As avid pickleball players, we understand the importance of having a comfortable, secure, and full feeling grip on our pickleball paddles during gameplay. One way to achieve this is by adding an overgrip to your pickleball paddle. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to add an over grip to your pickleball paddle, including the materials needed, step-by-step instructions, and tips for maintaining your grip.
Materials Needed
To add an overgrip to your pickleball paddle, you will need the following materials:
Overgrip tape
Scissors
Rubbing alcohol
Clean cloth
Step-By-Step Guide For Adding an Overgrip
Clean the Paddle Handle: Before adding the overgrip, make sure the handle of your pickleball paddle is clean and dry. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the handle and let it dry completely.
Remove the Plastic Wrap: Most overgrips come wrapped in plastic to protect the adhesive. Start by removing the plastic wrap from the overgrip.
Align the Grip: Hold the paddle with your non-dominant hand and align the bottom of the overgrip with the butt end of the handle. Be sure to leave a small amount of the grip hanging off the end of the handle to prevent it from unraveling.
Begin Wrapping: Using your dominant hand, begin wrapping the overgrip around the handle of the paddle. Make sure to keep the grip tight and even as you wrap it around the handle.
Overlap the Grip: Continue wrapping the grip around the handle until you reach the end. Then, overlap the grip by about half an inch to secure it in place.
Secure the Grip: Use the adhesive tape that comes with the over grip to secure the end of the grip in place. Make sure to press down firmly on the tape to ensure a secure hold.
Tips for Maintaining Your Grip
Here are some tips for maintaining your over-grip and ensuring a secure and comfortable grip on your paddle:
Replace your overgrip when it becomes worn or dirty. A worn grip can cause your paddle to slip in your hands during gameplay, affecting your performance.
Keep a spare overgrip in your pickleball bag in case you need to replace your grip during a game.
Clean your grip regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat buildup.
Use a Tacky Spray – I have personally never used a tacky spray before, I’ve always just replaced the overgrip but tacky sprays can be used to restore the grip’s tackiness. Spray the tacky spray on the overgrip, let it dry before using the paddle.
Additionally, overgrips come in a variety of colors and textures, allowing players to customize their paddles to their liking. Some players prefer a tacky or cushioned grip, while others prefer a smooth or dry feel. Experiment with different types of over-grip tape to find the one that best suits your playing style.
It’s important to note that while adding an over grip can improve your grip on the paddle, it is not a substitute for proper technique and form. Remember to hold the paddle loosely and use your wrist to generate power, rather than gripping the paddle tightly.
Why are Overgrips Important?
In my opinion, overgrips are one of the most underrated pieces of equipment in all racquet sports. I come from a tennis background and if my grip was not thick enough, I felt as if I couldn’t feel the ball on my strings and generally had less control. Now a pickleball player, I feel the exact same way about my paddle grip. If my grip is not thick and tacky enough, my feel for the ball diminishes. Here are a few reasons as to why pickleball overgrips are important.
First and foremost, they improve your grip on the paddle. A secure grip on your paddle is essential for effective and consistent shots. Without a good grip, your paddle can slip out of your hand, causing you to miss shots or potentially injure yourself.
Secondly, over-grips can help to reduce hand fatigue. If you play pickleball for an extended period of time, you may find that your hand starts to feel tired or sore. A thicker or cushioned over grip can help to alleviate this discomfort by providing additional padding and reducing the impact of the ball on your hand.
Another benefit of overgrips is that they can help to extend the life of your paddle. Over time, the grip on your paddle can become worn down or dirty, which can make it difficult to grip the paddle effectively. By adding an overgrip, you can protect your paddle’s original grip and prolong its lifespan.
Finally, overgrips are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace. If your grip becomes worn or dirty, you can simply remove the old over grip and replace it with a new one. This can save you money in the long run by avoiding the need to replace your entire paddle.
Conclusion
Adding an overgrip to your pickleball paddle is a simple and effective way to improve your grip during gameplay. By following our comprehensive guide and tips for maintaining your grip, you’ll be able to play your best and enjoy pickleball to the fullest. If you have never used an overgrip before, you do not know what you are missing!