The Ultimate Pickleball Paddle Buyers Guide – Find Your Paddle

As an avid pickleball player, coach, and gear reviewer, I’ve had the privilege of testing all types of paddles over the years. From budget-friendly beginner paddles to high-performance models designed for pros, I’ve swung them all.
Through these experiences, I’ve gained a lot of insight into the nuances of pickleball paddles. I know what to look for when selecting a paddle that In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of choosing a quality pickleball paddle. I’ll share everything I’ve learned about paddle materials, designs, weights, shapes, and more.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to select the ideal paddle to elevate your game. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Determine Your Skill Level and Style of Play

The first step is identifying what type of player you are. This will allow you to select a paddle optimized for your unique needs and abilities.

Ask yourself:

• Are you a beginner or advanced player?
• Is control or power your priority?
• Do you play more offense or defense?
• Are you a baseline hitter or a net player?

Beginners will benefit most from lighter paddles that provide control and forgiveness. Advanced players often prefer heavier paddles for added power and stability.

Defensive players need paddles with excellent touch and control to place shots precisely. Aggressive hitters require paddles that maximize power and spin on drives.

If you spend more time at the baseline, consider longer, head-heavy paddles for reach and leverage on groundstrokes. For net play, shorter paddles offer better maneuverability in quick exchanges.

Understanding your skill level and style of play will inform all the remaining paddle decisions. Keep this context in mind as we explore the technical elements.

Step 2: Select the Right Paddle Weight

Weight is one of the most influential factors in paddle performance and feel. Heavier paddles provide more power and stability, while lighter models offer increased maneuverability and speed.

The average pickleball paddle weighs around 7.6 to 8.2 ounces. However, you can find paddles ranging from 6 ounces for ultra-light options up to 9 ounces for super heavy paddles.

I recommend choosing the heaviest paddle you can comfortably control. The extra mass translates to more power and plow through without compromising swing speed.

Weight Class Guidelines:

• Ultra Lightweight: 6.0 – 7.3 oz – Ideal for beginners or players with injuries needing increased maneuverability and reduced strain.
• Lightweight: 7.3 – 7.8 oz – Offers speed and mobility for net play, touch shots, and developing proper technique.
• Medium Weight: 7.8 – 8.2 oz – The sweet spot that suits most beginner to intermediate players. Provides a balance of control, power, and forgiveness.
• Heavyweight: 8.2 – 8.7 oz – Generates maximum power while still controllable for strong intermediate to advanced players.
• Ultra Heavyweight: 8.7+ oz – Only recommended for very strong advanced players able to handle the heft. Provides unparalleled plow-through on drives for aggressive baseline play.

Regardless of your skill level, make sure to play test paddles in your desired weight class before deciding. Weight distribution and balance can vary greatly from paddle to paddle, so swing them to gauge true feel.

Step 3: Evaluate Paddle Balance and Feel

A paddle’s weight on paper doesn’t always align with how it handles in your hand. The distribution of mass, shape of the head, length of the handle, and thickness of the grip all affect the overall balance.

To accurately assess balance, grip the paddle at the very bottom of the handle. Swing it gently side to side while maintaining a consistent grip placement.

Pay attention to these characteristics:

• Maneuverability – How easy is it control the paddle head throughout your swing? Can you make minor adjustments mid-stroke?
• Swing Speed – How quickly and smoothly can you maneuver the paddle? Does it feel fast or sluggish in motion?
• Stability – Does the paddle feel stable and solid at ball impact? Or does it twist or waver when contact is off-center?
• Shock Absorption – Does the paddle cushion the ball at contact or feel rigid and jarring?
• Power Transfer – Does the paddle absorb energy or propel the ball with force? Essentially, does it feel firm or muted upon ball impact?

There are no right or wrong answers here, only personal preferences. Seek a paddle with feel characteristics that match your playstyle and needs on the court.

For example, touch players will likely prefer paddles with excellent maneuverability, speed, and shock absorption for optimal finesse and control. Power hitters need stability and a firm, responsive face that transfers energy into the ball with force.

Step 4: Determine Optimal Paddle Length and Shape

The length and shape of your paddle significantly influence its performance. As a general rule, longer paddles provide more power and reach, while wider paddles offer a larger sweet spot.

Most regulation pickleball paddles range from 15.25 to 17 inches long. The permitted maximum length is 17 inches.

Common paddle shapes include:

• Standard: 15.5 to 16 inches long, 7.5 to 8 inches wide. Provides a balance of power, control, and forgiveness. Ideal for all-around play.
• Midsize: 15 to 15.5 inches long, 7.75 to 8.25 inches wide. Shorter length increases maneuverability while wider surface area maximizes sweet spot. Great for net play.
• Oversize: 15.5 to 16.5 inches long, 8 to 8.5 inches wide. The wide face offers more sweet spot surface area and power. Good for beginners needing extra forgiveness.
• Elongated: 16.5 to 17 inches long, 7 to 7.5 inches wide. The longer, narrower head provides added reach, leverage, and power. Ideal for baseline drives and spin.

Think about your positioning and strokes on the court to choose a shape. If you play mostly at the net, a midsize or oversize shape will provide the quick handling needed to attack short balls.

Baseline hitters and aggressive serve and volley players will likely appreciate the extra length of an elongated paddle for driving power groundstrokes and putting spin on serves.

Step 5: Select an Appropriate Grip Size

Your paddle’s grip size can determine whether your shots fly smooth or sail long. The right fit allows you to hold the paddle loosely with proper wrist action and positioning.

Grips are measured by circumference, typically ranging from 4 to 4.625 inches in diameter.

Follow these tips to find your ideal grip size:

• Err on the smaller side – You can always build up a smaller grip with overwrap or tape. It’s more difficult to shrink down an oversized grip.
• Use the finger test – With your playing hand in position, see if you can comfortably fit the index finger of your opposite hand between your palm and fingertips. If it’s a snug fit without having to spread your fingers wider, that grip size should work well.
• Consider hand size – Players with larger hands generally need grips 4.375 inches or larger in circumference. Smaller hands usually favor grips 4 to 4.25 inches around.
• Factor in glove use – If you wear a glove, purchase a grip about .25 inches larger than your measurements without a glove to accommodate the extra material.

While grip comfort is subjective, an improper fit can hinder your stroke mechanics and control. Take time to get the sizing right so you can wield your paddle freely.

Step 6: Determine Handle Length Preference

The length of your paddle’s handle influences grip versatility and court positioning. Shorter handles provide greater maneuverability, while longer handles allow two-handed grips and increase reach.

Typical pickleball paddle handles range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches long.

Consider your needs:

• Shorter: 4.5 to 5 inches – Provides more paddle face surface area for a bigger sweet spot. Ideal for one-handed grip players favoring touch and net play.
• Longer: 5 to 5.5 inches – Allows space for two-handed backhand grips and gives more reach on groundstrokes. Best for baseline drivers and aggressive play.

If you frequently switch between one and two-handed grips mid-rally, I suggest a moderate handle around 5.25 inches to achieve a balance of maneuverability and versatility.

Step 7: Choose a Grip Material That Provides Proper Traction

The grip material you choose is vital – it’s the only point of contact between your hand and the paddle. Grips enhance traction and absorb sweat and vibration.

Three main categories of grip material exist:

• Cloth – Made of fabric or synthetic leather. Provides decent traction and comfort at an affordable price point. Requires frequent replacement.
• Hybrid – Combines a cloth underlay wrapped with a textured synthetic grip overlay. offers durability, cushioning, and weather resistance.
• Synthetic – Made of polyurethane or rubber-like materials. Provides excellent cushioning and the highest level of weather resistance and tackiness. Most durable with longer grip life.

While personal preference dictates, I suggest synthetic grips for their unmatched longevity and traction, especially in hot playing conditions. The upfront investment is well worth the performance.

If needed, you can add an overgrip to any factory grip for extra tackiness and absorption. Look for grips with perforations or holes to allow your hand to breathe.

Step 8: Select Paddle Composition Based on Skill Level

The materials that make up your paddle – from the core to the face – greatly impact performance and price. Use your skill level as a guide when choosing composition.

Cores:

Polymer – Polypropylene honeycomb. Offers optimal blend of control, power, touch, and affordability. Ideal for beginners through advanced players.

Nomex – Hard paper-based honeycomb interior. Provides extra stiffness and pop. Best suited for competitive/elite players.

Aluminum – Solid aluminum core. Gives rigidity and touch. Great for recreational players who value control.

Polycarbonate – Solid plastic core. Mixes power and control. Ideal for intermediate players.

Faces:

Composite – Combination of materials like fiberglass, graphite, carbon, and Kevlar. Balances power, spin, control, and affordability. Great for beginners and intermediates.

Graphite – Woven graphite fibers. Emphasizes lightness, finesse, and control. Popular with touch players.

Carbon Fiber – Woven carbon fibers. Optimizes pop and power. Favored by competitive players.

Fiberglass – Woven fiberglass fibers. Provides superior power and durability. Ideal for aggressive play styles.

There are merits to all materials, but polymer cores and composite faces offer the best blend of characteristics for most players. Avoid cheap wood and aluminum paddles, which dent easily. Invest in quality construction from proven pickleball brands.

Step 9: Compare and Test Different Brands/Models

With so many companies selling paddles today, the choices can become overwhelming. Here is what I suggest:

Start by making a list of 2-3 reputable paddle brands that meet your size, shape, weight, and composition needs. Then compare their models with similar attributes.

Assess specs like balance points, grip sizes, thicknesses, core types, and composite layering. Prices and warranties are worth factoring in too. This narrows the field.

Next, read pickleball forums and reviews to gain insights from players who have used the paddles extensively. Feedback on real-world playability can reveal strengths and weaknesses.

Finally, test the shortlisted paddles on court. Demo programs from reputable retailers allow you to try before buying with no risk. Even 15-20 minutes with a paddle in play provides tremendous insights versus specs alone.

Pay attention to how the paddles feel in motion, at ball contact, on both forehand and backhands, and on various types of shots like serves. Testing paddles is the best way to determine your ideal match.

Allow 5-10 hours of play for the paddle to fully break in and reach peak performance. Be patient through the adjustment phase.

Step 10: Ongoing Paddle Care:

• Inspect regularly for cracks, chips, or loose parts needing repair. Address issues promptly to avoid greater damage.
• When not in use, store your paddle securely in a case away from extreme temperatures and moisture.
• Keep your paddle surfaces clean by wiping down after play. Avoid harsh chemicals – water and microfiber are ideal.
• Replace your grip annually or whenever it becomes excessively worn, slick, or develops edge tearing.

With the proper care, a quality pickleball paddle should deliver consistent, peak play for 1-2 years or more of frequent use. Treat it well, and it will treat you well game after game!

In Closing

I hope this guide provides everything you need to select your ideal pickleball paddle with confidence. Finding the right paddle is incredibly rewarding, enabling you to play your very best.

While the process involves weighing many technical factors, don’t forget the most important element – your own instincts and preferences. Playtest as many quality paddles as possible. The one that just “feels right” – like an extension of your arm out on the courts – is the winner!