Pickleball Paddles with Longer Handles

You’ve likely already noticed how many paddles claim to be “extended” when they barely offer room for a second finger. Forget those almost-but-not-quite options; I’m here to guide you directly to the handful of truly game-changing pickleball paddles with longer handles.

As a tester who meticulously logs hundreds of hours evaluating material composition and engineering tolerances, I focus specifically on what these extended grips—typically 5.5 inches or longer—do for players seeking increased leverage, enhanced reach, and the critical space needed for a legitimate two-handed backhand. My technical analysis of these top models dives deep into core stability, surface friction metrics (spin), and how engineering choices impact the kinematic chain of advanced strokes.

Analyzing High-Performance Pickleball Paddles with Longer Handles

Nightblade Pickleball Paddle Trusted by Tina Pisnik, Foam Filled Polymer Honeycomb Core, UPA-A & USAPA Approved, Endura Friction Surface, Long Handle for Two Handed Backhand, Enhanced Impact Feel Spin

When I tested this Nightblade paddle, I noticed it combines multiple advanced technologies into a cohesive design tailored for aggressive play. I found the integration of the 14mm Foam-Filled Polymer Honeycomb Core with the Endura Friction Surface (T700 raw carbon blended with Teflon) creates a specific performance profile addressing the need for powerful, spin-heavy counterattacks while maintaining precise feedback. The extended 5.8-inch handle immediately positions this model among the best pickleball paddles with longer handles available for two-handed players.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Mid-weight (Approx 8.0 oz)
* Grip Circumference: 4.125”
* Core Material: 14mm Foam-Filled Polymer Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: Endura Friction Surface (T700 raw carbon/Teflon blend)
* Handle Length: 5.8 inches (Elongated)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The 14mm core provides a sharp response, which I utilized for quick resets. However, the foam injection mitigates the harshness typically associated with thin cores, offering a more connected feel on third-shot drops.
* Power & Drive I observed: Despite the thinner core, the foam filling significantly enhances kinetic energy transfer upon impact, generating noticeable velocity on defensive blocks and drives.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The T700 raw carbon face, augmented by the Teflon coating, produces a high friction coefficient, allowing me to consistently generate above-average RPMs on heavy topspin serves.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: Torsional stability is excellent due to the construction, meaning the sweet spot feels consistent across the length of the face, even close to the perimeter.

Strengths
I loved the mechanical dampening provided by the foam-filled core; it drastically reduced vibrational feedback without sacrificing the lively 14mm response. The 5.8-inch handle is exceptional for tennis backgrounds.

Limitations
The 14mm thickness requires slightly more precision input than a 16mm core, which might be demanding for players still developing their soft game consistency.

Ideal For: Advanced 4.0+ Players: I recommend this for competitive players prioritizing raw carbon spin, requiring maximum leverage for two-handed backhands, and capable of handling the quick feedback of a thinner, foam-filled core.

Kasaca Cosmic Ray Edgeless Graphite T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles, Longer Handle Comfort Grip, Large Sweet Spots, USAPA Approved, for Intermediate & Advanced Players

Testing the Kasaca Cosmic Ray revealed immediate observations about its solid construction and unique edgeless geometry. I experienced reliable performance across various game situations, backed by material selection that prioritizes consistency and feel. The core engineering, combined with the T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber face, provided a harmonious balance between control and the required power output for baseline exchanges. I found the elongated shape combined with the longer grip significantly expanded my court coverage.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: 8.0 oz (Mid-weight)
* Grip Circumference: Standard Comfort Grip (Approx 4.25”)
* Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber (Gritty)
* Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Longer Handle)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The weight distribution feels excellent, offering stability on dinks. The T700 surface ensures the ball dwells just long enough to sculpt soft shots over the net.
* Power & Drive I observed: Power generation is substantial, driven by the paddle’s length (reach advantage) and the rigidity of the T700 carbon face. Drives maintain a low trajectory effectively.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The raw carbon texture is highly effective. I measured high spin rates, comparable to other premium raw carbon options I have tested this year.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The edgeless design contributes to maximizing the hitting area, slightly expanding the sweet spot closer to the perimeter compared to framed paddles.

Strengths
I particularly appreciated the edgeless design for reducing aerodynamic drag during fast swing transitions. The T700 surface durability proved excellent after extensive testing cycles.

Limitations
While the edgeless design increases the surface area, it leaves the perimeter more susceptible to cosmetic damage during ground scrapes than traditional paddles with robust edge guards.

Ideal For: Intermediate to Advanced Players: I recommend this for players transitioning from tennis or racquet sports who value maximized spin potential and need a lightweight yet stable paddle geometry that complements a two-handed backhand technique using these pickleball paddles with longer handles.

Kasaca Rapid Fire Edgeless Graphite T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles, Longer Handle Comfort Grip, Large Sweet Spots, USAPA Approved, for Intermediate & Advanced Players

I’ve seen many players struggle to find equipment balancing control with power, especially in elongated frames that often feel head-heavy—I found the Kasaca Rapid Fire solves this directly. In my testing, the design philosophy addresses common frustrations through strategic composition. By dropping the weight to 7.8 ounces, the engineers successfully increased the swing speed potential while retaining the high-friction T700 carbon surface necessary for modern spin play.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: 7.8 oz (Lightweight)
* Grip Circumference: Standard Comfort Grip (Approx 4.25”)
* Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Carbon Surface
* Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Longer Handle)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The lower mass makes rapid adjustments easier at the kitchen line. I found resets and volley blocks required less physical effort, benefiting sustained defensive play.
* Power & Drive I observed: Power is slightly reduced compared to the 8.0 oz Cosmic Ray model, but the gain in swing velocity compensates for this. It generates sufficient depth without requiring maximum exertion.
* Spin Generation I noticed: Consistent raw carbon grit delivers exceptional spin. The continuous graphic printing had no discernible impact on surface friction compared to the unprinted version.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: Similar to the Cosmic Ray, the edgeless profile maximizes the usable area, providing a forgiving response for a lighter paddle.

Strengths
The most notable strength is the excellent maneuverability afforded by the 7.8-ounce weight. This is critical for fast-paced doubles where hand speed dictates success.

Limitations
Advanced baseline drivers seeking maximum plow-through mass might find this model slightly lacking in inherent stability against heavy incoming shots compared to 8.4 oz alternatives.

Ideal For: Intermediate Players Focused on Speed and Spin: I recommend this for doubles specialists or intermediate players prioritizing quick hands, fast volleys, and excellent spin control, especially those who appreciate the extended reach provided by pickleball paddles with longer handles.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 Pickleball Paddle – Carbon Abrasion Surface with High Grit & Spin, Sure-Grip Elongated Handle, 16mm, with Polypropylene Honeycomb Core, USAPA Approved

In my review of today’s market, I noticed the JOOLA Hyperion stands out through specification choices clearly targeting professional performance metrics. I observed engineering refinements, such as the Hybrid-Ply Technology and the proprietary Carbon Abrasion Surface (CAS), during my extended play sessions, positioning it as a meaningful upgrade in control-oriented elongated paddles. The 16mm Response Polypropylene Honeycomb Core delivers significant vibration dampening.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Mid-to-Heavy (Approx 8.2 – 8.4 oz)
* Grip Circumference: 4.25” (Sure-Grip)
* Core Material: 16mm Response Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: Carbon Abrasion Surface (CAS)
* Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Elongated)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The 16mm core depth and the hybrid layering offer an exceptionally plush feel, allowing for incredibly precise dinks and drop shots. It absorbed pace effortlessly, facilitating excellent control over resets.
* Power & Drive I observed: Power generation is substantial, driven by the mass of the paddle and the stiffness of the CAS surface, though it requires a slightly stronger swing input compared to thinner, stiffer foam cores.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The CAS utilizes an abrasion process rather than raw weave texture, which I found provided durable and intense grit for maximizing spin potential.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The larger paddle face coupled with the thick core results in a very forgiving and large effective sweet spot, providing stability on off-center hits.

Strengths
The unparalleled control and softness provided by the 16mm core, combined with the spin capacity of the CAS, makes it one of the most technically refined control-focused pickleball paddles with longer handles I have ever tested.

Limitations
The weight (often topping 8.3 oz) means hand speed might be slightly compromised during sustained kitchen battles compared to lighter 7.8 oz options.

Ideal For: Advanced Control Players and Baseline Aggressors: I recommend this paddle for players who seek high control, need the shock absorption of a thick core, and utilize the long handle for power and reach in competitive doubles and singles.

Nightblade Raw Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle, 16mm Foam Filled Polymer Honeycom Core, UPA-A & USAPA Approved, Endura Friction Surface, Long Handle for Two Handed Backhand, Enhanced Impact Feel & Spin

When I examined the construction of this 16mm Nightblade model, I noted the intentional design shift compared to its 14mm counterpart. The primary goal was clearly maximizing stability and feel. The thick profile combined with the Foam-Filled Polymer Honeycomb Core delivers superior dampening and a notably higher coefficient of restitution (COR) than standard honeycomb, making it exceptionally effective for controlling pace while retaining the raw power of its extended 5.5-inch handle.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Mid-to-Heavy (Approx 8.3 oz)
* Grip Circumference: 4.25”
* Core Material: 16mm Foam-Filled Polymer Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: Endura Friction Surface (T700 raw carbon/Teflon blend)
* Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Longer Handle)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The added 2mm of core material drastically softens the feel on finesse shots. The high-density core provided exceptional resistance to twisting on off-center dinks, enhancing touch consistency.
* Power & Drive I observed: Power is effortless. The foam-filled 16mm architecture creates a strong trampoline effect on drives and hard serves, enabling me to generate high ball speed efficiently.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The friction capabilities of the T700 Endura surface are identical to the 14mm version, meaning I achieved maximum usable spin for both slicing and topspin lobs.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: Due to the perimeter foam injection (inherent in the core structure), I found the sweet spot to be very large, reducing performance degradation near the edge.

Strengths
This is perhaps the best convergence of power and control in a foam-filled core I have tested. The blend of 16mm plushness with the power amplification from the foam is highly sophisticated engineering.

Limitations
The 5.5-inch handle, while long, is slightly shorter than the 5.8-inch version found on some competing models, which might be a critical technical point for players needing maximum two-handed grip space.

Ideal For: Aggressive Intermediate and Advanced Power Players: I recommend this for players seeking the maximum possible power and spin from a thermoformed paddle, who specifically require the shock absorption and stability of a 16mm core with an extended grip.

Velo Pickleball, Professional Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle w/Control & Spin, Dual Foam Injected Edge for Large Sweet Spot, 16mm Core, Non-Slip Long Handle, USAPA Approved

When I analyzed the specification story of the Velo paddle, the focus on material composition stood out: a seamless unibody design combined with three layers of carbon fiber (2xT700 + 1xToray 3K) and a proprietary dual-foam edge injection. I tested the Gen3 Tech thoroughly and found that combining EVA and Hyperfoam in the perimeter effectively stabilized the 16mm polymer honeycomb core, yielding exceptional torsional stiffness and expanding the usable sweet spot I experienced.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Mid-weight (Approx 8.1 oz)
* Grip Circumference: Standard (4.25”)
* Core Material: 16mm Polymer Honeycomb Core (6mm cell size)
* Surface Texture: 3K Toray Premium Japanese Carbon (Cross-weave textured)
* Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Long Handle)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The deep 16mm core and the perimeter weighting from the foam injection created a forgiving launch angle, making dinking incredibly accurate and predictable.
* Power & Drive I observed: The seamless thermoformed construction provides high energy transfer. The denser 6mm cell core prevents “core crushing” under heavy impact, maintaining consistent power metrics over extended use.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The 3K cross-weave texture provides a slightly different friction profile than raw T700, yet I still measured high spin rates, offering aggressive ball grab, particularly on slices.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The perimeter foam injection dramatically enhances stability near the edge, resulting in a significantly larger and more responsive sweet spot compared to non-foam-injected paddles of similar dimensions.

Strengths
The unibody construction and dual-foam perimeter are technical triumphs, providing market-leading durability and preventing edge separation, which I often observe in lower-quality paddles after intense testing.

Limitations
The faux leather grip, while cushioned, does not wick moisture as efficiently as traditional perforated polymer grips, necessitating frequent towel-offs during humid outdoor play.

Ideal For: Advanced Players Seeking Durability and Stability: I recommend this paddle for players investing in a high-durability, thermoformed paddle that excels in stability, utilizes the reach of long handles, and demands precision control from a thick core.

CRBN Pickleball – TruFoam Waves Paddle – Elongated w/Long Handle – Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle – 100% Foam Core Designed for Maximum Power, 14mm

I found the CRBN TruFoam Waves successfully bridges the gap between raw power and tangible control, which is difficult to achieve in thin, elongated profiles. This paddle utilizes the 4th Generation TruFoam Technology, engineered specifically for maximizing power output within a 14mm chassis. The technical distinction here is that the foam is integrated throughout the entire core (100% foam core) rather than just perimeter injection, which fundamentally changes the stiffness and rebound characteristics I tested.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Mid-to-Heavy (Approx 8.2 oz)
* Grip Circumference: Standard (Approx 4.25”)
* Core Material: 14mm 100% TruFoam Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Carbon Fiber
* Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Long Handle, Elongated Shape)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: Despite being power-focused, the 100% foam core dampens vibration so effectively that I maintained solid control on dinks. The feedback is muffled but consistent, preventing overly springy returns.
* Power & Drive I observed: This is unequivocally the most powerful paddle in the TruFoam lineup I’ve tested. The solid foam mass transfers energy efficiently, resulting in extremely high drive velocity, especially when leveraging the long handle.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The raw T700 surface is a reliable performer, allowing me to easily impose heavy spin on serves and volleys.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The full foam core ensures virtually zero dead spots, offering unmatched consistency across the entire face, dramatically improving consistency on rapid exchanges.

Strengths
The technical triumph of the 100% TruFoam core is its promise of unmatched durability and consistency. I found the paddle performed at its peak from the first hit, with no discernible “break-in” period required.

Limitations
The 14mm core, even with foam dampening, has a distinctly firm feel that players accustomed to plush 16mm paddles might find too rigid for extreme touch shots.

Ideal For: Elite Power Players and Singles Specialists: I recommend this for players demanding maximum leverage and ball velocity, who utilize aggressive groundstrokes and appreciate the superior durability and consistent energy transfer of a full foam-core elongated frame.

JOOLA Magnus CAS 14mm Pickleball Paddle – Gold Tyson McGuffin Lion Paddle – Edgeless Design & Short Handle – Lightweight Double Frame Carbon Fiber Core – Extra Long Length – Carbon Surface Adds Spin

The JOOLA Magnus offers a distinct value proposition focused on maximizing reach and swing speed. While the description refers to a “Short Handle,” I included it because the 16.5-inch overall length positions it as a premier elongated model, appealing to those who prioritize reach over maximum two-handed grip space. The 14mm Edgeless Double Armor Design focuses on strength and speed, utilizing a lightweight profile (7.8 oz) to achieve lightning-fast swing metrics.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: 7.8 oz (Lightweight)
* Grip Circumference: Standard (Approx 4.125”)
* Core Material: 14mm Double Frame Carbon Fiber Core
* Surface Texture: Carbon Abrasion Surface (CAS)
* Handle Length: 5.0 inches (

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The 14mm core provides a lively response, excellent for punching volleys, but requires highly refined technique for soft resets due to the core’s inherent stiffness.
* Power & Drive I observed: Power is highly effective, primarily due to the increased lever length (16.5 inches) allowing for high angular velocity at impact. It felt incredibly quick through the air.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The CAS surface, identical to the Hyperion line, provides excellent, consistent friction for achieving high spin rates, critical for shaping drives and serves.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The edgeless design coupled with the paddle’s length provides a large primary hitting area, though the perimeter stability felt marginally less rigid than thermoformed, foam-injected models I tested.

Strengths
The overall 16.5-inch length provides an undeniable reach advantage, allowing me to retrieve shots that would be impossible with a standard 16-inch paddle. The 7.8 oz weight is fantastic for reducing player fatigue.

Limitations
The specific 5.0-inch handle is a limitation for players needing a true 5.5-inch plus grip length for a robust two-handed backhand; this paddle prioritizes reach over maximum handle space.

Ideal For: Speed-Focused Tennis Players and Singles Specialists: I recommend this for competitive players (3.5+) who value maximum reach, superior swing speed, and high spin from a lightweight 14mm profile, even if they only need room for one and a half hands on the grip.

Kasaca Cosmic Ray Edgeless Graphite T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles, Longer Handle Comfort Grip, Large Sweet Spots, USAPA Approved, for Intermediate & Advanced Players with Edge Tape

My honest assessment of the Kasaca Cosmic Ray with Edge Tape involves evaluating intentional tradeoffs. I found that while the core paddle retains the exceptional performance of the base model (edgeless design, T700 carbon, 8.0 oz), the inclusion of the protective 3K PU interwoven texture edge tape addresses the primary vulnerability of edgeless paddles. This combination provides enhanced perimeter durability without drastically altering the aerodynamic profile I measured.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: 8.0 oz (Mid-weight)
* Grip Circumference: Standard Comfort Grip (Approx 4.25”)
* Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Multilayer Carbon Fiber (Gritty)
* Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Longer Handle)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: Control remains high; the core stability is sound. The added tape did not interfere with the responsiveness near the edge, a concern I typically have with aftermarket tapes.
* Power & Drive I observed: Consistent with the edgeless model; power is leveraged through the paddle length and T700 face stiffness, offering dependable speed.
* Spin Generation I noticed: Exceptional T700 spin capability is retained. The surface provides optimal friction for controlling the ball trajectory.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The primary hitting area is large, benefiting from the core geometry. The tape adds a layer of reassurance against structural damage from accidental court contact.

Strengths
The main strength is the intelligent protection mechanism. This model effectively delivers the maximized surface area of an edgeless paddle while mitigating the long-term durability risks, which is a significant technical advantage for aggressive doubles players.

Limitations
The included edge tape will eventually require replacement, adding a minimal maintenance task that is avoided with perimeter-injected or fully framed designs.

Ideal For: Players Who Demand Raw Carbon Spin and Durability: I recommend this for intermediate and advanced players who desire the feel and performance of T700 carbon in an elongated, mid-weight package but need the added peace of mind provided by robust perimeter protection.

Spartus Orion Apex Series Pickleball Paddle with TruGrit Surface Technology and Boost Core for Power & Control – USAP Approved – 16mm Elongated Long Handle

When I took the Spartus Orion Apex onto the court, I focused on assessing how the Boost Core Technology (proprietary polymer blend) translated into practical, real-world performance scenarios. I found this paddle excels in balancing control during rapid resets with sustained power on drives. The 16mm core and TruGrit Surface Technology work synergistically, providing a soft but potent hitting experience, well-complemented by the elongated long handle for added wrist action.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Mid-weight (Approx 8.1 oz)
* Grip Circumference: Standard (Approx 4.25”)
* Core Material: 16mm Proprietary Boost Core Technology
* Surface Texture: TruGrit T700 Carbon Fiber
* Handle Length: 5.5 inches (Long Handle)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The 16mm Boost Core provided immediate stability and effective ball absorption on soft shots. I found the quality of my third-shot drops and resets to be highly consistent.
* Power & Drive I observed: Power is readily accessible but manageable. The core blend is designed to elevate energy transfer without feeling overly brittle, achieving good pop on speedups.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The TruGrit T700 surface performed as expected for raw carbon—it easily imparted heavy topspin and slice, giving me excellent control over ball trajectory.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The sweet spot is generous and highly stable. The fiberglass reinforcement layer seems to play a role in maintaining responsiveness across the face.

Strengths
The incorporation of the Fiberglass Reinforcement Layer provided superior responsiveness compared to pure carbon paddles I’ve tested, offering a tangible “pop” without compromising the 16mm core’s control capabilities.

Limitations
The aesthetic design, while subjective, is somewhat less refined than some of the premium, high-gloss finishes seen on higher-priced thermoformed competitors.

Ideal For: Value-Conscious All-Around Advanced Players: I recommend this paddle for players seeking high-end technical specs—T700 surface, 16mm thickness, and a 5.5-inch long handle—but who are looking for a more cost-effective paddle that still delivers professional-grade control and spin.

Technical Comparison of Pickleball Paddles with Longer Handles

In my testing of these top pickleball paddles with longer handles, I noticed several material composition and engineering differences that dictate their performance characteristics.

The Premium/Advanced Category generally consists of thermoformed and foam-injected cores, which maximize torsional stiffness and power. The Nightblade 16mm and the Velo fall into this category. The Nightblade (16mm, Foam-Filled) and the Velo (16mm, Dual Foam Edge) offer superior dampening and consistency; the Velo’s triple-layer carbon and unibody design sets a high technical benchmark for durability, while the Nightblade’s full foam core maximizes controlled power. Both require a premium investment but deliver high-level mechanical performance.

The Performance/Mid-Range Category utilizes high-quality T700 raw carbon but often foregoes the expensive thermoforming process or uses a standard core structure to maintain an approachable price point. The Kasaca Cosmic Ray and the Spartus Orion fit here. The Kasaca paddles focus on maximizing the hitting surface with their edgeless T700 construction and light weights (7.8–8.0 oz), offering excellent value for spin-focused play. The Spartus Orion Apex, despite its T700 surface and 16mm core, utilizes a more budget-friendly polymer blend (Boost Core) than proprietary foam injection, balancing performance and cost effectively.

Finally, we have the specialized models. The CRBN TruFoam Waves is a technical outlier due to its 100% TruFoam 14mm core, designed for maximum power generation, making it highly specialized for aggressive singles play. The JOOLA Hyperion is a thick, control-focused benchmark, utilizing a unique CAS surface and hybrid-ply technology for maximum finesse. While the JOOLA Magnus is categorized here, its significantly shorter handle (5.0 inches) coupled with an extra-long face means it trades true two-handed backhand space for maximum reach, making it technically distinct among pickleball paddles with longer handles.

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Final Verdict and Buying Recommendations

My extensive court testing of these pickleball paddles with longer handles confirms that the extended grip length is a non-negotiable feature for players needing leverage and a true two-handed backhand stance. The technical specifications—specifically core thickness (14mm vs. 16mm) and surface material (T700 Raw Carbon vs. Proprietary Abrasion)—are the most critical differentiators in performance output.

For players focusing on technical precision, look closely at the core engineering. Foam-filled and thermoformed paddles offer superior stability and power-to-control ratios but require a higher investment. Standard honeycomb cores with quality raw carbon faces (like the Kasaca models) still deliver exceptional spin and speed for less cost.

Recommendations by Budget Level (Based on 2025 Pricing Structures)

• Budget-Conscious Performance: I recommend the Spartus Orion Apex. It provides a 16mm core, T700 carbon face, and 5.5-inch handle—all essential high-performance technical metrics—at the lowest price point in the advanced category.
• Mid-Range Excellence: The Kasaca Cosmic Ray or Rapid Fire models offer phenomenal value. Their edgeless T700 construction maximizes spin and sweet spot size without the premium cost of foam injection, ideal for the serious intermediate player.
• Premium Technology & Durability: The Velo and Nightblade 16mm paddles are top-tier. They feature unibody thermoforming and specialized foam integration, offering the highest level of structural integrity, vibration dampening, and power consistency I experienced.

Recommendations by Skill Level and Technical Need

• Beginner to Intermediate:
  • I suggest the Kasaca Rapid Fire (7.8 oz) for its lightweight maneuverability and spin capability, easing the transition to an elongated paddle format.
• Advanced Control & Feel (Thick Core):
  • Choose the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 for maximum consistency in dinking and resetting, thanks to its 16mm core and advanced CAS surface texture.
  • Alternatively, the Velo paddle offers similar thickness with superior thermoformed durability.
• Advanced Power & Aggression (Thin/Foam Core):
  • The CRBN TruFoam Waves (14mm, 100% Foam) provides the highest drive velocity and power output I tested, requiring confident stroke mechanics.
  • The Nightblade 14mm (Foam-Filled) is a technically sound alternative, balancing rapid response with the damping effects of foam.

What I Look for When Buying Pickleball Paddles with Longer Handles

When I am testing and evaluating pickleball paddles with longer handles, I move beyond marketing claims and focus purely on quantifiable technical specifications that impact performance and longevity.

• Handle Length Metric: The absolute minimum I consider for true two-handed play is 5.5 inches. Anything shorter compromises the lower hand’s grip security and leverage. I specifically analyze the handle balance point (where the paddle naturally pivots) relative to the end cap; a well-balanced long handle ensures the added length does not make the paddle excessively head-heavy, preserving hand speed.
• Torsional Stability (Sweet Spot Consistency): For elongated paddles, perimeter weighting and foam injection (if present) are critical. I evaluate how resistant the paddle is to twisting upon contact near the edges. Thermoformed or foam-filled cores (like the Nightblade or Velo) statistically show higher torsional stability, which minimizes energy loss on off-center hits.
• Surface Friction Coefficient and Material: I prioritize T700 raw carbon fiber. This material composition consistently delivers the highest, most durable friction surface for spin generation. I specifically check for abrasion resistance to ensure the grit lasts through multiple usage cycles, rather than wearing off rapidly like some painted or applied surfaces.
• Core Density and Thickness: The choice between 14mm and 16mm dictates the control/power dynamic. 16mm cores offer greater vibration dampening and control, which I measure by reduced ball travel distance on light impacts. 14mm cores, particularly foam-filled ones, offer higher rigidity and kinetic energy return, which translates directly to greater ball speed on drives.

Types Explained

The category of pickleball paddles with longer handles can be broadly separated into a few technical categories based on manufacturing and core architecture:

• Standard Honeycomb Elongated: These paddles utilize a conventional polymer honeycomb core within an elongated shape (16.5 inches long, 7.5 inches wide) and feature a 5.5-inch+ handle. They are typically lighter and more cost-effective (e.g., Kasaca models). They offer excellent raw carbon spin but often lack the specialized vibration dampening of injected paddles.
• Thermoformed/Unibody Construction: These are paddles (like the Velo or Nightblade) where the carbon face and polymer core are fused together under heat and pressure, often wrapping the carbon surface around the core and handle. This process creates superior structural integrity, stiffness, and increased power due to higher energy transfer.
• Foam-Injected Cores (Perimeter or Full): These paddles inject high-density foam (like EVA or Hyperfoam) into the core structure, either just around the perimeter (for edge stability) or filling the entire core (for full vibration dampening and power amplification). I find these offer the best technical convergence of touch, stability, and power in a long-handled frame.

I recommend thermoformed, foam-injected long handles for players 4.0 and above who are actively competing and need equipment optimized for maximum mechanical consistency and power potential. For intermediate players (3.0–3.5) prioritizing spin and reach without the premium investment, I suggest a high-quality, lightweight standard honeycomb elongated T700 model.

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Common Questions About Pickleball Paddles with Longer Handles Answered

What Are the Key Technical Specifications I Should Evaluate When Choosing Pickleball Paddles with Longer Handles?

When I evaluate these specialized paddles, the most critical specifications are Handle Length (must be 5.5 inches or greater for two-handed capability), Core Thickness (14mm for power, 16mm for control/dampening), and Surface Material (T700 raw carbon for maximizing spin). Additionally, I assess the paddle’s balance point, ensuring the mass distribution complements the extended length without becoming too head-heavy, which would compromise quick hand exchanges at the net.

How Does Core Thickness Affect the Performance of Elongated Paddles?

Core thickness fundamentally dictates the feel and speed of the ball off the paddle face. A 14mm core (often seen in power-focused pickleball paddles with longer handles like the CRBN Waves) yields a higher coefficient of restitution (COR), meaning the ball springs off faster, maximizing drive speed. Conversely, a 16mm core (like the JOOLA Hyperion or Spartus Orion) provides superior energy absorption and vibration dampening, resulting in a softer feel crucial for controlled dinking and third-shot drops.

Do I Need a Thermoformed Paddle if I Use a Two-Handed Backhand?

While not strictly required, I have found that thermoformed or foam-injected paddles significantly benefit two-handed backhand execution. The unibody construction enhances the torsional stiffness of the elongated frame, ensuring the paddle does not twist or flex excessively when powerful force is applied via both hands, leading to more stable and consistent drives and counterattacks.

Does the Weight of a Longer Handled Paddle Impact Swing Speed Significantly?

Yes, absolutely. Since elongated paddles already shift the mass further from the grip axis, they generally feel heavier to swing than standard shape paddles, even if the static weight is the same. For players who struggle with quick resets or fast kitchen hands, I strongly recommend staying below 8.2 ounces (e.g., the Kasaca Rapid Fire at 7.8 oz), as the reduced mass counteracts the inertia caused by the long frame and handle.

How Do Raw Carbon Fiber Surfaces Compare to Fiberglass on Elongated Paddles?

Raw carbon fiber (T700) surfaces inherently possess a higher, more durable friction rating than fiberglass, which is crucial for modern spin-heavy play. Fiberglass paddles are often lighter and provide more “pop” due to their flexibility, but they lack the consistent grit retention and spin control that T700 offers, making carbon fiber the technically superior choice for competitive players using pickleball paddles with longer handles.