Glossary
Grip size
The circumference of a paddle handle, usually 4 to 4.5 inches, measured to match a player's hand size.
Grip size refers to the circumference of a paddle's handle, most commonly somewhere between about 4 inches and 4.5 inches on adult paddles. It is a separate measurement from the paddle's overall length or face size, and manufacturers often offer the same paddle model in more than one grip size.
Getting grip size right affects both comfort and performance. A grip that is too small can force a player to squeeze harder to keep control, which tires the forearm faster and can contribute to soreness. A grip that is too large limits wrist snap on shots like spin serves and can make the paddle feel harder to maneuver quickly at the net.
Players unsure of their ideal size often measure the distance from the middle crease of their palm to the tip of their ring finger, or start with a slightly smaller grip and build it up using overgrip layers. Buying based on hand size alone without accounting for personal preference is a common early mistake.