How to Choose the Right Pickleball Paddle

By: Matt Kirkham, Director of Pickleball at John Newcombe Country Club

Whether you're buying your very first paddle or you've been playing pickleball for years, choosing the right paddle is one of the most important equipment decisions you'll make. The paddle you play with can influence everything from spin and power to control, comfort and even how much stress is placed on your joints.

Before you start shopping, think about your playing style. Do you rely on effortless power? Do you prefer precision and control? Or are you looking to maximize spin and shot variety? The best paddle is one that complements your strengths and helps improve your weaknesses.

If you're new to the game and aren't quite sure what your style is yet, don't worry. A comfortable, well-balanced paddle that fits your budget is always a smart place to start. As your game develops, you'll have a better idea of what features matter most to you.

Here are the key factors to consider when choosing your next pickleball paddle.

Surface Texture (Grit)

A paddle's surface texture, often called grit, plays a major role in how much spin you can generate.

• Textured or gritty surfaces grip the ball better, allowing for greater topspin, slice and overall shot manipulation.

• Smoother surfaces produce less spin but may offer a more consistent feel for players who prioritize simple, controlled shots.

If spin is an important part of your game, look for a paddle with a textured face.

Core Thickness

Most pickleball paddles have a core thickness between 14 mm and 16 mm.

Thicker cores (16 mm and above):

• Better control and touch

• Softer, more forgiving feel

• Reduced vibration and shock, making them easier on the arm and joints

Thinner cores (14 mm or less):

• More power and pop

• Faster ball speed

• Better for players who like aggressive drives and put-away shots

A thicker paddle generally favors control, while a thinner paddle is designed for power.

Paddle Shape

The shape of a paddle affects reach, forgiveness and overall playability.

Elongated

Elongated paddles are longerHybrid paddles and narrower, providing:

• Extra reach

• Increased power

• Higher swing speed

The tradeoff is a smaller sweet spot, making them slightly less forgiving on off-center hits.

Wide Body

Wide-body paddles feature a broader face with:

• A larger sweet spot

• More forgiveness

• Easier consistency

These are an excellent choice for beginners and players who prioritize control.

Hybrid

Hybrid paddles combine elements of both elongated and wide-body designs to deliver a balanced blend of power, control and forgiveness.

If you're unsure which shape is right for you, a hybrid paddle is an excellent all-around option.

Grip Length

Handle length may seem like a small detail, but it can make a noticeable difference in how a paddle performs.

A longer grip is often preferred by players who use a two-handed backhand because it provides extra room for both hands. It also adds a bit of extra reach, which can be helpful when stretching for wide shots or extending your coverage at the net.

A shorter grip allows for a slightly larger paddle face and can improve maneuverability for players who primarily use a one-handed backhand.

Keep in mind that changing the handle length also changes the paddle's overall dimensions, which can slightly affect the sweet spot and where the ball contacts the paddle. Longer handles generally shift the sweet spot slightly higher on the paddle face, so it's worth considering how that fits your playing style.

Core Material

The two most common core constructions are polymer honeycomb and foam.

Honeycomb Core

Polymer honeycomb cores have become the industry standard because they provide:

• Excellent control

• Good shock absorption

• A balanced combination of power and feel

They're a great option for players of every skill level.

Foam Core

Foam-core paddles are one of the newest developments in paddle technology and are commonly found in many newer-generation paddles.

Benefits include:

• A softer, more plush feel

• Excellent power

• A larger, more forgiving sweet spot

• Improved stability on off-center hits

Many players appreciate the combination of comfort and performance that foam-core designs provide.

Final Thoughts

There isn't one paddle that's perfect for every player. The best choice depends on your playing style, experience level and personal preferences.

If you're just getting started, focus on finding a paddle that's comfortable, forgiving and within your budget. As your skills improve, you'll naturally discover whether you want more power, more spin or greater control.

By understanding paddle texture, core thickness, shape, grip length and core material, you'll be much better equipped to choose a paddle that helps you play your best.