What Are The Different Types Of Paddles?

Are you interested in learning more about the different types of pickleball paddles? You’re in the right place.

As we’re sure you might agree, a paddle is one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll get as a pickleball player, so it only makes sense to want to know as much about the different types as you can.

This is where we come in to help. In this guide, we are going to be talking you through the different types of paddles you can get in pickleball.

Towards the end, we are also going to be sharing with you some additional factors that you should make sure that you know about while selecting a paddle along with the design.

Just keep on reading!

What Are The Different Types Of Paddles?

So, what are the different types of paddles? At the time of writing, there are currently three main types of pickleball paddles that you should be aware of. Let’s check them out below:

Graphite Pickleball Paddle

The first type of paddle that you can get is a graphite paddle. These types of paddles are made out of graphite and are typically best suited for those who are beginner players or are simply looking for a paddle that is going to be able to provide plenty of control and stability.

Along with offering plenty of stability, you might also be interested to learn that graphite pickleball paddles tend to be one of the more affordable options that you can get.

Elongated Pickleball Paddle

This next type of pickleball paddle features an elongated handle, hence the name. Elongated pickleball paddles are a little harder to come by than graphite or fiberglass ones, although they do offer plenty of control.

Due to this, elongated pickleball paddles often tend to be used by beginners or intermediate players.

Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle

The third type of pickleball paddle that you can get is a fiberglass paddle. These paddles are very similar to graphite paddles, with the only difference being that they are made out of fiberglass.

Due to this, fiberglass paddles are known for offering plenty of speed and power, which makes them well suited to intermediate to advanced pickleball players.

Additional Factors To Consider When Choosing A Pickleball

Now that we have outlined all of the different types of pickleball paddles, we are now going to be taking a moment to also talk you through some additional factors that you should take into account when selecting a pickleball paddle.

Three factors will help you to choose the right paddle for you. Let’s check them out:

Weight

Besides considering the type of paddle, you should also take the time to think about the weight of the paddle, too.

The weight is one of the most important factors that you should consider when selecting a new paddle, and greatly determines the “feel” you can expect to get from using the paddle.

Generally speaking, the majority of pickleball paddles on the market right now typically tend to weigh anywhere from between 6 to 14 ounces, with the average weight falling at around the 7-8 ounces mark.

That being said, a lightweight paddle typically tends to provide the user with more control over shots than a heavy paddle can, although it is worth noting that lighter paddles often tend to offer far less power.

On the other hand, heavier paddles often tend to give the user far less control over shots than a lighter paddle can (which means that it might not be the best option for beginner to intermediate players) although a heavier paddle does often have the ability to be able to provide the user with far greater power, speed and drive.

This means that a heavier paddle might be the better option for more advanced players.

Grip

The next factor that you should consider when selecting a paddle alongside its design is the quality of the grip.

Regardless of your level of play, making sure that you have a paddle that offers great grip will not only ensure that you can enjoy maximum control, but it will also help to provide more stability while you play, too.

Durability

Last but certainly not least, the final factor that you should take into consideration when selecting a pickleball paddle is the durability of the paddle.

Even though it is important to take into account the design of the paddle, as well as its grip and weight – it is also just as important to make sure that you are considering the durability of the paddle that you are considering purchasing, too.

The last thing that you want to do is purchase a paddle, only to discover that it gets damaged or needs to be replaced after just a few uses. For that reason, you should make sure that you are opting for a paddle that is built to last.

The Bottom Line

All in all? The pickleball paddle is by far one of the most (if not, the most) important pieces of equipment that you will need to equip yourself with as a pickleball player.

Regardless of whether you’ve been playing for years and you’re an advanced player, or you’ve just recently decided to take the leap into the world of pickleball playing – having the right paddle will help you to maximize your performance, all while improving your ability.

That being said, now that you have taken the time to read through our guide above, we hope that you now have a much better understanding of what the different types of paddles are available to you to choose from as a pickleball player.

As well as that, we also hope that we have been able to give you a greater understanding of how to choose the right pickleball paddle for you and your current style of play, too.

Thanks for reading!

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