Pickleball paddles with long handles are becoming increasingly popular among experienced pickleball players.
The longer handle gives players greater control and power when hitting the ball, as well as opens up a range of new hitting angles. As a result, advanced players can use the paddle to their full advantage, allowing them to play faster and more effectively.
But how do you know when it’s the right time to upgrade to a long-handled paddle? In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of using a pickleball paddle with a longer handle, as well as when it makes sense for players to make the switch.
We will also look at the different types of long-handled paddles available and provide tips on how to choose the best one for your specific playing style.
Benefits of Using a Long-Handled Pickleball Paddle
When it comes to pickleball paddles, the traditional handle length is between 4 and 5.5 inches. But what if you are looking for something a bit different? That’s where a long-handled pickleball paddle comes in with an extended handle of 6-8 inches.
The advantages of using a long-handled paddle are twofold:
- You get better leverage on your serves and ground strokes – With the longer handle, you’ll be able to get more power behind your serving motion and groundstrokes. This is especially helpful for people who have difficulty generating power or for those who want to make sure their shots land in the correct area of the court when serving or returning a ball.
- Greater reach on volleys – Volleys are often difficult shots in pickleball as they require precise timing and placement to land them in their desired spot on the court. With a longer handle, you can extend your reach further to have greater control over where your volleys land.
In addition to these benefits, the extra length also enables you to keep your stance lower while playing pickleball which can help improve your balance and reduce fatigue over time.
Here Are 6 Best Pickleball Paddles With Long Handles:
Read More: Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100: A Comprehensive Guide
Review Of Best Pickleball Paddles With Long Handles
Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles Review
If you’re looking for an exceptional pickleball paddle with a long handle, the Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles are worth considering. With a 15-7/8″ handle, it is one of the longest on the market. The paddle has a 5-ply blade and an 8-1/2″ head diameter. It also features an advanced polymer core which provides more power and control.
The Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle is ideal for players who are looking to maximize their reach and shot placement. The extended length of the handle gives experienced players more control of their shots, allowing them to hit with more accuracy and spin. Additionally, it increases the range of motion when serving, allowing players to get more powerful serves as well as increase their overall reach on the court.
However, due to its length, this paddle may be a bit unwieldy for new players or those with smaller heights or arm lengths. Experienced players should have no issue with this paddle, however, as it will allow them to play at an even higher competitive level.
ROKNE Curve Classic Pickleball Paddle Review
If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle with a longer handle, the ROKNE Curve Classic Pickleball Paddle should be at the top of your list. This paddle has been designed with an extra-long handle that allows you to get better reach when making shots and has better control over the ball. Its elongated design also helps to reduce wrist fatigue, making it an ideal choice for those who play longer matches or sessions.
The ROKNE Curve Classic Pickleball Paddle comes with a high-quality composite face, ideal for improved power and spin when hitting the ball. Its 5-inch elongated handle is made out of stainless steel, providing stability and strength during even the hardest hits. It also features an ergonomic grip, which helps provide added comfort and control when playing.
In terms of pros and cons, the ROKNE Curve Classic Pickleball Paddle is perfect for those who want extra reach from their paddle but at a reasonable price point. It’s lightweight enough to be easy to move around the court but still packs enough power to get the job done. The only downside might be its somewhat bulky size, so make sure that you have plenty of space before committing to this paddle!
Paddletek Bantam Sabre Pro Pickleball Paddle Review
The Paddletek Bantam Saber Pro Pickleball Paddle is considered by many to be the ideal pickleball paddle for those looking for a model with a longer handle. This innovative design boasts superior touch and control, allowing players to dominate their opponents.
While the extra-long, extended handle provides the extra reach needed by those playing with double or triple partners, the Pro Polymer Core ensures that even short passes can be incredibly accurate. The reinforced nylon face adds extra power to shots and makes it easier to spin the ball when needed.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the pros and cons of this paddle:
Pros
- Comes in three distinct grip styles: Comfort, Standard, and Longbody.
- A large sweet spot helps ensure accuracy on both long and short shots.
- The internal core helps reduce shock and vibration on long shots.
- The reinforced nylon face ensures maximum power for all types of shots.
Cons
- Extra weight due to its extended handle may take some getting used to at first.
- Not ideal for those with shorter arms, due to its length.
Overall, those looking for increased reach without sacrificing comfort or control should consider investing in this paddle from Paddletek perfect for anyone wanting more power from their pickleball game!
GAMMA Sports NeuCore Pickleball Paddle Review
The GAMMA Sports NeuCore pickleball paddle is designed with a long handle, making it easier to reach higher shots while still maintaining optimal control. The honeycomb core helps dampen shock and sound, creating a quieter playing surface compared to traditional wooden paddles. Plus, the lightweight design won’t add unnecessary strain to your arm.
However, some players may find the longer handle more challenging to maneuver when attempting high-velocity shots and quick reactions. Long-handled paddles also require more space on either side of their handle making them difficult to store or transport compared to regular-sized paddles.
This paddle’s pros and cons should be weighed carefully before purchase, ensuring that it meets the needs of the player:
- Pros:
- Longer handle for increased reach on shots
- Honeycomb core for reduced shock and sound
- Lightweight design for less strain on the arm
- Cons:
- Longer handle challenges maneuverability on high-velocity shots
JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle Review
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle is designed to give you even more power and control with its long handle. With its oversized, textured surface and additional length, this paddle provides an enhanced playing experience.
Construction & Design
The paddle is made with a lightweight graphite face, 5-ply wood blades, and a cushioned grip. The blade itself has an extra-long handle that allows the player to adjust their grip depending on the situation they are faced with on the court. The extra length also provides a larger sweet spot for more powerful shots.
Key Benefits
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle offers several key benefits to players:
- Increased control over shots due to extended handle size
- More power behind shots due to increased sweet spot size
- Lightweight construction for enhanced maneuverability
- Textured surface for improved grip and accuracy
The long handle of the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle makes it a great option for players who want to maximize their power without sacrificing control or accuracy.
Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 Graphite Paddle Review
The Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 Graphite Skin Black paddle is designed and assembled in the United States and features a long handle, perfect for those who prefer a two-handed grip on the court. Let’s take a closer look at this paddle to understand what makes it such an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Longer handle design, allowing for better control and stability
- 6.0 midsize head provides ample power and maneuverability
- Lightweight graphite skin construction gives it an ergonomic feel
- Made out of premium quality materials, making it durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- The longer handle design may be too cumbersome for some players
- The price point may be too high for some budget-conscious players
Overall, the Engage Pickleball Pursuit MX 6.0 Graphite Skin Black paddle is an ideal choice for those seeking a longer handle design that offers increased control and leverage on their shots. Its lightweight graphite skin construction also provides an ergonomic feel that allows for maximum precision during play.
When to Choose a Long Handle Pickleball Paddle
Due to their design, long-handled pickleball paddles offer players a few advantages over standard-length models. First, long handles provide greater reach, allowing for more powerful swings and better control of shots. This means that players can more easily perform service shots and other advanced techniques, such as drinking or drop shots.
In addition, the extended handle gives players more leverage and force when they hit the ball. This also helps to generate more spin when applying topspin or backspin to the ball.
Long handles can also be beneficial for players with larger wingspans or taller stature who may have difficulty maneuvering a shorter handle paddle. The longer handle provides added comfort for these individuals, enabling them to generate more power with their shots.
Overall, long-handled paddles are ideal for those seeking to add power and spin to their game as well as for those who need the extra length for comfort and ease of play.
Tips for Selecting the Right Long-Handled Pickleball Paddle
When it comes to choosing the right paddle for you, here are some tips to consider:
Grip
When selecting a paddle with a longer handle, it’s important to make sure that the grip size and shape match your hand size and shape. If the grip doesn’t fit your hand properly, this can lead to fatigue and strain. For players with larger hands, you may want to choose a paddle handle with a larger grip.
Weight
The weight of the paddle is also important to take into account when selecting a long-handled pickleball paddle. You’ll want to choose a paddle that has enough weight so that it is manageable but not too heavy as this can cause fatigue over time. The optimal weight range for a long-handled pickleball paddle is between 7oz and 13oz.
Balance
The balance of the paddle is also an important factor as it will determine how well you can control your shots on the court. Generally speaking, most long-handled paddles have an even balance, so you should look for one that has an even distribution of weight from the head to the handle of the racket.
Materials
Finally, when choosing a long-handled pickleball paddle, it’s important to consider what materials are used in its construction. The core material should be made from a lightweight but durable material like graphite or composite and should have good shock absorption capabilities as well. The surface of the racket should also be made from durable materials like carbon fiber so that it can withstand intense play on the court without breaking down over time.
How to Care for Your Long-Handled Pickleball Paddle
When you commit to a long-handled pickleball paddle, you want to make sure it lasts. The best way to ensure the longevity of your paddle is with proper care and maintenance. Here’s what you should do:
- Clean your paddle after every match. Dirt and moisture can affect the material, so make sure you wipe off any debris with a clean cloth or towel after each use.
- Avoid storing your paddle in extreme temperatures, such as direct sunlight or areas prone to excessive moisture. This can cause the handle or head of the paddle to warp over time, compromising its integrity and performance.
- Keep it stored properly, ideally in its original container when not in use. This will prevent it from being damaged during transport or in storage.
- Clean regularly with water to remove oils and sweat that may have collected on the surface of the paddle over time. Use a mild detergent if necessary, but be sure to avoid abrasive cleaning materials such as steel wool or scrubbing brushes as these can disturb the finish and lead to wear and tear over time.
Final Words
To wrap it up, opting for a long-handle pickleball paddle could be a great choice for new and veteran pickleball players alike. It can provide a more comfortable grip and better reach, helping you to make well-placed shots and ultimately improve your game overall. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that its advantages may be outweighed if you’re playing at a high-performance level and require more power and maneuverability. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of paddle is best for you and your play style.
FAQS About Pickleball Paddles With Long Handles
You have a lot of questions about pickleball paddles with long handles – and we’re here to help! Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about these specialized paddles:
Is a Pickleball Paddle With Long Handle Different From a Standard Paddle?
Yes. A standard paddle is usually 16 to 17 inches long, whereas a pickleball paddle with a long handle can be up to 20 inches long. The extra length gives you more leverage when striking the ball, which can give your shots more power and spin.
Which Types of Players Should Use Long Handles?
Players with larger hands or those who prefer to hit their shots with more power would benefit from using a long-handled pickleball paddle. It also works best for players who want greater control when returning shots.
Are There Disadvantages to Using Long Handles?
Yes, there are some drawbacks: it can be difficult to maneuver around the court when playing close to the net and you may find that your strokes are more tiring because of the extra weight from the longer handle. One solution is to look for lightweight paddles with extended handles so you get the extra length without sacrificing too much speed or agility.
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