Find Your Perfect Paddle Grip Size

Measure Your Hand in 60 Seconds

Choosing the correct pickleball paddle grip size South Africa players can trust starts with a quick hand measurement.

Here's how:

1. Open your dominant hand flat.
   
   

2. Measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger.
   
   

3. Match it to this table:
   
   

If you're between sizes, go smaller and add an overgrip for precision.

Thin vs Thick Grips: Control, Comfort & Injury Risk

Understanding grip thickness can make or break your experience on court:

• Thin Grips (around 100 mm / 4.0 in)
  
  

• Ideal for smaller hands or players seeking quick paddle movement
  
  

• Offers more control, easier wrist action
  
  

• May lead to discomfort if used with large hands or aggressive swing styles
  
  

• Thick Grips (108 mm / 4.5 in)
  
  

• Best for larger hands or those with elbow or shoulder sensitivity
  
  

• Reduces vibration and strain
  
  

• Slightly less maneuverability but adds comfort on longer rallies
  
  

Most players in SA opt for a medium size (103 - 105 mm) for balance. If you're recovering from injury, consider trying a thicker grip for support.

Explore options in our full paddle collection or try elite gear in the Pro IV series.

Core Thickness (14mm vs 16mm) and Perceived Grip/Feel

Grip size isn't just about the handle—core thickness affects how the paddle feels in hand too.

• 14mm Core Paddles
  
  

• Lighter, faster swing
  
  

• Feels slightly thinner overall
  
  

• Favoured for quick net play
  
  

• 16mm Core Paddles
  
  

• More cushioning and stability
  
  

• Slightly heavier feel
  
  

• Often preferred for comfort and control
  
  

If you're switching from a 14mm to 16mm paddle, the grip may feel thicker even if the handle size stays the same.

Compare feel across our Ben Johns Collection, which includes a variety of core types and grip builds.

Overgrips & Sweat Management in Summer Cities (Cape Town, Durban)

South African heat, especially in Cape Town and Durban, can lead to slippage and hand fatigue.

• Use a sweat-absorbing overgrip to improve traction
  
  

• Rotate grips every few weeks during peak season
  
  

• Keep a towel in your pickleball bag to stay dry courtside
  
  

• Test grips for tackiness versus absorption based on your climate
  
  

Overgrips also allow fine-tuning of thickness without buying a new paddle.

Rulebook-Approved Sizing

According to the USA Pickleball Rulebook, paddles must meet specific size and design criteria but grip thickness is player-specific. You can also consult PlayPickleball for easy-to-read paddle rules.

Shop Your Best Fit Today

Finding your perfect pickleball paddle grip size South Africa style is part comfort, part control. Measure once, test twice—and swing with confidence.

• Shop Pro IV paddles
  
  

• Shop Ben Johns models
  
  

• Explore all paddles
  
  

FAQ’s

Q: How do I measure for the right pickleball paddle grip size?
A: Measure from your palm's middle crease to the tip of your ring finger and use our size chart.

Q: What grip size is best for comfort in South African conditions?
A: Medium grips (103 - 105 mm) with sweat-resistant overgrips work best in warmer, humid cities.

Q: Should I choose a 14mm or 16mm paddle if I want a thicker feel?
A: 16mm cores offer more cushioning and feel thicker, ideal for comfort and control.

Q: Can I change grip thickness without buying a new paddle?
A: Yes, adding or removing overgrips is an easy way to adjust grip size.

Q: What paddles have ergonomic grip options in South Africa?
A: Explore our Pro IV series and Ben Johns Collection for performance-focused grip builds.

 

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