Choosing the best padel grip is essential for both comfort and performance. The right grip can improve your control, power, and overall feel during play, whilst also preventing injury. However, it can be difficult to determine what grip you have, what alternatives are available and whether they are appropriate for your needs.
Here are some of the best padel grips available, when to use them and why;

Key Considerations:

  • Existing Grip: Not all grips are created equal; Undergrips, grips and overgrips. When you purchase a racket, the selection can vary  
  • Sweat Absorption: If you sweat a lot, choose products based on their high sweat absorbency  
  • Comfort vs. Control: Tacky grips provide better control, while cushioned grips offer more comfort. Choose based on your preference
  • Vibration Reduction: If you suffer from padel elbow or similar issues, consider grips like Bullpadel Hesacore that reduce vibrations and the amount of effort needed to grip the racket
  • Grip Size: You will soon recognise whether your racket grip is too thin in your hand. Overgrips can be used to adjust the grip size to your preference

1. Undergrips/Standard Grip

When you hit the ball in padel, vibrations occur in the racket, which can be stressful for your hand and arm during intense play.
Undergrips reduce the fatigue in your wrist and arm so you can play for longer.  

Please note that some rackets only use an undergrip as factory standard.
This may be far too narrow for your style of play/size of hand and therefore, it would be appropriate to consider an overgrip.

Generally, there is no need to remove or replace an undergrip.

2. Overgrips

The purpose of an overgrip is to enhance the comfort, control, and overall performance of a player's grip of their racket.  
Overgrips are placed over the existing grip, are more cost-effective than replacing more expensive undergrips, assist with sweat absorption and enable you to customise the size of the grip.

VIBEPADEL - Grip 'n' Rip Padel Overgrip

  • Why it’s great: VIBEPADEL are newcomers compared to their tennis peers, championing padel-specifc products and cool designs
    A design for padel reduces the need to cut the grip to fit, which results in less waste and a more eco-friendly product
    Lots of comfort and grip without the thickness of tennis or badminton equivalents
    The sweat absorption also makes this a highly recommended overgrip
    You can buy this product here; https://amzn.to/3XpkJ4g

Wilson Pro Comofrt Overgrip

  • Why it’s great: This Wilson product is one of the most popular overgrips not just in padel but also in tennis. It offers a great combination of comfort and tackiness, making it suitable for players who sweat a lot. The Wilson Pro Overgrip Comfort is thicker, which provides a nice feel in the hand without significantly increasing the grip size.
    You can buy this product here; https://amzn.to/4dI7zFj or https://amzn.to/3T9HzKP

Tourna Grip

  • Why it’s great: Tourna Grip is famous for its absorbency. It’s a non-tacky grip that becomes grippier as it absorbs sweat, making it ideal for players who play in humid conditions or sweat a lot. It’s also highly durable, though some players might find it less comfortable due to its non-tacky nature.
    This grip only comes in one colour, which may  
    You can buy this product here; https://amzn.to/4cKwiYb

3. Alternative Grips

Alternative grips provide a different feel, giving you another option to consider.

Bullpadel Hesacore

  • Why it’s great: Bullpadel Hesacore is unique because it’s a hexagonal replacement grip designed to reduce vibrations and prevent injuries like tennis elbow. It offers a very comfortable and secure grip, enhancing control and reducing stress on the hand and arm. The Hesacore also provides a different feel compared to traditional grips, which many players find beneficial.
    Essentially, it’s a sleeve that you add to the racket  
    You can buy this product here; https://everythingpadel.co.uk/product/hesacore-padel-grip/ or https://amzn.to/4e3gOj7

NOX Custom Padel Grip

  • Why it’s great: An alternative to the Bullpadel Hesacore, this Nox Custom Padel grip provides greater customisation by considering how you grip your racket.
    Simply move the four rings where they are most comfortable and apply an overgrip to ensure that the rings stay in place
    It can be used over an existing undergrip/standard grip as a standalone item or as a base for overgrips
    You can buy this product here; https://everythingpadel.co.uk/product/nox-custom-padel-grip/  

Ultimately, the best grip for you depends on your playing style, preferences, and specific needs. It's often a good idea to try a few different grips to see which one suits you best.
Why not ask a friend to use their racket or ask your local centre whether they have demo rackets that offer an alternative grip?

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