How to Pick the Right Pickleball Paddle for You

Every pickleball player is unique. Some players rely more on spin or power, and ones who like having better control of the ball. This is equally true when it comes to pickleball paddles. Every player has their preferences regarding materials and shape. But how do you pick a paddle that works for you? There are numerous options out there. To help make the decision-making process easier, Jax Pickleball Store is doing a deep dive into all things pickleball paddles. Here’s how to pick the right pickleball paddle for you.

Grip Size

The first thing to look out for is a paddle’s grip size. There are three categories: thin grip, standard grip, and thick grip. The thinner the grip, the better the potential range of motion in your wrist. This in turn increases the change of more spin and power. To determine your grip, pick up a paddle and try to put the pointer finger on your opposite hand in between the palm and fingertips of your dominant hand. If you can, that’s the grip size for you! Should your fingertips touch or more than one finger can be placed, the grip is too small or too large, respectively. Jax Pickleball Store recommends choosing the smaller grip if you’re in between sizes.

Core

Most pickleball paddles use a polymer core. Quiet and durable, polymer cores are very popular due to the balance of touch and power it brings. What you have to look into is the quality and density of the core. You’re not going to get the same quality as a $150 paddle if you buy a $50 one. The core’s quality will be much better in the $150 paddle. For density, honeycomb cells are packed into each core. Smaller honeycomb cells are used for higher-density paddles, allowing more cells to be packed in there. As a result, the paddle is firmer and provides more power. If the power’s your game, be on the lookout for a high-density core. We carry multiple paddles, like the Selkirk Amped Epic, that offers this.

Weight

Weight is a large factor when deciding on a paddle. When you pick up a paddle, how does it feel to you? Is it too light or too heavy? How about after playing a few matches? You want to choose a paddle that feels nice to hold while also offering the power and control you desire. Most options will range from 6 ounces to 14. The lighter it is, the better control. However, power can suffer as a result and you’ll have to exert more energy when hitting the pickleball. The opposite happens with heavier paddles. You get increased power, but less control. What paddle you choose depends on how you want to play the game.

Shape

Pickleball paddles come in all shapes and sizes. The main shapes are elongated, standard, blade, teardrop, and widebody. Each one has its benefits, and how you want to play will determine which one is the perfect paddle for you. Elongated paddles are longer than the standard and provide more power and reach, great for skilled players. Standard offers a balance between control, touch, and power. Blade paddles are long, and thin, and have small, yet solid sweet spots on the hitting surface. Teardrops have a more rounded shape than other paddles with a larger sweet spot that any player can enjoy. Finally, the widebody is the most common shape and is great for players starting thanks to the extra width. If you’re struggling with choosing a shape, consider our rent-a-paddle program. You’ll be able to take a paddle for a spin for a week so you can get a good feel for it.

Material

The materials used for a paddle's surface or facing are extremely important. The three materials normally used are carbon fiber, graphite, and fiberglass (or composite). Each impacts the control, size of the sweet spot, and power players will have. Carbon fiber is durable yet stiff, the energy of the ball impacting spreading throughout the whole face and handle. As a result, you’ll have increased feel and a larger sweet spot, but less power in exchange. Graphite is a more cost-effective version of carbon fiber and offers similar results. Fiberglass offers the most power of the bunch, as the material isn’t very stiff and reflects the energy from the impact back into the hit. The sweet spot is smaller though. Some paddles are hybrids and use multiple materials to ensure a unique performance. Jax Pickleball Store offers paddles with all materials, like the SLK Atlas (graphite) and Diadem Warrior Edge (carbon fiber).

Choosing the right pickleball paddle for you can be difficult, as there are so many different options to choose from. Hopefully, this deep dive has helped make the process a little bit easier. If you have questions about paddles, the materials used, etc., call Jax Pickleball Store or drop by the store. We’ll be more than happy to help!