Are you a pickleball player searching for long handle pickleball paddles to enhance your game? An appropriate pickleball paddles affect the game quality. A combination of power control and spin with either a long or short-handle paddle that is suitable for your play style can be a game changer for you.
Here, I am assisting you in explaining the attributes of a long handle pickleball paddle.
As you already know, pickleball paddles are available in short, medium, and long handles, depending on the player’s preference.
Why is pickleball’s handle length important?
As we all know, pickleball is an emerging game throughout the world. It gives a challenging workout, boosts energy and balance and gives pleasure in playing. But pickleball is incomplete without its paddles. Getting a perfect pickleball paddle for yourself can be revolutionary in the game if your choice is according to your skills and play style. New players in pickleball should go for a lightweight paddle with a large sweet spot that gives more control.
For experienced players, the medium-weight textured surface paddles with more power and spin can be useful. A comfortable and nonslip grip and durable paddle is a must-have for all types of players.
Paddles Handle Length:
As experts Said, “ The length of the handle has an impact on overall weight balance and the feel the pickleball paddle in your hands.”
A long-handle paddle is normally 5 ¼ and 5 ½ inches long. Some paddles may have handles even longer, up to 6 inches or more.
A medium paddle’s handle size is about 5 to 5 ¼ inches long.
A short-handle paddle size is usually less than 5 inches.
Long handle vs short handle pickleball paddle:
Long-handle paddles have more power.
Long-handle paddles have more spin.
Ideal for experts.
Long-handle paddles have less sweet spot.
Good for two-handed, backhand.
Short-handle paddles:
It provides good control.
It has a big-hitting spot.
Attributes of long handle pickleball paddles:
A long handle paddle is suitable for players to create powerful shots with spin.
A long handle is capable of hitting the ball hard with more spin during the stroke.
A long-handle paddle is best for a power player. Plus, a two-handed backhand is also possible with a long-handle pickleball paddle. A long-handle paddle makes it possible due to its good grip.
A long-handle pickleball paddle is considered the perfect choice for tennis players who are in the transition phase to start pickleball paddle games as they are more intended to play two-handed backhand shots, so it is easy for them to play long-handle pickleball paddles.
A long handle pickleball paddle is way more identical to a tennis racket as compared to a short handle pickleball paddle. A long-handle pickleball paddle provides more similarity in dimensions and feels in the hands of the player. So, many tennis players prefer long handle pickleball paddles, which makes their transition quite comfortable.
Well, on the other hand, a long handle pickleball paddle has a small sweet spot. It has a short face ( area of hitting the ball). So, a long handle pickleball paddle is a better option for an experienced player and is not recommended for new players.
(CRUSH RQT ) My Favorite Long handle pickleball paddle:
A lot of options for long handle pickleball paddles are available on the market, but my favorite one is the one with the longest handle, approximately 6.5 inches long.
It gives amazing control for two-handed backhands, so it’s the best pickleball paddle for tennis players who are in a transitioning phase. It is best for high level performance during the match. It is made of a lightweight material, I.e., Thermoformed Raw carbon fiber. So it is best for 20 to 25% more power generation.
Its handle is designed with vibration absorption material, so power playing becomes more convenient. Due to these features, this is considered a perfect paddle for experienced players and for new players who are in the Transitioning phase from tennis to pickleball paddle’s game as well. That’s why it became more popular among the pickleball players.
The selection of the best long handle pickleball paddle:
The selection of the right pickleball paddle is a major element in the game. If you get an appropriate pickleball paddle for yourself, the next steps will be easy.
Numerous pickleball paddles with different features are easily available in markets. Still, a wise player selects a paddle that is suitable for him on the base of his personal choice and play style. A perfect selection approach to the pickleball paddle boosts your confront, interest and quality of the game.
Best long handle pickleball paddles:
Pickleball paddles are available in different sizes, shapes and materials. Your preference decides which pickleball paddles are most suitable for you. The main element of pickleball paddles is the length of the handle. Pickleball paddles come with short, medium or standard and long handles. The length of the paddle directly affects the play on the court. Because different lengths give different feelings to the player’s hands.
The location of the sweet spot and the area of hitting the ball also depends on the handle’s length. In a long-handle pickleball paddle, the sweet spot is above the paddle face. This sweet spot in the long handle pickleball paddle moves very quickly during the swing, so it gives more power shots.
In the USA, the length and width of the paddle needed to define the pickleball paddles. So, a paddle’s length plus width should not be more than 24 inches. The measurement of the paddle is taken from the bottom of the butt cap to the edge guard of the pickleball paddle.
1. Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0 pickleball paddle:
Price: may vary
Pros:
- Sweat-wicking grip
- Good for all players
- Justified with price
Key features:
Core material: Polymer
Surface material: carbon fiber
Weight: 7.8 to 8.2 ounces
Shape: Standard
Paddles length: 10.2
Paddle width: 7.8 inches
Handle length: 5.7 inches
Grip circumference: 4.2 inches
Overall rating: 5/5
Best for: It is best for all players, either experienced or new.
The best element: Its grip is so comfortable. As pickleball players, you all would know that the grip of a pickleball paddle is a major element of it. The Grip size is 2.0, which is an amazing quality for this paddle with long handles; it’s very airy and comfortable without feeling hard in the player’s hand.
It gives an amazing grip without any slippery feeling, even during prolonged playing sessions.
As I mentioned above, this pickleball paddle is a great option for primary to advanced level players because it is suitable for all due to its weight, which is ideal. Its balance of control and power is amazing.
Flaws: Although this paddle has so many attributes, it has flaws as well, like it’s not durable, so it’s not good for frequent playing sessions.
2. Engage Encore Pro V2.0 Pickleball:
Price: may vary
Pros:
- Durable with textured surface
- Gives the best spin
- Forgiving less accurate shots
- Suit for different hand’s size
- Convenient grip
Cons:
- Grip tape is less durable
Key features:
Core material: polymer
Surface material: fiberglass
Weight: 7.8 to 8.3 ounces
Shape: Standard
Paddle length: 16.25 inches
Paddle width: 7.75 inches
Handle length: 5.3 inches
Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches
Overall rating: 4.9/5
Best for: This pickleball paddle is best for those new to the pickleball game.
Best elements: It is a very stylish paddle with a long handle that is a good choice for beginner athletes. It is good for powerful shots. It elevated players’ confidence by providing more face felt forgiving when a player overpowered or underpowered a hit. Its textured surface and good spin control features result in high-end court performance.
The best thing about this paddle is its superior grip that never loses stickiness, and it is useful for players of different hand sizes. The grip of this paddle is considered great for all kinds of free movement; it is capable of fast flips to backhand lobs and forehand dinks.
The weight of this paddle is another good thing, and it is ideal for long sessions without elbow strain or any kind of discomfort.
Flaws: This paddle also has flaws. The grip tape can be better as it started peeling quickly at the neck. It requires fixing frequently.
3. Pickleball Apes Pulse V Pickleball Paddle:
Pros:
- Large sweat spot
- Perfect balance of power and control.
- Durable
Cons:
- Grip sweat absorption is not good
Key features:
Core material: Honeycomb
Surface material: Graphite
Weight: 8.2 to 8.4 ounces
Shape: wide body
Paddle length: 15.8 inches
Paddle width: 8.1 inches
Handle length: 5.5 inches
Grip circumference: 4.25 inches
Overall rating: 4.9/5
Best for: This long handle pickleball paddle is the best option for intermediate players who are looking for a balance of power and control.
Best element: It is best for mediocre pickleball players. This paddle has a wide body and a big sweat spot, which is good for hitting accuracy and controlled hits with more power because it is a lightweight paddle.
The best element of this paddle is that it has grid technology just below its surface that helps with smooth swing and fast adjustment with minimum vibration. The grip results in a secure and cozy feel in the player’s hand. All these features make this paddle best for long matches.
Flaws: The main flaw of this paddle is that it is slippery if it’s gripped during prolonged playing sessions. So, if you’re using this paddle, you need to use an “ OverGrip” for better sweat absorption.
4. Gearbox Pro Ultimate hyper pickleball paddle:
Pros:
- Best power
- Best control
- Durable
- Nonslip Grip even in sweaty hands
Cons:
- Plain face design
Key features:
Core material: carbon fiber
Surface material: carbon fiber
Weight: 8 ounces
Shape: Quad
Paddle length: 16 inches
Paddle Width: 8 inches
Handle length: 5.5 inches
Grip circumference: 4.5 inches
Overall rating: 5/5
Best for: This paddle is best for experienced pickleball players and has high performance and durability.
Best element: Its best element is that it allows a player to have precision and strength at the same time. The carbon fiber material of this paddle is quite different and gives amazing power. It keeps the confidence of the player elevated during back-to-back shots.
This is made of lightweight and durable material, which is outstanding for competition and frequent plays as it has a bit of a rigid and rough surface, giving an amazing spin with control. Its grip is considered the most comfortable and non-slippery, which is ideal for the sweaty hands of the players.
It allows free movement during fast shots without making tennis elbow, twist or any kind of discomfort in wrists, arms and hands.
Flaw:
This is a simple-looking paddle with a long handle. The design of this paddle can be upgraded to satisfy the player’s aesthetic sense.
Conclusion:
Getting a pickleball paddle that is according to your preference, either in terms of play style, comfort, or playing skills, is crucial as appropriate pickleball paddles become a game changer for a player. Because there is not a parameter that can fit every player when choosing a pickleball’s paddles. In the market, pickleball paddles come in a variety.
The two major elements are short handle or long handle paddles. A long-handle pickleball paddle is suitable for beginners and Ex-tennis players as it is a bit similar to a tennis racket, so it feels like a tennis racket. A long-handle pickleball paddle is a good option for players who want more power during the shots.
Well, I suggest that all pickleball players try different types of paddles of different lengths. So, it would give the best idea as to which pickleball paddles are actually suitable for them because investment in the perfect pickleball paddles can elevate their game To markable performance.
FAQs:
Q1: Does a short-handle and long-handle pickleball paddles make a difference?
Ans: yes! Because everyone has different play styles and choices. A long-handle pickleball paddle can be best for a player with big hands, but it won’t be a good option for a player with small hands.
Q2: What is a long-handle pickleball paddle?
Ans: A pickleball paddle is a combination of different attributes like its handle size, shape, weight and many others. Long and short handles are the two basic elements of a pickleball paddle.
A long handle pickleball paddle is a paddle with a handle that is more than 5 inches in length considered as a long-handle pickleball paddle.
Q3: How do you select a long-handle pickleball paddle?
Ans: Pickleball paddles are available in different sizes and shapes, along with handle lengths. So, if you’re looking for a long-handle pickleball paddle, you must be aware of other features that fit your preferences. Choose a long-handle pickleball paddle with lightweight and durable material and a comfortable Grip so it would be useful for you.