How to Test a Pickleball Paddle: A Complete Guide

Choosing the right pickleball paddle is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your game. With so many materials, weights, and designs on the market, it’s essential to know how to properly test a paddle before you commit.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through 7 key factors to evaluate so you can make an informed decision based on feel, performance, and fit.

1. Start with the Right Weight

Weight dramatically affects how a paddle plays:

• Lightweight paddles (7.3–7.8 oz) are great for fast reaction times and finesse shots.
• Midweight to heavy paddles (8.0+ oz) offer more power and stability, especially on drives and serves.

When testing, ask yourself:

• Does the paddle feel nimble in your hand?
• Can you swing it freely without loosing control?

You want a weight that complements your playing style and strength without causing fatigue.

2. Check Grip Size and Comfort

Your paddle grip should feel like a natural extension of your hand. Test for:

• Proper grip circumference – You should be able to wrap your fingers around the handle without stretching or crowding.
• Comfortable texture – A good grip should reduce slippage and absorb moisture.

If the grip doesn’t feel right, it can affect both your control and your confidence.

3. Evaluate Balance and Swing Feel

The paddle’s balance point affects its maneuverability and power. While testing:

• Note whether it feels head-heavy, evenly balanced, or handle-biased.
• Take some shadow swings or volleys to get a feel for the paddle’s responsiveness.

A well-balanced paddle should feel controlled and quick without being sluggish or unstable.

4. Hit the Court for a Real Test

There’s no substitute for live hitting. During your playtest, try a variety of shots:

• Dinks and drops – Does the paddle offer soft touch and precision?
• Volleys – How quickly does it respond in fast exchanges?
• Drives and serves – Are you generating power with ease?
• Resets and blocks – Can you manage control in defensive moments?

Pay attention to how the paddle handles different speeds and angles - it should feel consistent and predictable.

5. Test Spin Potential

Surface texture matters, especially if you like to add spin to your shots. While testing:

• Try topspin rolls, cuts, and sliced returns.
• See how much the paddle grips the ball.

Textured and raw carbon surfaces are commonly used to enhance spin. If spin is a key part of your game, make sure your paddle supports that.

6. Feel the Feedback: Vibration and Comfort

Quality paddles are designed to reduce harsh vibrations while maintaining good touch and feedback. During your test:

• Notice how the paddle feels on off-centre hits.
• Assess whether it causes hand or arm discomfort after extended play.

Features like edge foam, dampening cores, or thermoformed construction can minimize shock and improve comfort.

7. Inspect the Build and Materials

Take a close look at:

• The paddle face - Is the texture even and durable?
• The edge guard and seams - Are they tightly finished?
• The overall construction - Does it feel solid and high quality?

Premium paddles are typically made with materials like carbon fibre, fiberglass, and polymer cores for the ideal mix of control, power, and durability.

Final Tip: Try Before You Buy

Whenever possible, test the paddle on a court - ideally during a real game. Many retailers, clubs, and paddle brands offer demo programs so you can try different models before choosing the one that fits you best.

A paddle isn’t just a piece of equipment - it’s a direct link between your hand and your performance. Take the time to test it thoroughly, and you’ll notice the difference on every shot.

Want Help Choosing Your Paddle?

If you're still unsure which paddle suits your style, reach out to your local pickleball pro shop or paddle brand for personalized recommendations. A little expert input can go a long way in finding your perfect match.

PS. If you want to go to the next level, then why not visit Six 6.0 Zero Pickleball and check out their range of paddles? Or visit their stands featured at our QPC and QPT tournament events.