If you have done some research on the equipment of the game of pickleball, then you have very likely come across the debate between long handle vs short handle pickleball paddle already. Choosing the right paddle will help you be more precise with your shots.
Both long and short handle paddles are great in their own field. It’s important to go by the feel and the best grip. That’ll make you a better player in days if you’re a beginner and help you hone down tight shots if you’re an expert.
Below, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about both long handle and short handle pickleball paddles. That way, you’ll be able to compare both of them and choose the right one for yourself.
Long Handle Pickleball Paddle
Before we jump into the comparison, it would be a great idea to learn about both long handle and short handle pickleball paddles individually.
Long-handle paddles are typically used by professionals. These provide more power to the shot as there’s more leverage in these types of paddles.
That being said, it is typically on a much heavier side, which can be an issue for some players. That’s because, the added weight can have a negative impact on the balance, and thus, it can hinder the control aspect of your paddle.
But as you get better and better, you’ll start to learn to swing the paddle just right where you’ll get the maximum power in your shot every time. So, that’s what makes it favorable for professional players.
List Few Long Handle Pickleball Paddle
- Gamma Compass LH NeuCore Pickleball Paddle
- Engage Pickleball Elite Pro Maverick
- Prince Response Pro Pickleball Paddle
- Engage Pickleball Encore MX 6.0 Pickleball Paddle
- Paddletek Bantam Sabre Pro Pickleball Paddle
- HEAD Gravity LH Pickleball Paddle
- Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle
Short Handle Pickleball Paddle
Short handle paddles are great for getting the most control in your shots. These are lighter and far easier to control with your arms.
The enhanced control in motion will help you get precise shots without too much effort. That’s especially great for you if you’re just starting out on learning the game of pickleball.
Elongated paddles can have both small hand long handles
However, short handle paddles tend to feel a bit more “head-heavy”, and that can actually throw you off guard at some points. And you’d have to hit the pickleball a little bit harder when you’re playing with a paddle that has a shorter handle.
If you are okay with compromising these minor issues while playing the game to get the extra control, then you should have no issue with short handle paddles. These are great and you should definitely try them out.
List Of Short Handle Pickleball Paddle
- Head Gravity SH Pickleball Paddle
- Selkirk Sport SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle
Difference Between Long Handle And Short Handle Pickleball Paddles
Now that you know what long handle and short handle pickleball paddles are good for and not good for, it’ll be a much easier thing to compare these two.
But remember, it all comes down to what you prefer and how you feel holding the paddle rather than anything else. So, keep that in mind when you go to choose your ultimate pickleball paddle.
As we mentioned, long handle paddles give more power to the shots but they compromise a little bit of control. Also, long handle paddles are good for two handed backhand.
And short handle paddles are a little “head-heavy”, which can take some power out of your shots and pops.
So, if you are someone who wants to get the most control out of your shots, then shorter paddles are the sweet spot for you. But if you want more power, then you should certainly go for the long handle ones.
Final Words
Hopefully, now you have a deeper understanding of both long handle and short handle pickleball paddles. That should be enough to help you pick the right one for your next game.
Be sure to try out different ones before you pick a paddle for the game of pickleball. Doing so will help you so much in getting better much faster and developing the right techniques you can rely on.
