Getting your grip right is one of the most important steps in improving your pickleball game. Whether you're a beginner learning the ropes or a 3.5 player ready to level up, how you hold your paddle affects everything: power, control, comfort, and even injury prevention.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most effective pickleball paddle grips, help you avoid common mistakes, and show you how a custom paddle band, upgraded grip, and even a bit of lead tape can fine-tune your hold for max performance.
🎾 The #1 Most Recommended Grip: The Continental Grip
If you only learn one grip, make it this one.
The continental grip (sometimes called the “hammer grip”) is used by most pros and is perfect for:
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Serving
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Dinks
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Volleys
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Overheads
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Backhands
👉 How to find it:
Hold your paddle like you're shaking someone’s hand. Your knuckle should sit just slightly to the right of the paddle’s top bevel (for righties).
✅ It’s neutral, versatile, and works for nearly every shot.
🧠 Other Paddle Grips You’ll Hear About
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Eastern grip – Similar to continental, slightly rotated for more topspin
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Western grip – Rare in pickleball; favors extreme topspin (not recommended for most players)
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Two-handed backhand grip – Becoming more popular, especially for tennis crossover players
🎯 Whichever grip you choose, how your paddle feels in your hand matters. That’s where your grip, paddle band, and balance setup come into play.
✋ Upgrade Your Grip for Better Hold & Less Slippage
Even if your hand position is perfect, a slick or worn-down grip will ruin your performance—especially on hot days or during long rallies.
Here’s how to solve it:
🖐 Replace or Add a High-Tack Grip
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More tack = less slippage
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Cushioned grips reduce wrist and elbow strain
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Color coordination? Always a bonus.
🛠 Tip: Try an overgrip first. It’s cheap, easy to install, and makes a big difference.
🏷 Add a Custom Paddle Band to Secure Your Position
Not only do paddle bands help you identify your paddle, but they also serve as a tactile reference point for your hand.
Use it to:
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Keep your hand consistently in place
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Add a snug feel at the top of the grip
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Show off your name, team, or initials
📸 Insert “your text here” product image here
🎯 Adjust Weight & Balance with Lead Tape
If your paddle feels too top-heavy or too light in the hand, that affects your grip comfort—especially for players who favor dinking or quick resets.
Lead tape lets you:
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Add power to the top (12 o’clock)
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Increase stability at the sides (3 and 9 o’clock)
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Balance swing weight for your specific grip style
🛠 Tip: Add small amounts at a time (2g per side) until it feels just right.
🔥 Common Grip Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
| Mistake | Why It Hurts You | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Holding too tight | Reduces mobility and causes fatigue | Loosen your grip pressure — aim for 4/10 |
| “Choking up” too far | Shortens your reach and power | Use paddle band as a reference point |
| Using a worn-out grip | Causes slipping and blisters | Add a tacky overgrip or replace it |
| Holding only at the butt | Less control on volleys | Slide hand slightly up for resets |
🧩 Pro-Style Grip Setup = Feel + Feedback + Control
Here’s your ideal grip customization trio:
| Upgrade | Function | Link |
|---|---|---|
| 🏷 Paddle Band | Keeps hand in place, adds identity | Create One |
| ✋ Overgrip or Base Grip | Better feel, reduced slipping | Browse Grips |
| 🎯 Lead Tape | Balances weight for comfort | Buy Lead Tape |
✅ Final Thoughts: Hold It Right, Win More Points
No matter your skill level, your grip affects every swing, every volley, and every dink.
Get it right from the start, and don’t be afraid to customize your paddle to support your grip style. With the right grip, band, and balance, your paddle becomes an extension of your arm—not just something you hold.
🚀 Ready to Dial In Your Paddle Grip?
🏷 Personalize Your Paddle Band
✋ Get a Pro-Level Grip
🎯 Tune Balance with Lead Tape