Making Pickleball Paddle Grip Bigger: For better Control

Increasing the grip of the pickleball paddle can give you better control. When your grip on the paddle is strong, it helps you play better shots.

If you also have trouble holding the pickleball paddle or you don’t have the right grip on it, then this guide is for you. We have given complete information on making pickleball paddle grip bigger. Let’s start our guide.

Why Pickleball Paddle Grips Are Made Small by Default

The grip of the pickleball paddle is made small because the number of pickleball players is large and a small grip should fit all of them. Each player can increase the grip according to their preference. For those who want to keep it small, the same grip is fine.

Small grips of pickleball paddles are suitable for both children and adults. The grip of the paddle plays an important role in playing pickleball. The large grip helps you hold the pickleball paddle correctly and you can play pickleball calmly.

Signs You Need to Make Your Pickleball Paddle Grip Bigger

Your grip on a pickleball paddle can give you an indication of whether or not you need to increase your grip. Below we have listed some things that you can do to increase your pickleball paddle grip if you are experiencing them.

• During rallies, your middle finger gets stuck in your palm, causing you pain. 
• You can’t fit a finger between your palm and thumb during lifting the pedal.
• Your wrist, arm, or elbow feels sore after a short pickleball session. 
• You squeeze the paddle too hard to keep it from slipping. 
• You play tennis before and feel that the pickleball grip doesn’t have adequate hand support.

Can You Use a Tennis Grip to Make a Pickleball Paddle Grip Bigger?

Yes, you can also use a tennis grip to increase the grip of your pickleball paddle. Many players who play tennis have tennis grips on their pickleball paddles.

This increases the grip on the paddle and helps you grip the paddle better. This gives you better control and comfort. Your fingers don’t touch the palm and it doesn’t affect your grip.

Best Ways to Make a Pickleball Paddle Grip Bigger

We have described some specific methods by which you can make your pickleball paddle grip better and bigger than before. This method is very easy and will not cost you much money.

Add One or Two Overgrips (Most Popular Method)

• This is the easiest and most common fix for small grips.
• Most players add one or two overgrips over the stock grip.
• Popular choices include Yonex Super Grap and Tourna Grip.
• One wrap adds slight thickness, while two wraps feel more secure.
• Many players replace the top overgrip every week to keep it fresh.

Use a Hesacore Grip for Maximum Comfort and Elbow Relief

• Hesacore grips add shape and thickness under your overgrip.
• Reddit players like it because it reduces hand and elbow strain.
• It improves stability and cuts down vibration on hard shots.
• The downside is slower hand speed during quick net exchanges.

Build Up the Handle With Tape or Silicone Grips (DIY Option)

• Some players wrap hockey tape under the grip to add size.
• Others slide on silicone grip sleeves for a thicker feel.
• These options cost less and work well for experimenting.
• Just test slowly so the handle does not feel too bulky.

Hesacore vs Overgrips – Which Is Better for Making a Grip Bigger?

Feature	Overgrips	Hesacore Grip
Grip size change	Adds size little by little	Adds instant thickness
Feel in hand	Smooth and soft	Shaped and firm
Comfort level	Good for most players	Very high comfort
Elbow and arm relief	Some relief	Strong relief
Net play speed	Faster hand movement	Slightly slower hands
Easy to adjust	Very easy to add or remove	Harder to adjust
Cost	Low and affordable	Higher upfront cost
Best for	Players who want control and speed	Players with hand or elbow pain

Does a Bigger Pickleball Grip Improve Control or Reduce Wrist Movement?

If the grip of the pickleball paddle is large, it improves your control. Obviously, when your grip is strong, it will be easier for you to hit the pickleball.

Your wrist will also move and you will be able to hit the pickleball correctly. Do not grip the paddle too tightly because a too tight grip can hurt you later.

Why a Larger Grip Can Improve Paddle Face Control

• A larger grip gives your hand more contact with the handle.
• More surface area helps keep the paddle steady during swings.
• You get less micro-movement when the ball hits the paddle.
• This makes drives, blocks, and resets feel more stable.

When a Bigger Grip Can Hurt Fast Hands and Dinks

• A thick grip can slow wrist action at the net.
• Quick dinks and hand battles may feel harder at first.
• Extra size can affect balance and reaction speed.
• That is why many players add grip size in small steps.

How Making a Pickleball Paddle Grip Bigger Helps Prevent Injuries

• A bigger pickleball grip helps your hand stay relaxed during play.
• You do not need to squeeze as hard to control the paddle.
• Less squeeze force lowers stress on your wrist and forearm.
• This can help prevent tennis elbow and arm pain over time.
• Reddit players often report pain relief after increasing grip size.
• Better grip comfort lets your muscles work more naturally.

How Many Overgrips Should You Use?

Number of Overgrips	Grip Size Change	Best For	What to Expect
1 overgrip	Slight increase	Minor comfort issues	Feels close to stock grip
2 overgrips	Moderate increase	Most players	Better comfort and control
3 overgrips	Large increase	Arm or elbow pain	Less squeeze and strain
5 overgrips	Very large build	Severe discomfort	Needs time to adjust

Start with one overgrip and test it during play. Add more only if your hand still feels tight or sore.

Common Mistakes When Making Your Pickleball Paddle Grip Bigger

• Many players make grip to bigger and create new problems.
• Adding too much thickness at once can hurt control and touch.
• Extra grip size can change paddle balance if you add it fast.
• Many layers may hide the bevels and reduce feel.
• Some players forget to test net speed after grip changes.
• Copying pro setups rarely works for everyday players.

Best Grip Setups Based on Hand Size & Player Type

The right grip setup for your hands helps you to play your best. Use these simple setups as a starting point. You can adjust later based on feel and comfort.

Small to Medium Hands

Use the stock grip with one overgrip. This setup adds light thickness without losing control. It keeps good wrist movement for dinks and soft shots. Most beginners feel comfortable with this option.

Large Hands

Use a Hesacore grip with one or two overgrips. This setup fills the hand and reduces over-squeezing. It feels stable on drives and blocks. Many players report less elbow and wrist pain.

Former Tennis Players

Use tennis overgrips on a built-up handle. This setup feels familiar and natural in your hand. It helps with paddle control and smooth swings. Most former tennis players prefer two overgrips.

Players With Tennis Elbow or Wrist Pain

Use a Hesacore or multiple overgrips. This setup reduces grip pressure during play. It lowers strain on the wrist and forearm. Many players notice pain relief within weeks.

Steps to Test Pickleball Grip Size Is Correct or Not

To check the grip of your pickleball, we have given these easy methods by which you can check the grip size of your pickleball paddle so that you can also check the grip of your pickleball paddle and change it as per your wish.

Finger-gap test

Pick up your puggle ball paddle like you would for playing, then try to squeeze your finger between your thumb and palm. If it fits, your grip size is correct.

Grip pressure check

Hold your pickleball paddle without moving it and feel how much more firmly you feel secure when you hold it. If you have to hold the paddle too tightly, your grip is too loose. If you feel secure when you hold it lightly, your grip is correct.

Net-play reaction test

Stand at the net and hit fast volleys. Your hands should move quickly and feel free. If the reaction feels slow, the grip may be too thick. If the paddle turns, the grip may be too thin.

Comfort over long sessions

Pay attention to your hand and arm during the entire match or practice. If you do not feel any pain or stiffness in your hand even after playing the entire match, then your grip on the bat is correct. If it hurts or you feel stiffness in your arm, then your grip needs to be increased.

FAQs About Making Pickleball Paddle Grip Bigger

Conclusion

We have included all the information in this guide to check the grip of the pickleball paddle. Read this guide to increase the grip of your pickleball paddle so that you get the best control.

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