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List Of Common Pickleball Paddle Shapes
Sid Edmondson July 20, 2024 21 Mins
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When beginning your pickleball journey, it is crucial to pick an appropriate paddle. Besides the paddle weight aspect, the paddle shapes also have a considerable impact on performance and playing style. So, how to choose a pickleball paddle shape? This guide explores the top eight popular paddle shapes, helping you make the ideal decision for winning every match.
In This Article
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1. Types of Pickleball Paddle Shapes
1.1. Standard Shape
1.2. Elongated Shape
1.3. Bladed Shape
1.4. Teardrop Shape
1.5. Widebody Shape
1.6. Oversize Shape
1.7. Diamond Shape
1.8. Square Shape
2. Pickleball Paddle Shapes Regulations
3. Helpful Advice 4. Pro Thought
Every type of shape will have bene ts and drawbacks. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, choosing the ideal paddle shape will improve your pickleball skills and experience.
Types of Pickleball Paddle Shapes
Pickleball paddle shapes are divided into eight types, include:
Elongated
Bladed
Teardrop
Oversize
Diamond
Standard Shape
The standard shape of a pickleball paddle is a at, rectangular surface that is a bit elongated with rounded edges. This design gives enough surface area for hitting the ball while maintaining maneuverability. The softened edges of the paddle reduce the chance of accidental injuries and facilitate a smoother transition when playing.
The handle is straight and links exactly to the paddle surface. It makes it easier for players to comfortably hold the paddle, improving control and agility.
Performance:
Control: O ers excellent control due to its balanced design, allowing players to place shots precisely.
Maneuverability: Provides good maneuverability, making it easy to react quickly during fast-paced rallies.
Versatility: Suitable for players of all skill levels and playing styles.
Standard pickleball paddle size
The standard shape is ideal for players looking for a paddle that balances control and power. It is suitable for players of all skill levels who prefer a versatile playing experience, especially beginners and all-around players.
When you are in skill level 1 – 2.0, what you should do is nd a paddle that can assist with forgiveness and ease of use. This shape results in a larger sweet spot, making feasible continuous hitting. The wide hitting area helps compensate for o -center shots, boosting the con dence of someone budding in the skill.
Is the standard pickleball paddle shape good?
PROS
Versatile for di erent styles
Balanced control and power
Suitable for all skill levels
Good maneuverability
CONS
It may lack the specialized bene ts of other shapes It may not excel in extreme power or reach
On-hand Experiences
You will experience a well-balanced feel and comfortable grip whenever you hold it. Its handle will make you feel good with a rm grip for various strokes. Weight distribution seems almost uniform, contributing to stability and a controlled feel. This shape feels ergonomic and customarily familiar, thus enhancing con dence in gameplay.
This is the shape of the paddle that I use the most in my pickleball playing. Most of the matches
I play are very entertaining, so I do not need outstanding reach or excellent strength. So for me, the standard shape meets all my requirements for the “perfect” paddle.
Elongated Shape
Elongated paddles are longer than regular paddle dimensions. Thus, they extend the hitting surface. This extra length can give players an advantage of reach when they reach the ball.
These paddles also have rounded edges like standard shapes, ensuring safety while also providing smooth handling. These edges prevent sharp corners edges that are going to harm a player in addition to ensuring there is a consistent feel while playing. However, the extended length could disturb the balance and swing weight of the paddle.
Elongated pickleball paddle size
Performance
Reach: Provides extended reach. This allows players to cover farther and reach shots that would be hard with a standard paddle.
Power: Generates more power due to the increased leverage from the longer shape.
Sweet Spot: A smaller sweet spot requires more precision in striking the ball.
For experienced players who value reach and strength in their gameplay, the elongated design is perfect. They often power up their game with paddles that have specialized performance characteristics customized to their playing style. This design is most successful for players who engage in aggressive playing and need to cover more ground without losing shot power.
Is the elongated pickleball paddle shape good?
PROS
Extended reach for better coverage
Increased power with longer leverage
Advantageous for singles & aggressive play
On-hand Experiences
CONS
A smaller sweet spot. It may feel less maneuverable for quick reactions. Requires more precision and skill.
When I hold an elongated paddle, it gives me a sense of wider reach and great power. The thinner face necessitates more accurate aim, yet the grip stays comfortable. Due to its length, the paddle may feel slightly heavier at the top.
Joseph Sopko – Tennis & Pickleball Professional
This shape may feel a bit less maneuverable than standard paddles. But for players who place high importance on strength and range in their game, it is an ideal choice.
Bladed Shape
The bladed paddles are longer and thinner compared to regular paddles. Some of them can reach up to 17 inches in length. This extension gives players a bigger reach and hit balls.
To make up for this added length, it is narrower, usually only about 7 inches in width. This narrower pro le helps keep the paddle maneuverable well despite its added length.
The hitting surface remains rectangular but with curved edges, which adds to safety and a smooth feel. This, however, may change the balance point of the paddle and in uence swing weight and overall feel.
Elongated pickleball paddle size
Performance
Precision: Exceptional precision due to the narrow width, allowing for more accurate shots.
Reach: Provides extended reach, helping players cover more of the court.
Control: High level of control for skilled players.
The bladed shape is best suited for advanced players with precise shot-making skills who need extra reach for defensive and o ensive plays. It’s particularly bene cial for singles players or those who play highly competitively. This shape allows advanced skills to maximize their strengths and nesse the shots with greater control and e ectiveness.
Is the blade pickleball paddle shape good?
Exceptional precision for targeted shots.
Extended reach for better court coverage.
High power potential for strong shots.
Very small sweet spot
Requires advanced skill and control
Less forgiving on o -center hits
On-hand Experiences
Holding a bladed pickleball paddle gives a distinct sense of reach and precision. Having a narrower face and a longer length allows for more con dence in making shots and reaching balls that would otherwise go by. On o -center hits, the paddle may feel less forgiving. The balance of the paddle often leans towards the head, enhancing leverage for powerful shots but demanding greater accuracy.
Teardrop Shape
Teardrop paddle has a much wider surface area on top and tapers down towards the handle. It brings the best features of a traditional and elongated paddle together to bring more power play and greater control onto the court.
This wider top area creates an enlarged sweet spot to allow shots, rendered with power and accuracy. Balance in weight distribution with the teardrop shape keeps control and maneuverability. Its tapered design enables players to quick wrist actions and reactions at the net.
Performance
Sweet Spot: Larger sweet spot, providing more forgiveness on o -center hits.
Control: Excellent control due to the wider upper part, making it easier to place shots accurately.
Power: Adequate power, particularly useful for controlled and strategic play.
The teardrop shape is ideal for players who seek a balanced performance with a larger sweet spot and good control. It is suitable for intermediate to advanced players who value shot accuracy and versatility rather than sheer power.
Teardrop pickleball paddle size
This teardrop shape might also help them improve their consistency and technique. This design has a balance of power and control, allowing you to execute a wide range of shots with precision.
Is the teardrop pickleball paddle shape good?
Larger sweet spot for better accuracy
Balanced control and power
Versatile for various playing styles
It may feel less maneuverable compared to standard shapes. The unique shape might require an adjustment period. Not as specialized for extreme power or reach.
On-hand Experiences
When you grip a teardrop pickleball paddle, you will notice that it’s balanced and ergonomic. It is simpler to connect with the ball and produce consistent shots thanks to the wider upper part’s broader hitting surface. Precise control and maneuverability are made possible by the tapered handle, which is easy to hold. The general structure feels versatile, catering to various shot types and playing styles.
Widebody Shape
Widebody paddles have a noticeably wider face than Standard and Elongated paddles,
normally more than 8 inches. This added width provides a more signi cant area to come into contact with the ball, reducing the missing of a hit.
A larger surface leads to a larger sweet spot, bene ting the player of all skill levels. This also feels very well-balanced as it distributes the weight of the paddle.
Moreover, the handle is usually of standard length and ergonomic, ensuring comfort in its grip.
This design helps players to have a rm hold on it and facilitates better control.
Widebody pickleball paddle size
Sweet Spot: Features an enlarged sweet spot, making it more forgiving on o -center hits.
Control: Provides excellent control, especially for players who prioritize precision.
Stability: O ers great stability during play, reducing vibrations and enhancing consistency.
This widebody shape will be more bene t-oriented for beginners and intermediate players.
These players look for a maximum range of forgiveness so they can hit the ball successfully over and over again. It’s also suitable for people with aggressive play styles and players who prioritize control and accuracy.
Is the widebody pickleball paddle shape good?
Enlarged sweet spot
Excellent control and stability
More forgiving on o -center hits. PROS
Slightly reduced reach It can feel bulkier and less maneuverable. CONS
On-hand Experiences
When holding a wide body shape, you will notice a sense of stability and comfort due to the broader surface area. The larger will-hit surface feels reassuring. The paddle may feel slightly bulkier, but this contributes to its forgiving nature and enhanced control. You can play with precise movements because the grip is still rm.
Oversize Shape
Oversize paddles have an extra-large surface area than standard and widebody paddles. This increased size gives more area to the paddle, thereby providing extra leverage and power with which players may hit harder shots.
With increased surface area comes the expanded sweet spot, which increases control so it can be easier to place the ball anywhere. This is very helpful for those who tend to lack consistency. Being that the larger sweet spot could be easier on o -center hits.
Oversize pickleball paddle size
Performance
Forgiveness: The large surface area provides high forgiveness on o -center hits, making it easier to maintain consistent play.
Power: Enhanced power due to the larger surface area and weight distribution.
Stability: O ers high steadiness for shots, making it easier to maintain consistent play.
This oversize shape is perfect for beginners and intermediate players. It provides an enlarged hitting area and enhances shot consistency. It will also help aggressive players, who want to provide maximum power in the shots and can trade some maneuverability.
Is the oversize pickleball paddle shape good?
PROS
Maximum sweet spot
Increased power and control
Maximum forgiveness on o -center hits.
CONS
It can feel bulkier and less maneuverable
Slightly heavier, which can a ect agility
It may lack the nesse of smaller paddles
On-hand Experiences
The rst feeling when holding an oversized pickleball paddle will be the substantial size and weight. The larger area of the hitting surface gives one a feel-good measure of forgiveness for
being able to connect the ball e ectively. The paddle feels powerful, with added weight to add force to shots. However, the increased size may bring on a bulkier feel to it, and the maneuverability could be somewhat compromised.
Diamond Shape
The diamond paddle features a wider top and tapers down to become narrower at the base, resembling a diamond. The shape enables to maximization of the sweet spot while maintaining a compact and maneuverable pro le.
The diamond shape helps shift the paddle’s balance point closer to the handle, o ering a combination of power and control. The narrower base allows for easier wrist action and quick adjustments, enhancing overall playability.
Performance
Power: Generates powerful shots due to the wider top and increased leverage.
Control: The tapered handle o ers good control
Maneuverability: Provides decent maneuverability, making it versatile for di erent playing styles.
For players looking for a paddle that o ers both power and control, the diamond shape is perfect. Aggressive players and intermediate to advanced players are all suitable for it.
This shape o ers higher sweet spot headspace on the face of the paddle. This maximizes leverage and creates very strong smashes and volley possibilities. Moreover, it’s most helpful for players who have developed their skills and want to ne-tune their game with a more specialized paddle.
Is the diamond pickleball paddle shape good?
Enhanced power due to wider top
Balance of power and control
Unique design
A narrower handle can be less comfortable for some players. It may feel less maneuverable compared to standard shapes.
Diamond pickleball paddle size
Smaller sweet spot compared to widebody shapes.
On-hand Experiences
First of all, one will be struck by the shape of a diamond pickleball paddle. With a broadened top, it gives you that feeling of power and stability at hand for competent swings and strong shots. The tapered handle would grip well in the hand to boast good control on correct shots. The well-balanced weight distribution enhances maneuverability, making it versatile for di erent shots and playing styles.
Jim Kloss – One of my friends on the team, also a pickleball player likes this shape. He says that is where power and control are perfectly balanced. The design is also so unique—something he always likes.
Square Shape
The square paddle has a broad, at surface area that provides a larger hitting zone. The increased width and uniform shape result in a larger sweet spot, o ering more forgiveness on o -center hits. This shape also distributes the weight uniformly so that it can provide better control and stability during play. The broad surface allows for precise shot placement and e ective volleys.
pickleball paddle size
Performance
Stability: O ers excellent stability due to the wider hitting surface, contributing to consistent performance.
Control: Provides excellent control, helping for precise placement of shots.
Defense: E ective for defensive play, allowing players to block shots e ectively.
This square shape is perfect for those players who require maximum stability and control in their game. It is suitable for intermediate-to-advanced-level players. They appreciate the paddle’s ability to handle fast-paced rallies and provide reliable performance during o ensive and defensive maneuvers. The enlarged sweet spot and proper weight distribution help you develop your playing style and strategy.
Is the square pickleball paddle shape good?
Square
Enhanced stability
Excellent control
E ective for defensive play PROS
On-hand Experiences
It may have a smaller sweet spot Less specialized for power shots
It can feel less maneuverable CONS
When holding a square paddle, you would feel that the surface to hit is much bigger and more angular. This will provide stability in playing and a solid feel. The shape of the paddle allows you to place shots with accuracy and make good defensive blocks. You may perhaps feel a little less agile than other forms, but the stability and grips the paddle provides make it easier to get shots of your target.
Pickleball Paddle Shapes Regulations
The USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) has established rules on pickleball paddle shapes that the players need to follow. These regulations aid in maintaining fair and equal competition.
The total length and width, including any edge guards and butt caps, may not go over 24 inches.
The maximum paddle length is 17 inches. This limit ensures players do not have an undue advantage by using excessively long paddles.
The thickness of the paddles is not restricted.
Edge guards are allowed on paddles to protect the paddle, but they can not go above the paddle’s allowed size.
The butt cap at the ends of the handle shall not increase the length of the paddle above its maximum allowable dimensions.
Source: USAPickleballEquipmentStandards Manual(Nov. 2023)
Accessed: July 18, 2024
Helpful Advice
The community of pickleball lovers usually shares experiences learned through many years of playing with each other. I think it would be quite useful. You can refer to and apply it while choosing your paddle shape.
First, Try Before You Buy.
The best paddle is the paddle that best suits you, feels comfortable, and complements your style of play. If possible, try out di erent paddle shapes at pickleball stores, pickleball clubs, or by borrowing from friends. Pay attention to how the paddle feels in your hand and how it a ects your swing and shot control.
Second, Consider Elements Other Than Shape.
In addition to paddle form, further issues to consider include weight, handle size, and paddle material. Select a paddle with a lightweight and minor grip size if your hands are small. In addition, the materials of the paddle in uence its spin, force-generating capacity, and longevity.
Third, Take Note Of The Wind In uence.
If you frequently play outside or in windy conditions, you should evaluate and choose a paddle with a bigger surface area, such as an oversized or widebody paddle. The wider surface area can help you get better shots that are impacted by wind.
Pro Thought
I have played the sport of pickleball for many years, and I love this game. I realized that the right choice of paddle shapes would enhance the game. Each paddle shape o ers distinct advantages tailored to di erent playing styles and preferences.
When considering paddle shape, it is essential to factor in physical attributes such as height, reach, and hand size. Those who are bighanded can go for paddles with bigger grips, like the wide-body or oversized shape. The ones with smaller hands will be more comfortable using the standard or diamond shape to have better control and maneuverability.
For players transitioning from beginner levels, I recommend starting with a widebody or oversized paddle shape. These shapes provide a larger hitting surface and a more forgiving sweet spot, helping to build con dence and consistency in your shots. As your skills progress and you gain more nesse, you may explore more specialized shapes like diamonds or squares, which o er unique advantages for speci c aspects of the game.
In conclusion, the best pickleball paddle shape is ultimately the one that enhances your
strengths, mitigates your weaknesses, and aligns with your playing goals. Experimentation and re ection are key to nding your perfect match, ensuring you step onto the court with con dence and readiness to excel in every game.
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 di erent paddles, always on the lookout for the best equipment to improve our game.
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