How to Choose a Pickleball Paddle

Pickleball Paddle Basics

For new pickleball players, it’s always good to start with the basics before you purchase a paddle. This includes the grip circumference of the paddle and the handle length.

Grip Circumference

Pickleball paddles come in three different ranges of grip circumference—thin, standard, and thick. Making sure your pickleball paddle has the right circumference is important to ensure your grip on the paddle is secure for peak performance.

Pro Tip: To figure out which pickleball paddle circumference is correct for you, place a ruler at the bottom lateral crease in your palm and measure to the top of your ring finger. If you fall between two sizes, our Experts recommend choosing the smaller size.

• Thin (<4 ⅛”): Players with smaller hands typically fit within this range. 

• Standard (4 ¼” - 4 ⅜”): This range of grip is preferred by most players.

• Thick ( >4 ½”): Players with larger hands will most likely fit in this range.

If you are still unsure which grip circumference is right for you, stop into your local SCHEELS for assistance!

Handle Length

For new players, the best handle length to choose is either a short handle or a standard handle. This will give you the most surface area on the paddle face and will help increase your hit rate while starting out. The handle length on a pickleball paddle is adjustable, so if you decide later on you want a longer handle, you can get an extension. However, pickleball paddle handles cannot be adjusted to be shorter, so if this is your first paddle, we suggest that you choose either a short handle or a standard handle to start! 

• Short: A short handle is best for new players. This handle length will provide the most surface area of the paddle face. 

• Standard: This is the most common handle length and is a suitable choice for all experience levels. 

• Extended: Extended paddle lengths are best for experienced players. The extra length can be crucial for extra power and comfort while playing with two hands.

Structure That Affects Play Style

The structure of your paddle can affect your play style and performance. When it comes to paddle weight and shape, there is a different combination for each player. Our Experts have outlined recommendations based on your experience level and play style to simplify the options!

Paddle Shape

The shape of your paddle can greatly influence how often you can hit the ball. Your play style will be the deciding factor for this decision, whether you are a beginner, play singles, or have a balanced play style. 

Standard

Elongated

Wide-Body

Paddle Weight

Paddle weight is a key feature for figuring out your play style. If you are a beginner or a player with a pre-existing injury, a lightweight or middleweight paddle is perfect. For more experienced players, a heavyweight paddle would likely match your play style and skill level.

• Lightweight <7.2 oz.: A great option for players positioned closer to the net because the paddle weight offers less resistance to movement.

• Middleweight 7.3-8.4 oz.: This paddle weight is ideal for beginners. Middleweight paddles can be a starting point for players who are trying to figure out or develop their play style. 

• Heavyweight >8.5 oz.: This paddle weight is typically for players who are positioned near the baseline and want to generate the most power while hitting hard.

Materials That Affect Game Play

Much like the shape and weight of the paddle, the materials the paddle is composed of can affect your playing style and performance. Whether it be how much power and control you want on the court or how much spin you want to produce, the paddle core and surface material will affect this. 

Core Material

The core material is all about power and control. A thick core allows for better control, and a thin core allows for more power. Your choice of core material typically depends on your play style. 

• Polypropylene: The core is the most popular due to its versatility in play styles. This is the best core material for new players who are trying out different play styles.

• Aluminum: This core can be ideal for players who are positioned near the net and are focused on control and quick movement.

• Nomex: A Nomex core has plenty of benefits, such as high durability and low restriction for speed and power on the court. This core is popular for single players.

Hitting Surface Material

The hitting surface material, or what the paddle face is composed of, will affect how much energy you can absorb and return during a rally. Our Experts outline the four most common hitting surface materials. 

• Composite: Composite material is the most common and popular material used. This material is great for new players and players who want high power and spin. 

• Fiberglass: Fiberglass is an ideal material for players who want the most power, spin, and flexibility from their paddle. 

• Carbon Fiber: For peak power control and accuracy in your rally, a carbon fiber surface material is a great choice.

• Graphite: Graphite surfaces are used primarily by professional athletes who want a lightweight paddle.

Choosing the right pickleball paddle is crucial to developing a style and feeling confident when starting to play! After considering important factors like grip, paddle shape, and paddle materials, with the help of our Expert's advice, choosing the right paddle should be easy! If you have any additional questions about pickleball paddles, head to your local SCHEELS and speak with a Pickleball Expert!