7 Best Pickleball Grip Tape And Overgrips: Features, Pricing & More
For pickleball enthusiasts, the right equipment can make a world of difference in your performance. One such crucial piece of gear is pickleball grip tape on your paddle.
The quality and type of grip tape you use can significantly impact your control over the paddle, potentially affecting your game’s outcome.
Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned player, this guide will help you understand the importance of quality grip tape and introduce you to some of the top-rated pickleball grip tapes available today.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a fun sport that blends elements from badminton, tennis, and table tennis. Played both indoors and outdoors, the game usually involves two or four players who use solid paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball over a net.
Since its inception in the mid-1960s, pickleball has grown in popularity across the globe, attracting individuals of all ages and skill levels. With over 4.8 million people playing the sport, you can see why having good gear is important.
Importance of a Good Pickleball Grip Tape
A quality pickleball grip tape is vital for any pickleball player, especially those who often face sweaty hands during play.
A good grip tape provides the necessary traction against sweat, ensuring your paddle doesn’t slip away during intense play.
This results in not only better control over your shots but also improved paddle handling and maneuverability. Furthermore, a good pickleball grip tape can enhance the comfort of your play, reducing the risk of blisters and hand fatigue.
Difference between an overgrip and grip tape
The main difference between an overgrip and a pickleball grip tape is that an overgrip is a thin, soft tape that is wrapped over the existing grip of the paddle.
A pickleball grip tape is a thicker, more durable tape that is applied directly to the paddle handle. So you actually take the tape that is on the handle off and put this tape on in its place.
Overgrips are typically made of a moisture-wicking material that helps to reduce sweat buildup and improve grip. They can also provide a layer of cushioning that can help to reduce vibration and hand fatigue. Overgrips are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, making them a popular choice for pickleball players.
Grip tapes are typically made of more durable and technical materials. They are designed to provide a more secure grip and to protect the paddle handle from wear and tear.
Pickleball grip tapes are not as common as overgrips, but they may be a good choice for players who sweat a lot or who need a more secure grip.
Comparison of Overgrip and Pickleball Grip Tape
| Feature | Overgrip | Grip Tape |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Soft, moisture-wicking | Durable, non-slip |
| Purpose | Improves grip and reduces sweat buildup | Provides a secure grip and protects the handle |
| Cost | Inexpensive | More expensive |
| Ease of replacement | Easy | More difficult |
| Commonness | More common | Common |
Ultimately, the best type of grip for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a comfortable and affordable way to improve your grip, an overgrip is a good option. If you need a more secure grip or if you are concerned about protecting your paddle handle, a pickleball grip tape may be a better choice.
Additional factors you should consider when choosing a grip:
- The climate you play in. If you play in hot and humid conditions, you will want a grip that is moisture-wicking.
- Your playing style. If you have a lot of wrist action, you will want a grip that provides a good amount of cushioning.
- Your personal preference. Some players prefer a thinner grip, while others prefer a thicker grip.
Top Rated Pickleball Grip Tapes
Gamma “PB Supreme” Overgrip
The Gamma “PB Supreme” overgrip is a popular choice among pickleball players. Offered in a variety of color combinations, this overgrip is designed to increase the tackiness and absorption qualities of your standard grip.
Whether you choose the vibrant “assorted Neon” combo or the more subtle “Black” or “White” stacks, this overgrip is set to enhance your game experience significantly.
ProLite Grip: Grip for Sweaty Hands (Best Overall)
ProLite is well-known in the pickleball world for its high-quality paddles and innovative designs. The ProLite pickleball grip tapes are no exception – they combine versatility, durability, and performance in one package.
The standout feature is their moisture-wicking layer, ideal for players struggling with sweaty hands.
The cushioned surface boosts overall comfort, allowing a firm, strong grip on the paddle handle. So, if you’ve been searching for the best grip for sweaty hands, the ProLite grip could be just the thing you need.
HEAD Hydrosorb: For Sweaty Hands (Tied for 1st Place)
No list of top-rated pickleball grips would be complete without mentioning the HEAD Hydrosorb. This grip is designed to absorb sweat quickly, keeping your hands dry and enhancing your control over the paddle. Plus, its tacky surface ensures a secure grip, even in the most intense games. If you’re someone who struggles with sweaty hands, the HEAD Hydrosorb is worth considering.
Alien Pros X-Dry Overgrip Tape: For Sweaty Hands (Runner Up)
The Alien Pros X-Dry Overgrip Tape is a top pick for many reasons. Offering a selection of nine different themes, such as Beats, Constellation, Eat, Love, Neon Beats, Neon Precision, Ocean, Pets, and Precision, this grip tape lets you express your personality on the court.
Each package contains six Alien Pro X-dry overgrips, known for their durability, vibration-dampening properties, and PU cushioning.
With this overgrip tape, you’ll not only get great value for money but also an effective solution to sweaty hands.
Tourna Grip: Great Quality for Price
Tourna Grip is another excellent option for players looking for great quality at an affordable price. While it may not boast the color variety of other grips, it makes up for it with its performance.
The grip stays dry and firmly anchored to the handle, which is arguably more important than aesthetics. Every purchase also includes a complimentary finishing tape. Made in the USA, Tourna Grip is a reliable choice for any pickleball player.
Gamma Tacky Towel Grip Enhancer for Added Tackiness
If you’re playing in hot weather and find yourself sweating a lot, the Gamma Tacky Towel Grip Enhancer can come in handy.
Recommended by players in sunny Florida, this 9 “x18” non-toxic cloth towel is permeated with natural bee wax.
By pressing or rubbing the towel in your hands or on your grip, you give it a thin coating that helps repel moisture.
While you may need to reapply it often, it doesn’t leave a long-lasting residue or stain, making it an appealing option for many players.
Most Comfortable Grip: Wilson Cushion-Aire Classic Feel Contour
Comfort is key when it comes to pickleball grips, and the Wilson Cushion-Aire Classic Feel Contour delivers just that.
This pickleball grip tape features a cushioned surface that not only enhances comfort but also improves grip strength.
Its moisture-wicking capabilities further ensure that you maintain a firm and reliable grip, no matter how intense the game gets. For those seeking the most comfortable grip, this is undoubtedly a strong contender.
Best Pickleball Grip Tapes: Features, Pros & Cons
Features and Prices
| Grip Tape | Material | Cushioning | Contoured design | Easy to apply and remove |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gamma PB Supreme | Moisture-wicking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ProLite Grip | Moisture-wicking | No | No | Yes |
| Alien Pro X-Dry | Moisture-wicking | Yes | No | Yes |
| Tourna Grip Mega Tac | Moisture-wicking | Yes | No | Yes |
| Gamma Tacky Towel Grip | Moisture-wicking | Yes | No | Yes |
| HEAD Hydrosorb Comfort Grip Tape | Moisture-wicking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wilson Cushion-Air Classic Feel Grip Tape | Moisture-wicking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Pros and Cons
| Grip Tape | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Gamma PB Supreme | Cushioned, provides a good grip, durable, sweat-absorbent | Can be slippery when wet |
| ProLite Grip | Provides a good grip, easy to apply and remove, affordable | Not as cushioned as some other grip tapes |
| Alien Pro X-Dry | Provides a good grip, moisture-wicking material helps to keep hands dry | Not as cushioned as some other grip tapes |
| Tourna Grip Mega Tac | Provides a good grip, easy to apply and remove | Not as durable as some other grip tapes |
| Gamma Tacky Towel Grip | Provides a good grip, and moisture-wicking material helps to keep hands dry | Can be bulky and difficult to apply |
| HEAD Hydrosorb Comfort Grip Tape | Comfortable, provides a good grip, moisture-wicking material helps to keep hands dry, durable, long-lasting, and affordable. | Can be expensive |
| Wilson Cushion-Air Classic Feel Grip Tape | Some users find it to be too thick. The cushioning can be too soft for some players, may not be as durable as some other grip tapes. | Comfortable, provides a good grip, and moisture-wicking material helps to keep hands dry. |
Conclusion
Having a good pickleball grip tape on your pickleball paddle is paramount. It can drastically improve your control over the paddle, boost your confidence, and ultimately enhance your performance on the court.
Given the wide variety of grips available today, finding the right one may require some trial and error. Take time to try different grips, and remember, what works best for one player may not necessarily work for another.
So, go ahead, explore these top-rated pickleball grip tapes, and discover the one that suits your needs best. Happy playing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What pickleball grip tape does Ben Johns use?
Ben Johns uses a Fun to Feel Good over grip by Jigsaw Health. Then he wraps a white Yonex Super Grap over grip to it.
What pickleball grip tape does Tyson McGuffin use?
He uses the dry overgrip by Tourna. It is light blue in color. It starts out dry and gets tackier as it gets wet.
How do I know my pickleball grip size?
Measure the distance from the bottom lateral crease (the middle of the three) up to the tip of your ring finger. This measurement is between 4 and 5 inches and should be the perfect circumference for your pickleball grip. Simple as that.
What are Joola pickleball paddle replacement overgrips?
There are several replacement grips on the market that would replace the grip that comes with your paddle. Many of these have unique features that can have a positive impact on your game.
What are the best cushioned pickleball grip tapes for senior players?
Below are pickleball grip tapes that are excellent choices for seniors, women, or others wanting a good cushioned grip that performs.
| Grip Tape | Easy to apply and remove | Contoured | Cushioned | Moisture-wicking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gamma PB Supreme | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HEAD Hydrosorb Comfort Grip Tape | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wilson Cushion-Air Classic Feel Grip Tape | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
