Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball player or just picking up a paddle for the first time, one often overlooked but crucial piece of equipment is the overgrip. Choosing the best pickleball overgrip can significantly impact your performance, comfort, and confidence on the court. At Pickleball Revolution, we know the right grip can be the difference between a solid return and a fumbled rally.
What Is a Pickleball Overgrip?
An overgrip is a thin, removable layer of tape or synthetic material that wraps around the handle of your paddle. While pickleball paddles come with built-in grips, an overgrip enhances feel, absorbency, and traction. Think of it as a customizable add-on to improve how your paddle fits in your hand.
Players use overgrips for a variety of reasons:
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Better moisture absorption to combat sweaty palms
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Enhanced grip for a more secure hold
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Slight cushioning for improved comfort
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Extended life of the paddle’s original grip
Why the Right Overgrip Matters
The best pickleball overgrip isn’t just about color or branding. It’s about performance and protection. A great overgrip helps prevent your paddle from slipping, reducing mishits and allowing for better control. It also protects your joints by minimizing vibration and providing ergonomic comfort during long play sessions.
Moreover, sweaty hands are a common issue for pickleball enthusiasts. A high-quality overgrip wicks away moisture and keeps your paddle firmly in place, even during the most intense rallies.
Features to Look For in the Best Pickleball Overgrip
Before diving into specific product recommendations, let’s break down what makes an overgrip stand out:
1. Sweat Absorption
Look for grips with high absorbency ratings. If your hands tend to sweat a lot, a tacky, moisture-wicking overgrip is a must.
2. Tackiness
Some players prefer a “sticky” feel, while others like a more dry, smooth touch. Tackier grips offer more hold but may wear out faster.
3. Thickness and Cushioning
Do you prefer a thicker grip for comfort or a thinner one for paddle feedback and quick wrist movement? Thicker overgrips provide more cushioning, helpful for those with joint pain or arthritis.
4. Durability
The best pickleball overgrip should last through many games without slipping or unraveling. Look for multi-pack options for value and convenience.
5. Ease of Application
Not all grips are created equal. Some are more user-friendly when it comes to wrapping, especially for beginners.
Top 5 Best Pickleball Overgrips of the Year
At Pickleball Revolution, we’ve tested dozens of overgrips. These are our top choices based on performance, comfort, durability, and customer feedback.
1. Tourna Grip Original Dry Feel Overgrip
Why It’s Great: Tourna Grip is known as the OG of overgrips. It features a dry feel that activates with moisture, which makes it ideal for players who sweat excessively.
Highlights:
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Excellent moisture absorption
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Non-slip performance
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Slightly rougher texture for solid hold
Best For: Players who prefer a dry, chalky feel and play in humid conditions.
2. Gamma Supreme Overgrip
Why It’s Great: This grip combines tackiness and comfort with excellent durability. It’s a popular choice among both tennis and pickleball players.
Highlights:
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Comfortable and tacky
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Absorbs sweat effectively
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Long-lasting
Best For: Players who want a balance between cushion and control.
3. HEAD Xtreme Soft Overgrip
Why It’s Great: HEAD’s overgrip offers one of the softest and most absorbent surfaces on the market. It also comes in vibrant color options for a stylish touch.
Highlights:
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Ultra-soft and breathable
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Comfortable during long sessions
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Stylish color variety
Best For: Players who value comfort and aesthetics equally.
4. Wilson Pro Overgrip
Why It’s Great: Wilson Pro is a consistent performer, offering a tacky surface with minimal slippage. It’s the go-to grip for many professionals.
Highlights:
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Consistent performance
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Thin and tacky
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Trusted by athletes worldwide
Best For: Advanced players who want precision control and reliable performance.
5. Yonex Super Grap Overgrip
Why It’s Great: A favorite among badminton players that transitions well into pickleball, this grip is thin, tacky, and versatile.
Highlights:
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Great tackiness-to-thickness ratio
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Versatile for all racquet sports
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Comes in a pack of 3 or 30 for value
Best For: Players looking for professional-grade overgrips at a competitive price.
How to Apply a Pickleball Overgrip
If you’re new to overgrips, don’t worry. Applying one is simple with a little practice.
Step-by-step:
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Remove any old overgrip from your paddle handle.
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Start at the base (butt cap) of the handle.
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Wrap the overgrip at a slight angle, overlapping by 1/8 inch.
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Pull tightly but evenly to avoid bubbles or wrinkles.
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Finish with the included adhesive tape near the top.
You’re now ready to hit the court with the best pickleball overgrip snug and secure!
When to Replace Your Overgrip
Overgrips wear out over time. How often you replace yours depends on how often you play and how much you sweat. On average, casual players might change overgrips every few weeks, while competitive players could be swapping them out weekly.
Signs it’s time to replace:
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Grip feels slick or slippery
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Visible tears or thinning
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Loss of tackiness or cushioning
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Game with the Best Pickleball Overgrip
Your paddle is an extension of your arm—and the grip is your only point of contact. Don’t overlook the importance of selecting the best pickleball overgrip. Whether you prefer something dry and rough like Tourna Grip or soft and cushioned like HEAD Xtreme Soft, the right grip can dramatically improve your game.
At Pickleball Revolution, we believe great gear leads to great play. Upgrade your paddle today and feel the difference an elite overgrip can make!
