Have you just started playing pickleball? Are you confused about which pickleball paddle is the most suitable to play with? With a wide variety of pickleball paddles available in the market, you will be confused at one point or another.
Wooden pickleball paddles have been gaining popularity in recent times. But are they beginner-friendly? This article is a guide for you to understand the pros and cons of a wooden pickleball paddle and if it is worth the hype.
Are Wooden Pickleball Paddles a Good Option For Beginners?
Simply put, yes, they can be. But there are a few things you would like to consider when buying yourself a wooden pickleball paddle that will be discussed shortly.
Did you know the first ever used pickleball paddles by inventors of pickleball in 1965 were made out of wood? However, now you don’t get to see wooden pickleball paddles that much. Because of advancements in technology, you get to see paddles made of carbon fiber, graphite, fiberglass, etc more often.
But let’s find out if wooden paddles are good and what are the benefits of using wooden pickleball paddles.
Pros of Wooden Pickleball Paddles:
Wooden pickleball paddles are known for several reasons. Let’s discuss a few of them in detail:
Cost-effectiveness:
The biggest advantage of a wooden pickleball paddle is its cost-effectiveness.
Wooden pickleball paddles are generally the most affordable paddles you’ll find in the market. It is perfect for beginners who have just started playing pickleball paddles and don’t want to make a huge investment.
You will find the starting prices of these paddles surprisingly low. The starting prices of wooden paddles start from $14-$15. And the most expensive wooden paddles will usually go around $30 per paddle. These price points make these paddles the best choice for beginners who are tight on budget but want to enjoy the game.
Durability:
Apart from being the most affordable pickleball paddle, wooden pickleball paddles are also very durable. These paddles can take a beating and last for years if kept with proper care.
You may have to change the paddle after 6 months. But some wooden paddles can last for up to 12 months. Wood is a naturally strong material, so it can withstand a lot of hits without breaking.
It has a bit of natural flex so it can absorb some of the shock when a ball hits its surface. This characteristic tends to prevent dents or cracks compared to stiffer materials.
Traditional Feel
If you want to feel like you’re playing pickleball the old-fashioned way, then a wooden paddle might be just right for you! Wooden pickleball paddles were the first ones to be invented in 1965. These paddles are made mostly from wood, just like the ones used in the early days of the sport. They give players a special feeling when they hold them and hit the ball. It’s like a connection to the past, with a familiar sound and a way of handling the paddle that feels different from newer materials.
Weight:
You will find that most of the wooden paddles are heavier than other paddles. These wooden pickleball paddles for beginners could be a problem for some but at the same time, they have a few benefits for them as well. Such wooden paddles may weigh around 10 ounces which is a little more than other paddles made of graphite, carbon fiber, or fiberglass. They usually weigh around 8 ounces.
These slightly heavy wooden paddles can be a benefit for beginners in a few ways. First, it encourages them to focus on proper swing mechanics to generate power. This builds good habits for the future. Second, the weight helps beginners develop control over their shots, making it easier to block and return powerful hits.
While it might take more effort to swing, this can help beginners learn the right way to play and avoid bad habits that might develop with a lighter paddle.
Cons of Wooden Pickleball Paddles
Wooden pickleball paddles may just be the right option for a beginner who wants good paddles on a budget and is durable as well. But is a wooden pickleball paddle for advance player a good option? There are a few cons to the wooden pickleball paddle. Let’s discuss them in a bit of detail.
Limited Power
Wooden pickleball paddles offer a traditional feel, but there’s a trade-off when it comes to power. Compared to paddles made from composite or graphite materials, wooden pickleball paddles generally offer less power, according to some advanced-level players.
Due to the properties of wood, these paddles may not generate the same level of speed and force behind shots. This limitation can be a disadvantage when playing against opponents with more powerful gear as it may be more challenging to match their aggressive shots.
If you’re a player who relies on power to overpower your opponent, a wooden paddle might not be the best choice.
Weight and Balance Variations
Another thing to consider with wooden paddles is the variation in weight and balance between different models. Unlike composite paddles where manufacturers can achieve more consistency, wood is a natural material with inherent variations.
This lack of consistency can affect players’ ability to find a paddle that perfectly suits their preferred playing style. It may require some trial and error to find a wood paddle with the right weight and balance for optimal gameplay.
Some players prefer a lighter paddle for faster swings and maneuverability, while others might favor a heavier paddle for more control and stability.
Heavier Weight
Wooden pickleball paddles are typically heavier compared to other materials like composite or graphite. This added weight can affect the player’s maneuverability and swing speed, making it somewhat more challenging to generate power and execute quick shots.
However, there’s a flip side to this. Some players appreciate the added weight as it can provide more stability and control in certain situations. For beginners who are still developing their swing technique, a heavier wooden paddle can sometimes offer a sense of steadiness, allowing them to focus on making consistent contact with the ball. Ultimately, whether the heavier weight is a benefit or drawback depends on your playing style and preferences.
FAQs:
Can you play pickleball with a wooden paddle?
Yes, you can. Wooden pickleball paddles are budget-friendly and a great way for beginners to start preparing for the game.
What is the best material for pickleball paddles?
There are a few materials that have been gaining popularity in the world of pickleball paddles. A few of them include wood, graphite, carbon fiber, fiberglass, and composite. Every material has its pros and cons so beginner players specifically have to make an informed decision on where to invest.
Conclusion:
In short, although wooden pickleball paddles were the first paddles to be used, there have been many advances in this field. Many new materials have emerged and they too have their own sets of pros and cons just like the wooden pickleball paddles. But for beginners who want to learn how to play pickleball and don’t want to invest too much into equipment, wooden pickleball paddles may just be the right choice for them. Also, they are durable and are loved by some people who prefer a heavy-weight paddle for increased control and power.
So, keep in mind the pros and cons of wooden pickleball paddles and you will be able to see what paddles suit you the best.
