What Pickleball Paddle Weight is Right for Me?
As a coach with many years in the profession, I would especially remind my students to pay attention to the choice of Pickleball Paddle,weight, which plays an important role in enhancing game performance and preventing injuries. Through years of coaching different types of players, I have found that lightweight Pickleball Paddle,help novice and defensive players improve control and accuracy and reduce fatigue, while heavyweight Pickleball Paddle, increase power and stability for offensive players.
Ⅰ. Weight Source
1. Core Material Structure
In the design and manufacture of Pickleball Paddle, the core material structure plays a crucial role in the weight of the pickleball paddle. Often paddle are manufactured with a honeycomb structure, where the size and shape of the honeycomb cells (hexagonal, square, etc.) affects the density and weight of the core material. Some honeycomb structures are filled with other lightweight materials to increase strength without significantly increasing weight. The next section focuses on the pickleball paddle weight of honeycomb structures made of different materials:
2. Polypropylene Honeycomb
Polypropylene honeycomb is by far one of the most common pickleball paddle core materials used by players, accounting for about 50% to 60% of a pickleball paddle's total weight. Due to the low density of polypropylene, polypropylene honeycomb structures are typically very lightweight, making them one of the lightest thermoplastic polymers available. Polypropylene honeycomb is favored by most players because it is lightweight, easy to swing, flexible, and inexpensive.
3. Nomex Honeycomb
Nomex Honeycomb is a common and popular core material for pickleball paddle, and is a must for many offensive and intermediate to advanced players. Nomex is an aramid fiber that is strong and lightweight, though slightly heavier than polypropylene, and is moderately dense, which provides a balance of weight and strength. Nomex has a moderate density, which maintains a balance between weight and strength, and accounts for approximately 55% to 65% of a pickleball paddle's total weight.
4. Aluminum Honeycomb
Aluminum Honeycomb paddle are the choice of players who need to train for frequent training matches and are balanced offensively and defensively, and who value the high strength and stability of the construction. Aluminum is inherently denser than other honeycomb materials such as polypropylene and Nomex, which means that honeycomb paddle are heavier overall, accounting for about 60% to 70% of the total weight of the pickleball paddle. Aluminum honeycomb construction not only adds weight to the pickleball paddle, but also enhances power transfer and control, making it ideal for long distance draws and hard kills.
Ⅱ. The effect of Pickleball Paddle thickness on weight
1. Thin core paddle under 14mm
This thickness is a common choice for light and medium weight paddle for players who need quick reactions and easy control. Its lower weight and the fact that the weight is more easily concentrated at the head of the pickleball paddle due to the thinner thickness helps to improve swing speed and agility. paddle usually weigh between 200-240 grams and are more suitable for beginners to start with. Players who want to choose a lighter pickleball paddle weight can pay extra attention to paddle under 14mm, but be prepared for a relatively weak pickleball paddle in terms of power transfer and durability.
2. 14-16mm
paddle typically weigh between 240-260 grams, making them the most common mid-weight pickleball paddle option on the market today and one of the choices for most players. paddle with a thickness of 14-16mm have a moderate weight and perform better in terms of power transfer, control and comfort. The weight is more evenly distributed and is neither too head heavy nor too handle heavy. The balance point of a medium thickness pickleball paddle is usually located in the middle of the pickleball paddle or slightly closer to the handle, known as neutral balance.
3. 16mm and above
This thickness is often used for heavy paddle, which usually weigh between 260-280 grams and have a more even weight distribution. Thick paddle usually have a handle-weight balance, which means the balance point is close to the handle, and are suitable for intermediate to advanced players and professional tournaments who need more power transfer and durability. 16mm+ paddle are heavier and are less suitable for those with a weaker sense of wrist strength, which can easily cause injury.
Pickleball Paddle thickness has a significant impact on weight distribution and balance point. If you want to know more about the differences between different thicknesses, you can click the page Pickleball Paddle Choice Between Different Thicknesses.
Ⅲ. The material on the weight of the impact
1. Carbon fiber
Impact: Carbon fiber is usually used to make lightweight and high-strength pickleball paddles. pickleball paddles made of carbon fiber are relatively lightweight, which helps to improve the flexibility and swing speed of the pickleball paddle.
2. Fiberglass
Impact: Fiberglass is usually slightly heavier than carbon fiber, but lighter than other traditional materials such as aluminum alloys. It provides some strength and vibration absorption properties.
3. IMPACT
Aluminum alloy paddle are typically heavier than carbon or fiberglass paddle, providing greater stability and power. This weight helps to increase the strength and control of the stroke.
When choosing the right pickleball paddle, the material is also something we need to focus on, you can refer to the page What is the best material for a pickleball paddle?
Ⅳ. The grip on the weight of the impact
1. Size
Wide frame pickleball paddles and narrow frame pickleball paddles: wide frame pickleball paddles usually have a larger frame area and wider beam, which will increase the overall weight of the pickleball paddle. This design usually provides a larger sweet spot area, which helps players improve their hitting percentage and consistency when hitting the ball. In contrast, narrow frame paddle typically have a smaller frame area and narrower beam, so they tend to be lighter. This design provides faster swing speeds and more flexible pickleball paddle control.The Shape of the Pickleball Paddle
2. Material
Most materials used to manufacture grips are rubber and silicone. Rubber and silicone are excellent in terms of comfort, durability and non-slip properties.
Rubber grips usually add weight to the pickleball paddle, giving it more power and stability when hitting the ball.Silicone grips, due to their lighter weight, reduce the overall weight of the pickleball paddle, making it more flexible and quicker to hit.
The choice of grip is also very important, directly affecting the player's comfort, want to learn more about the grip selection.
Ⅴ. Different Weight Specifications
1. Light weight Pickleball Paddle (7.3-7.8 ounces)
Advantages
Lightweight paddle offer faster swing speeds, which is especially important for players who need to react quickly and be flexible in adjusting their stroke angles.They are usually easier to handle and control than heavier paddle, which is good for beginners and less skilled players to learn and master basic skills. They also reduce the stress on the arm and wrist when hitting the ball, allowing for more flexibility in responding to a variety of game situations and different playing styles of opponents.
Lightweight paddle excel at slicing and spinning the ball. Players can utilize the lightweight nature of the pickleball paddle to apply power quickly, causing the ball to spin at high speeds, making it more difficult for opponents. Players who need to change tactics and techniques frequently. They have the flexibility to adjust their strokes and make strategic adjustments based on the situation in the match and their opponents' reactions.
Disadvantages
Due to their light weight, lightweight paddle may not be able to generate enough power when hitting the ball, resulting in a lower power output. Lightweight paddle are usually not as stable as heavier paddle when faced with powerful shots. This may cause the pickleball paddle to vibrate easily during the stroke, affecting the accuracy and stability of the shot.
Paddle like the VERSIX® Strike 4F, which uses a thinner 0.4-inch polypropylene core, keep their weight in the light and fast 7.1 - 7.5 ounce range.But for a significant increase in power output and stability, I usually recommend that players choose paddle that use carbon fiber as their primary material.
2. Medium weight Pickleball Paddle (7.9-8.3 ounces)
Medium weight paddle (weighing between 7.9 and 8.3 ounces) are designed to balance the advantages of light and heavy paddle and are chosen by most players.
Advantages
Mid-weight paddle have a better balance of power and control and shock absorption compared to lightweight paddle. The weight of a medium weight pickleball paddle is similar to the weight of a portable Bluetooth speaker, which is an acceptable weight for most people to train for a tournament. Provides good power while not causing excessive arm and shoulder fatigue compared to heavier paddle.
Disadvantages
Designed to balance weight and performance, the mid-weight pickleball paddle may not stand out as much as the lighter or heavier paddle for some players with specific needs, and may fall slightly short in terms of personalization. Players do of course add a certain amount of weight to their paddle to suit their preferences, and players often stick lead tape on their paddle for this purpose. If you are also interested in this page Mastering Pickleball with Lead Tape
When players and I choose a middle weight pickleball paddle, we choose SUKEEN's carbon fiber line of paddle, which is excellent in balance and comfort, meets all of our performance needs and is priced well for peace of mind and peace of mind. For some players with specific needs, they may want to further personalize their pickleball paddle. They also offer customization services in this area and we recommend you to choose them.
3. Weighted Pickleball Paddle (8.4 ounces and above)
Advantages Often designed to emphasize power output and stability, due to the higher weight it is not suitable for most players and enthusiasts for daily practice and matches. It is the larger weight that applies more force to the ball, providing the pickleball paddle with more momentum and impulse than light and medium weight paddle. This helps the player to generate higher ball speeds and greater depth of stroke, making it ideal for players who need to hit the ball farther and return it more powerfully, especially in baseline situations.
Secondly, weighted paddle are excellent in terms of stability and control. Due to their greater mass, weighted paddle are more stable when in contact with the ball, reducing the amount of pickleball paddle wobble at the moment of impact. This stability allows the pickleball paddle to deliver power to the ball more accurately, increasing the effectiveness and strength of the stroke.
Disadvantages Weighted paddle require more power and time to swing, and are not as flexible as lighter paddle when it comes to quickly switching and adjusting the angle of the stroke, making them more suitable for power and defensive players, and may be difficult for beginners or less technically mature players to master. The weight of a weighted pickleball paddle is similar to the weight of a glass of milk, and paddle of this weight require a higher level of head strength from the user.
A pickleball paddle like the Paddletek Bantam Ex-L Paddle weighs 7.7 to 8.4 ounces. At this weight, a player can still derive natural power from the paddle, but can also exert spin and control. 
Ⅵ. Select Recommended
1. Scenario Uses
a). Daily training
For everyday training, the weight of the pickleball paddle should provide enough control and comfort without being too heavy to cause fatigue. A light to medium weight pickleball paddle (7.3 to 8.3 ounces) is recommended to maintain agility and precise control of technical details during practice without causing excessive muscle fatigue.
b). Match play
During matches, players usually want to be able to exert optimal power and control in order to cope with high pressure and competition. Medium to heavy paddle (7.9 to 8.5 ounces) are recommended, as these paddle provide a more consistent feel and increased power output to help players gain an advantage in matches.
c).Recreational Play
In recreational settings, pickleball paddle selection can be more focused on comfort and ease of use. Lightweight paddle (7.3 to 7.8 ounces) are an ideal choice, as they allow players to easily enjoy the game without feeling overly cumbersome, while still maintaining good control performance.
d). Socializing
In social situations, pickleball paddle selection should be more focused on entertainment and interactivity. Light to medium weight paddle (7.3 to 8.3 ounces) are recommended, which will allow participants to easily enjoy the game without the weight detracting from the overall playing experience.
2. Crowd
a). Beginners
Beginners often need a lightweight and easy-to-control pickleball paddle to help them learn proper stroke technique and improve self-confidence. It is recommended to choose a lightweight pickleball paddle (7.3 to 7.8 ounces), which will reduce fatigue and make it easier for them to master basic movements and stroke techniques. When choosing a pickleball paddle, apart from the weight that needs to be considered, you need to evaluate whether the pickleball paddle is suitable for you as a whole. [How to choose a pickleball paddle for beginners
During the learning and training of the basic method skills of new students, I will ask them to use carbon fiber pickleball paddle, should not use too light or too heavy pickleball paddle, on the one hand, we need to get used to a certain weight of the pickleball paddle, exercise the sense of strength of the hand, on the other hand, we need to take care of the confidence of the new students. [Share to improve
b). Intermediate and Advanced players
For intermediate and advanced players who have mastered the basic skills and want to improve their game, the choice of pickleball paddle weight should focus more on balance and performance. It is recommended to choose an intermediate weight pickleball paddle (7.9 to 8.5 ounces), which provides enough power output and stability to enable the player to control the trajectory and speed of the ball more accurately during the match.
Professional players like Ben Johns, who uses the Hyperion CFS 16, a pickleball paddle that averages 8.4 ounces. How to choose a pickleball paddle for intermediate and advanced players.What to look for Pickleball Paddle?
c). Players with hand problems
For players with hand disorders or joint problems, choosing the right pickleball paddle weight can significantly reduce stress and discomfort in the hand. Light to medium weight paddle are recommended, and the choice should be based on the player's specific condition and medical advice. Lightweight paddle (7.3 to 7.8 ounces) are usually more suitable for these players because they reduce the load on the joints of the hand while still maintaining adequate control performance.
As mentioned earlier SUKEEN's mid-weight carbon fiber series of pickleball paddles are basically priced at $100, but provides control and power far beyond many of the same price of the pickleball paddle, fully able to meet the daily use of all occasions and timing. Whether I'm practicing for a match or just socializing, I've been pleasantly surprised by the difference. They also offer a custom design service for the style of the face, which is definitely attractive for social and casual players.
3. Match Modes
a). Singles Mode
In singles matches, players usually need more control and flexibility to cope with the quick changes and skillful play of their opponents. It is recommended to choose a medium weight pickleball paddle that provides enough stability and power output without being too heavy to affect quick movement and reaction time.Learn more
Pickleball Paddle Single Player Game Tips.
Advantage
Medium weight paddle provide a more consistent feel and enough power to help control the direction and speed of the ball in singles play.
Tips
Two-handed strokes: Players choosing two-handed strokes need a moderate pickleball paddle weight with a certain weight tolerance; using a lightweight pickleball paddle may instead lack sufficient power and stability. The choice of a two-handed grip is partly a matter of habit and partly a player's quest for better control and stability when hitting a backhand, which often lacks sufficient control and stability with a one-handed backhand. The weight distribution of the pickleball paddle is particularly important. A well-balanced pickleball paddle (with an even weight distribution) improves control and consistency, leading to more powerful shots, such as kills and deep backhands, where a two-handed grip can significantly increase ball speed and power.
Pickleball
In pickleball, lobs are an important tactic to force the opponent away from the net and gain more time and space for yourself. Lobs require a certain amount of pickleball paddle weight, usually a moderate to heavy pickleball paddle (approximately 8.0 ounces to 9.0 ounces, or 227 grams to 255 grams). The power from a weighted pickleball paddle strikes the ball high and deep, making it easier for the player to hoist the ball into the opponent's backcourt.
This is one of the reasons why many players choose weighted paddle, and it reminds me of a student of mine who was used to using weighted paddle in general, and often beat her opponents in matches by using lofted shots. Once when she was facing a highly skilled and fast opponent who was good at intercepting at the net, she changed her tactics and used the lob at the right time to change the rhythm of the game. It's hard not to admit that her lob level is very high, and I'm proud of her for that.Learn more "How to Hold a Pickleball Paddle?"
Scenario
Suitable for players who rely on technical and strategic strokes to be able to respond more accurately to their opponents' attacks and changes in singles matches.
b). Doubles Mode
In doubles matches, players need more tactical awareness and cooperation, as well as the ability to respond to quick reactions and rapid changes on the court. It is recommended to choose a light to medium weight pickleball paddle that offers enough control and flexibility without being too heavy to affect the player's reaction time and mobility.Learn more
Pickleball Doubles Strategy Guide.
Benefits
Light to medium weight paddle provide good control and agility in doubles play, facilitating quick reactions and coordination.
Scenario
Suitable for players who value quick reactions and teamwork, and are able to play more effectively in doubles matches with tactical advantage and court coverage.
Players like Anna Bright, the second-ranked player in the world in women's doubles and mixed doubles, uses a 14mm Scorpeus pickleball paddle with an average weight of 7.8oz. This lightweight pickleball paddle has a higher degree of flexibility, which can be beneficial in doubles matches that require quick reactions and court coverage. lucy Kovalova is able to control her pickleball paddle more comfortably in a fast-paced Lucy Kovalova is able to control the pickleball paddle more comfortably in order to adapt to the fast-paced environment of doubles play.
