How Thick Should Pickleball Grip Be?

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.

Is 13mm or 16mm pickleball paddle better?

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 does a thicker pickleball paddle do?

The thicker a paddle, the more it will absorb the ball’s energy. If a paddle comes in 13mm and 16mm thicknesses, 13mm will be the “power” and 16mm will be “control”. Some brands like Gearbox, Prokennex, and Diadem only have one thickness per paddle.

What is the best grip for a pickleball paddle?

So your palm will be placed on the same bevel as the string face. Once the Eastern grip has been achieved, use the index finger of your other hand to slide it in-between your ring finger and palm. The best paddle grip size for you will be the one where your index finger fits snugly within this gap.

What is the difference between a cheap and expensive pickleball paddle?

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 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.

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.

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.

What makes a 4.5 pickleball player?

4.5+ Skill Level Comfortable with all the rules of pickleball. Controls and places both the serve and return of serve. Generally consistent in their play, understands match strategy and uses a variety of specific shots to affect their strategy.

Is a heavier pickleball paddle better for tennis elbow?

The best paddle to use that could help prevent Pickleball Elbow would be a lighter paddle with a thicker handle, for it will reduce vibration and be easier on your arm.