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Pickleball Paddle

Weights: How To Choose The Best One ?

Sid Edmondson July 19, 2024 18 Mins

Selecting the appropriate pickleball paddle weights is essential to maximizing on-court performance. If you are still unclear about the optimal pickleball paddle weight for you, this guide is for you. Dierent weights will provide unique benets for various playing styles and ability levels.

This Article

1. Types Of Pickleball Paddle Weights

1.1. Lightweight Paddles

1.2. Midweight Paddles

1.3. Heavyweight Paddles

2. How To Choose Your Pickleball Paddle Weight?

3. Pickleball Paddle Weight Regulations

4. Helpful Advice

5. In Short

Whether you are a beginner, experienced, or expert player, this guide will help you choose the paddle weight that best suits your personality and goals.

Paddle Pickler’s Pro

Tips on Choosing Right Pickleball Paddle Weight

If you focus on nesse and touch, a lighter paddle will enhance your control.

If you crave power for hard-hitting smashes, consider a mid-weight or a heavyweight paddle.

The ideal paddle should feel smooth swing and comfortable in your hand.

Ensure the grip size is appropriate for your hand to prevent unnecessary strain on your wrist and forearm.

Spend time on the court with various paddles to see how they impact your game and nd the best paddle.

Types Of Pickleball Paddle Weights

There are three major types of pickleball paddle weights: lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight paddles.

Category Weight Range

Lightweight < 7.3 ounces

Midweight 7.3 – 8.4 ounces

Heavyweight > 8.5 ounces

Description

Ideal for

Oers maneuverability and quick reaction times. Defensive play

Provides a balanced mix of power and control. All-around play

Delivers more power but requires greater strength. Aggressive play

Overview about pickleball paddle weights

Lightweight Paddles

Performance

Maneuverability: Paddles that weigh less than 7.3 ounces have great control during the game, making them perfect for players who need to react fast and move.

Control: These paddles give better control so players can hit the ball where they want and perform skilled moves. The lighter paddles help with controlling the ball, which assists in playing gentle shots like dinks and drops.

Speed: Because they are light, these paddles help players swing them faster. This helps during fast shot exchanges on the net and in responding to defense.

Are lightweight pickleball paddles good?

Excellent maneuverability and control.

Faster swing speed for quick exchanges. Reduces fatigue over long matches. Suitable for players with smaller hands.

It may lack power for strong baseline shots.

It can be less stable during heavy hits.

It may not suit players preferring heavier paddles.

Lightweight: On-hand Experiences

Lightweight paddles have thinner grip sizes. They oer a good hold for players with small hands and decrease tiredness during long play times. The lighter weight with a proper grip improves control and ease.

Players might experience a gentler touch and faster responses with lighter paddles. This could improve how well the paddle and the ball work together, enhancing the playing experience.

Who should use lightweight pickleball paddle?

Fresh players often nd lightweight paddles easier to handle. This allows them to focus on improving their technique without the added weight challenge. The increased swing speed and improved maneuverability of lightweight paddles help players who value agility and fast reactions during hectic rallies.

Those concerned about hand fatigue during long play periods prefer the reduced weight and thinner grip. Because of this, a light paddle will contribute to a more comfortable playing

Midweight Paddles

Performance

Power-Control Balance: Midweight pickleball paddles maintain a good mix of strength and precision. They have the right weight to improve power in shots yet allow for speedy responses.

Control: These paddles oer strong precision. Their balanced weight makes the paddle more stable when hitting. They also increase shot accuracy and cut down on mistakes.

Versatility: Midweight paddles work well for all ways of playing and levels of ability. They provide enough power for eective drives and permit delicate plays like drops and lobs.

Are midweight pickleball paddles good?

PROS

Balanced power and precision in shots.

Enhanced stability and shot accuracy.

Versatile for dierent playing styles and skill levels.

Reduced strain on arms and shoulders compared to heavyweights.

CONS

It may not be as maneuverable as lightweight paddles. It could feel heavy for players with smaller frames.

Midweight: On-hand experiences

Midweight paddles have standard grip sizes giving a good and steady grip. This gives you more control and trust in using the paddle during intense games.

It lessens the strain on the arms and shoulders than heavyweight paddles, making them well for long playing times. Players will feel a rm and quick response. The weight contributes to a stable impact on the ball, providing clear feedback on shots.

Who should use midweight pickleball paddle?

Players seeking a balance of power and control prefer midweight paddles. Their ability to unleash strong shots while retaining precision and stability throughout rallies is valued by intermediate and advanced players. The regular grip size gives you a rm hold, which boosts your condence and gives you more control over where you shoot.

Also, the reduced strain on arms and shoulders makes midweight paddles suitable for players looking to sustain peak performance over long matches. Their versatility suits them well suited for various playing techniques, from aggressive drives to nesse shots like drops and lobs.

I have discovered that utilizing a midweight paddle has been the sweet spot for my pickleball playing for many years. My playing style leans towards a combination of baseline power and net nesse. And this weight provides a perfect balance between the two. It allows me to generate enough power for eective groundstrokes without compromising my maneuverability at the net. I can still execute drop shots and volleys with precision and control.

Marlys Coon

4.0 Pickleball Player – Co-founder of Paddle Pickler

Heavyweight Paddles

Performance

Power: Heavyweight pickleball paddles produce a lot of power on shots. The increased weight boosts momentum, allowing players to strike harder and propel the ball faster.

Stability: These paddles reduce vibration and provide a rm impact on the ball. This makes them stable during shots. Control and accuracy are improved, particularly on strong strokes and volleys.

Durability: Heavyweight paddles can be more durable due to their sturdy construction and denser materials. They can sustain frequent use and strong shots without exhibiting signs of wear as fast as lighter paddles.

Are heavyweight pickleball paddles good?

PROS

Signicant power and momentum on shots.

Excellent stability and reduced vibration.

Challenging to maneuver, in particular players with weaker wrists and arms.

Feel heavy and tiring after

Enhanced stability and control during strong strokes.

More durable due to sturdy construction.

prolonged playtime. It may feel too heavy for some players, aecting maneuverability.

Heavyweight: On-hand Experiences

These paddles are heavier, thus making their manipulation more challenging. So, they demand players with strong wrists and arms. Furthermore, heavy paddles come with standard or thicker handle circumferences. They feel comfortable as well as secure in the hands of a player, boosting control and stability.

Players experience a rm and powerful impact with the ball, providing clear feedback on shots. This aspect makes it an amazing “touch” through its weightiness. It also helps in building condence and control.

Who should use heavyweight pickleball paddle?

Players who like power and stability go for heavyweight paddles. The extra weight helps them hit strong shots without much eort. The thicker handle circumference provides a comfortable and secure grip. It also boosts control and makes them feel condent in tough games. But you need more physical strength to move these heavy paddles around. They are super stable, which is great for aggressive players and frequent use.

Heavy paddles last a long time too so they are a good pick for people who play in lots of competitions. Yet heavy paddles may require more physical strength to maneuver eectively. If you play all the time and want a durable paddle, a heavyweight paddle might be just what you need.

How To Choose Your Pickleball Paddle

Weight?

Consider your pickleball skill level

For those who are Beginners (Skill level 1-2.0), a lightweight paddle is the right choice. It is easier to maneuver and control. As a result, it is the best choice for newbies to get basic strokes without feeling sore. Furthermore, light paddles can even make the person less tired for a longer time.

If you are an Intermediate player (Skill level 2.5-3.5), select a midweight paddle. It equalizes power and control, suitable for rening skills and adapting to dierent game strategies. Besides, it also provides enough power for oensive shots while maintaining maneuverability for defensive play.

Heavyweight paddles are recommended for Advanced players (Skill level 4.0 and more). It provides the most power and stability, making it the preferred choice for attack play styles and precise shot placement. But it needs great wrist and arm strength to be eective during fastpaced battles.

A lightweight paddle is the right choice for Beginners

Follow your playing style & strategy

Heavyweight paddles for aggressive players

For players who use forceful shots and aggressive play, heavyweight paddles are perfect. The extra weight provides more momentum and stability, allowing for strong volleys and smashes.

Lightweight to midweight paddles for defensive players

Lighter paddles are easier to maneuver and allow for quick reactions at the net. They ease precise placement and control, making them suitable for a defensive and attack strategy.

Midweight paddles for all-round players

Midweight paddles oer a balanced blend of power and control. This makes them ideal for adaptable players who change their strategies based on game conditions. They have enough

strength for oensive shots and enough mobility for defensive play.

Physical Considerations

The key to deciding on the weight of a paddle is to assess physical capabilities and potential limitations. This will optimize your performance and prevent injuries. Based on physical considerations, these are the main things to think about:

Your arm strength and stamina

Lightweight paddles are ideal for players with limited arm strength or stamina. As they need less eort to maneuver and swing. This can help prevent fatigue during extended play sessions.

Midweight to Heavyweight paddles need more arm strength and stamina to handle, but provide more power and stability on shots. They are the most ideal paddles for players with considerable arm strength and stamina.

Injury prevention

Using lightweight paddles can decrease the strain on the shoulders and arms. So they are useful for players who are prone to or recovering from arm or shoulder injuries. The lighter weight reduces impact and strain during gameplay.

Using midweight to heavyweight paddles will boost control and stability. But they may also put extra stress on joints and muscles. Players should ensure they have the strength and technique to handle heavier paddles without risking injury.

Longevity and Comfort

Since they lessen the chance of muscle discomfort and tiredness, lightweight paddles enhance comfort and enjoyment on the court. They are often favored for recreational and recreational play.

Paddles ranging from medium to heavy weight provide strength and longevity. They may be helpful for athletes who take part in regular, competitive matches. These paddles have a rm feel and may help to increase shot consistency over time.

Using lightweight paddles can decrease the strain on the shoulders and arms

Pickleball Paddle Weight Regulations

When choosing a pickleball paddle, it is critical to be aware of the weight regulations established by governing bodies. Although there are not any rigid weight restrictions, participants should abide by the practices and guidelines.

There is no restriction on paddle weight according to the ocial USA Pickleball Equipment Standards Manual. This means players have the freedom to choose paddles of any weight they nd comfortable and eective for their game.

For further information and conrmation on whether your paddle is competition-ready, please explore at Pickleball Paddle Regulations.

Helpful Advice

Choosing the appropriate paddle weight can have a signicant impact on improving your skills.

Here are some helpful tips for selecting the appropriate paddle weight:

1. Listen To Your Body – We are not experts yet, so avoid going too heavy. Remember that swinging a heavier paddle demands more strength and can result in fatigue or elbow injury. If you feel any feeling of discomfort, consider a lighter range.

2. Try Before You Buy – Visit your local pickleball shop or demo events to test out dierent paddle weights. This can help you determine what weight best suits your swing and playing style comfort and naturalism.

3. Start With A Midweight Option – For most recreational players, a midweight paddle can be a

great all-around choice. It will provide a balance of power and control. Afterward, you can change to a lighter or heavier paddle according to your requirements and preferences.

4. Do Not Forget Grip Size – The grip size you choose should suit your hand, as it can also impact how the paddle feels and behaves.

Pro Tip: As your skills improve, you might consider keeping two paddles in your backpack. A midweight paddle for all-around play and a lightweight for nesse situations.

Remember thatthere is no one-size-ts-allsolution when itcomes topickleballpaddles. You can ndthe idealweightby taking these suggestions into accountandexperimenting withdierent paddles.

In Short

Finding the ideal pickleball paddle weights depends on your individual preferences and playing style. Each weight category oers unique advantages tailored to dierent playing styles and preferences.

A lightweight paddle for quick maneuverability and reduced fatigue. For balanced control and power, use a medium-weight paddle. Heavyweight paddle allows you to dominate with powerful shots.

While weight is a crucial factor, it is only one part of the pickleball paddle puzzle. The best way to nd your perfect weight is to evaluate your playing style and physical capabilities, experiment with dierent paddles, and hit the courts with friends. Once you nd a t weight, you will be well on your way to pickling like a pro!

Sid Edmondson

I am a player of both tennis and pickleball, having reached a 5.0 player skill rating in just two years. I love playing pickleball with friends, tting in 8-10 games each week. My passion for the sport goes beyond just playing; I'm deeply interested in pickleball paddles. Every week, my friends and I gather to test dierent paddles, always on the lookout for the best equipment to improve our game.

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