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Long Handle Vs Short Handle Pickleball
Paddle (4″ Or 6.5″)
Choose a long handle if you prioritize power, reach, and aggressive play styles such as strong smashes and backhand shots. In general, opt for a short handle if you value control and quick wrist movements for precise shots, especially close to the net.
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Sid Edmondson July 25, 2024 5 Mins
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Choosing the right pickleball racket is very important for players who want to improve their
technical level in pickleball. It depends on many di erent factors, such as playing style, personal preferences and physical characteristics.
There are many debates on social networking platforms such as X and Facebook. People debate which one plays better and many opinions take place.
This article aims to provide clarity and guidance, drawing from both personal experience and expert insight. This supports the pickleball community in making informed paddle choices.
PRO’S INSIGHT:
I personally prefer using long-handled paddles due to their ability to enhance my reach and power on the court. And I have larger hands, the larger grip size of long-handled paddles provides me with better control and comfort during intense matches.
Additionally, I nd that the extra leverage from a longer handle allows me to execute powerful shots more e ectively, which suits my aggressive playing style.
Key
Di erences Between Long Handle & Short Handle
Feature Short Handle Paddles Long Handle Paddles
Length and Grip Size 4 – 5 inches handle length & smaller grip size 5.5 – 6.5 inches handle length & larger grip size
Weight Distribution More evenly distributed & lighter overall Head-heavy distribution & feel heavier
– Larger sweet spot.
Pros
Cons
– Better control & easier to maneuver
– Ideal for quick wrist movements and fast shots.
– Less power & limited reach.
– May be uncomfortable with large hands.
– Can be less e ective for long shots.
– Greater power & extended reach.
– Suitable for two-handed grip.
– Ideal for aggressive play and long shots.
– Smaller sweet spot.
– Can be harder to control & heavier.
– Slower to react.
Table of di erences between long and short handle pickleball paddle.
Handle Size
Short-handled paddles are typically 4 to 5 inches long and have a more balanced or even weight distribution, making the paddle feel lighter and easier to control. The smaller grip size is ideal for players with smaller hands or those who like quick wrist movements.
While long-handled paddles are typically 5.5 to 6.5 inches in length and have a heavier weight distribution toward the tip. Therefore, when holding or playing, you will feel that the paddle is heavier and provides more force. They often have larger handle sizes, making them suitable for players with larger hands or those who prefer to hold the paddle with two hands.
Sweet spot
Shorter handles mean the paddle face has more space. So, the center of gravity of the handle will be closer to the paddle surface. As the surface area increases, the sweet spot becomes larger. Therefore, the player will control the force and reduce the twisting e ect when the ball is hit o -center when using a paddle with a shorter handle.
Short handle paddle is suitable for beginners. It is easier to practice hitting the ball and feels comfortable when holding it. In addition, with light shots and those close to the net, it also helps you to control and execute these shots more smoothly and with greater accuracy.
Besides, paddles with longer handles have a smaller sweet spot but provide greater power and range. I nd that people who are professionals often use long handles. It is also easier to use for backhand players, helping to hit the ball with more power.
For example, the Pickleball Joola Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16 is one of the paddles with a longer handle, with a handle length of 5.5 inches. Tyson McGu n, one of the world’s top tennis players, often uses the Pickleball Joola Ben Johns Perseus in his professional matches.
Tyson McGu n with long handle pickleball paddle
Playing style
Paddles with short handles are better for players who prioritize control and precision over power.
These paddles are well-suited for gentle strokes at the net, providing excellent accuracy and consistency.
If you prefer compactness and convenience and don’t like to hold a heavy paddle in your hands, this is the best choice. When playing, it also helps you move your wrist quickly and exibly, reacting faster when hitting the ball.
Moreover, I often prefer to play with an o ensive strategy rather than a defensive strategy, and nd that the long-handled paddle helps me create powerful smashes and pushes. For those who
like backhand shots, this is the preferred choice as it allows you to gain control and power when holding your backhand.
In Short
With years of experience in the pickleball community, choosing a long handle or a short handle for your pickleball paddle has become clearer.
Choose a long handle if you prioritize power, reach, and aggressive play styles such as strong smashes and backhand shots. The added leverage and weight distribution towards the tip provide the necessary force for dominating the court.
In general, opt for a short handle if you value control and quick wrist movements for precise shots, especially close to the net. The larger sweet spot enhances accuracy and consistency in your gameplay.
The aim of this article is to provide clarity and guidance based on personal insights, answering common questions on social media and o ering support to the pickleball community in their paddle selection.
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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