Pickleball has seen significant growth over the years. The game was initially played using paddles, but today players use rackets or paddles. Pickleball is a racket sport similar to tennis, but instead of hitting a ball back and forth, players hit a whiffle ball with a paddle after letting it bounce.
There are two main types of pickleball: singles and doubles. Each player hits their ball in singles against another player’s ball. However, in the images, both players play at once. You need an excellent pickleball paddle, whether a beginner or a veteran player.
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The Evolution of Paddles
Pickleball paddles design has evolved significantly since its invention in the early 1900s. Today, the methods vary widely, from wooden bats to metal rackets. With the advancements in technology, pickleball has seen a gradual evolution. Here are a few pickleball paddles used currently.
Wood paddles
The first paddles ever made were cut from single plywood using a bandsaw. Wooden pickleball paddles are usually made of maple, mahogany, or bamboo. Wood paddles are generally longer and thinner than other types. They also have a rounded edge at the top. Some paddles have holes drilled through them to allow airflow.
Today, you can still use wood if your investment amount is minimal or you seek a heavy pickleball paddle. The difference between the old wooden pickleball paddles and the new ones is that the design has been improved to incorporate safety straps and grips to ensure the paddle doesn’t fly out of your hand.
Also, if you want to purchase many pickleball paddles for your community or school, wood paddles are a great option because of their low cost and durability. In addition, the paddles can withstand the consistent beating from heavy use.
Wood paddles are also ideal if you have friends or family coming over and you want to add a few paddles for them to try playing the game.
Pickleball Paddles in the Advanced Technology Age
Technology has dramatically impacted the design of pickleball paddles, from the design to the price.
Composite Pickleball Paddles
The core materials have evolved from wood to polymer, aluminum, and Nomex. The paddle face material is made from carbon fiber or fiberglass. These pickleball paddles have become quite popular since their textured surface makes it easy to spin the ball.
Graphite Pickleball Paddles
These paddles are built with a polymer, Nomex, or aluminum core but have a hitting face made from graphite on both sides. In addition, they have a thin graphite layer that makes them strong and light.
The Difference in Core Materials
The technology age has pickleball paddles made from three core materials: polymer, aluminum, and Nomex.
Nomex core
Nomex core paddles are famous for their durability. The paddle creation process starts with a cardboard-like material dipped in resin a few times to create a durable material arranged in a honeycomb-like pattern to make pickleball paddles.
Nomex is the first material ever to make composite paddles and is still quite popular since many serious players prefer to use Nomex core paddles. These pickleball paddles are the loudest and hardest and produce the popping sound heard on the pickleball court.
Players seeking power and speed should opt for Nomex core paddles. The paddles are also excellent for singles play when an extra boost of energy and momentum is required.
Aluminum core
The internal honeycomb is made from aluminum, making the paddle light yet strong enough to provide excellent control and action throughout the game. Any control player looking for maneuverability and is willing to forego some power and drive should choose paddles with an aluminum core.
Polymer core
A plastic bend is used to make polymer core paddles. Although this type is significantly new in the market, it is gradually becoming popular. Polymer paddles are the quietest, an excellent factor you should consider when buying. This feature makes them the go-to option for people playing in a shared space, recreation center, or gated community where pickleball noise can be a nuisance.
Polymer paddles are softer than their counterparts. The polymer core dampens your shot, making polymer paddles the perfect choice for control players. More pickleball courts are opened as the sport grows popular, especially in enclosed communities. This gives rise to a noise problem between enthusiasts and non-players.
Some communities have put restrictions on the use of some paddle models. So, buying polymer pickleball paddles is a great option where noise could be a potential issue.
Other pickleball paddles
According to the pickleball regulations, the accepted paddle width and length dimensions should not exceed 24 inches, and the length alone should not exceed 17 inches. However, paddle thickness is unrestricted. This has resulted in the creation of wide-body paddles.
There are also oversized paddles in the market. These paddles have added some length to the face, and the handle’s length is reduced to keep the paddle’s total length within the restricted range.
Others are elongated such that the face width is reduced to allow an increase in the paddle’s length instead. This paddle is ideal for experienced players looking for diversity.
Edgeless pickleball paddles
Edgeless paddles lack a protective guard bulging around the paddle’s edges. The guard keeps the paddle’s edge from chipping when banged or dropped against hard surfaces. The paddle provides a maximum hitting surface that some severe players prefer without the edge guard.
Although these pickleball paddles lack a protruding edge guard, they have a thin tape around the edges to protect the edges without affecting the paddle face. However, this thin tape does not provide enough edge protection, leaving your paddle prone to chipping or nicking along the edge.
Conclusion
With pickleball paddles enlisted as green zone (approved) or red zone (banned) because of the noise they produce, players have to make wise decisions with every purchase. You should purchase the paddles that qualify as quiet paddles. Also, if you intend to play regularly, find a lightweight paddle that has a good grip.
