There are several ways to hold a pickleball paddle, and each grip style comes with its own strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases. Some grips help you switch more quickly between forehands and backhands, some help you generate more spin, while others give you better touch at the kitchen. Understanding these grip styles and knowing when to use or avoid them can dramatically improve your consistency and confidence on the court.
Below, you’ll find every major pickleball grip explained in detail, including how to form it, what it’s best used for, and the downsides every player should know. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player looking to refine your technique, this guide covers everything.
Before reading further, also check: How to play Pickleball with proper rules and how to hold a paddle if you are a complete beginner
Continental Grip
The Continental grip is the most commonly used grip in pickleball. To form it, place your index knuckle on the second bevel of the paddle handle. Think of how you would hold a hammer or how you would shake someone’s hand. For right-handed players, the wrist turns slightly counterclockwise; for left-handers, slightly clockwise.
This grip is considered a neutral position because it allows you to hit both forehands and backhands comfortably without adjusting your hand mid-point. It’s the go-to grip for most pros because they can transition quickly during fast exchanges and maintain great control at the kitchen.
Advantages:
- Great for quick transitions between forehand and backhand
- Solid combination of control and power
- Works well at the kitchen during hand battles
- Reliable for dinks, blocks, and resets
Disadvantages:
- Not the best for generating extreme topspin
- Requires more technique to create spin like a Western grip
Eastern Grip
With the Eastern grip, the index knuckle sits on the third bevel of the handle. To find it naturally, hold the paddle face with your opposite hand, place your hitting hand flat on the paddle face, and slide it down to the handle like you’re shaking hands lower on the paddle.
This grip is particularly good for forehands because it aligns more naturally with how the hand sits on the handle. It provides excellent comfort and control, making it especially beginner-friendly.
Advantages:
- Comfortable and natural-feeling
- Easier to control forehands and generate angles
- Helps beginners develop confidence faster
Disadvantages:
- Limited topspin generation
- Backhands are more difficult, especially low or wide shots
- Can make slices and finesse shots harder to execute
Western Grip
The Western grip places the hand even further around the paddle, giving it more upward leverage. Start in an Eastern grip and turn your wrist 90 degrees clockwise (right-handers) or 90 degrees counterclockwise (left-handers).
This grip is powerful for generating topspin, especially on the backhand. Though not as commonly used due to the smaller size of a pickleball paddle, many pros momentarily switch to it during rallies.
Advantages:
- Excellent topspin potential
- Great for players who prefer upward brushing motion
- Helps with heavy backhand topspin rolls
Disadvantages:
- Harder to control in the soft game
- Accuracy suffers on dinks and short volleys
- Can feel awkward for players coming from tennis
Panhandle Grip
The Panhandle grip is exactly what it sounds like, grabbing the handle of a pan. Your hand wraps naturally around the paddle with minimal rotation. It’s simple, relaxed, and comfortable.
Advantages:
- Very comfortable and beginner-friendly
- Easy to use and feels natural in the hand
- Supports consistent, repeatable mechanics
Disadvantages:
- Limited topspin or slice capability
- Doesn’t offer the same control for finesse shots
- Less power compared to other grips
Two-Handed Grip
Many players (even pros) use two hands especially on backhands. For right-handers, the left hand sits above the right; for left-handers, the opposite.
This grip is popular because it adds stability, power, and precision, particularly on backhands and during volleys at the net.
Advantages:
- Increased stability and control
- Great for powerful backhands
- Reduces mishits in hand battles
- Helps with two-handed dinks and resets
Disadvantages:
- Reduces reach
- Harder to defend reactions shots
- Uncomfortable for players with limited mobility
Modified Semi-Western Grip
Some players use a semi-Western grip, similar to tennis. It sits between the Eastern and Western grip and adds more topspin potential without sacrificing too much control.
Advantages:
- More topspin than Eastern
- More control than Western
- Great for roll volleys and aggressive third shots
Disadvantages:
- Still less versatile than Continental
- Trickier during fast kitchen exchanges
Choke-Up Grip
This isn’t a “grip style” but a grip position. Players choke up by holding the paddle higher on the handle, sometimes touching the paddle neck.
Advantages:
- More control at the kitchen
- Faster maneuverability
- Great for hands battles
Disadvantages:
- Reduced reach
- Reduced power on drives and overheads
Extreme Continental
This is a more pronounced version of the standard Continental grip, offering a slightly closed paddle face.
Advantages:
- Helps generate more spin
- A favorite for aggressive volley players
Disadvantages:
- Can cause balls to pop up if mistimed
Also Read: What are the types of shots played in Pickleball
Grip Pressure: The Most Overlooked Factor
Grip pressure is often more important than the grip style itself. A tight grip leads to harsh rebounds, loss of control, and pop-ups that your opponents can punish. A looser grip around 3/10 pressure is ideal for touch shots, drops, dinks, and resets.
“Looser is better” is a universal rule in pickleball.
Choosing the Right Grip
Ultimately, the “best” grip depends on your style of play, skill level, and the situation on the court. Many players switch grips mid-rally, especially at higher levels. What matters most is comfort, versatility, and being willing to adapt as your game grows.
There is no single right or wrong way to hold the paddle. Find what works for you and don’t be afraid to experiment.
FAQs
What grip is best for beginners?
The Continental grip is the best all-around starting point because it offers balance, control, and easy transitions between forehands and backhands.
Which grip produces the most topspin?
The Western grip generates the most topspin due to its extreme upward brushing angle.
Is it okay to switch grips mid-rally?
Yes. Many advanced players switch grips automatically depending on the shot they need.
What grip is best for dinking?
The Continental grip provides the best stability and control for soft shots at the kitchen.
Which grip gives the most power?
The two-handed backhand grip (for backhands) and the strong Continental variation (for forehands and overheads) generate excellent power.
How do I know if my grip is too tight?
If your shots feel “poppy,” or the paddle twists on impact, your grip is likely too tight. Aim for relaxed pressure.
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