Pickleball - What paddle should I buy first

The best first paddle is the one that fits your hand, your swing, and your budget. Everything else is details.

After reading this, you'll

• Choose a grip size that feels secure without squeezing
• Pick a weight that matches your swing and goals
• Understand shape and surface tradeoffs
• Buy with confidence and start playing now

Step 1: pick your grip size

• Most adult grips fall between 4.0 to 4.5 inches.
• Quick test: hold the paddle in ready position. You should fit your index finger snugly between fingertips and palm on the grip.
• If in between sizes, size down and add an overgrip for comfort.

Step 2: choose your weight

• Light (under ~7.6 oz): quicker hands, less fatigue, less free power
• Midweight (~7.6 to 8.4 oz): balanced choice for most players
• Heavy (8.5 oz and up): more plow through, can tire the arm sooner

Starter tip: choose midweight unless you have a clear reason not to.

Step 3: shape and sweet spot

• Standard shape: wider face, bigger sweet spot, easier control
• Elongated shape: more reach and leverage, smaller sweet spot
• If you are new, stick to standard until you know what you like.

Step 4: core and surface basics

• Polymer honeycomb cores dominate and are beginner friendly.
• Fiberglass faces tend to add pop, carbon fiber favors control and feel.
• Both work. Choose feel over hype.

Step 5: set a budget and buy

• $60 to $100: great starter paddles that do not hold you back
• $100 to $160: more consistent feel and durability
• Try a friend’s paddle if you can. Do not overthink it.

Quick decision tree

1. Grip feels too big or small
   → Adjust with an overgrip or choose the next size
2. Miss hits off the edges
   → Standard shape, larger sweet spot
3. Ball flies long
   → Try a more control oriented face or lighten the swing
4. Arm gets tired
   → Consider a lighter paddle or better balance

First week plan

• Session 1: 10 minutes dinks, 10 minutes third shot, 10 minutes serves
• Session 2: repeat, add mini games to 7 focusing on depth and patience
• Session 3: one full match, note what felt easy or off