Why You Should Always Test a Pickleball Paddle Before Buying

No pickleball game is complete without a solid paddle. The perfect one can elevate your performance, keep you comfortable during those long rallies, and boost your overall enjoyment of the game. 

But for all that importance, picking a pickleball paddle isn’t as easy as grabbing the first one that catches your eye. Every detail – from grip to weight to balance – affects how it performs (and how much it costs!). 

So, how do you make sure you’ve found the right pickleball paddle? It’s easy: try it out before you commit. In this post, we’ll explore why taking the time to test your paddle is a wise decision! 

7 Reasons to Test Your Pickleball Paddles 

While reading reviews or getting recommendations from friends can help, the best way to know if a paddle is right for you is to test it before buying. Here’s why. 

1. Feels Matter More than Specs

A paddle’s specs can only tell part of the story. What really matters is how it feels when you hold it. The same paddle that works perfectly for your friend might feel completely wrong for you.

Testing a pickleball paddle gives you a sense of: 

• How well it balances in your hand 
• Whether it feels comfortable for your swing style 

Without a pickleball paddle trial, you might end up with a unit that feels awkward—something no amount of reading online reviews can prep you for! 

2. Grip Size Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

How a paddle fits in your hand can impact both comfort and control. If the grip size is too small, you may find your hand cramping or getting fatigued quickly during long rallies. On the other hand, if the grip is too large, you’ll struggle to get a firm hold. 

Testing helps you find a grip size that feels natural and allows you to maneuver the paddle with ease. Additionally, you’ll see how the handle holds up when you sweat. 

When testing a demo pickleball paddle: 

• See if the grip feels good in your hand. You shouldn’t have to squeeze too hard to keep hold. 
• Swing the paddle a few times and check if the grip stays secure and comfortable. 
• If possible, play for at least 10-15 minutes to see how it feels over time. 

Pro Tip: Even if the paddle grip isn’t perfect, testing helps you know if you need to wrap it with an overgrip or adjust it before committing to a purchase.

3. Weight Can Be Tricky

Paddles come in lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight categories.

• A lightweight paddle might give you speed, but it could also mean less power. 
•  A heavier paddle offers more pop but could tire your arm out quickly.  

Pickleball paddle testing helps you find that sweet spot between speed and control, so you can play longer without feeling drained. Experiment with both light and heavy paddles to see what feels good. Try playing with them for an extended period to see if one wears you out more than the other. 

4. No Surprises After Purchase

The best pickleball paddles aren’t cheap. Prices can range from $50 to over $200, depending on the brand, material, and technology used. Spending that kind of money on the wrong paddle can lead to frustration, poor performance on the court, and, ultimately, buyer’s regret. 

When you test the paddle, you eliminate guesswork. Because you’ll get a sense of how the paddle feels in real-game situations, you can confidently know whether it’s the right fit for you.  

5. Material Affects Performance and Feel

Most pickleball paddles are made from either wood, composite, or graphite. 

• Wood paddles are the cheapest option, so they’re great if you’re just starting out or on a tight budget. But keep in mind—they’re on the heavy side, which can make them harder to swing. 
• Composite paddles give you a nice balance of control and power. If you like a mix of different play styles—power one day, finesse the next—a composite paddle might be your best bet. 
• Graphite paddles are the lightweights of the bunch. While they’re great for speed and precision, they don’t absorb as much power from the ball. 

We always suggest trying out all three types before you make a purchase. You can feel the quality of the materials and decide which one feels the most robust and reliable to you.  

Don’t just focus on how the paddle swings- take a closer look at the paddle surface, too. Some are smooth, while others have a slightly rough or textured finish. If you like adding spin to your shots, a textured paddle will give you more grip on the ball. But if you’re all about clean, straightforward hits, a smooth paddle may feel more natural. 

6. Vibration and Shock Absorption

Every paddle handles vibration differently. Players with joint issues like tennis elbow need paddles with good shock absorption-think cushioned grips or polymer honeycomb cores—for extra comfort and injury prevention. 

The only way to know if a paddle can absorb shocks well is to try it out yourself. Pay attention to how it feels during both soft touches and powerful shots. You can also look for paddles with built-in “vibration-dampening” technology or those with thicker, padded grips to reduce strain on your joints. 

7. Improves Your Game Knowledge

Trying out different paddles gives you a better understanding of how each component affects your game. You’ll develop a sense of what grip sizes, materials, and weights work best for you. 

As you test pickleball paddles, take notes on what you like or dislike about each one. Over time, you’ll see patterns that guide you toward the ideal paddle for your style. 

The Bottom Line 

Buying a pickleball paddle is an investment in your game. By testing paddles before buying, you give yourself the best chance of finding one that feels comfortable, matches your playstyle, and enhances your performance. There’s no substitute for firsthand experience—so don’t skip this step. Your future self will thank you! 

Need a new pickleball paddle? Boomer Pickleball has a complete range of premium paddles designed to help you bring your A-game to the court. Browse our inventory or get in touch with us for expert recommendations.