How Much Lead Tape Should I Add To My Pickleball Paddle?

Decals, markings, and tape can extend no farther than 1.0 inches (2.54 cm) above the top of the grip nor more than 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) inside from the outer edge of a paddle or paddle edge guard if in place.

How do you increase grip size on a pickleball paddle?

If the maximum grip size a paddle comes in is still too small for your hand, you can use a pickleball overgrip to build up the diameter of the grip. 1layer of an overgrip builds the grip up by about 1/16th of an inch. You would wrap the grip until it was built up to your desired thickness.

How much weight does Ben Johns add to his paddle?

In the comments in the above video, Ben mentions that he typically will add weight until his paddle is about 9oz. This is heavier that what most recreational and even many pro players would use.

Do professional pickleball players use lead tape?

More and more pickleball players—especially competitive pickleball players, including professional pickleball players—are adding lead tape to their pickleball paddles. This is because lead tape may lead to: More Power – Adding lead tape makes your pickleball paddle heavier.

Does lead tape make the ball go further?

The point of lead tape is to increase the swing weight of a club by adding weight. In theory, it can help you hit it further and straighter than a lighter club. Plus, you can apply it in several ways based on your miss and desired shot shape.

Is graphite or carbon fiber better for pickleball paddle?

Graphite is a bit heavier than carbon fiber and slightly less durable (and more cost effective, which is a reason many manufacturers use it rather than carbon fiber). Because of Graphite’s stiff nature, the ball does not sink into it, so it is easier to direct the ball, providing fantastic ball placement.

How tight should I hold my pickleball paddle?

Pickleball players don’t need to put too much power behind the ball when dinking. On a scale of one to 10, grip pressure should fall between three and five. Many new and intermediate players tend to hold the paddle too tightly, often falling between an eight or nine.

Can you drill holes in a pickleball paddle?

2. Surface. The paddle hitting surface shall not contain holes, indentations, rough texturing, tape, or any objects or features that allow a player to impart additional spin on the ball.

How do you get fast hands in pickleball?

Don’t let the ball hit the ground and practice aiming at your spot on the wall. As you get comfortable, increase your speed and notice how your hands react faster to the balls ricocheting back at you. Make sure to drill both forehand and backhand so you’re equally deadly from either side.

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.