Why Add Weight to Your Pickleball Paddle?

If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while, you’ve probably seen some players put lead tape or weighted grips on their paddles. Adding weight to a paddle may seem like a small change, but it can make a big difference in how it feels and works. Changing the weight of your paddle can improve your game, whether you want more power, stability, or control.

1. More Power with Less Effort

When you add weight to your paddle, it gets heavier, which means it sends more energy to the ball when it hits it. This gives each shot more power, which is especially helpful for drives, serves, and overhead smashes. A slightly heavier paddle can help players with slower swing speeds hit deeper, more powerful shots without putting in too much effort.

Using lead tape to add weight to the sides or top edge of the paddle is a common setup method. This gives your shots more pop while keeping control by increasing the momentum through contact.

2. Improved Stability and Control

Adding weight makes things more stable, which is one of the best benefits of this approach. A heavier paddle doesn’t twist as much when you hit the ball off-center, which means your shots stay straighter and more consistent even when you don’t hit the ball perfectly in the sweet spot.

For instance, a slightly heavier paddle can absorb more impact when you’re blocking a hard drive or defending against fast volleys at the kitchen line. This helps you keep control and accuracy. A lot of intermediate and advanced players swear by this change because it boosts their confidence.

3. Better Touch for Dinking and Resets

It may seem strange, but adding a little weight can actually help your soft game. With more mass, you can better absorb the incoming pace and control the ball during dinks and resets. When your paddle is stiff, you can focus on where you put the ball and how much spin you put on it instead of just how fast it goes.

Adding small amounts of weight to the handle or lower part of the paddle can help players who prefer a steady, calm kitchen game feel more balanced without making it harder to move around.

4. Enhanced Sweet Spot and Forgiveness

You can actually make the paddle’s sweet spot bigger by carefully adjusting where the weight is applied. For instance:

• Paddles with more weight at the top give you more power and reach.

• Edge-weighted paddles make the paddle more stable and forgiving when you hit it off-center.

• Paddles with weight in the handle balance the feel and make the paddle swing lighter, which is great for players who need to react quickly at the net.

This customization lets you match your paddle’s performance to your natural swing style, which is an enormous help as you work on your technique.

5. Reducing Vibration and Arm Fatigue

A paddle that is a little heavier can also help reduce vibration and shock, which is a surprising benefit. This is especially true if your elbows or wrists hurt. The extra weight absorbs more of the ball’s impact, which makes each shot feel smoother.

Balance is essential, though. If you go too heavy, you could hurt yourself over time, especially if you’re recovering from an injury or playing long matches. That’s why many players try out small amounts (usually 0.1–0.3 ounces at a time) to find the best setup for them.

6. Customizing for Your Playing Style

Not all players benefit from the same way of setting up weights. Here’s a short guide to help you choose:

• Power players: For the most drive and depth, put tape near the top edge.

• Control players: Add small amounts along the sides to keep things balanced and stable.

• Players of net: Put tape near the handle to make your hands move faster and react faster.

It’s a beneficial idea to test and change things slowly. Start with a lightweight, play a few games, and pay attention to how your swing and timing feel. A few grams can make a big difference.

7. How to Add Weight Safely

Most players add weight with lead tape or tungsten tape, which are both simple to put on and take off. Cut small strips and place them on the edge guard of the paddle, ensuring they are evenly spaced on both sides to maintain the shape.

If you’re not sure, look at the warranty rules for your paddle brand first. Some brands don’t allow changes. You could also use weighted grip tape or butt cap weights to change the handles. These are less intrusive and easy to undo.

Final Thoughts

Adding weight to your pickleball paddle isn’t just for pros. It’s an innovative, customizable way to improve your game. The right amount of weight can make your paddle feel like a natural extension of your hand by increasing power and stability, improving touch, and lowering vibration.

Find your sweet spot, whether you’re using lead tape for the first time or fine-tuning your setup for tournament play. A few small adjustments could lead to big improvements in your control, confidence, and overall game.

Picture Source: JOOLA Pickleball