Keeping Paddles, Balls and Shoes in Good Shape
Simple habits that stretch the life of your paddle, balls, shoes and bag, plus the signs that mean replacement.
Short answer: wipe the paddle face, rotate your balls, dry your shoes in open air, and replace anything cracked. A few minutes of care saves real money.
Paddle face
Grit and dust build up on the face and blunt its grip, most of all on raw carbon. A slightly damp microfiber cloth after play lifts most of it, and cleaning erasers made for textured faces handle the rest. Stay away from harsh chemicals and scouring pads.
Paddle handle
A worn, slick grip makes you squeeze, which hurts both feel and forearm. Overgrip is inexpensive and quick to fit. Change it when it turns smooth or starts to fray.
Paddle edge
Scraping the rim on the court while you dig out low balls wears down the edge guard and can crack the face. Check the guard now and then, and use a cover between sessions. Keep paddles out of hot cars too, since heat weakens the adhesives.
Balls
- Keep them at ordinary room temperature, because cold makes outdoor balls crack sooner
- Rotate through several so wear is shared
- Retire any that go soft, warp or crack, since a dead ball spoils your timing
Shoes
- Wear court shoes only on court, as pavement chews the sole
- Let them dry in open air rather than sealed in a bag
- Replace them once the tread is smooth or the heel feels loose, because tired shoes invite injuries
Bag
A bag with a vented shoe pocket and a padded paddle sleeve keeps sweaty shoes away from your paddles and protects the face in transit.
When to replace
A dead spot, a cracked face or a loose core means the paddle is done. Before you buy, check the promo code page. For footwear and balls, see court shoes for pickleball and indoor or outdoor pickleballs.