The Comprehensive Guide To Pickleball Paddles

Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, making an informed purchase on your pickleball paddle will help serve you better in the long run. In this comprehensive guide, we will be learning about pickleball paddles, what materials they are made of, as well as exploring the different pickleball paddles available on the Singapore market so you can get started on your pickleball journey.

Better quality pickleball paddles are made of carbon fibre, and not of wood.

Materials

Traditional pickleball paddles were made of wood. While they are still available and used by some players, they are less common today due to advancements in materials. Most modern pickleball paddles consist of composite materials, which can include fibreglass, carbon fibre or a combination of both. Composite paddles offer a good blend of power, control and durability. The typical pickleball paddle is around 15 inches long and 7 inches wide. It is also important to note, that the USA Pickleball Association states that any pickleball paddle longer than 17 inches is considered illegal for use in competition.

Grip Sizes

Pickleball paddles come in different grip sizes to accommodate players with varying hand sizes. The most commonly available grip sizes are 4 to 5 inches in grip circumference. The right grip size ensures comfortable handling and control over the paddle. Some players prefer a smaller grip while others prefer something larger. It is best to experiment with different grip sizes and setups. This can be done by using changeable wraps or replacement grips. With this method, you will also get some extra cushioning on your hands.

Paddle Surfaces

Paddle faces can have different surface textures, including smooth, textured, or rough. Textured and rough surfaces can provide extra spin on the ball as they grip the ball for longer upon contact, while smooth surfaces tend to offer a crisper and cleaner response as the ball comes off the face of the paddle faster due to the smooth slick surface. A paddle with a smoother surface may give you better directional control.

Head Shapes

Paddles can have different shapes, but the most common shape is rectangular or square-like. This is because the square-shaped head is believed to maximise the surface area and sweet spot of the paddle. This type of technology has been used in tennis rackets, an example is the isometric squared head shape of Yonex tennis rackets. The choice of shape often comes down to personal preference and what is available for you to buy, depending on which country you live in. As most pickleball paddles on the market are square for performance reasons, it is probably a good idea to stick with the standard square/rectangular-shaped paddle.

Ultimately, the choice of a pickleball paddle is a matter of personal preference. What works best for one player may not be ideal for another. It's essential to try different paddles to find the one that suits your playing style and feels most comfortable in your hand. Our team of dedicated pickleball coaches are more than happy to answer any questions regarding pickleball paddles. You can find us at various venues across Singapore.