more power than their ultra-light counterparts. Enjoy versatility in your gameplay as you execute accurate shots with ease. It provides a blend of control and power, suitable for a variety of playing styles.

(7.3) Mid-Weight Paddles

Improve your game with a mid-weight pickleball paddle, weighing between 7.5 and 8.3 ounces. Chosen by advanced players seeking a blend of power and control, these paddles offer solid stability and increased power for aggressive shots. Experience enhanced performance as you dominate the court with precision and power.

(7.4) Heavy-weight Paddles

Utilize maximum power and stability on the court with a heavyweight pickleball paddle weighing 8.4 ounces or more. It is solely designed for experienced players with a powerful swing and good arm strength, these paddles deliver crushing shots and superior stability. You can beat your opponents with relentless power and shot depth as you assert your dominance on the court.

How Does the Weight Impact What Pickleball Paddle I Choose?

Weight influences pickleball paddle selection. Lighter paddles, under 7.4 ounces, offer more maneuverability, ideal for finesse players. Heavier paddles, over 8.4 ounces, provide power and stability, suited for aggressive players. Choose based on playing style: light for agility, heavy for power. Strike a balance for optimal performance.

Pro tips for Pickleball Paddle according to your play style

Choose a paddle that feels comfortable in your hand and has a weight that you can handle without fatigue and suitable with your playing style.
Look for a paddle with a balanced weight distribution for greater control and accuracy.
Consider the paddle’s material and its impact on performance. Graphite paddles offer more power, while composite paddles offer better touch and control.
Try out different grip sizes to find the one that works best for your hand size and grip style.
Don’t overlook the importance of paddle shape. Wide-body paddles offer a larger sweet spot, while narrow-body paddles offer more maneuverability.
Always test out a paddle before you purchase it to make sure it meets your playing needs and preferences.

Pickleball Paddle Spin : What to look for this feature?

Improve your game with the right spin elements in your pickleball paddle. Look for textured surfaces like graphite or composite materials to give you better control over spin. Paddles with rougher textures can generate more spin on your shots, providing you with a competitive advantage on the court. Choosing a paddle that prioritizes spin elements will allow you to add finesse and precision to your game, making you a Powerful opponent on the pickleball court.

Wrapping up

In summary, choosing the right pickleball paddle is essential for improving your game. Consider your playing style and preferences to find a paddle that suits you best. Keep these 5 fundamental features in your mind type, shape, grip, weight and spin. Test different options to see what feels right. With the right paddle, you’ll boost your performance and enjoy the game even more. So, how do you choose a pickleball paddle? Follow these steps and find your perfect match!

FAQs about to pick perfect pickleball Paddle

How do I pick a Pickleball paddle? There are so many choices!

As an expert, picking the right pickleball paddle can be simplified by considering key factors. First, assess your playing style: power hitters may prefer heavier paddles, while finesse players might opt for lighter ones. Next, consider grip size, weight, and materials. Finally, test paddles if possible to find the perfect fit for your game.

How do I find a pickleball paddle with power?

For power in your pickleball paddle, choose a heavier option (over 8.4 ounces) for stability and force. Look for a solid core and larger sweet spot to maximize power transfer. Opt for materials like carbon fiber or composite for added responsiveness and powerful strokes.

Are there indoor and outdoor pickleball paddles?

Yes, there are indoor and outdoor pickleball paddles. While many paddles can be used in both settings, outdoor paddles are typically designed with more durable materials to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, such as sun exposure and moisture. Indoor paddles may prioritize control and finesse, while outdoor paddles often prioritize durability and resilience.