The 5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles Review [*Ranked*] in 2020
Most paddles on the market right now are wide paddles, since they’re the size and shape of choice for most players, especially beginners and intermediates! On the other hand, advanced players have the most freedom to choose the kind of paddle they want because of their skill level!! Oftentimes, they go for elongated paddles. That’s why we’ve ranked the 5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles of 2020 right here in this post!
There are some unique features that make elongated paddles the paddle of choice for experienced pickleball players. We’ll go over all of them in the following review of our favorite products from this category!
If you’re curious about other kinds of paddles out there, check out our Pickleball Paddle Ultimate Guide, which we’ve written specifically to educate the pickleball public on what pickleball is all about.
But if you’re ready to dive into this topic, read on to find out about our top elongated pickleball paddle picks!!
The 5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles — Overview
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If you had a wide paddle and an elongated paddle in front of you, you’d notice right away that the elongated is considerably longer, perhaps by a couple of inches. (This is also why elongated paddles are informally dubbed “blades”)!
The additional lengthwise surface area means that the paddle narrows in width, along with the sweet spot. Thus, it’s harder for a less experienced player to find and make consistent use of this narrower sweet spot!
And although a player does get extra reach with an elongated paddle, the new balance of the paddle might take getting used to if they’re accustomed to wide paddles. The extra inches of range could spell a compromise for maneuverability to a less seasoned player.
These are among the main reasons why elongated paddles are generally better suited to advanced players. But of course, beginning and intermediate players are welcome to try these paddles if they want!
In this review, we’ll simply provide the facts about each of our elongated picks, including face material, surface area, weight, grip, and core. We’ll explain how each of these factors affects performance and handling. Then we’ll answer some common questions that people usually have about these paddles, as well as pickleball in general.
Ready to learn why we think so highly of these racquets? Let’s dive right into it!
The 5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles — Definitive List
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5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles — The Winner
The Face
Our winner is the Gamma Needle Elongated Pickleball Paddle, which sports a graphite face on both sides!
Graphite paddles are known for being powerful, and you’ll be able to feel that while wielding this one, helped along by the extra weight you get from the elongated face!!
So the result is a powerful racquet that really gives players an edge especially in highly competitive singles games, where every additional inch of court coverage is crucial.
The Surface Area
This paddle measures 17 inches (counting the 4 ¼-inch handle) by 7 inches. With nearly 13 inches of paddle face to reach for the ball with, this paddle makes it easy to return.
However, it is a tad narrower than your average wide paddle, which is usually about 8 inches in width. This means that the sweet spot is also narrower!
So while it might be easier to reach the ball, finding the paddle’s sweet spot — the area on the paddle where the ball pops off best — may prove to be more of a challenge, particularly for novices.
The Weight
Despite its extra length, this elongated paddle is fairly medium weight, coming in at 7.6 ounces!
Medium weight paddles are great because they’re usually light enough for maximum maneuverability but heavy enough to offer power when you want it.
If you’re used to wide paddles, even those of the same weight, you may need a few passes with this elongated paddle to get used to the new weight distribution.
The Grip Size and Feel
Attached to the face is the other key component to a paddle’s performance: the grip. On the Gamma Needle Elongated Pickleball Paddle, it measures 4 ¼ inches in length and has a circumference of 4 ⅛ inches. It’s ⅛ of an inch smaller than the standard circumference of 4 ¼ inches, so it may or may not make a difference!
If you have smaller hands, you might like the smaller grip on this paddle. But if you have bigger hands and want to make the grip fit better, use overgrips to upsize accordingly.
The original grip features a textured honeycomb pattern that guides the fingers for maximum comfort!!
The Core
We mentioned the graphite face, but now let’s talk about the core it encases.
Called “Sensa Poly Core,” the honeycombed polymer core is designed to centralize and maximize the paddle’s sweet spot.
Furthermore, polymer core paddles are known as the quietest version of pickleball racquets, since the loose O patterning of the polymer honeycomb distributes sound and shock better than any other pattern and material.
5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles — Runner Up
The Face
If you’ve been watching our website, you may have noticed we covered our second place winner in previous posts.
The Gamma Compass NeuCore Elongated Paddle was featured as one of our top picks for spin paddles, but it also happens to be an outstanding elongated paddle as well.
The face is made of a durable, textured graphite material designed to give players the best in power and control. Graphite faces are usually known for their superior power, but with the added texture you’ll be getting great spin capability as well.
The Surface Area
This paddle is 16 ½ inches long by 7 inches. Most wide paddles don’t reach past 16 inches lengthwise, and they’re about an inch wider. As a result, you get additional reach on the court without having to stretch as much.
These different dimensions also mean, however, that the sweet spot of the paddle will be slightly different from that of wide paddles, since this elongated paddle is longer and narrower.
It may take a bit of getting used to at first, but once you’re past that hurdle you should be able to enjoy and take advantage of this paddle’s assets to the fullest.
The Weight
This elongated paddle carries pretty much the same weight — 7.8 ounces — as most medium weight wide paddles.
The difference that you’ll feel is in the balance, giving you extra leverage and power with every swing.
However, it is not too heavy as to detract from your ability to spin, which you should take advantage of given the textured face and nimbleness of the racquet.
The Grip Size and Feel
Elongated paddles usually have a shorter handle in order to maximize the hitting surface, which becomes crucial in highly competitive games.
The Gamma Compass NeuCore Elongated Pickleball Paddle is no exception; it measures just 4 ¼ inches in length (compared to the average 5 inches) and 4 ⅛ inches in circumference.
The circumference, too, is shorter than the average handle, something that people with smaller hands will appreciate. However, if that’s too small a grip, don’t disregard this paddle just yet! Use overgrips to thicken the grip — little by little, by 1/16th-inch increments — to your desired size, and you’ll be good to go!
The Core
The core is made of large-cell honeycomb polymer that is 25% thicker than the cores of most other paddles.
This allows for an even more responsive and shock-absorbent feel when playing.
Because the ball has more cushion on the core to sink into, the player is better able to execute spin techniques with this racquet, since it can “grab” onto the ball for a fraction of a second longer and change its spin direction upon return.
5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles — Third Place
The Face
Our third place pick, the HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle, is another high-quality graphite-face elongated paddle.
Graphite paddles, as we discussed, are especially good at strength-oriented returns, though this particular graphite paddle is textured to allow good spin, too.
As a result, this paddle offers players the best of both worlds — power and control — if used with the right technique, of course.
The Surface Area
This elongated paddle has a total length of 17 inches and a width of 7 inches.
Unlike some other paddles whose opposite edges are parallel, the sides on this one are somewhat tapered, so you’d have to make the appropriate adjustments based on its unique weight distribution and shape of its sweet spot.
You might take a liking to the shape, since there’s more of the sweet spot near the top of the paddle instead of just the center.
The Weight
Despite the larger size of this paddle, it weighs about the same as your average wide paddle. At 7.6 ounces, it’s on the lower end of the medium weight range, and for good reason.
Because longer paddles can feel ungainly compared to wide paddles, the lighter weight attempts to make up for any potential awkwardness in handling.
If you aren’t sure about the different weight distribution of any given paddle, it’s always a good idea to try it out first if you can.
The Grip Size and Feel
The grip on the HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle measures 4 ¾ inches long and 4 ¼ inches around. These are standard dimensions for any pickleball paddle, so it should fit most players just fine.
However, if you find yourself needing a thicker grip, you can customize the grip to fit by using adhesives called overgrips.
Material-wise, the grip features a spiralized, ergonomic texture designed for maximum comfort.
The Core
The honeycomb polymer core helps distribute vibration — shock and noise — throughout the paddle to minimize any potential discomfort in the player’s arm due to underlying issues like tennis elbow.
This is in part thanks to the large O’s of the honeycomb pattern.
So if joint issues or noise restrictions at your local pickleball facility are factors you need to consider, this paddle takes care of both.
5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles — Honorable Mention
The Face
The Rally PXL Graphite Pickleball Paddle is our first honorable mention, and another powerful graphite paddle.
The face material complements the purpose that elongated paddles were built for: to give the player more power and reach on the court.
Furthermore, the graphite face is textured so that the player can easily opt for spin shots.
The Surface Area
At 16 ½ inches by 7 ¼ inches, this extra long paddle gives you additional reach while retaining the same general rectangular shape of a wide paddle.
The extra hitting face, however, is enhanced by a proportionately larger sweet spot, which makes it even easier to hit the ball crisply and consistently.
The Weight
The Rally PXL Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a 7.6 to 7.8-ounce paddle, firmly in the medium weight range.
Any uneasiness felt at having a longer paddle is offset by the relatively lighter heft that this paddle has, making it more comfortable to maneuver.
Being a medium weight paddle also means greater control without the expense of too much natural power.
The Grip Size and Feel
This grip is evenly 4 ¼ inches long and 4 ¼ inches around, the standard circumference for all pickleball paddles.
In the case that the grip is too small, most people opt to use overgrips in order to customize the size to their liking.
In terms of material, the grip is cushioned and minimizes slipping due to its ability to absorb perspiration.
The Core
The core is made of a composite polymer honeycomb core, meaning it’s composed of more than one type of polymer, likely to maximize its strength and resilience.
Any polymer core does a good job of absorbing vibration and noise, so this is a quiet, comfortable choice.
That’s one less worry for the player with any joint issues or who plays in a noise-restricted pickleball facility!
5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles — Honorable Mention
The Face
Our final honorable mention is the HUDEF HB2.0 Graphite Pickleball Paddle, a graphite-face racquet that is not only powerful but also highly maneuverable on the court.
Don’t forget that you’ll also have the added advantage of more hitting space on the face.
Although it may take a moment to adapt to the elongated shape if you’re usually accustomed to wide paddles, you can still do all of the same wrist flicks and other techniques on this racquet that you’d normally do with wide paddles.
The Surface Area
The total dimensions of this paddle are 16.3 inches lengthwise by 7 inches widthwise.
The handle is a mere 4.3 inches off the length, so that leaves plenty of hitting area on the face itself. Blades are great about giving players more reach, but you’ll find that this changes the sweet spot a little.
Since the shape is narrower and longer compared to typical wide paddles, so is the sweet spot.
The Weight
The HUDEF HB2.0 Graphite Pickleball Paddle is a 7.9-ounce paddle, meaning that it’s solidly in the medium weight category.
Medium weight paddles are great for giving just enough weight to stay powerful but light enough to be nimble, too.
The shorter handle means that more of the paddle’s weight will be concentrated on the face, so that’s an adjustment that will need to be made when switching over to blades from wide paddles.
The Grip Size and Feel
We mentioned there being a shorter handle on this paddle — 4.3 inches — but it’s standard in terms of its 4 ¼-inch circumference.
Elongated paddles are focused on giving the player more coverage, but that doesn’t mean skimping on the quality of the grip.
It’s “ultra-soft, ultra-comfortable,” and promises to stay tacky even when slick with sweat thanks to its no-slip material.
The Core
The core of this paddle is made of a honeycombed polymer core with large cells to diffuse noise and impact as much as possible.
As a result, it’s among the quietest and most vibration-free paddles money can buy.
Therefore, this elongated option is perfect for players who suffer from arthritis or any other health condition where irritation occurs with too much shock.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Elongated Paddles Compare To Other Kinds Of Paddles (e.g. Wide, Oversized)?
Wide paddles generally have a squarish hitting surface area, whereas elongated paddles have a longer, narrower rectangular shape with which to hit the ball. This gives the player additional reach, which especially helps in singles matches!
Furthermore, the grip is shorter on an elongated paddle in order to help accommodate the longer face and stay compliant with USAPA guidelines.
Oversized paddles are usually both wider and longer than wide paddles, and — like elongated paddles — also have shorter handles. Oversized racquets are usually best for beginners, so that it’s easier for them to hit the ball more consistently and find the paddle’s larger sweet spot.
A possible drawback, however, is the quality of this sweet spot; since it’s diffused over a larger area, it might not be as effective as it is on wide or elongated paddles.
Because elongated paddles — and their sweet spots — are narrower, they tend to be best for more seasoned players that are better suited to adjusting to the new dimensions and feel.
Why Should I Consider Elongated Paddles?
Elongated paddles — or blades, as they’re colloquially called — are a great choice for intermediate to advanced players who want an extra edge that comes in the form of more reach.
This additional reach especially comes in handy during singles games, where it’s important to be able to cover the court more efficiently.
That said, anyone who’s interested in the unique shape and balance of elongated paddles are welcome to try! Experimentation is a great way to find out if something is right for you, so by all means give one of these paddles a try. Who knows? It may become your new favorite paddle of choice.
To What Kinds Of Players Are Elongated Paddles Best Suited?
Shorter people, regardless of skill level, tend to take a liking to elongated paddles for the added wingspan. Otherwise, elongated paddles are best suited to more experienced players who have at least a few months to a year of play time under their belt.
The narrower, harder-to-find sweet spot; the shorter handle; and the different weight distribution are all things that more advanced players would find easier to adjust to when switching over from wide to elongated paddles.
That isn’t to say that beginners can’t adjust easily, too. Some people just have a knack for adapting quickly to new things. If this sounds like you, feel free to give blades a go!
What’s The Big Deal With Honeycombed Polymer Cores?
It’s a favorite for many players for its overall feel and quietness. Generally we found that polymer honeycombed cores are made from more loosely packed O’s than any other type of honeycombed core.
Just this small difference in pattern density seems to make it more comfortable to play with than cores made of other materials. All of our picks for this list have a honeycombed polymer core — it’s legitimately a great type of core that you can’t go wrong with.
Polymer cores are also usually the quietest paddles compared to aluminum, nomex, or wood core paddles. Even so, some people do prefer these louder paddles, likely for the satisfying crunch and higher responsiveness of their hits.
You, too, may find that there’s an aluminum, nomex, or wood core paddle that you like if you give it a try. Let your personal preferences dictate the type of paddle core that’s right for you.
Are Elongated Paddles Durable?
As long as it’s of good quality and well-made, there’s no reason for an elongated paddle to be less durable than any other kind of paddle. It’s not so much the shape as the materials and construction of the paddle that determine its durability over time.
All of our elongated picks from this list represent the best quality for their respective prices. As long as you take proper care of it, the paddle should last you a fair amount of time with regular play.
How Do I Properly Maintain My Paddle?
Keep it out of the sun, since UV rays gradually destroy a paddle’s inner construction. Store your paddle in a case whenever it’s not in use, especially if you play outdoors. But if you don’t have a case, at least try to keep it in the shade.
Some high quality paddles are actually coated with a special UV protective coating. But even in these cases, it’s still a good idea to limit exposure to sunlight, just as you would to care for your skin.
Another thing that may compromise the good functioning of your paddle is moisture. If it gets wet, it could result in dead spots (the opposite of a sweet spot) throughout the paddle.
So don’t play outside when it’s raining, and even if you play indoors in such weather, make sure the paddle is shielded from rain during transport to and from the indoor facility.
Can I Use Elongated Paddles Outdoors?
The short answer is yes! Elongated paddles make great indoor and outdoor pickleball paddles. Just make sure that you limit the paddle’s exposure to sunlight and rain by storing it in a case when it’s not in use and not playing when it’s raining.
Aside from weather concerns affecting outdoor play, you may have to consider your specific pickleball facility’s rules. At some indoor and outdoor facilities, there may be certain noise restrictions that require your paddle to be “Green Zone”-approved.
These approved paddles are usually quieter polymer core paddles, but always double check before purchasing that whatever paddle you want to get is compliant.
Which Of These Paddles Are Loud And Which Are Soft?
Polymer core paddles tend to be quietest, while aluminum, nomex, and wooden paddles tend to be loudest when hitting. Every single one of our picks for this review has a polymer core, so you can be assured that you’ll be getting the best in quiet elongated paddles regardless of which one you choose.
Are Elongated Paddles Good For Players With Wrist Or Elbow Issues?
The paddle’s core material — not the size — determines how much impact is absorbed by the paddle in proportion to your arm. Honeycombed polymer cores tend to work best at reducing this vibration, so any of the above blades will work well for players with wrist or elbow issues.
Paddle weight is another factor that determines how well suited a paddle is for players with these sensitivity concerns. Medium weight paddles are best because they are hefty enough to absorb plenty of impact without being too heavy to lift and swing. All of our elongated picks are medium weight paddles.
If you want to get into the nitty gritty details, in general lighter paddles are better for people with arthritis, while medium weight paddles are better for players with tennis elbow. However, it mostly comes down to the individual player, who may actually prefer a medium weight over a light weight paddle despite having arthritis, for example.
Grips are also important in mitigating shock. The more cushioned it is, the better it will be at buffering that impact.
If possible, try borrowing paddles of different weights and grips at your local facility in order to gauge which combination is most comfortable to you.
Are Elongated Paddles Better For Playing Singles Or Doubles?
Elongated paddles are generally better for playing singles because those are the games where extra reach really comes in handy. The extra length can mean the difference between reaching and not reaching a difficult shot, especially at those high levels of game play.
An elongated paddle, such as any of those we covered in this post, may give you exactly the edge you need to triumph over your opponents.
You can still use blades in doubles games, but since both players on each side already cover most of the court, the extra reach may be more of a nuisance than a perk. But feel free to try it out anyway and let us know what you think!
Conclusion
So that does it for our 5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles of 2020 review! We’re glad you made it this far, and we hope you consider one of these elongated paddles the next time you think of adding to your racquet collection!!
In conclusion, there are many factors that go into a blade’s unique composition, such as the face material, surface area, weight, grip, and core. We discussed how these aspects contribute to each respective paddle’s performance as an elongated paddle, with certain added capabilities. Lastly, we capped off our review with answers to some frequently asked questions that people have about elongated pickleball paddles as well as general paddle concerns!
Comments
What do you think about elongated paddles? If you’ve also tried wide paddles, how do they compare? Have you tried any of the specific paddles we mentioned? Do you have a preferred type of paddle? Or is there a good blade that we missed?
Alternatively, is there anything you would add to our FAQ responses?
Anything you want to share, we’d be happy to read and respond to! We love hearing from others in the pickleball community, since we’ve seen firsthand how pointers from one player can have a ripple effect on others.
Leave a comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you as soon as possible. Until then, stay safe and have fun playing pickleball!
5 replies on “5 Best Elongated Pickleball Paddles”
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