What Paddle Shape Should I Get?
Choosing a pickleball paddle shape can feel confusing when you're first starting out. The shape affects how much reach you have, how much control you feel, how easy the paddle is to use, and even how much power you can generate.
This guide breaks down the main paddle shapes in simple terms so you can find the best choice for your style.
Standard & Widebody Shape
Best for: Beginners, casual players, consistent control, doubles play
Typical size: Around 16" x 8", sometimes slightly wider
Standard and widebody paddles share the same purpose: a larger, more forgiving hitting surface with a comfortable sweet spot. These are the easiest paddles to use and give players the most consistency during drops, dinks, and blocks.
These shapes help you learn proper form faster and hit cleaner as you improve.
Why this shape is great
- Very stable and easy to control
- Larger sweet spot for cleaner contact
- Great for soft game and defense
- Ideal for doubles players who value resets and touch
Hybrid Shape
Best for: All-around players, balanced offense + defense
Typical size: Between standard and elongated
Hybrid paddles are extremely popular right now. They give you a little more reach than a standard paddle while still keeping a wide enough sweet spot to stay forgiving. It’s a shape that suits almost any style, from soft control players to attacking players.
Why players like hybrid
- More reach without feeling narrow
- Larger sweet spot than elongated
- Works for beginners through advanced
- Balanced power and control
Elongated Shape
Best for: Players who want reach, spin, drive power, singles play
Typical size: Around 16.5"–17" long
Elongated paddles are longer and narrower, giving you more reach for high balls, attacks, and court coverage. This shape offers the most leverage and power, but also has a slightly smaller sweet spot. Advanced players often favor this style for aggressive play.
Why elongated works
- More reach at the kitchen
- More spin due to longer swing path
- More power on drives and counters
- Ideal for singles players
Which Shape Should You Choose?
If you're new:
Choose Standard/Widebody. It’s the most forgiving and easiest to learn with.
If you're improving fast and want a long-term paddle:
Choose Hybrid. Best balance of reach + control.
If you’re an aggressive or advanced player:
Choose Elongated. More reach and spin for attacking play.
Paddle shape changes how your entire game feels. There’s no “perfect” shape for everyone — it depends on how you play, where you play, and what feels natural in your hand. At Pickleball Pulse, we carry all major shapes across multiple brands, and we can help you choose the right one based on your goals.