The Grip To Win: A Guide to Pickleball Grips and Overgrips

Choosing the proper pickleball grip is as important as choosing the right pickleball paddle. The pickleball grip and overgrip help with your comfort, control, and overall performance. Let’s dive into how pickleball grips and overgrips help you win your game.

Pickleball Grip

A pickleball grip is the part of the paddle that you hold or the handle. It’s usually made of leather or rubber and can be shaped differently to suit different playing styles and hand sizes.

Pickleball Grips Sizes

• Traditional Grip - this is the most common grip.
• Narrow Grip - this has a smaller diameter. This suits players with smaller hands or those who prefer a tighter grip.

• Wide Grip - this has a bigger diameter and offers a more comfortable feel for players with bigger hands or those who prefer a more loose grip.

• Customized Grip - some brands offer grips that can customized to be molded to fit your hand perfectly.

To measure your grip size, measure the distance from the tip of your ring finger to the bottom of your palm’s second crease.

Types of Pickleball Grips

• Continental Pickleball Grip - this is also called the neutral grip. Can you imagine holding a hammer? That is also how you would hold a continental grip. This is a versatile grip that can be used in different shots, offering a balance between power and control. 
• Eastern Pickleball Grip - this is the “shake hands” grip because when you hold it properly, it’s like you’re shaking hands with the paddle. This is often used for forehand shots and dinks. 
• Western Pickleball Grip - this is when your hand is turned 90 degrees clockwise when you hold the paddle. Think of when you're holding a pan when you’re cooking. Usually used for backhand and powerful shots. 

Of course, choosing a grip style still depends on where you're comfortable. Try out the different grip styles to find out which one suits you best. 

If you want a pickleball paddle that you can use with any type of grip, try 101 Pickeball's Zen Control and Infinity Balance which is made with an ergonomic grip.

Overgrip in Pickleball Paddles

The overgrip in pickleball is an accessory that you wrap around the grip, hence, the name. This is for added comfort and control, and can greatly impact your game. If you’re wondering why overgrips are important, here are the reasons why.

• Improved Grip - overgrips in pickleball paddles have a more textured surface, making it easier to grip and preventing slips.

• Absorbs Sweat - trust me, your hands will get sweaty while playing, whether you have naturally sweaty hands or not.  Overgrips help in absorbing your sweat so your paddle still feels dry and comfortable.

• Cushioning - this is to reduce the feel of impact in your hands (of course, only if you prefer this).  This can provide relief and prevent discomfort during long plays. 

• Personalize - you can customize the size, feel, and appearance when you use an overgrip on your pickleball paddle. 

Factors to Consider When Buying a Pickleball Grip and Overgrip

• Hand Size - your hand size matters when you're choosing a grip. If you have small hands, you might want a narrow grip to be able to grip it properly. If you have bigger hands, opt for a bigger grip for more comfort. If you have a hard time finding a paddle that has a wide grip, you can put an overgrip on it. 
• Play Style 
• Power Players - if you're more focused on power during game plays, you might want to choose a wider and tacky (tend to be sticky or grip-y) grip. 
• Control Players - alternatively, if you focus more on control, you can choose more narrow grips or cushioned overgrip. 
• Grip Material
• Rubber - durable and offers good grip and comfort. 
• Leather - gives a classic feel and natural grip. 
• Synthetic Materials - can offer different benefits like moisture-wicking, cushioning, and tackiness. 
• Overgrip Type
• Absorbent Overgrip - this is ideal if you're a heavy sweater. 
• Cushioned Overgrip - this is suitable if you have sensitive hands so you can have a comfortable feel on your paddle. 
• Tacky Overgrip - this offers a more secure grip, best for aggressive players. 

Pickleball Grips and Overgrips Maintenance and Care

Caring for the grip and overgrip of your pickleball paddle is important to help lengthen its life. 

• Clean Regularly - it's important to remove dirt and wipe away sweat after every use. Use water and mild soap to clean it. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage your grip or overgrip. 

• Replacing - when the grip or overgrip of your pickleball paddle starts showing signs of wearing like fraying or cracking, you may want to consider replacing them. This also applies when it's no longer providing a proper grip or you feel discomfort when using them. Replacing your grip or overgrip when it's no longer good can also prevent accidents and injuries.

• Store Properly - when you're not using your paddle, make sure to store them in a case or bag to protect it (and the grip and overgrip, of course) from too much moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures. 

• Rotate Overgrip - if you have spare overgrips, you can rotate using them to not overuse the one you're using. 

• Compatibility - this is for the overgrip. If you're buying one, make sure to check if it's compatible with your paddle’s grip size and shape. 

• Consider a Grip Tape - for extra durability, you may use a grip tape underneath the overgrip. 

Best Overgrips for Your Pickleball Paddle

Pickleball Tourna Grip

The Pickleball Tourna Grip is the best overgrip for pickleball paddles. Tourna is known for high-quality grips for tennis rackets, and now, they have overgrips for pickleball paddles too. With this overgrip, you won't experience slipping and twisting because it's sweat-absorbent. 

Wilson Pro Overgrip Pickleball Grip

The Wilson Pro Overgrip is the best choice if you like tackiness and excellent feel. This is an ideal choice if your paddle handle is too thin. 

Babolat Pro Response X3 Overgrip 

The Babolat Pro Response X3 overgrip is suitable for both pickleball paddles and tennis rackets. This overgrip is very absorbent so you don't have to worry about slips and it's also tacky for more control. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why are pickleball grips and overgrips important?

Pickleball grips and overgrips provide comfort, control, and improved performance. They help with grip security, sweat absorption, and cushioning, ultimately enhancing your playing experience.

• What factors should I consider when choosing a pickleball grip?
• Hand size: Select a grip that fits your hand comfortably (narrow, wide, or customized).
• Playing style: Consider your preferred grip style (continental, eastern, or western) and the type of shots you play.
• Material: Choose a grip material that suits your preferences (leather, rubber, or synthetic).
• What are the benefits of using an overgrip on your pickleball paddle?
• Improved grip: Provides a more textured surface for better grip security.
• Sweat absorption: Helps keep your hands dry and comfortable.
• Cushioning: Reduces the impact on your hands and provides comfort.
• Personalization: Allows you to customize the size, feel, and appearance of your grip.
• How do I choose the right overgrip for my pickleball paddle?
• Consider your hand size and playing style: Select an overgrip that complements your grip size and playing preferences.
• Think about grip material: Choose an absorbent overgrip if you sweat heavily, a cushioned overgrip for comfort, or a tacky overgrip for added control.
• Try different options: Experiment with different overgrips to find the one that feels best for you.
• How should I care for my pickleball grip and overgrip?
• Clean regularly: Remove dirt and sweat with mild soap and water.
• Replace when necessary: Replace grips or overgrips that are worn out or no longer provide adequate grip or comfort.
• Store properly: Protect your grips from moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures.
• Rotate overgrips: If you have multiple overgrips, rotate them to prolong their lifespan.
• Can I customize my pickleball grip?

Yes, some brands offer customizable grips that allow you to choose the size, shape, and even color to perfectly fit your hand and preferences.

• Are there any high-quality pickleball grip and overgrip brands?
• Pickleball Tourna Grip: Known for its sweat-absorbent properties and excellent grip.
• Wilson Pro Overgrip: Offers a tacky surface for added control and a comfortable feel.
• Babolat Pro Response X3 Overgrip: Provides a balance of absorption, tackiness, and durability.

Pickleball grips play an important role in your gameplay. Choosing the right one will help with control and comfort. There are factors to consider when choosing a pickleball grip like the size and material. If you want added cushion and sweat absorption, you can put an overgrip on your paddle. Don't be afraid to explore which pickleball grip and overgrip is the right one for you so you can use your full potential during your matches.