Insider Insights: Decoding the Dynamics of Pickleball Paddle Swing Weight
January 18 2024
Building on our recent discussion about the critical role of swing weight in pickleball paddles, let's delve into the key factors that contribute to this dynamic element. Understanding these nuances can significantly impact your gameplay.
Material Selection: The materials chosen for both the paddle face and core play a crucial role in determining swing weight. Different materials, from carbon fiber to fiberglass or wood, possess varying densities that directly influence the swing feel.
Paddle Size: The size of the paddle, encompassing surface area and length, directly impacts swing weight. Larger paddles tend to carry more swing weight, affecting your maneuverability on the court.
Balance Point: Similar to paddle weight, the balance point of the paddle significantly influences swing weight. Whether the balance is closer to the handle or shifted towards the head can alter the overall feel of your swing.
Additives and Structure: Manufacturers often incorporate additional materials or innovative structures within the paddle to fine-tune swing weight. The strategic use of these additives contributes to the overall swing dynamics.
Bridge Design: The design of the bridge, connecting the paddle face and handle, also plays a role in determining swing weight. Various designs aim for different balances, influencing the swing's overall feel.
Understanding these factors empowers players to make informed choices aligned with their swing preferences and playing style. If you're intrigued and want to explore ways to test swing weight or have any questions, feel free to reach out. I'm here to assist and discuss further.
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Why we are different
There are well over 100 paddle manufacturers serving the pickleball industry. We are the ONLY custom paddle manufacturer in the world. In order to understand what it is we do and why it’s unique, it’s necessary to understand how a paddle is made.
Every paddle with few exceptions has a honeycomb core. The different companies in the industry use one of three different materials for the core- aluminum, polymer and Nomex. We use all three. The core provides 75% of the way a paddle performs.
Then the honeycomb core is sandwiched between two thin layers of surface materials. Again, the different companies in the industry use three different materials- graphite, fiberglass composite and carbon fiber. We use all three. The surface material is about 25% of the way a paddle performs. Think of it as fine tuning the paddle’s performance characteristics.
The three different core materials combined with the three different surface materials make 9 different combinations of materials. Each plays differently. We make two (soon to be three) different shapes for our paddles. The Chaos has a large square sweet spot- at 8 1/2”, it is the widest paddle on the market. The Kratos has an equally large rectangular shaped sweet spot. Each combination of cores and surfaces is available in both the Chaos and Kratos shape.
Then we give each player the opportunity to select their paddle’s weight (ranging from 7.4-10.5 ounces).
Now comes the grip. Players can choose one of three different handle shapes, their grip size from 3 7/8” to 6”, one of three different grip materials and more than 10 colors for each grip style.
Now that the player has chosen the best paddle shape, core, surface and grip for their individual game comes the fun part. We can put any custom graphic the player chooses on their paddle face- either one of our many choices or one of their own- a picture, logo or graphic of their choosing.
Now every player can play with a totally bespoke paddle and watch their game immediately improve because they are playing with the right paddle for them in every way.
Every other sport has specialized equipment for every player except pickleball. Not anymore- now pickleball is catching up to other sports. Pickleball players spend a lot of time playing the game they love. Now they can play with the gear that suits them and not be forced to use a one size fits all paddle.
Want to Join Team TSD?
We are actively seeking avid pickleballers with sales experience to educate, demonstrate and promote Third
Shot Drop pickleball paddles.
Please send your prior sales experience, where you play, how often you play, what level player you are, if you
play Tournaments, how many players you can reach and your contact information to:
Ashley@ThirdShotDrop.com
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