What is a Pickleball Training Paddle?

Even compared to a compact example of a standard paddle length, training paddles are typically shorter overall, feature a longer handle and a much smaller hitting surface.

Although the dimensions are different than standard paddles, materially most training paddles are equipped with the same polypropylene core and a raw carbon fiber hitting surface.

The idea behind practicing with a training paddle is that they can help players focus on precision, rally tolerance (consistency) and shot selection. Playing with a shorter/smaller paddle you quickly learn to do more with less because you have to be more surgical with your swing path and wise with regards to shot choice.

Training paddles are a lot of fun and helpful if:

• both singles players or doubles teams practice with them.
• dominant players want to challenge themselves and level the playing field by letting the other players use standard paddles.

It is up to the player(s) whether everyone on the same court must play with a training paddle. They are contagiously fun to play with and are also priced right, making them ideal gifts.

The shorter paddle length is designed to put the entire face of the training paddle right where the sweetspot of your standard paddle is located.

That said, most of us here who play with them feel the transition to the training paddle is more challenging than going back to your standard paddle. We actually assert that playing with your own paddle is easier after practicing with various training paddles.

In a word, no. We are not entirely certain why because their dimensions are within the allowed maximum length and width, but training paddles are not legal for sanctioned tournament play.

Since it is expensive to submit paddles to USA Pickleball for approval, our guess is that they are not even submitted.

The Franklin Sweet Spot Training Paddle has been featured on our site since 2023 and has become extremely popular.

We have not tested every training paddle available, but of the several we have, the Franklin Trainer is so far the heaviest at around 7.5 to 7.8 ounces. It’s also surprisingly easy to control and play with, even in competitive point play.

Its 7.3-inch long handle comprises almost half of the paddle's 15-inch overall length, which leaves plenty of room for a two-handed backhand if that’s your preference. The Sweet Spot Trainer also combines a 16mm polypropylene core with a raw carbon fiber hitting surface. Due to the smaller hitting surface, the Franklin Training paddle is far quieter as well.

The Master Athletics Training Paddle operates off a 15-inch overall length, with 7.5 inches being devoted to the handle. At a scant 6.5 ounces, this training paddle is slippery through the air, making it very easy to get the paddle into position on time.

In addition, Master Athletics combines a 16mm polypropylene core with a raw carbon fiber hitting surface, which produces a bit of core power and great spin potential. Like most training paddles, this one is also very quiet compared to most standard paddles.

Training paddles are easier and quieter to play with than most would think. Training paddles also require players to refine their swing path and stroke technique, which definitely results in improvement under pressure.

Pickleball Warehouse has been helping players find the best equipment for their game since 2015. If you have more questions about training paddles or would like personalized guidance on paddle selection, you can give our gear experts a call at 1-800-679-5954.