Here is a complete guide on Pickleball paddle weight range to find a paddle that is best suited for your playing style.
Pickleball Paddle Weight
Pickleball paddle weight is a critical element, considering that it influences the physical performance, control, spin, power, stability, and other components of the game. Hence, it is always preferred that you do a detailed analysis of your playing style and then choose a paddle that has the appropriate weight.
If you are confused about what weight of pickleball paddle is comfortable for your game, follow this guide on classes of pickleball paddle. So, don’t waste more time, and let’s get in.
Pickleball Paddle Weight Classes
Pickleball paddles are divided into three classes when it comes to the weight range, including light, medium, and heavyweight. The playing style, physical ability, and comfort level of the player determine each. Here is a breakdown of each of these three classes, along with advantages and disadvantages.
Lightweight Paddles
The most commonly used paddles among pickleball players are the lightweight ones, with an average pickleball paddle weight between 7 and 7.8 ounces. These are designed for players who want speed and control and get easily fatigued out by heavy paddles. The lightest pickleball paddle is definitely the best suited for a quick, flick-tastic playing style.
Light pickleball paddles have the least amount of resistance to speed and wind, which is why they are easy to control and achieve accuracy. If you are someone who likes playing soft dinks and drop shots that require minimal power, they may be the most suitable for you. Given that they are light, the movements and style come naturally to players using these paddles.
Advantages
- These paddles are great for double matches
- Offers incredible speed and quick movements
- Easy to hold
- No fatigue or uneasiness around the wrist muscles
- Offers amazing controls
- The movements are natural
Disadvantages
- Power is not the best suit for these paddles
- Not the best in windy conditions
- They may produce more vibrations
- Players cannot play power shots with a lighter paddle
Mediumweight Paddles
Mediumweight paddles are the ones that typically weigh between 7.8 and 8.3 ounces. These are probably the best bet for anyone who is confused about which one to go for, partly because they have a balanced ratio of stability and power. Players don’t have to put in extra effort with these paddles to master deep shots.
They also have amazing wrist mechanics, as they swing conventionally and generate enough power. Hence, given the fact that they generate medium-level power, it is easy for players to balance them in both double and single matches. Similarly, you won’t feel stress and tension on your wrist, making them great for long practice sessions or drills.
Advantages
- Great for single and double matches
- They generate a medium-level power
- Easy on hands and wrist muscles
- Balanced power and control
- Incredible potential to hit balanced shots
Disadvantages
- It has no scope to lean towards specialization of a playing style
Heavy Paddles
The last category on this list of the pickleball paddle weight classes is the heavyweight. Usually, these paddles are heavier than 8.3 ounces and lie on the power advantage. That said, these are extremely difficult to control and require players to have immense practice.
These pickleball paddles are designed to absorb the energy coming from the other side so that the hits are stable and the weight is distributed evenly. If you are transitioning from a lighter paddle directly to a heavier one, it will require extra effort, even by an active player.
Advantages
- Great for hard-hitting shots
- Generates incredible power
- Resist windy conditions
- Ideal for professionals
- Best for single matches
Disadvantages
- Difficult to control
- It may cause fatigue and discomfort in the arm and wrist area
- Not the best for double matches
How Does Weight Of The Pickleball Paddle Impact Physical Performance?
The weight of the pickleball paddle doesn’t only influence the physical performance of the player but all components of the game. For the most part, the weight is directly proportional to the power and stability that is behind the ball for each hit. Hence, in return, it determines everything from speed to control, strength, and comfort level of the player in the entire game.
Now, the rule of thumb says that the heavier the paddle is, the more power it will generate, but at the expense of control and speed. So, if you are someone who wants speed and agility, a lighter paddle would be a better option. And if you are confused, a middleweight paddle may be the right choice.
Now, coming to its impact on physical performance, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that weight is inversely proportional to comfort. A lighter pickleball paddle means a comfortable wrist and no fatigue at all, even for long hours of the game. On the contrary, handling the heaviest pickleball paddle can result in extreme fatigue and discomfort in the hand muscles.
How To Find The Right Pickleball Paddle Weighs Suitable For Your Playing Style?
It can be a challenge for players who are confused as to what weight the pickleball paddle is. Hence, it is ideal to look into some things that can help you in making the right decision. Here is a list of all these basic prerequisites for buying the right pickleball paddle.
- Playing Style: The most important factor that counts when it comes to pickleball weight is the playing style. For instance, if you have a quick finesse style of game with incredible control and stability, the lightweight paddle is a wise option. In contrast, a heavy paddle is better for players with a power-oriented playing style.
- Experience Level: Likewise, if you are just starting with pickleball, a lighter paddle is the correct answer. These can balance out softer dinks with incredible speed and control. In contrast, experts who are fond of playing power shots usually prefer using heavy paddles.
- Physical Ability: If you are someone who gets easily tired and is unable to bear the weight of a paddle in your hand for a long time, a lightweight paddle (between 7 and 7.8 ounces) may be the right choice, and vice versa. That said, for experts who love playing power shots, heavy paddles are my absolute recommendation.
- Budget: Typically, lighter pickleball paddles tend to be more expensive than heavier and medium-weight paddles. This is because they are generally made up of high-end materials. And if you are restricted by budget, start your journey with a mid-weight or heavy paddle.
Should I Change My Paddle Weight Over Time?
Yes, you should change the weight of your paddle over time while progressing in the game. This is especially true for players who are changing their playing style or are experiencing an injury. In a nutshell, I would say don’t be afraid of trying a new style of playing if you have just started playing pickleball.
Can You Make A Pickleball Paddle Heavier?
Yes, if you want to add more weight to your existing paddle to increase power generation, you can definitely do this. All you need to do is use the lead tape, and it can add an entire ounce to your paddle. The good thing about this is that it is by the USAPA guidelines, and the pickleball paddle weight tape will also act as an edge guard tape, which will provide you with better paddle grip and control.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Pickleball Paddle Weight For Mid-Level Players?
If you are a beginner or mid-level player who is looking for a paddle, I would advise you to go for a weight between 7.3 and 7.8 ounces. It allows you to achieve a balance of both power and control during single and double games. Moreover, it feels comfortable during intense, long practice sessions.
Can I Play Power Shots With A 7.3 Ounces Pickleball Paddle?
No, you may not be able to play power shots with 7.3 ounces of pickleball paddles. This is because it falls in the light pickleball paddle category that provides you with incredible control but at the expense of power.
Can I Add Weight To My Pickleball Paddle?
Yes, you can definitely add weight to a pickleball paddle as you progress in the game. This is especially true if you are experimenting with different playing styles. Similarly, if you are feeling like power is an issue, adding lead tape to your paddle can solve this issue.
Which Pickleball Paddle Weight Is Best For Beginners?
Any pickleball paddle with a weight between 7 and 7.8 ounces is great for beginners. This is because it allows them to practice control and stability for softer dinks and fewer power shots.
What Is The Best Pickleball Paddle Weight For Tennis Elbow?
A lighter pickleball paddle can reduce the strain on your elbow and arm while playing pickleball. A paddle with a weight range between 6.5 to 7.8 ounces is recommended for a person with tennis elbow or any discomfort.
What Weight Pickleball Paddle Do The Pros Use?
Heavyweight pickleball paddles are considered perfect for professional players. Paddles have a weight greater than 8.3 ounces and produce greater power. They need great practice to control, so experienced and professional players can use heavyweight paddles for hard-hitting shots.
Final Thoughts
Lightweight vs heavyweight pickleball paddle; which one is better? This is the most asked question among players, and rightfully so. Weight determines a great deal of your pickleball game, including control, stability, and power. And I hope this pickleball paddle weight guide has been helpful for you in choosing which weight is the most comfortable for you.
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- How To Clean Pickleball Paddle?
- Best Pickleball Paddles Under 100
- Best Onix Pickleball Paddles
- Intermediate Pickleball Paddles
I, Jeena Noven, am a renowned pickleball expert and author with over 10 years of experience playing and coaching the sport. My passion and extensive knowledge of pickleball has made me a leading authority in the game, particularly in the field of footwear. I have written countless articles for https://pickleballcard.com/, a website dedicated to pickleball, sharing my insights and expertise on the best shoes for the sport. Through personal testing and reviewing countless different brands and styles, I have developed a deep understanding of the technical aspects of shoe design that make them suitable for the demands of pickleball. In my articles, I provide valuable information for both beginner and advanced players, covering everything from the basics of shoe fit and support, to advanced tips for maximizing performance on the court. As a dedicated pickleball player and expert in footwear, I am a valuable resource for players of all levels. My articles are not only informative but also engaging, making them a must-read for anyone looking to improve their pickleball game. I am constantly researching new products and trends in the industry and my readers can always count on me to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information on the best pickleball shoes available.
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