How to Hold a Pickleball Paddle: Grip Types Explained

Holding a pickleball paddle the right way changes everything, from control and accuracy to power and comfort. Many new players struggle with finding the right grip, often squeezing the handle too tightly or using the same grip for every shot. Understanding basic pickleball grip types isn't just a small step, it's the starting line for every beginner pickleball technique that follows. Get the right grip foundation and every swing, volley, and dink improves.

The Three Main Pickleball Grip Types Explained

Photo by Mason Tuttle

Pickleball grips boil down to three main types: Continental, Eastern, and Western. Each has its own way to place the hand, shape the 'V' between the thumb and finger, and feel on the paddle handle. Every grip affects shot style, comfort, and ability to adjust during play. Here’s what sets each apart.

Continental Grip (Hammer Grip)

The Continental grip is simple to find: just grab the paddle like you’re shaking hands with it. The 'V' between your thumb and index finger aligns with the top edge of the paddle handle.

Strengths

• Great for beginners and pros alike
• Makes switching between forehands and backhands seamless
• Works well for volleys, serves, and fast kitchen exchanges

Drawbacks

• Not the best grip if you want sharp topspin
• Some players feel a lack of power compared to others

When to Use
Perfect for quick reactions, volleys, and blocks. If you see yourself moving up to intermediate play, this grip probably fits your style.

Eastern Grip

Picture another handshake with your paddle, but this time the palm sits a bit more behind the face, creating a 'V' aimed toward the edge of the paddle face.

Strengths

• Balances comfort and shot control
• Easy to transition between basic forehands and backhands
• Adaptable for most playing styles

Drawbacks

• Doesn’t create as much spin when compared to Western
• Some find backhands less natural, especially when switching grips quickly

When to Use
Ideal for anyone wanting a middle ground between power and finesse. Great for those building pickleball skills and not sure which grip feels best yet.

Western Grip

To get the Western grip, rotate your hand further under the paddle handle, with the palm almost behind the face of the paddle.

Strengths

• Generates strong topspin with minimal effort
• Excellent for aggressive baseline play and passing shots

Drawbacks

• Makes soft shots, volleys, and dinks feel awkward
• Harder to transition quickly to backhand without adjusting

When to Use
Used mostly by advanced players who rely on topspin heavy drives. Not the top choice for beginners but worth experimenting with as you progress.

Key Techniques for Mastering Your Pickleball Paddle Grip

Learning how to hold a pickleball paddle isn’t just about knowing grip types. Mastering your grip involves using the right grip pressure, avoiding common mistakes, and tweaking your paddle to fit your hand and playing style.

Grip Pressure: The Key to Control and Power

Most beginners grip the paddle like it’s slipping away, but this backfires fast. The sweet spot is holding the paddle tight enough so it won’t fly, but loose enough to let your wrist move.

• Aim for a grip pressure of 3 or 4 out of 10 (if 10 is a rock-solid grip)
• Lighter grip increases paddle speed and shot precision
• Reduces wrist, forearm, and elbow strain

Test your grip by bouncing a ball on the paddle. If your arm feels tense, relax your grip until the movement feels smooth.

Common Beginner Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Pickleball is easy to pick up, but common grip mistakes can sneak in early:

• Gripping too tightly: Causes stiff shots and risk of injury
  Fix: Take short breaks, shake out your hand, and focus on staying loose.
• One grip for everything: Limits your shot variety
  Fix: Learn when to shift between grips for different shots. Start by practicing grip shifts during warm-ups.
• Never adjusting grip during rallies: Makes quick shots and blocks harder
  Fix: Keep your fingers flexible and ready to tweak grip between passes.

Become aware of these habits early and your overall technique will jump ahead.

Customizing Your Grip: Overgrips and Comfort

Your hand shape and size matter. Customizing the grip can mean the difference between comfort and cramping after a few games.

• Overgrips: Add a layer for more cushion or change paddle feel
• Replacement grips: Find a tacky texture for sweaty hands, or a thicker grip for bigger hands
• Grip shape: Experiment to avoid blisters and get a confident, controlled hold

Switch out grips or try new ones until your hand feels comfortable and secure every time you pick up your paddle.

Conclusion

Learning how to hold a pickleball paddle is the backbone for success, shot control, and a fun game experience. Start by trying the different pickleball grip types—Continental, Eastern, and Western—then work on relaxing your grip, avoiding common rookie errors, and customizing the handle to fit your hand.

Don’t rush the process. Play with different grips to find out what feels right and gives results. If you get stuck, ask a coach or experienced player for feedback. The right grip brings confidence, power, and control with every swing. Keep practicing, stay curious, and enjoy each step as your beginner pickleball technique turns into skilled, consistent play.

‍