How long does it take for a pickleball paddle to go bad? There are many factors that contribute to this. Read on to learn about how long a paddle should last, signs of damage, and how much a new paddle should cost.
Ultimately, a good pickleball paddle will last a long time and will save you money in the long run. However, as a beginner, it’s important to know what to look for to tell if your paddle is deteriorating.
Average Lifespan of a Pickleball Paddle
The average lifespan of a pickleball paddle varies depending on the quality and materials used in its construction. A wooden paddle is less likely to break after a year of use, while a graphite paddle is likely to last for two to three years.
Both materials offer good performance and durability, but graphite paddles are generally more durable. If you play Pickleball frequently, you may want to choose a composite paddle rather than graphite.
When not in use, store your pickleball paddle away from young children and pets. Store it in a dry location where it won’t get damaged by dust and moisture.
In addition, learn proper grip and swing techniques for the best results. You may also want to purchase a pickleball paddle bag to store it in.
A proper paddle bag will keep your paddle safe and protected while not in use, as well as protect it from accidental scratches.
The average lifespan of a pickleball paddle also depends on the type of play style you engage in. Aggressive pickleball players should expect to replace their paddles more frequently than recreational players.
Smart pickleball players should avoid using the paddle excessively. As with any sports equipment, paddles wear down over time.
Therefore, it is best to replace your paddle every three to four years. The average lifespan of a pickleball paddle depends on the quality of play and its material.
Signs of Damage on a Pickleball Paddle
Dead spots are sign of damaged pickleball paddles. Dead spots can be small and barely noticeable.
If you find a dead spot in your paddle, replace it within a year. Dead spots will not affect the quality of play but should be replaced.
Dead spots can also lead to damage if you hit the paddle against a hard surface.
If you use your pickleball paddle often, you may want to consider purchasing a new one every two or three years.
The lifespan of a new paddle varies depending on its material and the frequency of use. If you play frequently, you may want to consider a composite paddle rather than a graphite paddle.
If you play daily, you will need to replace your paddle more often. Overusing your paddle will result in premature wear and tear.
The best way to protect your pickleball paddle is to store it away from extreme temperatures. Never put it in a garage or basement, as these temperatures can cause damage.
Cold weather tends to make objects more fragile. After playing on the court, it will be softer and the protective edges will be prone to falling off.
It’s also not advisable to put your pickleball paddle in a hot car, as the heat may weaken its durability.
Cost of a Pickleball Paddle
A good quality pickleball paddle is important. You’ll want it to flex, dampen ball vibrations and provide enough flex to make a great drop shot.
Luckily, there are many high quality pickleball paddles that will last for many years. The best ones are made by top pickleball paddle brands.
Buying a pickleball paddle from a reputable brand like HEAD is a great way to ensure that you’ll get years of use out of it.
The most important aspect of a good pickleball paddle is the material. If it breaks or wears out too easily, you’ll need to replace it.
The best options are crafted from high quality materials like wood, fiberglass, or carbon. If you’re not sure which material to get, make sure to read user reviews.
Also, make sure to check out the rating system on the manufacturer’s website, as that will tell you how good the seller is at delivering.
If you’re playing singles games, a paddle with a Nomex core is recommended. These paddles have extra power and can make singles play faster.
A polymer paddle, on the other hand, has a plastic core that is considered to be the most recent technology. Polymer paddles are also known to be the quietest paddles on the market.
This can be important if you’re playing pickleball in a gated community. You don’t want to disturb the neighbors. The noise from pickleball can impact other activities in the neighborhood.