Can You Use Tennis Overgrip on Pickleball Paddle?
If you’re a pickleball player who is looking for ways to improve your grip on the paddle, you might be wondering whether you can use a tennis overgrip. While some players swear by it, others remain skeptical. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using tennis overgrip on a pickleball paddle and help you decide whether it’s worth giving it a try.
What is an Overgrip?
An overgrip is a layer of material that is wrapped around the handle of a sports racket or paddle to improve grip and comfort. Overgrips are typically made of materials such as polyurethane, rubber, or synthetic materials. They come in a variety of colors and textures, and can be easily applied to a pickleball paddle.
Why Would You Want to Use an Overgrip?
There are several reasons why a pickleball player might want to use an overgrip on their paddle. The most common reason is for added comfort. If your paddle doesn’t fit your hand correctly, you may have a hard time maintaining control during the game. Overgrips can provide a cushioned and more secure grip, making it easier to hold onto the paddle for extended periods of time. Additionally, overgrips can help prevent blisters and calluses from forming on your hands.
Can You Use Tennis Overgrip on Pickleball Paddle?
The answer is yes, you can use tennis overgrip on a pickleball paddle. However, there are both benefits and drawbacks to doing so.
Benefits of Using Tennis Overgrip on Pickleball Paddle
One of the biggest benefits of using a tennis overgrip on a pickleball paddle is that it can improve your grip on the paddle. Tennis overgrips are designed to provide a tacky and textured surface that helps keep the racket in your hand during play. This can be especially helpful in humid or sweaty conditions when your hands may be more prone to slipping.
Another benefit of using a tennis overgrip on a pickleball paddle is that it can provide a comfortable and cushioned grip. Tennis overgrips are typically made of soft and absorbent materials that can help reduce vibrations and shock to your hands during play.
Drawbacks of Using Tennis Overgrip on Pickleball Paddle
While there are benefits to using tennis overgrip on a pickleball paddle, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One drawback is that tennis overgrips are typically thicker than pickleball overgrips. This can make the grip on your pickleball paddle feel slightly bulkier, which can take some getting used to. Additionally, the thickness of the overgrip can affect the balance and weight of the paddle, which can also impact your game.
Another potential drawback of using tennis overgrip on a pickleball paddle is that it may not last as long as a pickleball-specific overgrip. Tennis overgrips are not designed to withstand the wear and tear of pickleball play and may need to be replaced more frequently.
How to Apply Tennis Overgrip to Pickleball Paddle?
If you’ve decided to try using a tennis overgrip on your pickleball paddle, here is a step-by-step guide to help you apply it correctly:
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Tennis Overgrip to Pickleball Paddle
- Remove the existing grip from your pickleball paddle if it has one.
- If necessary, clean the handle of your pickleball paddle with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
- Starting at the butt end of the handle, wrap the overgrip around the handle in a spiral motion, overlapping each layer slightly.
- Continue wrapping until you reach the end of the handle, leaving a little excess overgrip to tuck under at the end.
- Use the adhesive tape that comes with the overgrip to secure the end of the overgrip to the handle.
- Trim any excess overgrip from the end of the handle with a pair of scissors.
Other Options to Improve Grip on Pickleball Paddle
If you’re not convinced that using tennis overgrip on your pickleball paddle is the right choice for you, there are other options to consider. One option is to use a pickleball-specific overgrip. These overgrips are designed specifically for pickleball play and are typically thinner than tennis overgrips, which can help maintain the balance and weight of the paddle.
Another option is to use grip-enhancing products such as grip spray or grip lotion. These products can be applied directly to your hands or to the handle of your paddle to provide a tacky and textured surface that improves grip.
Best Overgrips for Pickleball Paddle
If you’ve decided to try using an overgrip on your pickleball paddle, here are some of the best overgrips on the market:
- Gamma Sports Pickleball Hi Tech Gel Replacement Grip
- Tourna Grip XL Original Dry Feel Tennis Grip
- Wilson Pro Overgrip
- HEAD Xtreme Soft Racquet Overgrip
- Yonex Super Grap Overgrip
Conclusion
Using tennis overgrip on a pickleball paddle can be a good option for some players, but it’s not for everyone. While it can improve grip and provide added comfort, it can also make the grip feel bulkier and may not last as long as a pickleball-specific overgrip. Ultimately, the decision to use tennis overgrip on your pickleball paddle comes down to personal preference and play style.
