If you are in the market for a new platform tennis paddle and you need to know the basics, here is a quick primer of considerations. This should steer you in the right direction.
Steps in selecting your paddle:
1) Choose a HEAD SIZE
- Oversize - Generous sweet spot for ease of contact, but more head-heavy, requiring more effort to swing
- Mid - Medium sized sweet spot and more even in weight balance
- Smaller - Smallest sweet spot requires more precise contact,but more maneuverable for fast hands, spin hitters, etc.
2) Choose a DENSITY
- A lower density (soft core) paddle provides more control but less power as it absorbs more of the energy of the ball at impact. Typically lighter in weight, the lower density paddles are more maneuverable and thus are favored by those seeking a paddle that is easy to swing or less experienced players who are less concerned about power and more concerned with controlling the placement of the ball.
- A lower density (softer) paddle also provides more comfort / less shock to the arm and is therefore better for tennis elbow.
- A mid density core provides a blend of power and control
- A higher density (firm core) paddle typically provides more power due to the faster trajectory of the ball off the paddle face and the mass of the paddle.
- High density paddles are usually preferred by players who have fairly well-established technique to control the ball and seek power from the paddle.
3) Choose a WEIGHT
- Well, not so fast...weight typically goes along with the paddle's density, so....
- Remember that low density paddles tend to be light weight, mid density are medium weight, and high density are heavier weights
And remember....
- BRS can customize your paddle prior to shipping…want to add weight? Build up a grip? No problem. Just call us to discuss your specific needs. Since today’s paddles are only offered in 4-1/4″ grips, we can build up to whatever size you’d like and still ship the same day!