Adding weight to a pickleball paddle is one of the easiest ways to change how it feels and plays. This guide will help you decide if adding weight makes sense for your game.

What Adding Weight Actually Does

When you add weight to a paddle, you are changing three things:

1. Stability: Extra weight reduces twisting on off-centre hits.
2. Power and Depth: A heavier paddle carries more mass through the ball.
3. Swing Feel: Depending on where you place the weight, the paddle can feel faster or slower.

Common Reasons Players Add Weight

Adding weight may help if you feel your paddle twists on blocks or volleys, or struggle with stability in fast kitchen exchanges.

Lead Tape vs Tungsten Tape

Both are legal and commonly used. Tungsten is more forgiving for small adjustments.

Where to Place Weight and Why

• At 3 & 9 o’clock (sides of the paddle): Increases stability, reduces twisting. Most common starting point.
• At 12 o’clock (top of the paddle): Adds power and depth, can slow hand speed.
• Near the handle or throat: Improves balance.

How Much Weight Should You Add?

Start small. Begin with 2–4 grams total and test on the court.

Is Adding Weight Legal?

Yes. USA Pickleball allows weight tape as long as it doesn’t extend beyond the paddle edge or create sharp edges.

The Biggest Mistakes Players Make

• Adding too much weight at once
• Putting all the weight at the top of the paddle
• Copying a pro’s setup without understanding why

Try It Properly at IPOP

Our Pro Shop has a dedicated paddle tuning station where you can add tape, weigh your paddle accurately, and test it on court right away.