Pickleball is a great sport for all ages and skill levels, and to get started, there’s very little that you’ll need. But one thing you'll need to get is a pickleball paddle! What is the best pickleball paddle for you will depend on your own preferences, what feels the best in your hand, and whether you think you’ll need more power or control when hitting the ball.
Exploring the Different Types of Pickleball Paddles
There are a range of pickleball paddles available on the market. Shop around to find the paddle for you with the most comfortable weight, grip, and shape within your budget. Picking out your first paddle can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Once you know more about what’s available, you can make a more informed decision on what is best for you!To pick the right pickleball paddle, it’s important to understand some of the most important elements of a paddle, and what’s best for you can depend on your skill level and playing style. So, let’s take a look at some of the different things you should consider when purchasing a pickleball paddle as a beginner.
Material
When it comes to surface and core materials of a pickleball paddle, different materials offer varying levels of durability, power, and control. The paddles originally used for pickleball were made of plywood, and wood paddles are still used to this day. These are typically on the heavier side, but it can be a durable and low-cost option. So, they can be a good choice for some beginner recreational players. The materials and technology involved with making pickleball paddles are changing rapidly, and this has brought forward paddles with different core materials, including polymer, aluminum, and Nomex. And the paddle face materials are usually carbon fiber, fiberglass, or graphite.No matter what type you decide on, it's important that your paddle fits comfortably in your hand, enabling you to generate enough speed while still being able maintain control over each shot.
Weight
Weight should be one of the top considerations when it comes to picking a pickleball paddle as a beginner. Paddles often range from around 6 to 14 ounces. While a few ounces might not sound like that’d make much of a difference, it does if you’re swinging that weight around for a couple of hours!As the weight is so key, it can be helpful to visit a store to try holding and swinging a few paddles to see how they feel. And hopefully you can also get some personalized advice from a shop assistant.There are a range of pros and cons for lighter or heavier paddles. Lighter paddles come with increased ball control and better maneuverability. It also puts less stress on your shoulders and elbows. But they also come with reduced power and drive, so you’ll need to hit the ball with a stronger swing. And it’ll be more difficult to hit long or hard shots.On the other hand, heavier paddles can give you more power, and it’s less effort to hit the ball harder and deeper. However, you have less control, it increases fatigue if you play for a long time, and it can put stress on your elbows.
Dimension
Another factor to consider is the dimension of the paddle face. If you’re just starting out playing pickleball, you may want to purchase a paddle with a slightly bigger paddle face, which is also known as a ‘wide body’ paddle.
Grip Size
The grip size is the circumference of the paddle handle. Ideally, you should get a paddle that has a grip circumference that matches your hand size.Pickleball paddles can come in different grip sizes. Most paddles come with a standard grip size of 4.25 inch. If this is too small, you could use overgrips to increase the width and circumference of the handle.
Price
Pickleball paddles can range anywhere from $10 to more than $150, so there is a paddle out there for every kind of budget. If you’re just starting out, you may be tempted to go for one of the cheaper options, and then later on you may figure out what you like best in a paddle. But some people recommend spending a bit more at the start if you’re wanting to really get into pickleball.
Finding the Best Pickleball Paddle & Hitting the Court
From the material and dimension to the weight and grip size, there are a few key things you should consider before purchasing your first pickleball paddle. Remember, the paddle you select can affect your play, so think about what is right for you and within your budget!Pickleball is an incredibly accessible sport, and with a range of paddles on the market at an affordable price, it’s easy to get started. Once you’ve bought a paddle and are ready to get out on the court, find pickleball hitting partners, coaches, and courts near you on Bounce!
