If you want to improve the grip that you have on your pickleball, then you should take a moment to evaluate and potentially invest in a new pickleball paddle grip or overgrip.
If you get a new paddle grip, you will be replacing your current grip with a new one. If you get an overgrip, you will be wrapping a grip on top of or "over" your existing grip.
Pickleball paddle grips are easy to install, as they are usually quite sticky and can be put onto the paddle in no time at all - it should only take a few minutes and this often overlooked aspect of your game is more important than you think!
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Read on for our picks of the best pickleball paddle grips. We’ve also written a nifty buyers guide to help you to narrow down your decision.
Top Grips and Overgrips
OUR TOP PICK
Tourna is a big name when it comes to pickleball paddle grips.
You may be caught a little off guard by the fact that the name says ‘tennis grip,’ however you need not worry.
In fact, this grip works fantastically well both on pickleball paddles and on tennis rackets.
So what do you need to know about this particular grip? The grip can come in two, three, 10, 30 and 50 packs.
When you're sweating while playing the game the paddle starts to become stickier to ensure that you can hold onto it easier. This tape is also quite breathable.
This is ideal for helping you to have better control in your game. In fact, it’s such a good product that even pro tennis players such as John Isner use it.
If you often play pickleball in a hot climate then this product is definitely the one for you thanks to the tackiness.
In addition to this, the grip is very durable and should last you for quite some time, yet it isn’t cumbersome and won’t get in your way when you’re trying to play the game.
Furthermore, the product is very affordable so you won’t need to break the bank just to buy it.
The only issue I have with it is that the tape only comes in one color, but this may not be much of a concern to you.
Pros
- Affordable
- Ideal for hot weather
- Helps to keep hands dey
Cons
- The tape is only available in one color
EDITORS CHOICE
The Gamma Sports Pickleball Hi Tech Gel Replacement Grip is one of the most popular pickleball replacement grips on the market.
It’s very comfortable to use and looks good, so you can play your game with confidence every time.
When you purchase the product you will get the tape and the grips.
The grip stays in place very well on the paddle, though it should be noted that attaching the grip to the paddle can be somewhat difficult at first.
Furthermore, the product is well made, consisting of high quality products.
It is a tiny bit thick but this also means that you won’t feel an excessive amount of pressure in your hands.
It also consists of a gel that can give you some cooling action.
Pros
- Comfortable to hold
- Gel cushioning helps to reduce tiredness in the hands
- Thick
Cons
- It can be difficult to put the grip in place - you may need to consult the manufacturer’s guide
BEST VALUE
Sometimes replacing your current grips can be a hassle that you don’t want to deal with or your grip is a bit small so you want to pad it out a bit with an overgrip.
In this case, why not use the Gamma Supreme Overgrip instead?
This grip is pretty unique, coming in a total of six different colors, or you could even get a mixed pack where it’s possible to change up the color based on your mood. Pretty cool, huh?
The grips can come in either a 15, 30 or 60 pack.
The grips are highly durable so they will last a while and you can be sure to expect the best possible quality.
These grips are incredibly comfortable and have the perfect amount of tackiness for the best possible game. The moisture absorbency isn’t the best, however.
Pros
- Tacky overgrip
- Well balanced
- Comfortable
Cons
- The moisture absorbency could be better
RUNNER UP
This fairly affordable Pickleball paddle grip is a great choice if you're looking to replace your old one and if you tend to sweat a lot -- hence the name "no-sweat" diamond grip.
The diamond in the name is in reference to the diamond shaped holes on the product. These make the product incredibly breathable too.
The grips look incredibly attractive, giving your paddle a classic look.
The paddle grip provides you with two options - it’s either possible to use the grip by itself or you can put it over the grip that you already have.
It’s sticky and has great tackiness, so you can play for hours without any problems. It’s pretty comfortable too - what more could you want?
Pros
- Comfortable
- Great breathability
- Attractive look
Cons
- Can be difficult to apply
RUNNER UP
Last but certainly not least, we have the Senston Anti Slip Perforated Overgrip.
This product provides you with a lot of customization - you can get it in a range of different colors, and you can choose to get it with both ridges or just with a standard grip.
If you’re playing pickleball then you should use the standard grip, but the customization means that it’s possible to use the product for a range of different sports.
It’s possible to buy the grips in four, five or in 10 packs. It’s thin with a lot of flexibility so getting a good grip on it is simple.
The grip also wicks away moisture like a dream, so you don’t need to worry about the paddle feeling slippery in your hand as you perspire.
Note that the grips can wear down rather quickly if you use them a lot.
With this in mind, if you play pickleball quite often it may be worth investing in an alternative product with more durability.
Otherwise, the product boasts fantastic tackiness, it’s easy to attach to your paddle and the wide variety of colors on offer means that you can play with originality.
As a whole, a great choice.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Great tackiness
- Comfortable
Cons
- It can wear down if it’s been used a lot
Best Pickleball Paddle Grips Buying Guide
Why Should You Get a New Grip for your Pickleball Paddle?
In theory there really is no absolute need to invest in a new grip for your pickleball paddle.
Many grips are designed to provide extra comfort and cushioning, they absorb sweat and even make the surface easier to grip as a whole.
Now it’s worth noting that if you use your paddle a lot without replacing the grip, you may find that you feel better while playing pickleball when you have a shiny new grip on your paddle.
If you’re just getting started with pickleball you may not be aware that actually, replacing the grip can make a huge difference to your paddle.
You don’t necessarily need to get a new paddle, you just need a new grip. If you find your grip is too small for your hand, adding an overgrip will thicken the paddle handle to make it easier to hold.
In short, when you replace your grip you are getting much better control, you will feel more comfortable and as a whole you can expect a better performance.
It’s even affordable to replace your pickleball paddle grip, so what are you waiting for?
Things to Consider
1. Type
There are a few options available to you when it comes to getting a new pickleball paddle grip.
First of all, you could just buy a whole new grip. This may be a good option if you have been using the same paddle grip for years and it’s a little worn out.
Alternatively, you can get an overgrip which you basically just slide over the top of your current pickleball paddle grip. The last choice is to get tape.
You should base your decision on how thick the product is and the kind of contour that it has.
If you find that the product you buy isn’t a good fit for you right off the bat then you can easily get another one as pickleball paddle grips don’t cost a great deal of money.
It’s just important that you if you plan on getting something that will cover the grip that the whole grip is covered, not just some of it.
2. Cushioning
Ultimately when you are holding your paddle you want to be comfortable. Your grip replacement choice is going to impact how much cushioning you get.
Consider the size of your hands and what is going to be the most comfortable option for you - you can generally find specifications on the manufacturer’s website if you are unsure.
3. Breathability
You’re probably going to break a sweat when you are playing. It’s a fast moving game and ultimately your goal is to win!
Since your hand will sweat onto the handle of your pickleball paddle, you should consider an option that wicks moisture or has high breathability when you are making your decision as this will make you more comfortable, not to mention the paddle will be less likely to slip from your hand.
If you pay more money for a paddle grip you are more likely to find products that are more breathable so it’s worth keeping this in mind.
4. Tackiness
When you’re looking for a pickleball paddle grip it’s important that the grip is at least a little bit sticky so that you can maintain your grip well.
You should look for grips that are sticky so that they don’t end up slipping out of your hand.
5. Durability
When you’re buying a pickleball paddle grip, the last thing you want is something that’s going to last you for less than 5 minutes before it disintegrates.
When looking for your paddle grip, you can check other customer reviews as they will generally tell you just how durable the product really is.
You should also check what the paddle is made out of, as if it’s made with flimsy materials it probably won’t last particularly long.
With that being said, you don’t need to spend your whole life savings on a pickleball paddle grip. Just make sure that you set a reasonable budget based on your needs and wants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when I need to replace my pickleball paddle grip?
There are a few ways to tell whether you need to replace your pickleball paddle grip.
First of all, you should replace the grip when it starts losing tackiness.
You should also change the grip when it starts to twist around in your hand when you are smashing or driving the ball during play.
If you end up letting go of the paddle on accident and it comes flying out of your hand, it either means that you have butter fingers or that it is time to get a new paddle grip - the last thing you want is to accidentally put someone into a concussion because your paddle has hit them on the head.
Finally, you can replace the grip just because you want to switch it up!
How do I change my pickleball paddle grip?
If you want a video explanation, this is a good one. It really just takes a few minutes:
First of all, find a decent space to work on, and get your grip and a pair of sharp scissors. Then, if you are replacing your grip rather than putting an overgrip on, get rid of the grip that’s currently on your paddle.
You can do this by grabbing the inch of electrical tape positioned on the top of the handle and removing it.
Then you can peel away the rest of the grip. You can also get rid of any sticky residue remaining on the handle.
Once you have done this, grab the tapered end of the new grip (if it’s tape) then put it onto the bottom of the handle, gradually working the tape up the handle.
You should try to ensure that the brand name of the tape is facing towards you, not the handle!
Then you can get rid of the adhesive strip that’s on the back of the tape and apply the smallest end.
It’s very important to ensure that your positioning is correct, so it’s worth looking for videos online for extra assistance or checking your manufacturer’s guide as all tape is different.
Then just tape up the handle, cutting the grip and taping it off when you reach the top of the handle. Then your paddle should be done and ready to use!
Last update on 2024-04-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
