Let’s be honest—sweaty hands are one of the most frustrating problems in pickleball. And it’s not just a summer thing. Some of us just naturally sweat more, especially when the game gets intense. The good news? Slippery paddles and constant wiping don’t have to be your reality.
Whether your palms get a little damp or you’re practically dripping, this guide has you covered. I’ve rounded up the best products and strategies to keep your hands dry, your grip solid, and your focus on the game—not your sweaty palms. Let’s dive in!
1. Overgrips: Quick, Cheap, and Effective
Why It Works
Overgrips are one of the easiest ways to deal with sweaty hands. They go right over your paddle’s existing grip, adding a layer of tackiness and moisture absorption. The best part? You can swap them out as often as needed without breaking the bank.
Top Picks
- Tourna Mega Tac Overgrip – Crazy tacky and great for heavy sweaters. Even pros swear by it.
- Gamma Supreme Overgrip – Affordable, reliable, and perfect for light to moderate sweating.
- Yonex Dry Super Grap – Super durable and soft, great for long games and frequent players.
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Who It’s Best For
Overgrips are perfect for players who sweat a little more than average but don’t want to commit to a full grip replacement. If your hands get damp halfway through a match or only in hot weather, this is your go-to solution.
Plus, it’s great for players who like a slightly tackier feel without adding bulk to the handle.
2. Replacement Grips: Upgrade Your Paddle’s Foundation
Why It Works
If your paddle’s stock grip just isn’t cutting it, replacing it entirely can make a world of difference. Replacement grips are thicker and often more absorbent than overgrips, so they’re a more permanent fix.
Top Picks
- Hesacore Grip – Ergonomic and sweat-resistant. Pair it with an overgrip for even more control (read our full review here).
- PROLITE No-Sweat Diamond Grip – Made specifically to wick moisture, it’s a solid upgrade for any paddle.
- Selkirk Cushion Contour Grip – Adds comfort and padding, ideal for longer matches.
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Who It’s Best For
If you’re someone who sweats heavily and constantly finds your paddle slipping, a replacement grip is the way to go. It’s especially great for competitive players who want a long-term fix instead of constantly rewrapping overgrips. Also, if you prefer a more padded feel, these grips deliver comfort without losing control.
3. Gloves: Total Sweat Protection
Why It Works
Gloves completely take sweat out of the equation. They’re designed to wick moisture and provide a consistent, grippy surface no matter how sweaty your palms get.
Top Picks
- HEAD Airflow Tour Glove – Extra ventilation to keep your hands cool.
- Franklin Performance Glove – Lightweight and flexible, ideal for quick movements.
- HEAD Leather Racquetball Glove – Super grippy and breathable, with Velcro straps for easy on-and-off.
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Who It’s Best For
If your hands sweat buckets, gloves are your best friend. They’re especially good for players who play outdoors in high heat or humidity. The only downside? You might lose a little bit of paddle feel, so gloves are better for players who prioritize grip over finesse.
4. Wristbands and Towels: Simple, Cheap, and Reliable
Why It Works
Sweat doesn’t always come directly from your palms—sometimes it drips down from your arms. Wristbands block that sweat before it reaches your hands, and towels let you dry off quickly between points.
Top Picks
- Nike Swoosh Wristbands – Soft, absorbent, and built to last. These are a favorite among athletes for a reason.
- Tourna Sports Towel – Plush and absorbent for quick wipes during breaks.
- Gamma Tacky Towel – Adds tackiness and moisture resistance in one swipe.
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Who It’s Best For
This combo is great for players who sweat moderately and need quick fixes during games. If you don’t want to mess with overgrips or gloves but still need something reliable, wristbands and towels are your go-to tools. Perfect for casual players and anyone who prefers low-maintenance solutions.
5. Grip Powders, Lotions, and Gels: Instant Dry Hands
Why It Works
These products are like magic—they dry out sweat and add a tacky feel in seconds. Perfect for players who need quick touch-ups during matches without stopping the flow of the game.
Top Picks
- Tourna Rosin Grip Bag – Compact and mess-free, ideal for absorbing sweat and enhancing grip instantly.
- Paddletek Drop-N-Dry Gel – Forms a sweat-resistant coating that lasts for hours.
- 2Toms GripShield – Easy to stash in your bag and great for quick fixes. Works fast.
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Who It’s Best For
If you’re someone who only sweats in short bursts—maybe during tense moments or long rallies—these are lifesavers. They’re also great for players who don’t want to commit to gloves or grips but need an emergency backup plan for sweaty hands.
6. Antiperspirants: Stop Sweat at the Source
Why It Works
Instead of managing sweat, why not stop it before it even starts? Antiperspirants designed for hands block sweat glands, giving you dry palms for hours.
Top Picks
- Carpe Antiperspirant Hand Lotion – Dermatologist-approved and easy to apply.
- SweatBlock Antiperspirant Wipes – Perfect for quick use before matches.
- Nelson Gripping Solution – Leaves a dry feel without residue.
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Who It’s Best For
If you struggle with excessive sweating, antiperspirants are a great long-term solution. They’re ideal for players who don’t want to mess with gloves or grips and prefer a more natural, hands-on feel. Just be sure to apply them before games—they need a little time to kick in.
7. Layering Solutions: The Ultimate Setup for Heavy Sweaters
For those of us who sweat like it’s our job, one solution might not be enough. That’s where layering comes in.
The Perfect Setup
- Base Layer – Apply an antiperspirant lotion before heading to the courts.
- Grip Enhancement – Wrap your paddle with a tacky overgrip, like Tourna Mega Tac.
- Backup Tools – Keep a towel and wristbands handy for quick touch-ups.
This combo approach works especially well for competitive players and those who play in humid climates. You’ll never have to worry about sweat messing with your game again.
Get a Grip and Play Your Best Game
Sweaty hands might feel like a small problem, but in a game where grip equals control, it can make a big difference. The good news? With so many options—from tacky overgrips and gloves to powders and antiperspirants—you’re just a step away from turning slippery struggles into solid confidence.
Bonus Tips for Sweat-Proof Success:
- Rotate Grips Regularly: Don’t wait until your grip is soaked—replace it before it loses effectiveness.
- Double Up on Wristbands: Use one on your paddle hand and another on your non-dominant wrist to block sweat from running down.
- Stay Hydrated: Ironically, dehydration can make you sweat more, so keep your water bottle close.
- Cool Down Before Matches: A quick rinse of your hands in cold water can temporarily reduce sweating and help you start dry.
- Build a Grip Routine: Treat your paddle like a pro athlete treats their gear. Keep extra overgrips, towels, and powders in your bag so you’re never caught off guard.
Now, get out there, stay dry, and let your game do the talking! And if you’ve got a secret grip hack that works wonders, shoot us an email. We’re all in this sweaty battle together!
