Selecting a Paddle that suits You
Not all pickleball paddles are created equal, and here's what you need to consider:
Weight: Paddle weight is an important consideration. It influences how you handle the paddle and your performance on the court.
Pickleball paddles are categorized into three weight classes: lightweight (under 7.3 ounces, approximately two to three times a ping-pong paddle's weight), midweight (7.3 to 8.4 ounces), and heavy (8.5 to 14 ounces, akin to a tennis racquet). Lighter paddles offer precision and maneuverability, easing stress on joints, making them perfect for players with conditions like tennis elbow or arthritis. On the other hand, heavier paddles pack power and excel at delivering deep hits with less effort. Yet, they can tire you out quickly and risk straining your wrist. Remember, hitting harder doesn't necessarily mean the ball travels significantly faster.
Grip: Once you've decided on the paddle's weight, grip comes into focus.
The grip circumference should match your hand size to ensure a comfortable hold. An appropriate grip is crucial for injury prevention and overall performance. Tennis players may gravitate toward larger grips due to their experience with thicker racquets, while racquetball players, accustomed to wrist-heavy play, may prefer smaller grips. A smaller grip facilitates spin and control, enhancing serve power. In contrast, larger grips stabilize hits and reduce wrist, elbow, and shoulder strain. To determine your ideal grip size, consider your height or measure the distance from your ring finger's top to your palm's middle. When in doubt, you can always add an overgrip, a soft, cloth-like tape, to adjust the grip's circumference.
Material: Paddle material is another pivotal factor. You can choose from wood, composite, or graphite paddles. Wooden paddles, although less common today, offer affordability. However, they tend to be significantly heavier than other options. If weight is a concern, consider composite paddles, which provide a balance between weight and price, typically ranging from $40 to $80. Composite paddles feature textured surfaces made from fiberglass or carbon fiber, perfect for adding spin to shots. For those willing to invest more, graphite paddles are the lightest and strongest, thanks to their double-sided thin graphite faces. Prices for graphite paddles typically start around $60 and can go up to $200 or more.
Muevnos Harmony Recreational Paddle - Crafted with a composite polypropylene honeycomb core and reactive fiberglass paddle surface, providing the delicate balance of control and power. This lightweight paddle also offers a comfortable grip and features a protective edge guard to keep you in control of the game while minimizing the risk of dings and scratches.
Muevnos Junior Paddle - Specially designed for young players. Crafted with their comfort and performance in mind, these paddles feature lightweight materials and the perfect grip size for smaller hands. Now, even our youngest athletes can enjoy the game with the right equipment.
