Pickleball Grip Strategies: Players of all levels are learning that using the right grip can change their pickleball game. Different grips work better for different shots, and many players switch grips during matches to improve control, power, and speed. Understanding the right grip can help players succeed at any skill level.
Grips Help Players Control the Game
In pickleball, there is no single best grip. Players are encouraged to find what works for their style, strength, and goals. Many, especially former tennis players, use 2–3 grips depending on the situation or the side of the court.
The main grips are the Continental, Eastern, Semi-Western, and Western. Each offers strengths and weaknesses for different shots.
The Most Common Pickleball Grips
Continental Grip
The Continental grip is used for dinks at the kitchen, volleys, blocks, and overheads. Players love it because it is simple and allows quick changes between forehand and backhand at the net.
“It’s simple. Versatile. And easy to transition between forehand and backhand at the net,” players say.
However, it is not ideal for topspin drives from the baseline. The paddle angle can make rolling the ball harder.
It works best for players who value net play, consistency, and simplicity.
Eastern Grip
By rotating the paddle slightly, players use the Eastern grip for drives, drops, and serves. It gives good control and moderate topspin.
“It’s a true all-rounder. Offers a naturally open paddle face for backhand dinks and slices,” players explain.
But it can make backhand flicks and resets tricky because the paddle face opens too much.
It suits intermediate players wanting both spin and precision without frequent grip changes.
More Grips for Special Playstyles
Semi-Western Grip
Rotating the paddle even more, players use the Semi-Western grip for topspin drives, kick serves, and baseline play.
“This grip makes it easier to generate topspin and drive the ball aggressively,” players say.
It is less effective for resets or quick exchanges at the net.
It fits players with strong baseline games and those who prefer spin-heavy shots.
Western Grip
With the palm almost under the handle, the Western grip creates heavy topspin and extreme angles.
“It lets you hit ridiculous topspin and late-contact shots,” players share.
However, it is hard for soft touches at the kitchen.
This grip is sometimes used by tennis players adjusting to pickleball or those who play mostly from the baseline.
Even experts admit, “I wouldn’t recommend a full western for pickleball,” because it causes more problems than it solves.
Switching Grips Can Boost Performance
Many players, especially those above 4.0 skill level, switch grips during games. They may use:
Semi-western or Eastern for serves and baseline drives
Continental for volleys and resets
Some players even adjust based on court side or during split steps.
“I switch during my split step without even thinking about it,” one player says.
Another adds, “If I see a pop-up, I rotate to eastern and crush it.”
A third shares, “During hands battles, I go straight to continental for control.”
Still, advanced players agree: “You don’t have to switch. But you should know when your grip is limiting you.”
Choosing the Right Grip for Your Game
Players can match grips to their style:
Beginners: Continental for simplicity
Net Rushers: Continental + Eastern
Spin Drillers: Semi-Western (forehand) + Continental (backhand)
Power Baseliners: Semi-Western or Western
Touch Artists: Eastern + Continental
Two-Handed Backhand Fans: Semi-Western (forehand) + Eastern/Continental (backhand)
Pickleball Grip Choices Matter for Growth
Learning the right grip helps players improve faster and avoid mistakes. As they grow more comfortable, players can add grip changes during games. Knowing which grip to use can mean the difference between a win and a loss. Players who master grip switching can handle more shots and be ready for any situation.
News in Brief: Pickleball Grip Strategies
Pickleball players are learning to use different grips for different shots. The Continental, Eastern, Semi-Western, and Western grips each offer advantages. Many players switch grips during matches to boost control and power. Knowing which grip to use can improve performance and help players advance.
ALSO READ: Mastering the Grip: A Beginner’s Guide to Pickleball Paddle Grips