Ping Pong Paddle Buyers Guide

Ping pong paddle dimensions, materials & playing styles

When it comes to ping pong or table tennis as it is also known, the right equipment can make all the difference. A good ping pong paddle can have a major impact on a player's performance, but choosing the right paddle can be tricky as there are so many options to choose from.

With this in mind we have created a comprehensive guide to help you decide which ping pong racket best suits your needs. By the end of this guide, you will be able to make an informed decision when it comes to buying a ping pong paddle.

Starting at the base, the blade is the solid part of the paddle, and it determines the power rating of your paddle. Depending on the material, lighter woods or carbon fibre blades are suited for attacking styles of play, whereas blades made from heavy wood will help defensive players. The blade plays a key role in determining a paddle’s weight, control and speed.

Interesting Fact – The ITTF (Internation Table Tennis Deration) requires at least 85% of the blade to be wood

As the name suggests, the handle on a ping pong paddle is the part of the paddle that you grip. The design and shape of the handle should ensure that you can comfortably grip the paddle in your hands. There are many different handle types which can suit a variety of playstyles including

Flared - This handle grows wider towards the end to prevent it from slipping out of a player's hand. Flared handles are widely popular in the US.

Straight - This handle is evenly shaped throughout, making it perfect for players who want to swap grips.

Anatomic - This handle is slightly curved

Some players like to customize their handles with wraps or grips for extra comfort and sweat absorption.

The rubber part of the paddle is the hitting surface which is glued to the blade on both sides. The rubber surface can determine the spin, speed and control of the paddle. There are many variations of surface for bats including:

Pimpled out (pips) - Pips are used for defensive play; pip size can range from long to short.

Smooth Rubber - This is the most common type of paddle surface which allows for high levels of spring and control.

Tacky & Non-Tacky – Tacky rubbers are typically Chinese-style rubbers which grip the ball for more spin. Non-tacky rubbers which are common in the US and Europe prioritize speed over spin.

Between the rubber and the blade, there is a sponge layer that has a significant effect on a paddle's performance characteristics. The sponge’s thickness and hardness can influence the speed and spin that is generated. The thicker the sponge, the more speed and you get on hits.

Thicker Sponge (2.0mm – 2.5mm) - More speed and less control.

Thinner Sponge (2.0mm or less) – More control and less speed.

It is recommended that beginners use table tennis bats with a thinner sponge for control, and professionals use a thicker sponge so they can get more speed and spin on the ball.

Although there are no regulations for the dimensions of a ping pong paddle in the US or internationally for that matter, there are standard dimensions which are widely used by most ITTF approved bats.

Although there are no regulations for the dimensions of a ping pong paddle in the US or internationally for that matter, there are standard dimensions which are widely used by most ITTF approved bats.

Shakehand Grip

The shakehand grip is the most common style, mainly used in the west. The way this grip works is by holding the paddle handle like you're shaking a hand. Simply wrap your fingers around the handle with your index finger resting along the back of the paddle and your thumb on the front. This grip offers a balance of control for both forehand and backhand shorts, making it great for all round players.

Chinese Penhold Grip

This grip is ideal for short handles and almost looks like you are holding a pen. The Chinese penhold grip focuses on the handle pointing upwards, with your thumb and index finger wrapping around the front of the blade, while the other fingers curl against the back. This grip is known for its quick forehand strokes and wrist flexibility. Modern Chinese penhold players often use the reverse backhand technique to strengthen their backhand game.

Japanese Penhold Grip

Similar to the Chinese style, the Japanese penhold uses the thumb and the index finger on the front of the blade with the other fingers on the back for support. The only difference is that players using this grip typically go for a flared handle which is slightly longer compared to a shorter Chinese penhold handle. Japanese penhold players rely on footwork and powerful forehand attacks.

We hope that this guide gives you more of an understanding of which ping pong paddle you need. We also sell a wide variety of other ping pong equipment including ping pong tables, balls & nets.