How to Measure Your Pickleball Paddle Grip Size
When determining which grip size to use for your pickleball paddle, there are several methods to find the correct grip size. Which method to use will depend on the materials you have on hand and how precise you want to be. The following reliable methods are the most common ways to find the right grip size.
Pickleball Grip Size Using the Ruler Test
If you have a ruler in your junk drawer, now’s the time to use it. This method offers accurate results because it is an actual measurement rather than an estimate.
With the palm of your dominant hand face up, lay the ruler against your palm.
Place the bottom edge of the ruler on top of the bottom lateral crease of your palm.
Take the measurement from this area to the tip of your finger in inches to determine your grip size according to American standards. It should be between 4 and 5 inches.
If you are outside the USA, use the centimeter markings on the ruler to determine your pickleball grip size.
Pickleball Grip Size Using the Index Finger Test
If you don’t have a ruler, you can use this test to determine an approximate grip size. It is best used when you have access to a pro shop or sports equipment store with many store models that have larger grips and smaller grips.
Using an Eastern grip, take a pickleball paddle in your dominant hand. There should be a tiny space between your palm and ring finger.
Using your non-paddle hand, use your index finger to slide it into this space.
If the paddle grip is right for your playing hand, your index finger will comfortably fit into this space. If it is too tight or much too wide, try a variety of paddle handles with different size grips until you find one that feels right for your hand size.
Is the Index Finger Test Accurate for Pickleball?
It should be noted that the index finger test may result in choosing a slightly larger grip than necessary, particularly if you are a tennis player or are coming from another racquet sport. According to Selkirk’s grip guide, the index finger test shouldn’t be used for pickleball players.
Pickleball Grip Size Using the Natural Grip Test
This test uses a variety of paddles to locate the perfect pickleball paddle grip by feel. This method isn’t scientific but often reliable. The grip size you choose shouldn’t overly stretch your fingers, and you should be able to comfortably hold the handle in your hand.
Visually, this translates to about an inch-wide gap between your fingertips and palm when holding the paddle naturally. If no gap is present, you need a larger grip size. If there is more than an inch of space, it is too large of a handle, and you’ll need a smaller grip size.
As you test different grip sizes to find the best pickleball paddle, try different types of grip styles to ensure the paddle feels just as good in a continental grip as an eastern or western grip.
Pickleball Grip Size Using the Height Test
The height test isn’t particularly accurate because the size of a pickleball players hands don’t always align with their height. However, it is a test many beginner players use when selecting their first practice paddle.
If player height is 5’2” or less, the grip size is 4”
If player height is 5’3” to 5’8”, the grip size is 4.125” to 4.25”
If player height is 5’8” and up, the grip size is 4.5”
The Importance of Grip Size in Pickleball Paddles
For comfort and agility while playing, using the right grip size is crucial. The right-size grip offers superior control because of reduced wrist action.
Of course, advanced and professional pickleball players may choose an oversized grip for extra stability or a smaller grip circumference to accommodate a flexible playstyle. For newer players, it is more important to find a balanced, comfortable grip that can be used for different shot types that is dependable. Of course, the right grip size also reduces the chances of pickleball injuries.
What Are Pickleball Grips Made Of?
Pickleball grips can be made from a variety of materials and have different textures - everything from simple wood to composite materials. Pickleball grips are meant to offer a good paddle grip due to tackiness of the texture while offering sweat absorption and padding on higher-end paddle models.
It is important that the pickleball grip and overall paddle adhere to the standards set forth by the governing body of pickleball, USA Pickleball.
Increasing Pickleball Paddle Grip Size
If you’ve been gifted a paddle but find that the grip size is too small, you can easily add to the grip size using overgrip tape. Overgrip tape can be wrapped around the existing handle and offer additional cushioning while increasing the handle circumference. The best part is it is inexpensive.
Final Thoughts
There are many ways to find the right pickleball paddle grip, but ultimately, the method you choose is a personal preference. What is most important is that the grip feels comfortable, natural, and enhances your playstyle. If you find that the “correct” grip size doesn’t feel right, you can increase it with grip tape or choose a smaller grip circumference until your paddle feels like an extension of your arm.
To see how to measure your pickleball grip according to the methods above, check out this full video from pickleball coach PB:
