Best Pickleball Guide

Choosing the right pickleball paddle is crucial for enhancing your game and gaining a competitive edge. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the best elongated pickleball paddles available in the market.

These elongated paddles are designed to improve your performance by offering unique features and benefits. By selecting the best elongated pickleball paddle, you can achieve better ball control, maximize your sweet spot, and maintain excellent grip during intense gameplay.

This post will provide a guide to the best elongated pickleball paddles that can help you improve your performance and gain a competitive edge.

Our Top Picks for Best Elongated Paddles:

Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle.

Features:

• Elongated shape (Invikta model) for an increased sweet spot and extended surface area.
• Handcrafted in the USA with the finest materials and cutting-edge technology.
• FiberFlex Fiberglass face for superior ball spin and effortless deflection of opponents’ spin.
• Polypropylene X5 Core for optimal ball cushioning and a smoother feel.
• X5 Honeycomb Core technology reduces vibrational waves for consistent speed.
• USAPA approved for tournament pickleball play at national and international events.
• Trusted by professional players like Tyson McGuffin, Enrique Ruize, Joanne Russel, and Kaitlin Christian.
• Sturdy fiberglass frame ensures durability and longevity.
• Perfect balance and comfortable grip for an exceptional playing experience.

The Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is meticulously handcrafted in the USA, setting the standard for excellence in the world of pickleball. As the premier pickleball brand.

It combines a state-of-the-art FiberFlex Fiberglass face with a thicker Polypropylene X5 Core, delivering unmatched performance on the court.

The X5 Honeycomb Core, utilizing advanced polypropylene honeycomb technology, ensures consistent speed and responsiveness.

This revolutionary core construction reduces the amplitude and frequency of vibrational waves, providing a smoother feel and enhanced comfort during gameplay.

Rest assured, the Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is USAPA approved, meeting the highest standards for tournament pickleball play at both national and international events.

Pros:

• Great spin.
• Boost accuracy.
• Great grip.
• Reduce torque suppression.

Cons:

• A bit heavy.

Gamma Needle Elongated Pickleball Paddle.

Features:

• Elongated middleweight design for supreme handling and swift hand motions.
• Sensa Poly Core technology enhances touch and provides consistent control.
• 4-inch Gamma Honeycomb Cushion Grip handle for extra cushion and comfort.
• Graphite face with industry-leading textured surface for enhanced touch and control.
• Lightweight construction weighing just 7.6 ounces for effortless maneuverability.
• Suitable for all skill levels, accommodating players of various experience levels.
• Graphite frame and shaft materials ensure durability and longevity. (polymer core)
• Paddle Face is textured graphite surface.

Designed to elevate your pickleball game, the GAMMA NEEDLE Pickleball Paddle combines cutting-edge technology and premium materials to provide you with superior performance on the court.

Weighing just 7.6 ounces, this paddle’s length is perfectly balanced for supreme handling and swift hand motions at the kitchen line.

The lightweight construction allows for effortless maneuverability, giving you the agility needed to respond quickly to any shot.

Equipped with the innovative Sensa Poly Core technology, this paddle enhances touch and ensures consistent control over every shot, compares to other heavier paddle.

You’ll experience a heightened sense of connection with the ball, resulting in improved accuracy and shot placement. Whether you’re executing precise dinks or powerful drives.

Pros:

• Amazing responsiveness.
• Great Grip.
• USAPA approved.
• Durable.
• Supreme handling and swift hand motion.

Cons:

• Limited Colors.

Vulcan V550 Elongated Pickleball Paddle.

Features:

• Lightweight design weighing just 0.49 pounds for enhanced maneuverability.
• Long body and extended width without adding unnecessary weight.
• Carbon fiber frame and shaft materials for exceptional rigidity and control.
• Blend of materials ensures durability and a longer average service life.
• Optimal weight distribution and textured graphite surface for excellent ball control.

Weighing just 0.49 pounds, the Vulcan V550 is one of the lightest products on the market. Unlike heavyweight rackets that can hinder performance, this paddle excels in efficiency and maneuverability.

The long body and extended width of the paddle do not add unnecessary weight, ensuring swift and precise movements on the court. It is the ideal choice for players seeking agility and responsiveness during long-duration training sessions.

Unlike local paddles that wear out quickly due to a focus on marketing over quality, the Vulcan V550 is crafted with carbon fiber—a long-lasting material renowned for its enhanced rigidity.

This paddle offers exceptional durability and a longer average service life of approximately 3 to 4 years. Rest assured, the paddle’s paint is protected by a special coating, ensuring it remains vibrant and fade-free even after extended use.

The Vulcan V550 Pickleball Paddle excels in both performance and reliability, making it the best pickleball paddle and a perfect choice for players of all skill levels.

Pros:

• Light weight.
• Think Body.
• Great Grip.
• Good for spin and control.
• Extra long handle length.Cons:
• Some players may prefer a different grip size than the one provided.

HUDEF Pickleball Paddle.

Features:

• Lightweight graphite construction for a perfect balance of touch, power, and control.
• Durable graphite face and polypropylene honeycomb core for excellent anti-slip performance and enhanced ball control.
• Newest double buffering technology with an ultra-soft and comfortable grip for reduced fatigue.
• Perforated sweat-absorbing cushioned grip with greater grip strength and moisture absorption.
• Edge guard for added protection and durability during ground hits.
• Suitable for professional players and tournament use.
• Designed for both indoor and outdoor pickleball play.

This paddle offers a perfect balance between touch, power, and control, making it an excellent choice for tournament players.

Crafted with a durable graphite face and a polypropylene honeycomb core, this paddle delivers exceptional anti-slip performance and superior ball control.

The graphite face ensures durability, allowing the paddle to withstand intense gameplay and making it twice as durable as other paddles on the market.

The polypropylene honeycomb core provides a non-vibration feel, enhancing your overall playing experience.

Equipped with the newest double buffering technology, the HUDEF Pickleball Single Paddle features an ultra-soft and ultra-comfortable grip.

The cushioned handle not only provides a comfortable grip but also acts as a fatigue-reducing buffer.

It is suitable for all pickleball players.

Pros:

• Great Power.
• Edge guard adds protection and ensures long-lasting durability.
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor pickleball play.
• Exellent control.
• Ultra-soft and comfortable grip reduces fatigue during extended play.
• Anti-slip resistant grip.

Cons:

• Quality Issues (Didn’t last longer).

Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle.

Features:

• Professional quality paddle designed to compete at the highest level.
• Vibrations are reduced with MaxGrit technology for enhanced control and precise play.
• Strong and durable 13mm polypropylene core for effortless shot making.
• Fiberglass surface layer provides a larger sweet spot for improved contact and increased control.
• Elongated handle for maximum control and maneuverability.
• USAPA approved for competitive and tournament play.

This paddle is perfect for players seeking ultimate control and precision in their gameplay.Constructed with MaxGrit technology, this paddle is designed to dampen vibrations, providing optimal control and ensuring precise shots.

With the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle, you can confidently execute your shots with accuracy and finesse.The paddle features a strong and durable 13mm polypropylene core, which enables effortless shot making and long-lasting performance.

The fiberglass surface layer enhances the paddle’s durability and provides a larger sweet spot in the center, resulting in flawless contact and increased control over the ball.

Measuring 16.5″ x 7.5″, the paddle offers ample hitting surface, while the elongated handle, measuring 5.6″ in length, allows for maximum control and maneuverability. The handle’s circumference of 4.25″ ensures a comfortable grip that enhances your overall playing experience. Weighing between 7.5 and 8 ounces, the paddle strikes a perfect balance between power and maneuverability.

Rest assured, the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is approved by the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) for competitive and tournament play. You can trust in the paddle’s quality and adherence to official regulations.

Pros:

• MaxGrit technology designed to dampen vibration.
• Large Sweet spot.
• Exellent for power shots.
• USAPA approved.

Cons:

• Lack for control.

Head Radical XL.

Features:

This pickleball paddle features a lightweight carbon construction with a Graphite hitting surface, providing a superior feel and increased control for advanced players.

The textured graphite face of HEAD Radical XL ensures that every shot is executed with precision and finesse, giving you the edge on the court.

To enhance your gameplay even further, the paddle is designed with Extreme Spin Texture on its face.

This textured surface offers better grip on the ball, resulting in increased spin and improved shot placement.

Designed for pros, this pickleball paddle utilizes HEAD’s most advanced technology. It combines a polypropylene honeycomb core with a new Ergo Grip, providing the perfect touch and feel with minimal vibration.

With the HEAD Radical Paddle, you’ll experience the perfect blend of performance, precision, and technology. Dominate the pickleball court with a paddle that combines superior construction, advanced materials, and an ergonomic grip.

Pros:

• Great spin and control.
• Great grip.
• Vibration absorption technology.

Cons:

• A bit heavy.
• Less bounce.

Rally PXL Graphite Elogated Pickleball Paddle.

Features:

• Textured graphite carbon face for enhanced ball control, placement, and spin.
• Composite polymer honeycomb core for power and smooth play.
• Midweight design with head-biased weighting for driving power.
• Extra-long head size for increased reach and optimal play.
• Lightweight to middle weight for faster reactions and quick strokes.
• Performance perforated cushion comfort grip for a comfortable and secure hold.
• USAPA approved for tournament play.
• Designed by PickleballCentral, the world’s largest company devoted to Pickleball.

PickleballCentral presents the Rally PXL Graphite Pickleball Paddle, designed for players who seek the perfect balance of power, control, and reach.

Crafted with a textured graphite carbon face and a composite polymer honeycomb core, the Rally PXL offers a midweight design with head-biased weighting, delivering driving power in every shot.

The durable honeycomb composite polymer core ensures a smooth and powerful playing experience, while the textured graphite face enhances ball control, placement, and spin. With this paddle in hand, you’ll feel confident and in control of your shots.

The Rally PXL boasts an extra-long head size, measuring 16.5″ in length and 7.25″ in width. This elongated shape is ideal for powerful baseline drives, singles play, and intermediate to advanced gameplay.

The material composition of the paddle maintains excellent ball control and provides a relatively large sweet spot, allowing you to hit your shots with precision.

Weighing in at a light to middle weight of 7.6 – 7.8 ounces, the Rally PXL enables faster reactions, quick strokes, and easy adjustments.

The paddle features a performance perforated cushion comfort grip with a medium 4.25″ circumference and a shorter 4.25″ length.

Rest assured that the Rally PXL is an authentic and reliable choice. It is USAPA approved for tournament play, meeting the highest standards of the sport.

Designed in Seattle, WA, USA, by PickleballCentral, the world’s largest company devoted to Pickleball, this paddle is backed by the trust of over 200,000 players worldwide.

Pros:

• Powerful and smooth play.
• Large Sweet spot and reach.
• Comfortable grip.
• USAPA approved.
• Great spin and power.

Cons:

• Not suitable for new players

Why Choose an Elongated Pickleball Paddle?

When it comes to best pickleball paddles, the long paddle shape offers distinct advantages. Elongated pickleball paddles typically have a longer paddle face and grip length, allowing for increased surface area and better reach. This extended design enables players to have more room for hitting the ball, resulting in enhanced shot-making capabilities.

The elongated shape of these paddles also contributes to improved ball control. With a larger hitting surface, players have a better chance of hitting the sweet spot consistently, leading to more accurate shots and increased precision. This is particularly beneficial for players who prioritize control and finesse in their playing style.

Furthermore, elongated pickleball paddles often feature a lightweight construction, making them easier to maneuver and reducing fatigue during extended gameplay. The paddle weight range is an essential consideration when choosing the best elongated paddle, as it determines the balance between power and control that suits your playing style.

Key Features of Elongated Pickleball Paddles

The elongated paddles encompass a range of features designed to enhance your performance on the court. Some notable features to consider when selecting your first elongated paddle include:

Surface Material:

Elongated paddles commonly utilize materials like graphite or composite surfaces. These materials offer excellent ball control, and the textured surface adds spin to your shots, providing a competitive advantage.

Core Construction:

A paddle’s core, often made of a polypropylene honeycomb or a polymer material, influences its weight and responsiveness. A lighter paddle is ideal for players seeking maneuverability, while a thicker core provides added power.

Grip and Handle:

These paddles usually come with a cushioned grip, such as the honeycomb cushion grip or sweat-absorbent textured grip. A comfortable grip enhances your control and prevents the paddle from slipping during intense gameplay. Additionally, the handle length and grip size should match your hand size for optimal comfort and maneuverability.

Benefits of Using an Elongated Pickleball Paddle

When it comes to pickleball, using an elongated paddle offers several advantages over traditional paddles. These elongated pickleball paddles, known for their unique design and features, can significantly improve your game by providing increased reach and better control on the court.

Increased Reach:

Elongated paddles have a longer paddle face and grip length compared to standard paddles. This extra length allows you to reach the ball with greater ease, even when it’s slightly out of your immediate range.

With an elongated paddle, you can effectively cover more ground and respond to shots that would be challenging with a traditional paddle. This increased reach gives you an edge in terms of shot placement and court coverage.

Better Control:

Elongated pickleball paddles excel in offering improved control during gameplay. The larger paddle face provides a larger hitting surface, resulting in a larger sweet spot.

When you hit the ball with the sweet spot, you achieve better ball control, leading to more accurate shots and consistent performance. The elongated shape of these paddles also contributes to enhanced control by providing a larger surface area to make contact with the ball.

Superior Ball Control:

Elongated paddles often feature surface materials like textured graphite or composite surfaces. These materials enhance ball control by adding spin to your shots, allowing you to manipulate the ball’s trajectory and placement with more precision.

The textured surface of the paddle’s face increases the grip on the ball, enabling you to execute spin shots, drop shots, and dinks with greater accuracy.

Lightweight and Comfortable:

Many of the best elongated pickleball paddles are designed to be lightweight, making them easy to maneuver and reducing fatigue during long matches. The weight range varies, allowing you to choose one that matches your playing style and preferences.

Additionally, elongated paddles often come with features such as a honeycomb cushion grip or a sweat-absorbent textured grip. These grip options provide a comfortable hold, ensuring a secure and slip-free grip even during intense gameplay.

Disadvantages of Using an Elongated Pickleball Paddle

While these paddles offer numerous advantages, it’s essential to consider the potential disadvantages they may present when compared to traditional paddles.

Understanding these drawbacks can help you make an informed decision when choosing the right paddle for your game.

Limited Maneuverability:

One disadvantage of these paddles is their potential impact on maneuverability. Due to their oversized paddles length, these paddles may feel less responsive and slightly heavier compared to standard paddles.

This can make quick reactions and swift movements slightly more challenging, particularly for players who rely on speed and agility as part of their playing style.

Reduced Precision in Close Shots:

The oversized paddles shape may pose challenges when executing shots in close proximity to the net. The extended length can make it harder to control and finesse shots that require delicate touch, such as drop shots and dinks.

The additional paddle length may result in a slight loss of precision, making it crucial for players to adapt their technique and adjust their positioning to maintain accuracy in these situations.

Adaptation Period:

Switching from a traditional paddle to an elongated one may require an adjustment period. The change in paddle length and weight distribution can affect your timing, swing, and overall playing style. It may take some time to familiarize yourself with the nuances of the elongated paddle and develop a consistent stroke that maximizes its advantages. However, with practice and perseverance, most players can adapt and optimize their gameplay with an elongated paddle.

Potential Loss of Power:

Elongated paddles tend to prioritize control and ball placement over sheer power. While this can be advantageous for certain playing styles, players who rely heavily on powerful shots may find that elongated paddles offer less power compared to some traditional paddles. The longer paddle face and slightly heavier weight distribution may impact the paddle’s ability to generate maximum power in every shot.

Different Sweet Spot Location:

The sweet spot, the optimal point on the paddle face for hitting the ball, may have a slightly different location on an elongated paddle compared to a standard one.

This variation can require players to adjust their stroke and timing to consistently find the sweet spot. It may take some practice to become accustomed to the paddle’s sweet spot and maintain consistent ball contact, especially when transitioning from a traditional paddle.

By selecting the best elongated paddle, you can gain a competitive edge and take your game to new heights.

How to Choose the Right Elongated Pickleball Paddle for You?

Choosing the right elongated pickleball paddle is essential for optimizing your performance on the court and achieving your full potential as a player.

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect paddle that suits your skill level, playing style, and personal preferences.

Assess Your Skill Level:

Consider your skill level as a starting point when selecting a best elongated pickleball paddle. Beginners may benefit from a paddle that offers a balance of power and control, allowing them to develop their technique and improve their skills.

Intermediate and advanced players may prefer a paddle that aligns with their specific playing style, whether it’s power-based or focused on finesse and control.

Identify Your Playing Style:

Determine your playing style to narrow down the options. If you rely on power and aggressive shots, a paddle with a thicker core and a composite surface may provide the extra power you need.

For players who prioritize finesse, control, and shot placement, a paddle with a lighter weight, a textured graphite surface, and an elongated design for an increased sweet spot can be beneficial.

Test Out Different Paddles:

Testing out different paddles is crucial to finding the right fit for your game. Take advantage of demo programs, borrow paddles from friends, or visit local pickleball pro shops to try out various elongated paddles.

Pay attention to how each paddle feels in your hand, the weight distribution, and how it performs during gameplay. Testing paddles will give you firsthand experience and help you make an informed decision.

What to keep in mind before buying an Elongated Pickleball Paddle?

1. Be familiar with your game.

Your game should be improved by your paddle, not hindered by it. Are you a finesse or a power player? Long paddles are ideal for power and reach. Remember that!

2. Take Weight into Account.

Weight is crucial. Your swing velocity and ball management are impacted. Longer paddles are typically lighter. Does that match the way you like to play?

3. Check the Grip.

Grip size is important. Better wrist action is offered by smaller grips. More stability is provided by larger ones. Before you buy, inspect the grip.

4. Things That Matter.

Graphite or composite? Each has benefits of its own. Composite paddles last a long time. Graphite paddles are lightweight and have a great feel.

5. Test Your Comfort.

Comfort is key. If the paddle feels awkward or causes strain, it’s not for you. Remember, elongated paddles have different balance points.

6. Rule Compliance.

Make sure your paddle is USAPA/IFP approved for competitive play. Rules are rules!

7. Think About Price.

Price is a factor. But remember, the most expensive paddle isn’t always the best.

8. Read Reviews.

Reviews are insightful. They reveal real-user experiences. Consider them seriously.

9. Explore Brands.

Brand reputation matters. Some brands excel in making elongated paddles. Research them!

10. Make a Decision.

Finally, make a decision. Pick the paddle that ticks all the boxes for you.

Conclusion:

We encourage you to explore the world of elongated pickleball paddles, try out different models, and share your experiences with others. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your skills or an experienced player seeking a competitive edge, finding the right paddle can make a significant difference in your performance and overall enjoyment of the game.

So, don’t hesitate to grab a new paddle, hit the court, and discover the advantages of using the best elongated pickleball paddle for your game. Share your insights and recommendations with fellow players, and let’s continue to evolve and enhance our pickleball experiences together.

FAQs:

What is the difference between a standard paddle and a elongated pickleball paddle?

Elongated pickleball paddles have a longer length, usually ranging from 16 to 17 inches, compared to the standard paddles, which typically measure around 15 to 16 inches. The elongated shape provides an extended hitting surface, offering players a larger sweet spot, increased reach, and more control during gameplay.

For who Elongated Paddles are best for?

Elongated paddles are usually good for single player games, as it has extra length and covers more on the court. Plus a large sweet spot give more area for hitting.

How Much do an Average Elongated pickleball paddle cost?

You can buy a cheap ELongated Pickleball paddle for under $50 to learn on if you are just a beginner. However, seasoned pickleball players look for advanced paddle which can cost around $100 – $200.