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Whether you’re brand new to pickleball or you’ve been playing for a while, at some point you may start to wonder if you’re using the correct type of pickleball paddle. These days there are many different sizes, shapes, and options for players to use. But, the two main categories of pickleball paddles are “standard” and “elongated.”

Standard Paddles
A standard pickleball paddle measures about 16 inches long by 8 inches wide. It’s designed to provide a balance in reach, power, and control. The sweet spot for a standard paddle is typically circular and located in the middle of the face with equal room on all sides. Balance and weight can vary slightly.

Elongated Paddles
Elongated pickleball paddles are longer in length and slightly less wide. They are anywhere between 16 and 20 inches long and closer to 7 inches wide. The sweet spot is a little higher on the face, more of an oval shape, and there is a bigger gap between the sweet spot and the sides of the paddle. Balance and weight can vary slightly.

The Benefits of Elongated Paddles

Elongated pickleball paddles are more popular with singles players because of the extra reach they provide. They allow players to cover more of the court by getting to more shots than they normally would be able to. However, besides that extra few inches of length, there are some other benefits that make elongated paddles worth considering.

A Tighter Sweet Spot
Having a tighter sweet spot is a bit of a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides more power and drive to the ball. If you are someone who has good control over your paddle play and want to be able to hit the ball closer to the sweet spot while extending the paddle, then switching to an elongated paddle might work better for you.

On the other hand, the sweet spot is slightly smaller than on a normal pickleball paddle, so there is more room for errant hits along the sides and top of the paddle face.

More Power and Drive
A smaller, but tighter sweet spot allows the ball to jump off the face of the paddle more. This means more power and speed when you drive the ball, and the oval shape provides some extra oomph as you reach for shots as well.

The disadvantages of adding more power with your club is that your finesse game can suffer. If you are a player who likes lobs, dinks, and kitchen play, then an elongated paddle may not make sense for your game.

More Finger Placement Options
The most common grip is an intercontinental grip. However, some players prefer to hold their grip higher on the handle and even place a finger behind the face to provide extra control. Having a longer paddle face allows you to place your grip higher up the paddle, without sacrificing length. The extra 2 to 3 inches you might get from an elongated paddle allows you to grip higher without losing hitting surface.

Should You Make the Switch

We suggest trying out elongated paddles before you switch longterm. There are some inexpensive options out there or you can find some secondhand. Maybe even a pickleball friend will lend you theirs for a round or two.

No one can really tell you what paddle you should use because choosing a paddle is almost entirely about feel and what works for your particular game.

Our Favorite Elongated Pickleball Paddles

If you do decide that using an elongated pickleball paddle is right for you, here are a few worth considering:

#1 - AMPED Omni X5 FiberFlex Paddle

The AMPED Omni X5 FiberFlex Paddle uses a lengthy face and unique materials to complement the control player's needs. The special FiberFlex face keeps balls against it longer than most, giving picklers more time to respond and place their shots right where they want them. The X5 core has a gentle touch that minimizes vibration and sound, allowing for smooth play and consistency. With a considerable width despite its length, you'll benefit from a broad sweet spot.

The AMPED Omni X5 FiberFlex Paddle has a 4-1/4" handle which allows players to use a ping pong-style grip and place a finger against the back of the face. This contributes to increased stability and wrist action. The paddle's background is partly colored while the other half is white, all overlaid with a geometric design. Selkirk's "S" logo is situated evenly along the top of the paddle while its name lies underneath.

#2 - Ballista E longated Paddle

Description:

Our first ever elongated paddle stretches the surface area to its optimal point. With a little extra reach, a thick core, and our SpinGrit surface coating, the Ballista is the best of all worlds. Power. Control. Reach. Spin.

USA Pickleball approved for tournament play
Durable graphite surface for controlled pickleball play
Proprietary SpinGrit™ surface coating for increased spin and ball control
Polymer Honeycomb Core adds the perfect balance of power & control
Proprietary EdgeTech Protect ensures paddles will hold up match after match
Anti-slip grip designed with functional whipstitching & holed ventilation for superior hand traction to minimize vibration
Forgiving, larger sweet spot
Available in two weights

#3 - Rally PXL Graphite Paddle

The Rally PXL Graphite Pickleball Paddle has reach, power and accuracy for players who want maximum shot-making ability. Use the paddle's length to extend across the court as the head-weighted design pulls you towards your goal. The trim shape focuses the sweet spot towards the top of the face and lends itself to excellent drop shots and smashes alike. A lightly textured face creates more control and spin.

The Rally PXL Graphite Pickleball Paddle averages 7.6 - 7.8 oz which is quite light considering its elongated design. You won't lose out on speed near the net and can block with ease thanks to the paddle's polymer core which dampens impact while increasing strength. The graphite face has a sensitive touch and causes balls to react quickly. The handle has a medium circumference.

#4 - Oneshot Powershot 2.0 Paddle

Description:

The Oneshot Pickleball Powershot 2.0 Paddle is a remarkably balanced, accessible paddle for all skill levels looking to improve their game. Its power and versatility make it a popular choice for players familiar with a variety of other racquet sports such as tennis, table tennis or racquetball. With this paddle's comfortable grip, generous reach and high-quality material, you'll be equipped to handle any opponent.

The Powershot 2.0 Series Composite Paddle from Oneshot Pickleball features a roomy 5-1/3" grip length with a medium circumference and an elongated 16-1/3" overall length. It is made with a pro-grade fiberglass composite face which is highly textured to increase spin, and a uniform polypropylene core, all adding up to a weight range of 7.9 - 8.4 oz. This mid-to-heavy weight isn't distracting thanks to the paddle's even weight distribution, but you'll feel the extra power when driving the ball down the court or working on your third-shot drop from deep court positions.

#5 - AMPED Invikta X5 FiberFlex Paddle

Description:

The AMPED Invikta X5 was designed in conjunction with national champion Tyson McGuffin to provide extreme reach without reducing the paddle's sweet spot. As a result, the Invikta has power, a pleasant touch and versatility that will allow you to react quickly to any scenario. Unlike most elongated paddles, it also has a sizable handle length that allows for more maneuverability and comfort.

The Invikta X5 comes with a versatile medium grip which measures 5-1/4" long. The weight range is 7.3 - 7.8 oz for the light model and 7.9 - 8.4 oz for the standard. The polymer core reduces impact while creating a feeling of consistent control. Selkirk's curving "S" logo is located near the paddle's head while the model name is printed below. Choose from thin or standard grip size.
The AMPED Invikta X5 will have you driving balls down the court and winning matches with its well-balanced yet powerful construction.

#6 - HUDEF Elongated Pickleball Paddle

Description:

High quality : the graphite pickleball paddle perfect weight (lightweight:an average of 7.9oz) makes the paddle achieve a perfect balance between touch,power and control.the amazing pickleball racket which is excellent for tournament players.

Ultra durable face : with graphite face and polypropylene honeycomb core,which gives good anti-slip performance and bringing better balls control and twice as durable as the other paddle.with the material of polypropylene honeycomb core,it give you a non-vibration feeling.

Newest double buffering technology : made of an ultra-soft, ultra-comfortable grip,the handle of the pickleball paddle racket also adds a cushion against fatigue.sweat absorbent cushioned grip of the paddle with perforations increase gripping power and moisture absorption,help enjoy longtime play without fatigue,allows for wrist action,spin,power and quick hand changes flawlessly,more suitable for professional players.

Edge guard : the long handle pickleball paddles has an edge guard which provides best protection on ground hits,provide the durability of the pickleball paddle,could be enjoyed by all pickleball players (men and women) indoor or outdoors

Conclusion

Picking the right pickleball paddle is an important decision, but your best option is to try a few different ones before committing long term. At the end of the day, there is no such thing as the best paddle, but instead what’s the best paddle for your game right now.

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