Sweaty hands can ruin your pickleball game. It’s slippery, uncomfortable, and makes it hard to control your paddle. Finding the right grip can make a huge difference. I’ve tried a bunch of different grips over the years, and some are definitely better than others when it comes to handling moisture. A good grip will give you confidence, improve your control, and let you focus on the game, not your sweaty palms. Here are five of the best pickleball grips I’ve found that really help with sweat.
Product Overview/Quick Summary:
- Gamma Supreme Overgrip: Tacky feel, good absorption.
- Tourna Grip: Unique dry feel, popular with pros.
- Selkirk Tour Performance Grip: Comfortable, cushioned, and absorbent.
- Wilson Pro Overgrip: Thin, tacky, and widely available.
- HEAD Hydrosorb Pro Grip: Designed for high absorbency and comfort.
Top 5 Best Pickleball Grips for Sweaty Hands
Gamma Supreme Overgrip
The Gamma Supreme Overgrip is a popular choice for players who want a tacky feel and good sweat absorption. It’s designed to provide a secure grip, even when your hands get sweaty. I’ve found it to be a reliable option for maintaining control during intense matches.
Pros:
- ✅ Very tacky surface provides excellent grip.
- ✅ Good sweat absorption helps keep hands dry.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- ❌ Tacky feel might not be for everyone.
- ❌ Can get a bit slippery when extremely wet.
- ❌ Some users find the grip wears down quicker than others.
Verdict: A great option for players who prefer a tacky grip and need reliable sweat absorption. It’s a solid all-around choice for most players.
Tourna Grip
Tourna Grip is known for its unique dry feel that actually becomes tackier as it absorbs moisture. Many professional tennis and pickleball players swear by it. I remember switching to Tourna Grip during a particularly humid summer, and it made a noticeable difference in my game.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent absorption; gets tackier when wet.
- ✅ Thin profile provides good feel of the paddle.
- ✅ Trusted by many professional players.
Cons:
- ❌ Some players might find the dry feel unusual at first.
- ❌ Can wear out relatively quickly, especially in high-use areas.
- ❌ Not as much cushioning as some other grips.
Verdict: Perfect for players who hate the feel of a slippery, wet grip. It’s especially effective in hot and humid conditions.
Selkirk Tour Performance Grip
The Selkirk Tour Performance Grip prioritizes both comfort and performance. It offers a cushioned feel along with enhanced sweat absorption. Selkirk is a well-known brand in pickleball, and their grips are designed to complement their paddles.
Pros:
- ✅ Comfortable, cushioned feel.
- ✅ Good sweat absorption to keep hands dry.
- ✅ Provides a secure and confident grip.
Cons:
- ❌ Might be too thick for players who prefer a thinner grip.
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than other grips.
- ❌ Some users find the cushioning reduces paddle feel.
Verdict: A solid choice for players seeking a balance of comfort and performance, particularly if you appreciate extra cushioning.
Wilson Pro Overgrip
The Wilson Pro Overgrip is a widely available and popular option known for its thin profile and tacky feel. It’s a versatile grip that works well for many players. I’ve used this grip on everything from tennis racquets to pickleball paddles, and it’s always a reliable performer.
Pros:
- ✅ Thin profile provides excellent feel of the paddle.
- ✅ Tacky surface offers good grip.
- ✅ Widely available and affordable.
Cons:
- ❌ Sweat absorption is decent but not the best.
- ❌ Can wear out relatively quickly.
- ❌ Tacky feel can diminish as it gets saturated with sweat.
Verdict: A good all-around grip that offers a balance of feel, tackiness, and affordability. It’s a solid choice for recreational players.
HEAD Hydrosorb Pro Grip
The HEAD Hydrosorb Pro Grip is specifically designed for high sweat absorption and comfort. It features a perforated surface to enhance moisture-wicking. This grip is a great option if you tend to sweat a lot during your games.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent sweat absorption due to perforated surface.
- ✅ Comfortable and cushioned feel.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- ❌ Might be too thick for players who prefer a thinner grip.
- ❌ Perforated surface can sometimes feel slightly rough.
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than some other options.
Verdict: Ideal for players who need maximum sweat absorption and appreciate a comfortable, cushioned feel.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pickleball grip can seem overwhelming, but focusing on a few key factors can make the process easier.
- Material: Different materials offer different levels of tackiness and absorption. Some grips are made of absorbent fabrics, while others use synthetic materials designed for grip.
- Thickness: Thicker grips provide more cushioning, while thinner grips offer better feel of the paddle. Consider your preference and hand size.
- Tackiness: Tackiness refers to the stickiness of the grip. Some players prefer a very tacky grip, while others prefer a more subtle feel.
- Absorption: If you have sweaty hands, prioritize grips with good sweat absorption. Look for grips with perforated surfaces or moisture-wicking materials.
- Durability: Some grips wear out faster than others, especially with frequent use. Consider the durability of the grip if you play often.
- Price: Grips range in price from a few dollars to over $10. Consider your budget and how often you’ll need to replace the grip.
FAQs
Q: How often should I replace my pickleball grip?
A: It depends on how often you play and how much you sweat. As a general rule, replace your grip every 1-3 months, or whenever it starts to feel slippery or worn out.
Q: Can I use a tennis grip on my pickleball paddle?
A: Yes, tennis grips and pickleball grips are interchangeable. They are the same size and shape.
Q: What’s the difference between an overgrip and a replacement grip?
A: A replacement grip is installed directly on the paddle handle, replacing the original grip. An overgrip is wrapped over the existing grip to add tackiness and absorption.
Q: How do I install a pickleball grip?
A: Most grips come with an adhesive backing. Simply peel off the backing and wrap the grip around the handle, overlapping each layer slightly. Secure the end with the included finishing tape.
Q: Are thicker grips better for shock absorption?
A: Yes, thicker grips generally provide more cushioning and shock absorption, which can be helpful if you experience discomfort in your hand or arm.
Conclusion
Finding the best pickleball grip for sweaty hands can significantly improve your game. Experiment with different materials, thicknesses, and levels of tackiness to find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try a few different options until you find the perfect fit. A good grip will give you more control, confidence, and comfort on the court.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
