Pickleball Grip Size and Handle Length
Also known as: pickleball grip size, what grip size pickleball paddle, how to measure pickleball grip size, pickleball handle length, pickleball overgrip, pickleball grip circumference, pickleball grip too small, make my pickleball grip bigger
Pickleball grips range from about 4 to 5 inches around. To size yours, measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. If you are between sizes, many players pick the smaller grip and build it up with an overgrip.
Grip size is the handle's circumference. Selkirk describes a ruler test. Open your playing hand, palm up, and find the middle of the three creases across your palm. Measure from that crease to the tip of your ring finger. The result, usually between 4 and 5 inches, is a good grip circumference. Selkirk also gives a rough guide by height, though it calls height less accurate than the ruler test.
A grip that is too small makes you squeeze harder. One that is too big makes the hand strain for control. Both can tire the forearm. An overgrip adds thickness and tack, and you can stack more than one. Grips also wear thin or swell with moisture. Check the size now and then.
Handle length is a separate choice. Selkirk notes handles are usually around 4.5 inches, with longer ones up to about 6 inches for players who hit some shots two-handed. A longer handle leaves less room for the face. Length plus width is capped by the rules. Rule 3.D.6 lets you change grip size with inserts and replace or add grip wrap.
Tips by skill level
Measure your hand before you shop. If you are between sizes, start smaller and add an overgrip.
If you hit two-handed backhands, try a longer handle before you buy. Make sure both hands fit without crowding.
Example
A player measures 4 1/4 inches from palm crease to ring fingertip. Their new paddle's grip feels a little thin. They add one overgrip, and the handle now fills their hand without squeezing.
Why it matters
A grip that fits lets you hold the paddle lightly for touch shots. Squeezing a grip that is too small tires the forearm.
Common mistakes
- Using the tennis index-finger test, which Selkirk says does not carry over
- Squeezing a grip that is too small instead of building it up
- Ignoring a grip that has worn thin
- Choosing a short handle when you hit two-handed backhands
Frequently asked questions
What grip size pickleball paddle do I need?
Measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. That number, usually between 4 and 5 inches, is your grip circumference.
Is it better to have a smaller or bigger pickleball grip?
A grip that fits is best. Too small makes you squeeze, and too big makes your hand strain. Between sizes, many players pick the smaller one and add an overgrip.
How do I make my pickleball grip bigger?
Add an overgrip, or more than one. The rules also allow grip-size inserts and replacement grip wrap.
Sources
Related terms
- Pickleball Grips (Continental, Eastern, Western)Many coaches teach the continental grip as the all-purpose pickleball grip. Hold the paddle like a hammer, edge up, and it works for dinks, volleys, serves and backhands without switching. An eastern grip, palm behind the handle like a handshake, gives more power on forehand drives.
- Choosing a Pickleball PaddleFor a first paddle, many coaches suggest a midweight paddle with a standard shape and a thicker, control-oriented core. It should feel comfortable in your hand without squeezing. If you plan to play tournaments, check that it is on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list.
- Pickleball ElbowPickleball elbow is the name players give to pain on the outside of the elbow, the same overuse problem as tennis elbow. It is often linked to long dink and reset rallies with a tight grip, wrist-led punch volleys and flicks, and a sudden jump from occasional games to daily play. Stop if it hurts, and see a qualified medical professional if the pain persists.
- Soft HandsSoft hands is the ability to absorb pace from an incoming ball by relaxing the grip slightly at impact, converting a hard shot into a controlled, softly placed return.
- OvergripAn overgrip is a thin wrap that goes over the racquet's base grip. It adds tack or soaks up sweat, protects the base grip and makes the handle slightly bigger. Change it when it feels slick, worn or hard. Players who sweat a lot may change it every match or two.
Related guides & benchmarks
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