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Paddle shapes vary, but the main three paddle shapes are elongated and traditional/widebody.
So, you're ready to join the pickleball revolution — awesome! But before you grab the nearest paddle and hit the court, let's talk about picking the perfect one for you. With a bit of guidance, you'll find a paddle that'll have you smashing winners in no time.
1. Paddle Materials
Pickleball paddles typically come in three main materials that then have various surfaces and cores.
- Aluminium/Wood: The classic, budget-friendly choices. Great starter paddle materials and type for beginners, but they're heavier and offer less power and control compared to their fancier counterparts.
- Composite: These paddles use a mix of materials like fibreglass, polymer, foam, and carbon fibre. They're lighter and more versatile and offer more power and better control. Perfect for those ready to play more and improve their skills.
2. Weight: Light vs. Heavy
Paddles come in different weights, and the choice depends on your play style.
- Lightweight (Under 210g): Easy to manoeuvre and less strain on your wrist and arm. Ideal for quick reactions and finesse shots.
- Midweight (212-232g): A balanced hybrid option providing a good mix of power and control. Great for most beginners and top players alike looking for versatility.
- Heavyweight (Over 232g): Offers more power and stability. Consider this if you want a more solid feel and can handle the extra weight.
3. Paddle Thickness
Paddle thickness can affect your game in subtle but important ways:
- Thin Paddles (Under 12mm): Offers a good balance of power and control. It's suitable for a wide range of play styles and is a solid choice for beginners.
- Medium Paddles (12-14mm): These paddles provide a larger sweet spot and more power, making them great for players who have refined their finesse and can compromise some control for power to put the winning shot away.
- Thicker Paddles (Over 14mm): Thicker paddles offer greater control and a more “connected” feel with the ball. They're typically favoured by players who prefer precision and finesse over power, making them great for players who want a bit of forgiveness on off-centre hits.
4. Paddle Shape and Surface
Paddle shapes vary, but the main three paddle shapes are elongated and traditional/widebody:
- Elongated: These paddles offer a longer paddle face for extra reach and a longer handle, typically at 14cm, ideal for two-handed backhands. Many tennis players playing pickleball prefer this shape as it most mirrors a tennis racket.
- Traditional/Widebody: The face of these paddles is wider, offering a rounded paddle face and larger centre sweet spot. These paddles have a smaller handle length, typically 12.7cm.
- Surface Texture: Textured surfaces offer better spin control. If you're keen on mastering spin shots, look for fibreglass paddles with a grit or a carbon textured surface.
5. Grip Size: Find Your Comfort Zone
Grip size is crucial for control and comfort. Here's a simple way to find your fit:
- Measure: Use a ruler to measure from the tip of your ring finger to the base of your palm. Compare this with paddle grip sizes available. Most beginners opt for a grip size between 10cm and 11.4cm.
- Test It Out: Hold the paddle with your hand in the playing position. There should be a small gap (about the width of a dime) between your fingers and palm. Too tight, and you'll lose control; too loose, and you'll lack stability.
Choosing the right pickleball paddle can make all the difference in your game. With these tips, you're well on your way to finding a paddle that'll have you playing your best game. So, grab that paddle and ball and get ready to hit the court with confidence.
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