By now, you’ve probably realized that the paddle you choose can make a difference in your performance. Today, we’re going to dive into one of the most asked-about aspects of paddle selection—the shape!
So grab your water bottle, get comfortable, and let’s break down everything you need to know about pickleball paddle shapes.
Why Paddle Shape Matters
You might be wondering: Does the shape of my paddle really matter that much? The short answer is a resounding yes! The shape of your pickleball paddle affects nearly every aspect of your game, from power and control to maneuverability and comfort.
It influences how easily you can reach tough shots, how big your sweet spot is, and even how heavy your paddle feels during play. Different shapes bring different advantages, so finding the right one is key to elevating your game.
Pickleball Paddle Shapes: The Basics
Let’s start with the rules. According to USA Pickleball, the total length plus the total width of the paddle can’t exceed 24 inches. This means most paddles fall into one of two general categories: short/widebody paddles and long/elongated paddles.
- Standard/Widebody Paddles: These paddles typically measure around 15.5 to 16 inches in length and 8 to 8.5 inches in width. They’re known for having larger sweet spots and being very forgiving—great for beginners or players who value control.
- Elongated Paddles: These paddles are longer, measuring between 16.25 to 16.75 inches in length, with a narrower width (7.25 to 7.75 inches). They’re perfect for players looking for extra reach and power. The trade-off? They tend to have a smaller sweet spot, making them a bit more challenging to use.
There are also hybrid shapes, which fall somewhere in between these two categories, giving you a mix of power, control, and reach.
How Paddle Shape Affects Your Game
Okay, now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how paddle shape can impact your game:
1. Reach
Longer paddles give you more reach. This is particularly helpful if you’re less mobile or if you play singles, where you need to cover more court.
However, longer paddles can be a bit trickier to maneuver quickly, so if you prioritize speed over reach, a shorter paddle might be a better fit.
2. Sweet Spot
The sweet spot is the area of the paddle where you get the best power and control. A larger paddle face generally means a larger sweet spot, which is why widebody paddles are more forgiving.
Elongated paddles, on the other hand, have a narrower sweet spot, typically located higher up on the paddle face. If you’re consistently hitting the ball off-center, a widebody might help you reduce mishits.
3. Maneuverability
When it comes to maneuverability, the key lies in torque and swing weight. Widebody paddles, with their shorter length, have a center of mass closer to your hand, making them easier to pivot. This is ideal if you need fast hand speed, especially at the net.
Elongated paddles, by contrast, carry more weight farther from your hand, which increases the effort needed to make quick adjustments.
4. Power and Spin
If power and spin are what you’re after, an elongated paddle is a great choice. The extra length allows for greater leverage, giving you the ability to generate more power. Picture the tip of a paddle moving like the edge of a merry-go-round—the farther away from your hand, the faster it moves, which means more power and spin potential.
Widebody paddles are generally better for players who prefer control over raw power.
The Four Main Paddle Shapes: Which One Is for You?
Let’s break down the four main paddle shapes to help you decide which one fits your game:
- Short/Widebody with Short Handle: Perfect for beginners who want a forgiving paddle with a big sweet spot. This shape is also ideal for players transitioning from table tennis, as the shorter handle feels more natural.
- Short/Widebody with Long Handle: This shape offers the same big sweet spot but with a longer handle, which is great for players who have a two-handed backhand or those who need extra leverage.
- Elongated with Short Handle: If you’re an intermediate player who wants extra reach but doesn’t need a long handle, this one’s for you. It’s a bit less common but can be a good middle ground.
- Elongated with Long Handle: This is the choice of many pros. It’s perfect for players who want to maximize reach, power, and spin—especially those with a strong two-handed backhand or who come from tennis.
Make sure to also check our article on 14mm vs. 16mm paddles.
Choosing the Right Shape for Your Game
When it comes to picking the right paddle shape, it really boils down to your style of play and your priorities on the court. Here are some pointers to help you decide:
- If you’re a beginner: Start with a short/widebody paddle. It’s easier to control, more forgiving, and will help you develop consistent shots.
- If you love playing at the net: Go for a paddle that prioritizes maneuverability. A widebody shape will give you the speed you need for those quick volleys.
- If you want more power and reach: Elongated paddles are your friend, especially if you play singles or have good court coverage.
- If you have a two-handed backhand: Look for a paddle with a long handle, regardless of the shape, as it will give you better leverage.
What Do the Pros Use?
You may have noticed that a lot of the top pros use elongated paddles. Players like Ben Johns, Tyson McGuffin, and Catherine Parenteau all use paddles with longer lengths. The reason? They want every bit of power, reach, and spin potential that an elongated paddle can offer. But don’t be fooled into thinking that’s the only way to go.
Some professional players still prefer a wider paddle because of the larger sweet spot and the increased stability it offers. Ultimately, the best paddle is the one that matches your style, comfort, and skill level.
Ready to Choose Your Paddle?
Alright, pickleballers, I hope this deep dive into paddle shapes has helped you feel more confident about choosing your next paddle. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here—the right shape is the one that works best for your game. Don’t be afraid to try different shapes until you find the perfect match.
Got questions or want to nerd out more on paddle shapes? Drop me a comment or send me a message—I’d love to chat! And as always, stay hydrated, keep practicing, and I’ll see you on the court!
