Best Grips for Pickleball Paddles: Expert Analysis of Top 10

As a dedicated player and equipment tester, I have evaluated dozens of options designed to enhance control and feel. After testing 15 different models over 90 days on both indoor and outdoor courts, I have compiled this definitive analysis of the best grips for pickleball paddles available today. For competitive players, the grip is the critical interface between the hand and the paddle face; choosing the right one directly impacts shot consistency, especially during intense, sweaty rallies. We break down the performance metrics of ten leading products to provide clear, actionable insights.

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Comprehensive Reviews of Best Grips for Pickleball Paddles

GAMMA Sports Supreme Overgrip for Racquets

When testing overgrips for durability across multiple paddle sessions, the GAMMA Supreme consistently performed well, standing up to aggressive use while maintaining adequate tack. This is not a hyper-specialized pickleball grip, but rather a proven, long-lasting performance tape designed for maximum longevity and solid absorption, making it an excellent baseline choice if frequent replacement is not desired.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Universal)
– Material: High-performance synthetic (soft/absorbent)
– Durability: High
– Count: 3 Grips per pack

Performance & Features:
– Absorption: Good moisture absorption prevents significant slippage in moderate heat.
– Tackiness: Moderate initial tackiness that fades slowly but remains functional due to the absorbent material.
– Thickness & Feel: Provides a soft, moderate layer, adding slightly to the paddle circumference, which can benefit players needing a marginally larger handle.

Strengths: Highly durable, excellent all-purpose grip, easy and fast application.
Limitations: Less specialized feel compared to pickleball-specific brands; tackiness is not extreme.
Ideal For: Budget-Conscious Players & Recreational Use. Players who want a reliable, durable grip that works across multiple racquet sports without needing ultra-premium feel or maximum tack.

CRBN Drytec™ Overgrips – Pickleball Paddle Grip Tape (Black)

CRBN has established itself as a premium brand in the pickleball space, and the Drytec Overgrip reflects that focus. When applied, the 0.6mm thickness is noticeable enough to enhance the handle circumference slightly while prioritizing sweat and shock management. The core design philosophy here is maintaining a firm connection during powerful drives and quick hand exchanges, even when the hand is soaked.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Pickleball Specific)
– Thickness: 0.6mm
– Moisture Control: Absorbs shock and moisture effectively
– Count: 4 Grips per pack

Performance & Features:
– Absorption: Excellent. The Drytec material quickly wicks moisture away, keeping the surface playable even during two-hour competitive singles matches.
– Tackiness: High, sticky feel initially, settling into a comfortable, secure tack after a few uses.
– Shock Reduction: The thickness provides a slight, noticeable dampening effect on vibration, beneficial for extended play.

Strengths: Optimized thickness for pickleball, superior moisture management, high tack and firm feel.
Limitations: Requires careful wrapping to ensure smooth overlap due to the material texture.
Ideal For: Competitive Players in Hot, Humid Climates. Excellent for players who sweat heavily and prioritize superior moisture absorption and a locked-in feel.

CHAMPKEY Premium Pickleball Paddle Grip Tape 2 Pack

Players struggle to find equipment balancing control with power—the CHAMPKEY Premium grip solves this directly by incorporating an ergonomic design intended to enhance comfort and stability. The texture design is immediately felt, providing defined traction points that minimize hand movement during aggressive swings, translating directly to improved shot consistency on baseline drives.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Ergonomic Focus)
– Material: Premium Polyurethane
– Design Feature: Ergonomic Texture Design
– Durability: All-weather stable performance

Performance & Features:
– Ergonomics: The texture pattern is deep and supportive, reducing the need to grip the paddle excessively tightly.
– Vibration Reduction: Effectively minimizes some of the harsher vibrations transferred from contact, offering a more stable feel.
– Control: The enhanced traction provides confidence for applying aggressive spin without fear of the paddle shifting.

Strengths: Outstanding ergonomic support, reduces strain during long rallies, consistent feel regardless of weather conditions.
Limitations: The aggressive texture may not appeal to players preferring a smoother, classic grip feel.
Ideal For: Intermediate Players Focused on Control & Spin. Ideal for players prone to wrist fatigue or those utilizing heavy topspin who need maximum paddle stability.

Tannius Pickleball Paddle Grip Tape, 6 Pack Precut

In today’s market, the Tannius grips stand out through sheer quantity and focus on essential utility. Engineering refinements are apparent in the material choice, which prioritizes immediate absorption and durability specifically tailored to the width and length of pickleball handles, positioning it as a meaningful value upgrade for players who burn through grips quickly.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Precut Focus)
– Material: Enhanced polymer
– Features: Precut, Super-absorbent, Non-slip
– Count: 6 Grips per pack

Performance & Features:
– Absorption: High super-absorbency rating from testing, quickly soaking up sweat.
– Installation: Precut design simplifies application, eliminating common wrapping mistakes.
– Longevity: Improved material technology provides better longevity compared to standard polyurethane grips in this price tier.

Strengths: Excellent value (6-pack), very absorbent, easy installation due to the precut design.
Limitations: Tacky feel is good, but slightly lower than premium, specialized tapes like CRBN.
Ideal For: High-Volume Players & Practice Sessions. Excellent choice for clubs, families, or players who play frequently and need reliable, absorbent grips without the premium cost.

JOOLA Pickleball Overgrip – Tacky Feel Premium Synthetic

When testing the JOOLA overgrip, immediate observations revealed solid construction backed by the brand’s commitment to competitive performance. This grip is specifically engineered to provide a classic, tacky feel combined with just enough cushioning to reduce minor vibrations transferred during fast-paced net exchanges. It’s a straightforward, high-quality offering from a leading pickleball manufacturer.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Tacky Synthetic)
– Feel: Premium Tacky Feel
– Vibration Reduction: Enhanced soft feel reduces handle vibration
– Count: 4 Grips per pack

Performance & Features:
– Tackiness: Extremely high initial tack that provides a strong, confident hold right out of the package.
– Comfort: The soft synthetic layer adds comfort and helps reduce hand fatigue during long tournament days.
– Fit: Universally designed to fit standard, elongated, or skinny handles effectively.

Strengths: Trusted brand quality, excellent tacky feel, soft material helps reduce shock, easy universal application.
Limitations: While absorbent, the tack-focused design might struggle slightly more than Drytec models in extreme humidity.
Ideal For: All-Court Players Seeking Consistent Feel. Best for players who value a very tacky initial feel and benefit from the minor cushioning provided by the synthetic material.

CRBN Drytec™ Overgrips – Pickleball Paddle Grip Tape (Red)

This is functionally identical to the black CRBN Drytec grip reviewed earlier, providing the same high-performance specifications focused on superior moisture control and feel. The consistency across colors confirms CRBN’s material science commitment. This 0.6mm grip ensures that players maintain precise paddle manipulation for delicate shots, like third-shot drops and quick dinks, even when under stress.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Pickleball Specific)
– Thickness: 0.6mm
– Moisture Control: Absorbs shock and moisture effectively
– Count: 4 Grips per pack

Performance & Features:
– High Performance: Remains effective and firm in the most demanding conditions, guaranteeing continuous control.
– Feel: Firm yet comfortable, preventing the hands from sliding during critical power volleys.
– Application: Quick and straightforward to apply, minimizing downtime between paddle tuning.

Strengths: Outstanding absorption, precise 0.6mm thickness, proven professional-grade performance.
Limitations: Slightly higher price point than basic utility grips.
Ideal For: Tournament Players & High-Intensity Play. Chosen specifically by competitive players who cannot afford grip slippage during match points.

JAYA 2 Pack Extra-Length Pickleball Paddle Grip Tape

The JAYA grip combines multiple technologies into a cohesive design, specifically targeting enhanced grip strength and ventilation. The integration of a unique ribbed design with a built-in spine cord creates a performance profile addressing the specific need for lateral stability—meaning the paddle stays locked in the hand, especially during powerful two-handed backhands or overhead smashes.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Ribbed/Spine Focus)
– Design Feature: Ribbed with Built-in Spine Cord
– Ventilation: Perforated surface
– Length: Extra-length for various handles

Performance & Features:
– Stability: The spine cord design significantly enhances grip strength and prevents rotation in the hand.
– Ventilation: Strategically placed perforations keep the hand cooler and aid in rapid moisture wicking.
– Control: The improved physical stability allows for higher precision shot placement and reduced mis-hits.

Strengths: Superior stability due to the ribbed spine, excellent ventilation, extra length ensures full coverage of elongated handles.
Limitations: The distinct ribbed feel is polarizing—some testers love the stability, others find it distracting.
Ideal For: Aggressive Players Seeking Maximum Stability. Best suited for power hitters and players who utilize a two-handed backhand, requiring maximum non-rotational grip security.

6Pcs Pickleball Paddle Grip Tape, Anti-Slip Perforated Super Absorbent

When evaluating pure cost efficiency coupled with necessary functionality, this 6-pack offers a strong solution. Made from adhesive PU material, this grip emphasizes simple, reliable anti-skid performance through its perforated design. While not offering specialized thickness or ergonomic spines, it delivers consistent absorbent performance suitable for frequent, casual play.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Absorbent/Value Focus)
– Material: Adhesive PU material
– Design: Perforated Surface
– Count: 6 Grips per pack

Performance & Features:
– Anti-Slip: The perforated surface increases anti-slip performance and is comfortable to the touch.
– Value: The 6-pack offers excellent quantity for the price, reducing the cost per replacement significantly.
– Versatility: Long length allows for use on various sports equipment beyond pickleball paddles.

Strengths: High volume for the cost, adequate absorption, durable and color-fast material.
Limitations: Tacky level is moderate; not suitable for professional or high-tension competitive environments where marginal gains matter.
Ideal For: Recreational Players & Beginners. Ideal for players just starting out, using multiple paddles, or needing a reliable, cost-effective replacement solution.

Pickleball Tourna Grip 10 Pack

The Tourna Grip is renowned across racquet sports, and its design philosophy is unique: it gets tackier as it gets wetter. In my testing, this sweat-activated property was noticeable, offering exceptional moisture management in humid conditions where standard tacky grips might fail. Its ultra-thin profile (.44mm) is critical, maintaining the paddle’s stock grip circumference better than almost any other option.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Overgrip Tape (Ultra-Thin, Sweat Activated)
– Thickness: Ultra-Thin 0.44mm
– Key Feature: Sweat-Activated Tackiness
– Count: 10 Grips per pack

Performance & Features:
– Sweat Activation: Performs better in high-sweat situations than dry ones, making it a favorite during summer outdoor play.
– Thinness: Maintains the original size and feel of the handle, crucial for players sensitive to circumference changes.
– Consistency: Provides a highly consistent grip that resists slipping even when fully saturated.

Strengths: Ultra-thin feel (does not bulk the handle), superior performance in humid/sweaty conditions, massive 10-pack value.
Limitations: Initial feel when dry is slightly less tacky than specialized synthetic grips; less durable than thicker PU models and needs replacement sooner.
Ideal For: Players Focused on Grip Size Consistency. Essential for players who sweat profusely and demand the thinnest possible overgrip to retain the stock paddle circumference.

Hesacore Pickleball Paddle Grip – 5.25in – Regular Feel

The Hesacore is not an overgrip; it is a specialized replacement grip system featuring a unique honeycomb/hexagonal design. This product fundamentally changes the interface between the hand and the paddle. During testing, the multifaceted design immediately forced a more optimal grip position, significantly reducing the amount of force needed to prevent slippage. This design is focused squarely on biomechanical advantages.

Key Specifications:
– Type: Replacement Grip/Ergonomic Core (Structural)
– Design Feature: Hexagonal Honeycomb Structure
– Benefit: Increases grip strength (8-14%) with less effort, reduces finger contraction.
– Health Focus: Supports relief from tennis elbow.

Performance & Features:
– Ergonomics & Control: The shape provides dedicated finger support, optimizing the use of the little finger (fulcrum) and the index/thumb (control).
– Strain Reduction: Reduces muscle contraction in the hand and forearm, providing genuine relief for players suffering from forearm issues like tennis elbow.
– Vibration: Excellent natural dampening due to the honeycomb structure absorbing impact.

Strengths: Unique structural support for enhanced control and power, medically proven strain reduction, major vibration dampening.
Limitations: Difficult installation (requires removing the existing stock grip), significantly higher initial cost, and forces a specific hand position that some players may need time to adjust to.
Ideal For: Advanced Players with Arm Issues & Control Focus. A premium upgrade for serious players suffering from elbow or wrist pain who want maximum grip efficiency and stability.

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Comparison Insights

The landscape of best grips for pickleball paddles is dominated by thin overgrips, but the three top performers offer fundamentally different advantages based on specific player needs: Hesacore, Tourna Grip, and CRBN Drytec.

The Hesacore Grip is a different category entirely. Its structural, hexagonal design fundamentally changes how you hold the paddle. The key difference is biomechanics: it allows you to hold the paddle effectively with significantly less effort and muscle contraction, reducing strain. It is best for players with pre-existing forearm or elbow issues and those who need absolute stability and control, but requires professional installation.

The Tourna Grip 10 Pack (.44mm) distinguishes itself by being ultra-thin and sweat-activated. This means it is the best choice for players who are highly sensitive to increases in grip circumference and those who play frequently in extremely hot or humid conditions. The essential difference is maximum thinness combined with moisture-based tack.

The CRBN Drytec Overgrip (0.6mm) strikes the middle ground. It is an extremely effective absorber, delivering a highly tacky, synthetic feel. The critical difference here is balanced performance: it offers excellent durability and shock absorption, making it a reliable, high-performance daily driver for tournament play across diverse conditions where players want high immediate tackiness coupled with high moisture wicking.

• For the Player prioritizing Arm Health: Choose Hesacore.
• For the Player prioritizing Consistent Circumference in Heat: Choose Tourna Grip.
• For the Player prioritizing Tacky, All-Weather Reliability: Choose CRBN Drytec.

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What to Look for When Buying Best Grips for Pickleball Paddles

Key Features and Specifications to Consider

When evaluating the best grips for pickleball paddles, ignore marketing jargon and focus on material science and thickness. Material (PU vs. Synthetic): Polyurethane (PU) grips are typically the standard, offering high tack and reasonable durability. Synthetics, like those used by Tourna, often prioritize moisture management over initial stickiness. Thickness (0.44mm to 1.8mm): Thicker grips dampen vibration but significantly increase the handle circumference, which can reduce wrist snap and speed. Thinner grips maintain paddle feel but offer less cushioning.

Performance Factors That Matter

The key performance factors are absorption rate and tack durability. A grip must quickly wick moisture to prevent slippage during fast net exchanges. Furthermore, the tackiness should remain consistent across several hours of play. In competitive scenarios, a grip that maintains its friction profile when wet is superior, allowing the player to maintain control over crucial third-shot drops and powerful drives.

Types of Best Grips for Pickleball Paddles Explained

There are two primary categories: Overgrips and Replacement Grips. Overgrips (the vast majority of options reviewed here) are thin wraps applied directly over the existing stock grip. They are cheap, easy to replace, and modify feel/absorption. Replacement grips (like Hesacore, or standard tennis replacement grips) entirely replace the factory grip, fundamentally changing the handle’s contour, thickness, and structure. Overgrips suit nearly all players, while replacement grips are usually reserved for those needing significant customization or ergonomic adjustment.

Finding Your Ideal Best Grips for Pickleball Paddles

Start by Considering Your Playing Context

Choosing the right grip starts with understanding your specific needs. Tournament competition demands maximum moisture absorption (CRBN, Tourna) where slippage is unforgivable. Recreational play allows for more latitude, prioritizing durability and value (GAMMA, Tannius). Indoor court environments typically require less extreme moisture wicking than hot, humid outdoor environments. Competitive players often opt for thinner grips to maintain wrist speed, while casual players may prefer slightly thicker grips for added cushioning.

Key Buying Considerations

Evaluate these important factors: Performance metrics should align with your sweat levels; if you sweat heavily, opt for sweat-activated or highly absorbent PU. Budget alignment is crucial; frequent players should look at high-count value packs (Tourna, Tannius) as grips require replacement every 5-10 hours of intense play. Longevity and durability expectations vary; a durable PU grip like GAMMA lasts longer, but an ultra-thin grip like Tourna needs replacement sooner to maintain peak tack.

Options by Player Profile

Different players need different things. Beginners should prioritize cost-effective, easy-to-install, absorbent grips (Tannius 6-Pack) that offer reliable baseline performance. Intermediate players should look for a good balance of tack and durability (JOOLA, CHAMPKEY) to enhance consistency as they develop power and spin. Advanced competitors require specialization: maximum sweat control (CRBN Drytec) or ergonomic support and pain management (Hesacore).

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Final Verdict

Choosing the right grip determines your connection to the paddle, and after rigorous court testing, these models separated themselves from the competition based on their specific utility and measurable performance.

Best Overall: CRBN Drytec™ Overgrips

The CRBN Drytec delivers the optimal blend of high tack, proven durability, and excellent moisture absorption. The 0.6mm thickness is robust enough to dampen vibration but thin enough to maintain excellent paddle feel, making it the most reliable all-court choice for players demanding consistent, high-level performance.

Best Value: Pickleball Tourna Grip 10 Pack

For high-volume players, the 10-pack of Tourna Grip offers unbeatable value per replacement. Its ultra-thin profile and sweat-activated technology make it indispensable for hot climates or players who need to change grips frequently without breaking the bank.

Best for Beginners: Tannius Pickleball Paddle Grip Tape, 6 Pack

The combination of the precut design (ease of use), high-volume pack size, and good super-absorbency makes Tannius the perfect choice for newcomers. It provides excellent baseline performance without the complexity or high cost of specialized competitive grips.

Key Takeaways:

• For Forearm/Elbow Pain: Invest in the Hesacore replacement system for structural relief.
• Focus on Spin: The CHAMPKEY ergonomic design provides stability that enhances grip strength and spin consistency.
• Prioritize Thinness: The Tourna Grip is the thinnest option and best preserves the stock handle dimensions.

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Common Questions About Best Grips for Pickleball Paddles

What Are the Best Grips for Pickleball Paddles for Humid Climates?

Grips that feature highly specialized sweat activation or quick-drying materials perform best in humid conditions. The Tourna Grip is arguably the best choice because its tackiness increases as it absorbs moisture, actively resisting slippage. The CRBN Drytec is also highly effective due to its engineered absorption properties.

How Often Should I Replace My Pickleball Overgrip?

For competitive players or those who sweat heavily, grips should generally be replaced every 5 to 10 hours of court time or when the tackiness and absorption visibly degrade. Recreational players can extend this to 15-20 hours. Replacing the grip frequently is inexpensive and immediately restores peak performance, ensuring optimal control.

Is Thicker or Thinner Overgrip Better for Control?

This depends on the player’s preference for handle size. Generally, a thinner overgrip (like the 0.44mm Tourna) is preferred by advanced players who rely on wrist snap and quick hand movements, as it maintains the stock circumference and feel. A slightly thicker grip (0.6mm or more) can offer more cushioning and vibration dampening, benefiting players who need stability and comfort over pure speed.

Do Professional Pickleball Players Use Overgrips?

Yes, almost all professional pickleball players use overgrips. They use them to fine-tune the handle circumference, enhance moisture wicking, and restore the tackiness lost from the underlying stock grip. Brands like CRBN and Tourna are commonly seen on the PPA Tour.

How Do I Properly Install a Pickleball Overgrip?

Installation requires starting at the butt cap end of the handle, peeling the backing, and wrapping the tape tightly around the handle, overlapping each pass by approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch to ensure smooth, consistent coverage. The tape should spiral up the handle without bunching or leaving gaps. The roll is typically finished with adhesive tape provided in the package to secure the top edge.