When you get a new pickleball paddle, breaking it in is a multi-step process. The goal is to get your paddle performance optimized, durable, and still match your playing style. If you don't take your time breaking it in, you might get inconsistent shots, and you might wear it out prematurely. The following steps will get your new paddle ready to game, while still maintaining the quality.
When breaking in a pickleball paddle, each paddle will break in differently based on the core and surface material. Paddle cores made of polypropylene will be somewhat rigid, but will soften somewhat with play, giving it a "feel". If the paddle's surface is made of fiberglass, it will be somewhat forgiving, while carbon fiber paddles will take longer to loosen up and give better ball control. The different types of paddle constructions will allow you to be flexible with the break-in process; you can apply gradual break-in techniques to stiffer paddles, while flexible paddles will take more consistent lighter hits.
Start the break-in with purpose, practicing dinks and soft volleys at a slow pace, rather than fast, intense rallies. When first using the paddle, focus on hitting the sweet spot as this allows the paddle core and surface to adjust evenly. For the first few sessions, avoid hard smashes or aggressive shots, as these will unevenly create stress points. Sessions of light play should aim for 20-30 minutes each, increasing intensity gradually over 3-5 sessions.
When the paddle responds well to light hits, start using different shot types, and begin with soft drives, and drop shots, moving to moderate serves. This keeps the different parts of the paddle engaged, and helps the surface and core adapt evenly in different areas to avoid uneven wear. As the materials loosen, you will notice a better pop and increased control. If the paddle feels stiff, stick to light shots for an extra session or two.
While handling your new paddle, try to avoid any actions that might slow down or damage the break-in process. For example, soaking your paddle in water or exposing it to extreme temperatures may warp the paddle’s core, damage the core, or weaken your paddle's surfaces. Also, jumping to competitive play without the required light usage may cause the paddle to perform inconsistently, as well as increase its break-in time. Finally, and most importantly, avoid hitting the paddle against any hard surfaces, especially the court. This may cause irreversible damage to the core as well as external chips and fractures.
Break-in isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. When the break-in is happening, there will be changes in the paddle’s in-play and performance. Pay attention to any improvement in shot consistency, surface control, or any changes in the overall weight and balance of the paddle. When the paddle becomes stiff in play, try to improve your hitting and center your stroke on the sweet spot. For some textured paddles, there will be a marked improvement in ball grip as the surface wears and the surface aids in spinning the ball.
Check if the paddle is broken in before using the paddle in friendly tournaments or intense matches. The paddle should feel responsive to shots with pop, control, and no stiffness or inconsistency; otherwise, light and moderate play is still needed. No unusual vibrations or dead spots should occur when hitting the ball. A broken in paddle should feel like an extension of your arm, and be confident in your court moves.
Hot News2025-11-27
2025-11-26
2025-11-25
2025-11-24
2025-11-21
2025-11-20
EN
