Top 5 Best Oversized Pickleball Paddles in 2022

Many people enjoy spending their downtime on the courts, but we are not talking about playing tennis. In fact, we are talking about on the courts playing a bit of pickleball. If you are one of these people, then you know the value of having the right gear, and you may be on the hunt for the right paddle. Choosing the right paddle can really affect your performance and enhance your playing style. Though sticking to the traditional paddle is a viable option, you might consider going a different route.

One of those alternative options when it comes to your pickleball paddle is an oversized model. Oversized pickleball paddles are paddles that have a longer head (some are also thicker and wider). 

There are a plethora of great options on the market, and we thought we would curate a guide that will help you find the right model for you. Below we will give you not only an idea of what to look for but also dive deep into the top 5 best oversize pickleball paddles available today. We hope this helps you in your decision-making process. 

In a Hurry? Here’s Our Top Picks…

Things To Consider When Buying Your Pickleball Paddle

Choosing to go with an oversized paddle will be challenging but well worth it as long as you choose the right model for your comfort and playing style. The narrow sweet spot can affect your game, but if you pay attention to certain features, you will be able to compensate for this design feature.

Here are the five features that you need to consider when buying your oversized pickleball paddle:

Grip Size

There are some oversized models that end up with a shorter handle than the traditional 5″ models. This means that if you have never held a shorter handle, the grip may take some getting used to. 

You have to test the paddle out with your grip style. If the shorter handle doesn’t feel comfortable or you find yourself with a tighter grip, you may want to look for a model with a more traditional grip size. Along with this, you have to pay attention to the circumference of the handle as well. All in all, you have to choose a paddle that is comfortable in your hand. 

Shape

There are two shapes that are prominent when it comes to the oversized pickleball paddle. First is the standard, and that is a narrow shape. The narrow shape gives you a thin hitting surface and a much smaller sweet spot. On the other hand, some models will utilize a tapered head. If you want a larger sweet spot and surface area, then the tapered option may work better for you. 

Material

Some of the paddles on the market can be quite pricey. This means you want to find a durable paddle that offers you tons of value. This starts with the material the paddle was crafted with. Some paddles are grafted with polymer cores and covered with graphite or fiberglass. 

Each of these materials has its other benefits besides creating durability. So when you are looking at the paddle option, you need to pay attention to the materials and technologies utilized in the design of the oversized pickleball paddles.

Weight

Naturally, an oversized paddle is going to be heavier than the standard pickleball paddle. Though they are heavier, each will have its own weight option, and you can still play with this to create your own playing style. 

If you are a newer player or someone who suffers from sports injuries, looking for a lightweight model might be better. However, if you want more power, then you will want to go for a heavier option. Weight is important and is definitely a factor that needs to be considered. 

Price

No matter what you are looking to invest in, your budget is always going to be something to consider. You really need to look at what you have budget-wise and what you are willing to invest in your pickleball game. If you are a more serious player, you might be willing to expend a little more than those that are more of a hobbyist. 

Pickleball Paddle Reviews

1. Selkirk AMPED Invikta X5

Selkirk is one of the major pickleball paddle manufacturers. They have worked tirelessly to bring innovative and high-performing paddles to the market. The AMPED Invikta X5 is crafted carefully with a unique mixture of materials and an oversized design to enhance the player’s abilities.

Who is this product for? 

With its design being crafted by a national champion and the use of a unique core, this paddle is a great choice for almost any player. However, the combination of materials gives it a different feel than a majority of the pickleball paddles on the market today. Crafted to give the player a balance of abilities, it is perfect for players that like to play aggressively with tons of power.

It is a great option for intermediate players for this reason as well. The elongated head leaves the overall body oversized, and for intermediate and experienced players, this gives it a ton of benefits that can be taken advantage of by them. 

Specifications

• Fiberglass base
• Polypropylene X5 core
• Torque suppression technology
• USAPA approved
• Weight: 7.73 – 9.4 oz.
• Grip size: 4.25″
• Sweet spot: 9″
• Width: 8”
• Grip length: 5.25″

Overview of Features

This paddle is crafted with a fiberglass face and a polypropylene X5 core and comes in multiple variations. Players have the option of choosing between a lightweight and midweight version and a wide range of grip sizes (as well as a multitude of colors). For the lightweight versions, a player will be looking at between 7.2 and 7.4 ounces with a choice between a four, 4.25, and a 5.5-inch grip. The heavier versions will have the same grip size choices but will range between 9.3 and 9.5 ounces when it comes to weight.

The choice is really up to the playing style of the player themselves. The heavier option might be a better choice for those looking for more drive and power. On the other hand, the lighter option might be better for someone who is an intermittent player who’s learning control over their ball. That being said, there are a lot of great features that this paddle has included in its design that will enhance any player’s overall game.

The use of the polymer core gives this paddle a different feel when it comes to ball contact. The core is softer, which helps work with the fiberglass shell to help improve contact time. On top of this, the combination of these two materials helps players control and create spin. Furthermore, this model is crafted with a long handle. This will improve not only the grip and comfort of use but allow for a larger swing arc, thereby imparting more power.

Even with all of that, though, a few issues still need to be addressed before any final decision is made on which pickleball paddle is the right one for you. There are some that may find the thickness of the head a little disconcerting. That coupled with the softer core might lead to a decreased level of power that a player is not willing to give up on.

Pros

• The paddle is crafted with a longer handle for improved grip
• Design is built using a polymer and fiberglass combination
• Extended head enhances the overall sweet spot
• Overall design is crafted to increase both control and power

Cons

• Designed with a thicker head than a majority of its competition
• Some have a problem with the feel upon contact (soft)

2. GAMMA Needle

This next pickleball paddle comes from another one of the major manufacturers and is designed with an oversized head to increase the player’s reach. The longer paddle offers the player a ton of unique options when developing their game style.

Who is this product for? 

This is one of those pickleball paddles that is designed to be a great fit no matter your level of experience or playing style. For those beginning, it can be perfect for helping with reach as well as comfortability of play. For the more experienced, it can drive a heightened level of power and control, unlike other pickleball paddles. We would say that the advantages for an intermediate to the more experienced player far outweigh those of a beginner; it is still a viable option.

Specifications

• Graphite face (textured)
• Grip size: 4 1/8″
• Grip length: 4 1/1″
• Weight: 7.6 oz.
• Sensa Poly Core technology
• Honeycomb cushion grip

Overview of Features

When it comes to the Gamma Needle, there are a lot of features that really stand out. The elongated design is built by using a Sensa Poly Core and a graphite face, which gives it a medium weight and a lot of durability. But for us, maybe one of the biggest things when it comes to an oversized pickleball paddle is the comfort of use. This is optimized on this model by the use of the honeycombed cushioned grip. The textured grip allows for a player to have better control with less chance of slippage during play.

On top of an oversized head, the handle itself is also extended, measuring 4.25″. The length of the handle coupled with the cushion grip allows even the most aggressive player to always feel like they have a firm hold on the paddle while not sacrificing the maneuverability. Along with the handle, we have to look at the uniquely crafted core. The Sensa Poly Core technology used by Gamma optimizes the player’s ability to control the ball. 

Another great feature is the weight of the oversized paddle. Because it comes in and what can be determined as a middleweight paddle, it is versatile when it comes to experience. That means that a beginner can get just as much as you out of this as an experienced player. To top it off, the paddle is finished with a narrow edge guard, which will limit knicks and help improve the accuracy of your shots.

That being said, this oversized pickleball paddle is by no means perfect. Though the extended head will improve reach and power, the sweet spot is narrowed down like on most elongated paddles. This will affect both the accuracy and control of just a hair. Also, this may not be the best choice for those looking for a budget option as some find the price tag a bit on the pricey side.

Pros

• The handle is designed with features that improve the comfortability of use
• Crafted with a unique core for better ball control
• Weight of the paddle is good no matter your level of experience
• Paddle is finished with a narrow edge guard

Cons

• Even with the extended head sweet spot is pretty narrow
• Some may find the price a bit on the steep side

3. Pro-Lite Rebel

Many players look to control their power and their spin to improve their game performance. For players looking for an oversized paddle that gives them this capability, the next model we’re looking at could be an excellent option for them.

Who is this product for? 

When it comes to this paddle and who should opt to use it, the only place we feel it should be avoided is if you’re a beginning player. Other than that, any other player can benefit immensely from investing in this oversized pickleball paddle. This is especially true if they’re looking to add and control spin to their serves and shots. This strategy may give these players an edge over their competition, and this pickleball paddle is designed to help with it. 

The paddle is crafted with a design that minimizes noise, which is perfect for those who live in places with restrictions on noise levels.

Specifications

• QuadCore polymer honeycomb core
• Textured fiberglass surface
• Bold distressed graphics
• Length: 16″
• Width: 7 13/16” 
• Weight: 7.5 – 8.1 oz.
• Handle length: 5″
• Grip size: 4.25″

Overview of Features

When it comes to composite pickleball paddles, this company is the first one to have ever done it, and that means that they have more knowledge of how to create a high-performance model than other brands. This is an updated version of the original Rebel with several features that have been updated. 

The main area that has been changed is the noise factor, which may be one of the best features of this paddle. The main body of the paddle was kept the same and only changed enough to reduce the noise created from the paddle so that it could be used in areas where there were restrictions on this factor.

Overall the major benefits come from using both the specialized honeycomb core and the fiberglass layered finish. The combination of these two helps players not only control their spin but add power to it. On top of that, the player’s overall power is enhanced by this durable and high-performance combination. The company was looking to ensure that every type of player could find the right paddle in this design. 

This is why there are multiple sizes and weights available so that the player can find just the right fit for both their hand as well as their playing style. However, there are a few issues when it comes to the design of this paddle. Because of the technology used in the construction of this paddle, beginners should steer clear of this option. Along with this, many have found that the handle is more durable than the rest of the paddle, which may be troublesome if you’re an aggressive player.

Pros

• Crafted using fiberglass layers for improved spin power
• Paddle utilizes a quad-core polymer honeycomb core for enhanced power
• Designed with noise reduction technology for a decreased pop
• Multiple sizes and weights are available for perfect player customization

Cons

• The unique design may be great for intermediate and experienced players, but beginners find it challenging to use
• Some have found the handles to be less durable than the rest of the paddle

4. Engage Poach Extreme

For those players looking for a paddle that is reactive, this oversized paddle with its slimmer profile can help them with that. The designers at Engage certainly cultivated a wealth of features aimed to enhance the player’s performance and ensure that they had control over their power and any spin they’re looking to create.

Who is this product for? 

This oversized pickleball paddle could be a great investment for almost every player, but when looking at the technology used to craft it, there is one that stands out that would get the most bang for their buck. An aggressive player looking to add spin to their game is definitely someone who should spend their hard-earned money on investing in this pickleball paddle.

Specifications

• Control pro-black proprietary composite core
• Variable release six-layer fiberglass composite face
• Weight: 7.5- 8.3 oz.
• Grip size: 4.25″
• Grip length: 5″
• Vibration control technology
• Noise reduction technology
• USAPA approved

Overview of Features

Though there are a lot of factors that play a part in crafting a high-quality pickleball paddle, one of the biggest and most important of these factors is the sweet spot. When it comes to this brand’s pickleball paddles, this model offers the largest sweet spot of them all. Its designers that crafted this pickleball paddle looked to create a ball with excellent contact control, which helps create extra spin.

The paddle itself is crafted with a polymer honeycomb core and finished with fiberglass layers to increase durability and help with the shot’s accuracy. The skin layers are also crafted to ensure the right amount of spin is given to the ball. Not only do these layers help with durability, but they also increase overall power and the ability to control shots for improved accuracy.

This oversized pickleball paddle is truly oversized as it is not only longer than the traditional paddle but also wider as well. This is what gives the pickleball paddle the wider sweet spot to optimize control. It also comes in a few different weight options, which means you’ll be able to choose the paddle that is perfect for you.

Though there are a lot of great features that help enhance the player’s performance, there are a few drawbacks you should be aware of when looking at this paddle. Unlike other oversized pickleball paddles, this model only comes with one grip size. This means that if you have excessively small or excessively large hands, this option is not a great choice for you. Along with this, some players have had issues with the handle snapping even after a short amount of use. This means that if you’re super aggressive, this paddle could be a poor investment.

Pros

• The paddle is not only longer but wider than other paddles
• Crafted with fiberglass layers for better control and power
• Utilizes a core design to optimize control of the ball as well as spin
• Finished with a variable release technology

Cons

• Paddle only comes with one grip size, which minimizes personalization
• Some have had issues with the handle snapping off after a very short amount of use

5. Head Radical XL 

The last pickleball paddle we will be looking at is from another major company. It is one that is designed to have a larger sweet spot to give players a wide range of playability. Designed with care to ensure that the paddle offers every player optimal performance, this oversized pickleball paddle is a good investment for just about any type of player.

Who is this product for? 

We strongly feel it is a pickleball paddle that any type of player can use to help improve their game. There are, of course, those that have a playing style and an experience level that matches better with the paddle, and that’ll bring with it more benefits. 

If you’re looking to add more ability to the angles you can hit from or looking to have better control, this paddle is a fantastic option. It is also a great choice for those that may be suffering from tennis elbow because there is technology within the core that helps minimize vibrations.

Specifications

• Graphite hitting surface
• Extreme spin texture face
• Polypropylene honeycomb core
• Ergonomic grip
• Grip size:4.25″
• Grip length: 4.75″
• Weight: 7.6 oz.

Overview of Features

The Head Radical XL was created with an oversized head which means that the paddle naturally has a bigger sweet spot. A longer head also means that a player will be able to have further reach, thereby giving the ability to utilize different shots. The designers focused on utilizing high-quality materials and select features to heighten the paddle’s performance so you will be able to up your game.

One of those features that stands out the most is, of course, the polymer core. Because of the use of this high-grade polymer, the player will have fewer vibrations. With fewer vibrations, they will have better accuracy when playing the game. Also, the vibration control system allows for those with sports injuries like tennis elbow to agitate the injury less. However, this is not the only great thing about this oversized pickleball paddle.

One of the things many people like is that there are two weights available. The variety of weight options makes it easy to match the paddle with your pickleball needs. For those looking for more power, they can choose the heavier weight. There are other features that make this paddle stand out, but these few features are the ones that lend the most benefit to the player.

Though this pickleball is undoubtedly a good choice to add to your game gear, there are some issues that some find deal-breakers. The first issue has nothing to do with the performance. The paddle does not come with a cover which means there will be extra expenditures when investing in this paddle. Also, if you are looking to match your gear, this paddle comes in a limited color selection.

Pros

• The paddle is designed to give the player a large sweet spot
• Overall design allows for an improved reach
• Minimal vibration thanks to the polymer core design
• Designed in two different weight options for better player customization

Cons

• Paddle does not come with a cover when purchased
• Limited color and style selections are available

Advantages and Disadvantages of an Oversized Pickleball Paddle

So why should you look at investing in an oversized pickleball paddle? What is in it for you? And are there any drawbacks? These are all questions we are sure that you have been asking yourself. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of any investment is a good place to start when going through your decision-making process.

There are a lot of positive aspects that come with using an oversized pickleball paddle. The first and possibly the most obvious is the extended reach a player is afforded. Most of these paddles add a few extra inches more than the standard paddle. This is especially helpful when you are playing singles as you will be able to cover the court better. It’s also handy for a more diminutive player as it will help them reach shots better.

Those players looking to add a bit of power to their game might also benefit from using this type of paddle. The extended length gives the paddle a larger swing arc, which will deliver more power for long drives and serves. Lastly, the handle length could be a positive thing for those with a certain hold they like to use. In particular, if you are a player that likes to support the back of the paddle face with your fingers, this shorter handle might suit you well.

There are a few major issues that could dissuade some from investing in this type of pickleball paddle when it comes to disadvantages. Of these, the biggest is going to be the sweet spot. Because these paddles are longer and narrower, the sweet spot is also longer and narrower. This limited space of the paddle face makes hitting it all the time quite challenging. This means that even an experienced player will have an adjustment period to find their groove again.

The extra inches added to the pickleball paddles frame will add weight, and that will affect maneuverability. For those looking to play a shorter game with more control, this type of paddle is not going to work as well as the traditional option. The last significant disadvantage is the price. Most of these oversized pickleball paddles are more expensive than the standard offering. This could be a big problem if you are working with a tight budget. 

A Few Extra Thoughts: Techniques & Tips to Hold a Pickleball Paddle

Though the grip when using a standard paddle may vary from the one used on an oversized pickleball paddle, we think understanding how to choose a grip can help a player’s game. There are three main grip types that you can choose from when defining your playing style.

• Continental – Think back to the last time you picked up a hammer. Remember how your hands were placed, and this is what the continental grip looks like.
• Western – A player plays with the same basic grip, but their hands are further back on the handle. This should look like you are getting ready to use a fly swatter. If the player lays a forefinger on the handle, then this grip turns into a semi-western grip.
• Eastern – This is best described as the handshake grip. When a player is holding the paddle parallel to the ground, you will see that there is a definite V-shape with the player’s hands.

Now that you have a good idea of the grp styles you have to choose from, we also want to give you a few tips that can help improve your grip.

• Relaxed grip – Instead of holding tight, choose a looser grip when they are playing. This will help you have more power and exert less energy. A tighter grip will affect your control and will eventually lead to pretty serious arm fatigue. 
• Switching hands – Learning how to switch hands mid-game is challenging. However, it could add some diversity to your game and create a unique plating style to your game. 
• Fingers & Paddle Surface – Many players choose to place a forefinger or thumb on the paddle. This can help with control and stability, and so it could be worth testing out while playing to see if it works with your style.

Pickleball Paddle FAQs

We have covered a lot of information and given you some great options to choose from. We know you might have more questions. So we thought we would answer a few more of the most commonly asked questions on the internet. 

What are oversized pickleball paddles?

Oversized pickleball paddles are those models that have been designed with a longer face. These are perfect for adding reach and can help increase the player’s ability to add spin or even execute roll shots.

How long are oversized pickleball paddles?

Typically oversized pickleball paddles tend to measure between 16″ and 17″. On top of the overall length being a focus, there are also models that are designed with a longer handle. These handles can actually measure up to 6″.

What is the best weight for a pickleball paddle?

When it comes to the best weight for a pickleball, it really depends on what you’re looking to get from the paddle as well as your playing style. Most people suggest going for a midway paddle that weighs between seven and eight oz. But with the elongated or oversized pickleball paddles, you’re always going to have more weight. However, you can get as close to the mid-weight as possible, which might be great for those that are dealing with sports injuries like tennis elbow.

Are oversized pickleball paddles better?

Once again, whether oversized pickleball paddles are better depends on the individual. An oversized pickleball paddle will always be narrower, which, as we’ve stated above, means a narrower sweet spot, but they also are longer, which will improve the reach. 

If you have some experience on the courts, you may choose an oversized pickleball paddle because you want to improve your reach. In the end, whether an oversized pickleball paddle is better is a personal preference.

Should I choose a thicker pickleball paddle?

When you’re dealing with an oversized pickleball paddle, you’re going to wind up with a narrower sweet spot. So you might choose to go with a thicker core (whether you’re talking about an oversized pickleball paddle or not) because a thicker core will give you a better consistency when it comes to your shots. 

This is because most of the cores help with vibration created by the ball, which will help with control. Also, often a thicker core tends to give the pickleball paddle a bit more stability which will help with control and maneuverability.

How do you pick the right pickleball paddle?

When you’re looking at a pickleball paddle, whether it is a standard paddle or an oversized one, there are a couple of things that you have to pay attention to. When you’re choosing, maybe the most important thing is the weight. For those looking at a lighter paddle, you’re going to end up having more control but less power, and a heavier paddle offers the opposite. So when this happens, you should pick the paddle up and swing a couple of times to really get the feel of the paddle itself to make sure your arm is comfortable with the weight.

The next thing that you’re going to do is look at the grip size. When you pick up the paddle to check out the weight, you need to make sure that it feels comfortable in your hand. If that handle grip is too big, you may have problems holding the paddle, which could eventually lead to injuries. On the other hand, if you choose a smaller grip, you’ll have to use your wrist more, which could cause issues down the road. A good rule of thumb is that if you were under 5’2″, you should go with a 4″ grip. For those between 5’3″ and 5’8″, you should go with a 4.25″ grip. Anybody taller than that should go with a 4.5″ grip.

The last factor you should look at is the materials. You will choose between composite or graphite, and there are even some wood models. If you’re looking for a mid-range paddle, then you want to choose a composite paddle.

Conclusion

We have taken an in-depth look at some of the best-oversized pickleball paddles on the market today and given you quite a bit of information to sift through in order to choose the one that works best for you. There are a wide variety of options out there, and each, of course, will have its own advantages and disadvantages. We are sure that amongst the top five oversized pickleball paddles that we have looked at, there is one that will be best suited for your needs.

No matter what type of experience you have on the pickleball court or the style of play you choose to use when on that court, the best thing you can do to enhance your skills is to have the right paddle. So we certainly hope that everything that we have discussed above has been helpful in this decision-making process.