1. PICKLEBALL PADDLE WEIGHT
Pickleball paddles range in weight from 6 oz. – 14 oz. Paddles are typically divided into three weight categories:
Lightweight pickleball paddles (>7.3 oz.)
Midweight pickleball paddles (7.3 oz – 8.3 oz.)
Heavyweight pickleball paddles (8.5+ oz.)
LIGHTER
PROS VS. CONS:
Better control and maneuverability
More effort is needed to put power on shots.
Less power – harder to hit deep shots
Need a stronger swing
HEAVIER
PROS VS. CONS:
More power
Less effort to hit hard
Better for depth
Stress on injuries and increased arm fatigue
Less control
2. COMPOSITION
Pickleball paddles comprise two areas with distinct material properties: the paddle face and the paddle core. There are several different types of face and core materials.
FACE MATERIALS
Fiberglass – heavy and powerful but not as strong as other face materials
Graphite– thin and light for quick action and reasonable control
Carbon Fiber – Similar to graphite but more durable
2 Types of Carbon Fiber
1. Raw Carbon Fiber Face Examples
2. Finished Carbon Face Examples
CORE MATERIALS
Polymer – soft with large honeycomb cells; great power but sacrifices control
Nomex – harder and denser for long-lasting performance; louder with less power but great control
Aluminum – The most outstanding feature is superior control (Can Dent) - Not many paddles are made with this material anymore.
3. PICKLEBALL PADDLE SHAPE
The shape of pickleball paddles varies based on the manufacturer. Some have distinct features, like the diamond-shaped paddles by HEAD. The length and width of the paddles vary, as well. The USAPA (USA Pickleball Association) approves paddles not exceeding 17 inches long. There are no restrictions on paddle thickness.
Selkirk Shapes
1. Invikta - Long Paddle with Long Face and Standard Handle
2. Epic - Standard Length with Square Face and Standard Handle
3. S2 - Standard/Shorter Length with Rectangular Face and Smaller Handle
Edgeless vs. Edge-Guarded
– Edgeless pickleball paddles have more surface space, but edge-guarded paddles have a guard that protects the integrity of the paddle. The question is, do you sacrifice durability for greater surface area?
Edgeless - No Edge Guard
Edge-Guarded - has a Boardered Edge Guard.
4. PICKLEBALL PADDLE THICKNESS
Thick Paddles (Control Paddles)
15-17mm Wide
More Control
Softer Feel
Feels like larger sweet spot
Absorbs power.
Thin Paddles (Power Paddles)
12-15mm
More Power
More Feel/Vibrations
Sweet Spot Feels Smaller
5. PICKLEBALL PADDLE GRIP SIZE
Pickleball paddle grip sizes range from 4 - 4.5. Small (4 – 4.125), medium (4.25), and large (4.5). Too big a grip size may cause slippage or turning in your hand, leading to elbow problems. It’s always better to start small and build a larger grip size. Smaller grip sizes also allow for more wrist action and added spin.
Information adapted from - https://fromuthpickleball.com/topic/pickleball-paddle-guide
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