If you’ve spent any time at the courts in South Burlington lately, you’ve seen it: pickleball is absolutely exploding. It’s the fastest-growing sport in the country for a reason: it’s social, it’s fast-paced, and let’s be honest, it’s just a ton of fun. But as we’ve seen here at Drop the Racquet, once you get hooked, you quickly realize that playing with a borrowed or cheap wooden paddle isn't going to cut it for long.
Selecting the right paddle can feel like a bit of a "swing and a miss" if you don't know what you're looking for. There’s a lot of tech jargon out there: honeycomb cores, toray carbon fiber, thermoformed edges: that can make your head spin faster than a top-spin serve.
Our founder, Tom Twitchell, is a Certified Racquet Technician and a member of the U.S. Racquet Stringers Association. He’s spent years obsessing over the fine details of racquet and paddle construction. We’ve used that expertise to curate the best selection in Vermont, and we want to help you make sense of it all.
Before you pick your next "weapon of choice" from our retail shop, here are 10 things you absolutely need to know.
1. The Shape: Standard vs. Elongated
The first thing you’ll notice when looking at the wall of paddles in our shop is that they aren't all the same shape.
- Standard Shapes: These are typically around 16 inches long and 8 inches wide. They offer a larger "sweet spot" and are more forgiving if you don't hit the ball perfectly in the center. This is almost always the best choice for beginners or defensive players.
- Elongated Shapes: These are longer (up to 16.5 inches) and narrower. They give you more reach and more leverage, which translates to more power and spin. However, the sweet spot is smaller and higher up on the paddle.
If you’re just starting out, we usually suggest a standard shape to help you keep the ball in play. As you get more competitive, you might want to "reach" for that elongated style.
2. Core Thickness: 13mm vs. 16mm
This is where the "feel" of the paddle is decided. Most modern paddles use a polymer honeycomb core, but the thickness varies.
- 16mm (Thick Core): This is generally considered a "control" paddle. It absorbs more of the ball's energy, making it easier to hit soft "dink" shots and resets. If you find yourself hitting the ball out the back of the court too often, a 16mm core might be your best friend.
- 13mm (Thin Core): This is a "power" paddle. Because it’s thinner, it’s stiffer and returns more energy to the ball. It has more "pop," which is great for drives and put-away shots at the net.
3. Face Materials: Carbon Fiber vs. Fiberglass
The "face" is the surface of the paddle that actually touches the ball. In 2026, raw carbon fiber is the gold standard for serious players because of its incredible friction.
- Carbon Fiber: Offers the most control and the most spin. The "grit" on a raw carbon fiber face allows you to grab the ball and rip it with topspin.
- Fiberglass: Tends to be more flexible, giving the paddle a "trampoline effect." It provides more power but less control and spin than carbon fiber.
At Drop the Racquet, we carry a wide range of both, including the latest models from JOOLA and Selkirk, so you can feel the difference for yourself.
4. Finding Your "Goldilocks" Weight
Paddle weight usually falls between 7.2 oz and 8.5 oz. Even a half-ounce difference can change how your arm feels after two hours of play.
- Lightweight (<7.7 oz): Great for "fast hands" at the net and maneuverability. However, you have to swing harder to get power, which can actually lead to elbow strain.
- Midweight (7.8–8.2 oz): The "sweet spot" for most players. It offers a balance of power and control without being too taxing on the shoulder.
- Heavyweight (>8.3 oz): Provides effortless power and stability. If you’re a former tennis player used to a heavy racquet, you might prefer this, but be careful with the extra weight on your joints.
5. The Grip Size "Pinky Rule"
Having the wrong grip size is a one-way ticket to "pickleball elbow." If the grip is too small, you’ll squeeze too hard to keep the paddle from twisting. If it’s too large, you lose wrist snap.
A quick tip we use in the shop: hold the paddle in your hitting hand. You should be able to fit the pinky finger of your other hand in the gap between your fingertips and the palm of your hand. If there’s no room, it’s too small. if there’s a ton of extra space, it’s too big. We can always help you customize your grip with overgrips or replacement grips right here in the shop!
6. Brands Matter (But Technology Matters More)
We aren't just a store; we are fans of the gear. We carefully select the brands we carry based on performance and durability.
You’ll find big names like Wilson and Head, but also pickleball-specific giants like Gearbox and JOOLA. Each brand has a different "philosophy." Gearbox, for example, uses a unique solid-core technology that doesn't use honeycomb at all, making them incredibly durable. JOOLA is the choice of many pros (like Ben Johns) and focuses heavily on spin and "dwell time."
7. Forgiveness vs. Pop
For many beginners, "forgiveness" is the most important word. You want a paddle that still sends the ball over the net even if you don't hit it perfectly. Look for paddles with a large sweet spot (usually standard shapes with 16mm cores).
If you’re an aggressive player who likes to "speed up" the ball at the net, you might prioritize "pop": that instant reaction where the ball flies off the paddle face.
8. Handle Length: Do You Use Two Hands?
If you're coming from a tennis background and have a two-handed backhand, you need a handle that is at least 5.3 inches long. Many "standard" paddles have shorter handles that only accommodate one hand comfortably. If you use two, make sure to check the handle specs!
9. Don’t Buy Before You Try: Our Demo Program
You wouldn't buy a car without a test drive, so why buy a $200 paddle without hitting a few balls?
One of our proudest offerings at Drop the Racquet is our Demo Program. We want you to feel the difference between a 13mm and a 16mm core on the court, not just in the store. Stop by, select a few models, and take them out for a spin. It’s the best way to ensure you’re making the right investment.
10. The Local Advantage: Why Expert Advice Wins
You can buy a paddle anywhere online, but you can't get personalized advice from a Certified Racquet Technician through a computer screen.
When you come into our South Burlington shop, you’re talking to people who live and breathe racquet sports. Tom and the team can look at your current equipment, ask about your play style, and help you find the perfect match. We’re more than just a retail shop; we’re a community hub for racquet enthusiasts. Whether you need a new paddle or professional stringing services for your tennis racquet, we’ve got your back.
Ready to elevate your game?
Pickleball is all about the community and the joy of the game. Having the right gear just makes that experience even better.
Come visit us! We are located in South Burlington, Vermont. We have plenty of easy parking, so you can pop in, chat gear, and maybe even grab a can of balls for your next match.
Drop the Racquet Expertise you can feel. Service you can trust.
Contact Us Today or swing by the shop to check out our newest 2026 arrivals!