Try serving and returning the ball a few times with each grip before deciding which is better suited for your game. A shake hands grip will allow you to make returns with more force, as well as put spin on the ball, while playing with a penhold grip puts the arm in a more natural position to use quick, brushing strokes. [2] X Research source
A cheap, plain paddle can actually teach you to be more precise, as you’ll be forced to make sure you’re hitting the ball directly each and every time you serve and return.
Ping pong is more about technique than it is about equipment. A good player can dominate with a store-bought paddle. Commercial paddles can be purchased cheap and are sometimes sold in pairs or packaged with ping pong balls included.
Professional paddles can usually be bought in the same places that sell basic commercial paddles, or you can order them online.
Having control over the ball means making it go where you want at the speed you want, without having to worry about the ball sliding or deflecting off the paddle. Almost all ping pong paddles are rubberized these days. However, the quality, durability and play characteristics of rubbers can vary greatly.
With a textured paddle, you’ll have additional traction but give up a little bit of speed and reactivity on returns. Deep textures are not recommended for players who use a lot of spin techniques.
In addition to the type, softness and texture of the rubber, you have a choice of how thick you want the sponge.
Look for places where the texturing is thinned out or feels less pronounced to the touch. If you tend to use commercial paddles, buy a new one once the old one is past its prime. If you play with a custom paddle, strip off the worn out rubber and attach a new one.
Other materials used in ping pong paddles include carbon fibers, which increase the strength of the paddle and gives it extra snap, and compressed paper, which reduces the paddle’s weight. After you’ve been playing long enough, you’ll start to form an idea of exactly what kind of paddle you need to be at your best.
Some paddles are designed specially for players who favor a penhold grip. These paddles are longer and more ergonomic, and sometimes even include an extra fin of wood around the handle for added security. [14] X Research source
Competitive players often use two different rubbers on their paddles, each with slightly different properties for more versatile strategies.
The weight of a paddle is determined by its thickness. Thicker paddles let you drive the ball with greater speed but sacrifice control. Thinner paddles offer the most control over the ball but tend to return a little slower. [17] X Research source Each type of paddle has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Again, it’s about learning your strengths and weakness as a player and finding a paddle that is suitable for you.
