Do Pickleball paddles really make a difference? Find Out
What do you think? Do Pickleball paddles really make a difference?
A straight answer will be yes. The paddle is the major equipment in the Pickleball game. And as the paddles and balls are actively used equipment in the game so the change in the paddle can definitely make a difference.
Pickleball paddle comes in different shapes, weight and they can also be made of different materials.
And each type of paddle offers specific advantages. And it can be hard for you to know which one can work best for you.
So let’s dive deep and find out what difference they make so that you can select the right Pickleball paddle for you.
Do Pickleball paddles really make a difference?
Each and every material of the pickleball paddle changed, creating an impact on the game. Different shapes, materials, and grips will have a different effect on your game.
The different advantages offered by each type of Pickleball paddle will ultimately result in the changing performance in the game and varying durability of the paddle.
Stick with me as I will explain the difference made by the shape, material, and grips of the Pickleball paddle.
So first, let’s see what difference the shape of the Pickleball paddle makes.
Pickleball Paddles Differences:
Benefits of using an elongated Pickleball paddle:
Elongated paddles are longer in shape, and these paddles can be as much as 8 inches longer than a standard-size paddle.
The longer length of the paddle allows greater reach when playing.
Single players usually prefer elongated Pickleball paddles so that they can cover the court.
Benefits of using an Oversized Pickleball paddle:
If you use an oversized Pickleball paddle, there is very less chance you will miss the ball.
Oversize paddle gives the player a much larger hitting surface and that hitting surface.
Besides, oversized paddles have a larger sweet spot. And that sweet spot gives the player a better chance to hit the ball with the right point of the paddle and get the optimum result.
Benefits of using wide body Pickleball paddle:
The main benefit of using a wide-body paddle is easy to control and use.
Besides wide body paddle comes at a very low price, especially if it is made of wood.
So if you are a beginner or prefer control over power shot, then this paddle can be a very good choice.
Differences made by Pickleball paddle materials:
Now the differences that come from the material of the paddle are mainly the difference in durability, price, and comfort.
There are basically three main types of materials that are commonly used for Pickleball paddles. These are Wood, Graphite, and composite materials.
Each of these materials provides different advantages for different types of play.
Wood:
Wooden paddles are more classic than any other Pickleball paddle. In fact, it is the most popular material for making a Pickleball paddle.
Wooden Pickleball paddles tend to be more durable than paddles made of other materials. In some cases, it is heard people used a single wooden Pickleball paddle over their lifetime.
Besides durability, wooden paddles are also cheap. Perhaps this is the main reason 99% of all Pickleball paddles in the world in use are wooden.
But there is a major drawback of wooden paddles, and that is these paddles are comparatively heavier and rigid, so people with injuries and joint pain should avoid using wooden Pickleball paddles.
Graphite:
Paddles that are made of graphite are comparatively less durable than wooden paddles. And this is because the core of the paddle has a honeycomb shape, and these paddles are built with a core of aluminum, polymer, or Nomex.
Graphite paddles are comparatively lightweight and give more control and maneuverability.
Composite materials:
Composite Pickleball paddles have composite cores and a hitting surface of carbon fiber or fiberglass.
Composite paddle offers a better spin on the ball because the paddles have a rigid textured surface.
However, the weight of a composite paddle is a lot less than any wooden paddle’s weight, so the users enjoy better control while playing.
And compared with wooden paddles, composite paddles are less durable but more comfortable to use. Most professional players now use paddles made of composite materials.
Difference made by Pickleball paddle grip:
The paddle grip is an important part of a Pickleball paddle, and every player should get the right-sized paddle grip for their paddles.
The size of the paddle varies, and it can be a large-size paddle grip or a regular-size paddle grip.
Large size grip:
A large-size paddle grip usually provides better stability during the game, and it also reduces the pressure on the arms.
While a small size or regular size grip will give you better control, the problem with a large grip is it might lead to slipping the paddle from your hand because your hand will probably sweat when you are playing.
Although there is a solution for this too, when using a large grip for better stability, an over-grip on top of it will reduce the slipping problem and will give better comfort.
Regular grip:
The paddle with a regular or small size grip gives better control of the paddle, and if this grip is on a composite material paddle, then it will also give a better spin to the shots.
Besides, with a small grip, someone can easily switch hands during playing.
FAQ on Do Pickleball paddles really make a difference?:
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What should you look for in a Pickleball paddle?
When buying a Pickleball paddle as a beginner for learning, you should focus on better stability of the paddle, durability, and cost of the paddle too. So, in that case, as a bigger one, you should look for a wooden paddle. But if you are a professional player or want to be one, you should focus on a paddle that will give better control, better stability, better spin, and will be cost-efficient.
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Is Pickleball paddle the only maker of difference in performance?
No, in sports, not just the equipment that makes the difference. It is your experience too. And same goes for Pickleball paddles.
Obviously, paddles make a difference in performance but other things, such as your experience,
Pickleball court conditions and the ball you are using in the court also make a difference in performance. -
What should a beginner use? A lightweight or heavyweight Pickleball paddle?
As a beginner, a lightweight paddle will give you better control, and it will go easy on your wrist too.
So it is preferable to look for a lightweight and durable Pickleball paddle if you are a beginner. -
Does Pickleball color make any difference?
Yes, it makes a difference to some extent. When you are playing in a court, a vivid and vibrant color Pickleball will be more visible to your eyes compared with dull color balls.
This is the reason why highly contrasting yellow or Orange balls are usually used in Pickleball matches.
Final Words:
As I have mentioned, even changing a small thing about the Pickleball paddle affects a lot on your game.
I have shared my experience, and according to my experience, yes, the Pickleball paddle makes a huge difference.
Thus I will suggest to chose your Pickleball paddles wisely and going beyond your budget to get the extra advantage over your opponents.
Let me know what you think about my opinion.
