Why did you choose your paddle ?
45 % Play / Demo Test
15 % Manufacturer Brand Name
11 % Grip 11 % Weight 6 % Shape 4 % Referral 3 % Surface Material 3 % Grip Size 2 % Player Endorsement
Pickleball Association , has not set any limitations on paddle weight . While the average paddle is around 7½ ounces ( oz .), weight can vary substantially among paddles and players . Over the past couple of years , touring players have learned that heavier paddles provide significantly more power than lighter models .
Paddles coming from the factory have a general weight range of 7.6 to 8.4 oz .; however , weight can be customized using lead tape to increase whip / power ( top of the paddle ), enlarge the sweet spot ( side of the paddle ), or provide better blocking ability ( bottom of the paddle head ). The addition of lead tape is universal across the sexes . You ’ ll find many female touring pros playing with paddles weighted well above 9 oz .
If you ’ re afraid to add head weight to your paddle because it might slow your reflexes , you ’ ve probably got this all wrong . Manufacturers and virtually all touring pros agree that the added weight allows for less effort to hit stronger , more accurate shots . They would also agree that heavier paddles have larger sweet spots and are better for blocking , driving and serving . Unless you have a debilitating arm injury , side with a heavier paddle .
DIMENSIONS
The USA Pickleball Association has set the approved dimensions by a calculation of the combined length and width of a paddle , which is not to exceed 24 inches . For example , a narrow paddle might be 7.25 " wide by 16.75 " long . Likewise , a wider paddle might be 8 " wide by 16 " long . Speaking in generalities , pros often choose paddles that are a little longer and less wide , whereas beginners and intermediates should side with a shorter paddle with a wider sweet spot .
If you play a lot of singles , you want to consider a longer , narrower shape that will help you cover more of the court and reach more volleys at the net . These longer paddles provide more power , with a sweet spot more toward the tip that former tennis players will love ; however , a narrow paddle means a narrow sweet spot , which can make doubles play more challenging . Also , when it ’ s windy , it may be tricky for you to find the center of the paddle .
GRIP SIZE
Next , you must consider handle size and length . This is often overlooked when purchasing a paddle , but it ’ s probably one of the most important pieces of the puzzle . The handle is your only connection to the paddle and control over the paddle face , so having the right grip is critical to controlling your shots .
Hold the paddle like you are shaking hands with it . With your normal relaxed grip , you should have a little space between your fingertips and your thumb pad ( about ¼ " to ½ "). If your fingertips almost touch or touch your thumb pad , your grip is too small . If there