You can’t expect to play the game without knowing the basics!

It may seem silly, but your performance relies on your understanding of the humble pickleball paddle. Even the most impressive, expensive paddles are worthless in the hands of an inexperienced player.

After learning the rules and basics of the game, your next step will be mastering your grip.

So, we’re dedicating today’s blog post to the humble art of holding your pickleball paddle.

3 Things That Influence Your Pickleball Grips

Three major “factors” that influence your pickleball paddle grip.

You’ll rarely use the same grip throughout a heated pickleball game.

Just watch a professional match! Players are constantly adjusting their grip pressure and placement. Keep an eye on the very end of the paddle handle. It will move up and down as a game’s playing style progresses. Similarly, you’ll see the paddle head rotate to nail those power shots.

Why?

Many beginners and casual observers may assume that you only need a single grip. However, that’s far from the truth! A pickleball player will constantly cycle through the three grips to match the game’s needs, likely sprinkling in unorthodox personal grip styles, too.

1. Personal Comfort

We’ll start with the most obvious factor.

Everyone has different personal needs. Some may prefer to hold a pickleball paddle in a forehand grip, while others would rather prepare for backhand shots.

2. The Pickleball Paddle

Moreover, a good grip on one paddle may be a weak grip on another.

Pickleball paddle construction varies, and players may find themselves changing grips to accommodate heavier or lighter paddles. A neutral position on one paddle may be too loose on another. Similarly, a player may prefer two-handed grips when using heavier paddle models.

3. The Situation

Finally, players must assess the situation and adjust accordingly.

This is one of those “pickleball tips” you’ll see everywhere, but it’s true! Different shots require different grips. Otherwise, you’ll lack the control and finesse to land your next hit successfully.

Thus, it’s safe to say there’s no single way to hold your pickleball paddle. A “common” grip isn’t necessarily the right grip.

The 3 Pickleball Grips

There are three formally recognized and distinct pickleball grip styles.

Each has its own functional use, although most players choose one as their “neutral” grip.

Now, we won’t get into variations yet.

For now, we’ll focus on the true-to-form textbook version of each pickleball grip. Take a look at the video if you need help, and follow along as we describe each grip!

Look, too, for the flat bevel at the top of your pickleball paddle, just below the paddle face. It will be the reference point for grip placement specifics. When we say something like “first” or “second,” you’ll want to count up from that top bevel.

1. The Continental Grip

The Continental grip may be the most common. It’s often the first grip new players learn, as it’s a natural way to hold any paddle.

A proper Continental grip looks like you’re holding a hammer.

The paddle face should be open and ready to return shots, while your hand should rest comfortably. The knuckle of your index finger will be against the first bevel. Your thumb wraps around, allowing the webbing between it and your index finger to form a “V” near the top of the grip’s padding.

Aside from being an easy-to-learn maneuver, the Continental grip is perfect for playing at the net. The neutral position gives you plenty of close-quarters control, but it affords little power.

2. The Eastern Grip

The second most popular grip style is the Eastern grip, also known as the “shaking hands” grip.

Hold the paddle like you’re shaking hands with someone. (Yes, that’s where the name started.) The knuckle of your index finger should rest against the second bevel. Then, rotate the paddle slightly clockwise (or counter-clockwise for left-handed players). The paddle face should resemble the up-and-down orientation of the Continental grip, albeit with a slight angle.

The Eastern pickleball grip is well-known for its spin and power potential. With a firm grasp, a perfect Eastern grip becomes the perfect base for lobs and power shots. Loosening your grip pressure offers more control and spin for quick exchanges.

3. The Western Grip

Finally, the Western pickleball grip is a variation of its counterpart, the aforementioned Eastern grip. Among avid pickleballers, it’s commonly known as the “frying pan grip.”

In this position, the paddle face is held near-perpendicular to the ground. This closed position is achieved by rotating the paddle from the more hammer-like orientation of an Eastern grip. The knuckle of your index finger will naturally rest on the third bevel.

The vast majority of Western grip users are professional or intermediate pickleball players. It makes the ball more likely to pop up and increases the difficulty of landing backhand shots. It sees the most use in deep-court exchanges.

Nonetheless, the “frying pan grip” applies additional power and top spin to every shot.

Variations and Tweaks for Pickleball Grips

That said, few players will use a textbook pickleball grip, and nobody will rush the court with a compass to measure the exact angle of your paddle handle.

Indeed, most advanced players deviate from your picture-perfect grip styles. Hand placement is a personal preference. Some players may hold the pickleball paddle higher or lower than recommended, and that’s perfectly fine! The Pickleball Enforcement Agency isn’t a thing; it won’t red-card you for a nonstandard grip.

There are also two more major variations:

• Finger placement
• Grip pressure

Finding the Best Grip With Unique Finger Placement

Take a close look at how others hold a pickleball paddle. Even in the same position, you’ll notice a slight shift in finger placement. Players may have a slightly lower or higher grip. However, the most telling indicator is their index finger.

“Finger Up” Placement

Despite its name, “finger up” placement is not a court-banned lewd gesture. Instead, it’s just another way to say that a player has their forefinger extended at rest. In this variation, the player’s index finger sticks out. It will naturally rest on the back face of the paddle or against its edge.

You probably won’t see this variation at a professional pickleball game, but it’s a beloved staple for many hobbyists. The forefinger shifts the leverage point from a player’s wrist to their elbow, increasing control for drop shots and dinks. Many players adopt this variation when playing at or near the kitchen line.

However, while this grip works for many, it may be uncomfortable for others. The extended finger may be smacked by errant backhand shots, forcing players to sacrifice precious seconds to readjust during quick exchanges.

“Finger Down” Placement

The “proper” form is the opposite positioning, known as a “finger down” grip. Players achieve this style by wrapping their index finger around the pickleball paddle handle.

Where an extended finger offers rigidity, a closed grip increases power and wrist flexibility. Players often choose this grip for hard-hitting drives and ample spin. There are no requisite finger adjustments during fast exchanges, but players must have more control over their wrists.

The Surprising Effects of Grip Pressure

Finally, players must consider the impact of their grip pressure.

A firm grip does not necessarily guarantee the perfect game. In fact, advanced players constantly adjust their grip pressure. Otherwise, that two-handed backhand will go flying three courts over!

Firm Grip Pressure for More Power

Firm grips give the ball more power.

Keeping a firm hold of your paddle will redirect the energy of shots in the opposite direction, ensuring a nice, solid hit. The trick applies to both forehand and backhand shots.

Outside of deep-court lobs, a firmer grip is used to master hard volleys and mid-court slams.

Use a Weak Grip for More Control

Conversely, a weak grip increases control.

Dinks and complex shots generally require a nice, relaxed grip. Otherwise, the ball’s energy never dissipates. A softer wrist and lighter hold allow the ball to “melt” into the paddle, giving players more control over the ball’s final trajectory and placement.

Notably, a loose wrist will also decrease injury risks from over-extension.

Learn More About Pickleball

Regardless of your preferred grip, you still have much to learn about the game! Even the most advanced players have room for improvement.

That’s why we started Pickle Goddesses.

We’re dedicated to spreading America’s fastest-growing sport. We also understand the power of pickleball to empower women around the world.

So, join the mission! Share this post if it helped you learn more about pickleball, and don’t forget to browse the rest of our blog for more tips and tricks!