If you take good care of your pickleball paddle, it will last you about three years, or more depending on the material. The lifespan of a graphite paddle is about a year, while a wood paddle can last for two years or more. Wood paddles are stronger and tend to last longer, and they provide a higher degree of flexibility than graphite paddles. However, this does not mean you should never replace a paddle if it begins to show signs of wear and tear.
Weight
The weight of a pickleball paddle is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right one. Lighter paddles are best for those who don’t have recurring elbow or shoulder injuries. While a heavy paddle will produce more power, it will also wear on your arm muscles and joints. People who have wrist or elbow injuries should avoid a heavy paddle. Those who play the game regularly should avoid a paddle that is too heavy.
Choose the material of the pickleball paddle according to your level of expertise. Some paddles are lightweight and durable. Others are made of fiberglass or carbon composite. The type of material used for the paddle’s core also determines how heavy it is. For example, a pickleball paddle with a Graphite surface will weigh less than one with a Nomex core. Aluminum cores are heavy and excel at adding control. Some paddle manufacturers combine these two materials for the ultimate balance between power and control.
If you aren’t sure of your wrist size, you can try out different pickleball paddles to find out which one fits you. If you aren’t sure, try one paddle in your hand and slide your other index finger between the fingertips and the heel of your gripping hand. If your fingers don’t move when you are holding the pickleball paddle, you’ve found the right one! This will help you feel more stable during mishits.
The shape of the pickleball paddle is another important factor. A standard pickleball paddle is sixteen inches long and eight inches wide, and meets the total permitted 24 inches. An elongated paddle is longer than the standard and smaller in width, and provides more power and control. It also has better balance. And while a standard pickleball paddle is good for beginners, the elongated shape is best for advanced players.
Grip size
When buying a pickleball paddle, you should consider three things: the grip, size, and texture. Grip size is the circumference of the paddle and usually ranges from four and a half inches to four and a half inches, with one eighth-inch increments. The grip should fit tightly into the handle but be slightly looser than the original. Then, you should push the overgrip towards the base of the paddle and press hard enough to adhere it.
If your paddle is made of wood, you can choose from among several materials to purchase. The cheapest wooden paddle is made of solid plywood, while composite and graphite paddles cost $60 to $145. Wood paddles are also affordable and heavy, but they will have a more “pop” sound when hit. Beginners should opt for a wood paddle, but graphite and composite paddles are also suitable for beginners.
Once you’ve decided to buy a new paddle, you can replace the grip with the same type. Most high-end paddles come with a premium grip. This helps absorb sweat while increasing comfort. A poorly-fitting paddle can cause joint and elbow pain and should be replaced before it begins to wear out. However, it’s important to note that the grip is an essential part of a pickleball paddle and should be replaced whenever you feel that the grip is too small or too large.
A pickleball paddle can be expensive, so consider the size and weight of the paddle when purchasing one. The weight of the paddle will determine how it feels in your hand and how you strike the ball. A lightweight paddle might be too easy for you to handle, and it may make your hands ache when you play for long periods of time. A heavy paddle may also increase your fatigue levels when playing for long periods.
Material
When you are new to pickleball, you may be overwhelmed with the many options available and the countless price tags. You must consider weight, grip size, and paddle material before making your purchase. Plywood paddles are popular because they are lightweight but durable and can last for years. Compared to other materials, though, they are more expensive. The type of pickleball paddle you should buy will depend on your budget and playing style.
Extreme temperatures can warp pickleball paddle material. Especially those with wood grips, you will need to replace them more often. These extreme temperatures can make your paddle more brittle and weaken its core. Store your pickleball paddles inside a climate-controlled area when not in use. Similarly, keep your paddles away from excessive moisture and extreme temperatures. This will help them last longer.
When to replace pickleball paddle material? It depends on how much you use your paddles. You will need to replace the paddle when the material is cracked or the handle has broken. Moreover, you should also clean the faces of your paddles often to prolong their life. The graphics and materials on the paddle faces should also be cleaned to avoid damaging them. You should replace your paddles as soon as you notice that your performance is declining.
Depending on your playing style, you can replace the material in your pickleball paddle by using different techniques. A good way to do this is to measure the size of your grip. Measure from the tip of your ring finger to the middle crease of the palm. If the paddle is too small or too large, you may have problems with wrist and joint pain. The grip size is a critical part of picking out the right pickleball paddle.
Durability
You can determine the durability of your pickleball paddle by observing its weight. Usually, recreational players need to change their paddles every three to four years. A professional paddle should be replaced at least once a year, while a recreational paddle can last for up to five years. A pickleball paddle that weighs less than a pound should be a good choice if you regularly play this sport.
Graphite is an extremely strong material that is used to make pickleball paddles. It is also very light and provides a great balance of feel, power, and control. It is perfect for tournament players and is lightweight at 7.9 oz. Its internal honeycomb core provides a non-slip performance and better ball control. It also has an incredible grip. The overall performance of a pickleball paddle can be improved with its durability.
A wooden pickleball paddle is one of the most affordable options available. Unlike composite racquets, wooden pickleball paddles are durable. While pro players often change their paddles every six to twelve months, beginners can use the same wooden paddle for years. So, whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned veteran, you can make the right decision based on your preferences. There are many options available for pickleball paddles.
Graphite and Nomex cores are also popular. Both materials are highly durable and responsive. However, you should check the material content of your pickleball paddle to ensure that it is durable enough to handle the game well. A Nomex paddle will repel the ball with great force and will sound a distinct “pop” on impact. The durability of Nomex pickleball paddles will increase with time.
Cost
Replacing your pickleball paddle is an essential part of your pickleball equipment. A quality paddle will last for many years and should be purchased when it’s in good condition. You can purchase a replacement grip to cover the existing one and save money. Or you can opt for an overgrip that protects the paddle’s face from scratches. Both options will help keep your pickleball paddle looking good for as long as possible.
Compared to shoes, a pickleball paddle will last for a much longer time. This is because they don’t break or wear down as fast. However, cheaper paddles are less likely to hold together, and their wooden handles run the risk of snapping. A high-quality paddle will last for many years and can be stored in a case. However, it is advisable to protect it from damage by storing it properly.
There are a variety of prices available online for pickleball paddles. Amazon has a large selection, and you can sometimes find them on sale for a discounted price. However, be aware that a used pickleball paddle isn’t likely to offer you as good of customer service. Some retailers offer free trials or demo programs for potential customers. Others offer a 30-day test drive if you’re unsure about the purchase.
Another factor to consider when purchasing a new pickleball paddle is the overgrip. Most paddles have wrap grips that are comfortable and padded. The wrap grips are also moisture-wicking, which helps you control your hands’ perspiration while playing. However, they wear down after a few uses and will need to be replaced. This is especially true if you’re a beginner, as it can cause frustration.