Pickleball Paddle Grip Size Small (4 – 4.125), medium (4.25) and large (4.5). Too big a grip size may cause slippage or turning in your hand and can lead to elbow problems. It’s always better to start small and build up to a larger grip size. Smaller grip sizes also allow for more wrist action and added spin.
Does grip size matter in pickleball?
This is because a small pickleball grip size will provide for more wrist action on your shots, which may lead to more power on your shots, as well as more spin and control of the pickleball. Further, if your pickleball grip size is too big, your pickleball paddle may slip in your hand.
Can you modify a pickleball paddle?
There are a few texture changes that you are allowed to make to your pickleball paddle. You can add weight, improve the grip, and add drawings or pictures that are in good taste. As long as you don’t alter the surface of your paddle in any way, you should be fine.
What is the difference between a 13mm and 16mm pickleball paddle?
The difference in thickness (16 mm vs 13 mm) made a big difference in how the paddles played. The 16 mm was softer, easier to control and stable. The 13 mm was more powerful, had a harder feeling and was less stable.
What grip do pro pickleball players use?
The first skill to master is the continental grip, which can be used to hit every kind of pickleball shot. This grip keeps the face of the racquet in line with the palm, and because of this flatness, it can help you maximize your forward power during volleys, backhands, dink shots and overheads.
Is it better to have a lighter or heavier pickleball paddle?
A lighter paddle gives you more control but less drive. Conversely, a heavier paddle gives you less control but more power and drive. Perhaps most importantly, a heavier paddle can cause elbow strain and fatigue in your arm. You may want to start with a paddle that is not too heavy until you build up more strength.
What happens if my grip size is too small?
A too-small grip requires more muscle strength to keep the racquet from twisting in your hand. Prolonged use of a grip that’s too small can contribute to tennis elbow problems. A grip that’s too large inhibits wrist snap on serves, makes changing grips more difficult and also requires more muscle strength.
How do I choose a grip size?
The main rule with grip size is that you want a handle big enough so that there is some space between the tips of your fingers and your hand (like the image on the left). If your fingers go all the way around the handle and run back into your hand (like the image on the right), you need a larger grip size.
Do expensive pickleball paddles make a difference?
The more expensive paddles are using a higher quality polymer that doesn’t breakdown as easily and gives you a more consistent feel across the face. Other than the quality of the polymer, other things you’ll see when the core material is described is core density.
Is graphite or wood better for pickleball paddles?
A paddle surface that is made from graphite is durable and powerful, so you will have an easier time hitting the ball. Graphite paddles are ultra-light and ultra-stiff. Players looking for control and more energy to get the ball across the net prefer graphite pickleball paddles.