Adding weight to your pickleball paddle might sound counterintuitive – after all, isn't a lighter paddle supposed to be better for quick hands and maneuverability? While that's often true, there are specific situations where strategically adding weight can improve your game. In this article, the Paddle Experts at JustPaddles dive into when, why, and how to add weight to your paddle.
When Should You Add Weight to Your Paddle?
You Need More Power on Your Groundstrokes
If you find yourself struggling to generate enough pace on your drives and third shots, adding weight can help. A heavier paddle carries more momentum through the ball, naturally creating more power without requiring you to swing harder.
Signs you might need more weight for power:
- Your drives consistently fall short of the baseline
- Opponents easily handle your passing shots
- You feel like you're swinging hard but not getting results
- Your Paddle Feels "Dead" or Lacks Pop
Some pickleball paddles, especially those with softer cores, can feel like they absorb too much energy on impact. Adding weight can help create a more solid, responsive feel that gives you better feedback on your shots.
You Want Better Stability
A heavier paddle is naturally more stable, even when you don't hit the sweet spot perfectly. If you're experiencing too much paddle twist on mishits, additional weight can help minimize this effect.
You're Dealing with Tennis Elbow or Arm Fatigue
This might seem backward, but sometimes a slightly heavier paddle can actually reduce arm strain. A paddle that's too light can require more muscular effort to generate power, leading to overuse injuries. The right amount of added weight can make your swing more efficient.
When NOT to Add Weight
You're Already Struggling with Hand Speed
If you're frequently late on volleys at the net or having trouble with quick exchanges, adding weight will only make these problems worse. Fast-paced kitchen battles require quick hands, and extra weight works against you here.
Your Current Paddle Already Feels Heavy
This seems obvious, but it's worth mentioning. If your paddle already feels cumbersome or you're experiencing fatigue during play, don't add more weight.
You're a Beginner Still Learning Basic Technique
New players should focus on developing proper form with a comfortable, appropriately weighted paddle before experimenting with modifications.
Don't worry, if you are just starting out we have the JustPaddles Paddle Assurance Program that lets you try out paddles for 30 Days!-9715-06-25.png)
Ways to Add Weight to Your Current Paddle
Lead Tape Method
Lead tape is a thin, adhesive-backed lead tape that you can apply to your paddle.
Where to apply it:
- Top of paddle head: Adds power and stability but reduces maneuverability
- Sides of paddle head: Increases sweet spot and stability with minimal impact on swing weight
- Handle: Moves weight toward your hand, maintaining maneuverability while adding overall mass
Weighted Grip Wraps
Adding multiple grip wraps or using a weighted grip can increase handle weight. This keeps the paddle head light while adding overall mass.
Check out all our overgrips, while this aren't heavily weight, at .5 grams they will add some weight to your paddle!
Professional Modification
Some paddle customization services can professionally add weight to the paddle's core or handle, creating a more permanent and refined modification.
Paddles with Built-in Weight Customization
adidas Metalbone
The Adidas Metalbone paddle series represents the cutting edge of weight customization in pickleball. This innovative paddle features an adjustable weight and balance system using four 2.6-gram screws strategically placed around the paddle head. The total adjustable weight range is up to 10.4 grams.
GAMMA RCF Airbender
The GAMMA RCF Airbender series takes a different approach with their weighted Shockbuster and interchangeable end caps system. This system is particularly appealing to players who want the benefits of added weight without sacrificing the quick hands needed for net play.
Tips For Finding Your Ideal Weight
Start Small
If you're adding weight manually, start with small increments (2-3 grams) and play several sessions before adding more. It's much easier to add weight than to remove it permanently.
Consider Your Playing Style
- Aggressive baseliners: May benefit from weight in the paddle head for more power
- All-court players: Often prefer weight in the handle to maintain versatility
- Net specialists: Usually want to minimize added weight to preserve quick hands
Test Different Positions
The location of added weight matters as much as the amount:
- Head-heavy: More power, less maneuverability
- Handle-heavy: Maintains speed while adding stability
- Balanced: Slight increases across the paddle for overall improvement
Tournament Regulations
Always check that your modifications comply with tournament rules. Most sanctioned events allow lead tape and grip modifications, but there may be restrictions on total weight or modification methods.
Finding Your Perfect Weight Solution
Adding weight to your pickleball paddle can be a game-changer when done thoughtfully and for the right reasons. Remember, the best paddle is the one that feels comfortable and helps you play your best pickleball. Weight is just one factor in that equation, but when optimized correctly, it can take your game to the next level.
-
Ready to get started? We're here to help players at every level find their perfect paddle. Give us a call at 1-866-382-3465, send an email to experts@justpaddles.com, or type a message into our live chat to chat directly with one of our paddle experts. We’re JustPaddles, and we’re here for you from Click to Court!
&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.justpaddles.com%2fblog%2fpost%2fhow-to-add-weight-to-a-pickleball-paddle%2f){kind=small}
