Choosing the Right Pickleball Paddle - A Simple Guide

Around 15+ companies provide paddles on the market. Additionally, every brand offers 50+ types of paddles, so choosing one can be challenging. The top 3 brands of paddles are HEAD paddles, Selkirk paddles, and Paddletek paddles.

The most important things to consider before purchasing a paddle are the grip size, surface material, handle length, grip size, shape, thickness, and core material. A perfect paddle does not exist, but some are right for each individual with different purposes.

Paddles should be chosen wisely by every type of player, especially for tennis players, to avoid problems like tennis elbow.

We will look at How To Choose Pickleball Paddles and the top things to consider before buying paddles.

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How To Choose Pickleball Paddles? 7 Things To Consider While Buying

Before buying a pickleball paddle, here are 7 things to consider

Let’s understand these in detail.

1. Pickleball Paddle Core Materials

My first consideration when buying a paddle is the core material, with polymer core paddles being the most common. Polymer is the default core material used by 90% of brands. These cores are lightweight and affordable, provide a nice balance of power, and are best for Control.

If you are looking for affordable paddles, check out our article Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100

Other cores include aluminum graphite and Nomex, but the most common are Nomex and polymer. Nomex provides a soft touch for accurate shot placement and generates serious power.

There are a few brands that use carbon fiber, but they are very uncommon

An important aspect of any paddle is its core. It is like the backbone of a paddle. A good core can enhance your shots’ power and accuracy. It improves ball control and reduces shocks and vibrations when returning fast volleys.

2. Pickleball Paddle Core Thickness

The thickness of the paddle core, including options like a thicker core paddle, is a key factor in determining which pickleball paddle to select. In paddles, thickness is the layer in the middle between the face (front) and the back.

The thickness of the core can range from 10mm to 19mm. However, they vary from brand to brand.

Thick Core

A thicker core is between 16 and 19 mm. The thicker the core, the more control and touch you have. The most common type of core and the one recommended for beginners. The major disadvantage of having a thicker core is the loss of power factor.

Thin Core

Thinner cores are also available in the market. A thin core can range between 10-14mm.

This attack gives you more power, but your control may be compromised. If power is your main concern in a paddle, go for a thinner core.

Mid-Range Thicknesses

Last but not least is middle range thickness. It is in the middle of thick and thin. It is an excellent choice for a player who simultaneously needs power and control.

Yes, it is important because the thickness of the core affects your performance. However, the thickness to choose may vary from player to player.

Choose Thin over thick if you’re a player who likes to hit the ball hard but can compromise on control.If you want better control but can compromise on power, choose thick over thin paddles

3. Pickleball Paddle Surface/Face

Paddle surfaces are those parts of the paddle that make direct contact with the ball. Control paddles, often made with materials like graphite and carbon fiber, offer a large, consistent sweet spot for better accuracy. Fiberglass and carbon fiber are the most common materials for surface surfaces. How the paddle is faced will affect power, control, and the size of the sweet spot.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a great option if you are a player who values power over control. Compared to carbon fiber, it offers more power.

Since the material used in it is not very stiff, the softness of the fiberglass makes the shots jumpier.

As far as fiberglass goes, the sweet spot isn’t that big, either.

Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber is the second most commonly used material on the face. Carbon fiber has many advantages. With it, you can have more control and feel over your shots.

A $50 paddle may be made of carbon fiber, while a $200 paddle is also made of carbon fiber, and you might wonder why such a difference exists when both are made from the same material. The answer is that you can arrange carbon fiber differently so that costs may vary.

One disadvantage of carbon fiber is that you may lose power.

The thing that interacts with the ball in the court is the surface material; it’s also important to consider.

The materials used in the paddle face have a significant impact on key performance attributes, such as power, control, feel, touch, durability and spin.

4. Pickleball Paddle Shape

The shape of the paddle, or paddle shapes, will affect your sweet spot, power, and control. Pickleball paddles commonly come in two shapes: Widebody and Elongated.

This type of paddle, known as standard shaped paddles, is the default type.

Widebody Paddle

Paddles of this type have a wide space and a short length. These are the best for those looking for paddles with a large sweet spot. You may sacrifice control and power in it.

Elongated Paddle

An Elongated paddle type has a short space and a long length. These types will give you benefits in power and Control, but you may not have a large sweet spot.

Standard Paddle

This type of paddle is the default type. These paddles are between elongated and widebody in shape. There is an equal amount of power, control, and a sweet spot.

In the market, there are many shapes to choose from. Different players have different preferences when it comes to choosing shapes. The Elongated is suitable for players who want more power and control and can play with a small sweet spot.

Widebody is for those who want the biggest sweet spot regardless of power or control sacrifices.Those who are just basic players and don’t care about power control and sweet spots can choose the standard

5. Pickleball Paddle Handle Length

Another important factor when choosing a pickleball paddle is the handle length. Handle lengths range from 4.5 to 6 inches, but 5 inches is the most common. Choosing the right paddle with the appropriate handle length can significantly impact your comfort and performance.

Long Handle

A long handle is more than 5 inches long. Long handles have advantages of their own. Longer handles make returning hard-hit volleys in rallies easier with both hands. A larger handle can be a good choice if you have long hands.

A long handle paddle is great for players who like to place their fingers on the handle as they play.

Short Handle

Handles shorter than 5. in are considered short handles. This type has a larger surface area that lets you control your shots better. They are ideal for players with short hands. It has the disadvantage of not being as quick as a longer handle.

Check our article Best Small Hands Paddle.

The shape of your game can affect your game a lot. Players have different styles and choices of play.

A player with long hands and a preference for power should consider long over short. Many players keep their fingers upward while playing, so long is an ideal choice for them as well.

Power may be sacrificed if you select short over long. Your shots will be more controlled if you use a short paddle. Players with short hands prefer this type

6. Pickleball Paddle Weight

When selecting a paddle, I suggest my students consider paddle weights as well. This can have an impact on your game style. The weight ranges from 7 to 8.5 ounces.

Lighter Paddle

According to a market saying, the bigger the paddle, the more control you have, but I disagree. A lighter handle will be easy to control, but you may lose some power. A shorter paddle is quicker in court than a long paddle.

Check our article for a detailed Paddle Weight Guide in Pickleball.

Heavier Paddle

In the market, these types of paddles are most commonly used. Shots with these are more powerful and more stable. Spin can be generated more easily with this type of weight.

If you are a player who likes to spin on the court, I have reviewed Best Pickleball paddles For Spin too.

There is no doubt that weights can majorly impact your game. Beginners often ask us what weight is right for them.

There is no answer to what type of weight is best. Each person has a different style of playing. If you are a player who needs more power, choose heavier.

7. Pickleball Paddle Grip

The part of the paddle you hold is called the grip, and choosing the right pickleball paddle grip size is crucial for comfort and control. Grips come in different sizes measured by their circumference or the distance around the outside of the grip.

The grip size of a pickleball paddle typically ranges from 4 1/4 inches to 4 5/8 inches.

Narrower Grip

If you are a beginner, you should choose a narrow grip. Players with small hands often prefer paddles with narrower grips, ensuring better control and comfort. They have a smaller circumference, which increases swing speed and wrist action. It lets you shoot and move paddles quickly.

Wider Grip

These types are the best choice for those who prefer to play with two hands because they give you more space to hold them. They give you more stability and control over your shots than narrow grips.

Check Out the best pickleball Paddles for Two-handed Players.

Choosing a grip size that properly fits your hand size is important. It should feel comfortable to hold without feeling cramped in your fingers. E.g. For players with a two-handed backhand, finding the right grip size is crucial for maintaining control and comfort.

If the grip is too small, your fingers will be squeezed together in an awkward, tight position. This can reduce control.

If the grip is too large, the paddle may slip too much in your hand. This makes it hard to swing smoothly and time your shots.

What Pickleball Paddle Should I Buy?

This question has no perfect answer since every player has their preferences. Choosing the right pickleball paddle that fits your unique preferences and play style is crucial. Some prefer heavier paddles, while others prefer lighter paddles.

Selecting the right paddle shape based on your playing style and comfort can optimize your performance on the court. Some people like elongated bodies, some like widebodies, and so on.

We have discussed 7 things to consider, but you must list your preferences and then write them down. The process can take a long time. Therefore, I designed a small table so you can decide more easily.

When choosing surface and core, ask yourself whether power is more important or control.

Choose paddles with an elongated shape, a fiberglass face, and a thinner core if power is more important to you.
If you value control over power, go for paddles with carbon fiber faces with thicker cores.

When choosing a shape, ask yourself whether you value reach more or forgiveness.

An elongated shape would be ideal if you value reach.
Wide body shapes are good for people who value forgiveness.

When choosing a weight question, ask yourself whether you value power or paddle speed.

You’ll want something heavier in general if you’re looking for power.
A lighter paddle is going to be better if you value paddle speed.

If you still are confused and are unable to decide what paddle to choose check here for more Information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some related questions people mostly ask when choosing paddles.

What Is The Best Weight For A Pickleball Paddle?

Since every player wants different qualities from their paddle, no trainer or player can answer this question. The basic idea is that if you seek power in your paddle, you should go heavier, whereas if you seek speed, you should go lighter.

Elongated Vs Standard Pickleball Paddle? Which One To Choose

The Elongated is suitable for players who want more power and control and can play with a small sweet spot.
Those who are just basic players and don’t care about power control and sweet spots can choose the standard ones.

Choosing the right paddle shape can significantly impact your game, depending on whether you prioritize power and control or a larger sweet spot.

What Is The Best Material For A Pickleball Paddle?

The best pickleball paddle material is polymer, as polymer core paddles are commonly used by 90% of brands. It is the default core material used by most manufacturers.

What Type Of Pickleball Paddle Is Best? Graphite Vs Fiberglass

Graphite is typically considered the better material, especially for competitive-level play. But fiberglass can still be a good option for casual players who want something affordable and durable.

Wrapping Up

Pickleball is not only enjoyable for pickleball players but also for tennis players, as the skills often complement each other.

You should consider these 7 things when buying a pickleball paddle: the material of the core, the thickness of the core, the shape and length of the paddle handle, and the weight and grip of the paddle.

You can make a more professional and easier choice by considering these things.

Thanks for Reading along. Have a nice Day !!

Choosing the Right Pickleball Paddle – A Simple Guide