Long Handle Pickleball Paddles: Reach and Control Guide

Ever wish your pickleball paddle gave you just a little more reach at the kitchen line, or extra stability for a two-handed backhand? That’s where long-handle pickleball paddles (also called elongated pickleball paddles) come in. While standard paddles remain popular for their forgiveness and larger hitting surface, extended handles provide extra leverage, control, and comfort, especially for players with bigger hands or tennis backgrounds.

In this guide, we’ll compare long handle vs standard pickleball paddles, explain the benefits of long handle pickleball paddles, cover grip length and handle size options, and help you choose the best paddle for your game. We’ll also highlight how Max5 long-handle pickleball paddles stand out with carbon fiber construction, cushioned grips, and lightweight designs.

What is a Long Handle Pickleball Paddle?

A long handle pickleball paddle simply has a longer grip section than standard models, usually 5.25-5.5 inches or more, compared to about 5 inches for a typical paddle. Some are also built in elongated shapes (longer and narrower paddle faces) to extend reach.

Per USA Pickleball rules, the combined length and width of a paddle cannot exceed 24 inches, so manufacturers balance handle length by adjusting paddle width or height.

Key Difference:

• Standard Paddles → Larger face, more forgiving, easier at the net.
• Long Handle/Elongated Paddles → More reach, leverage, and comfort for two-handed shots.

Benefits of Long Handle Pickleball Paddles

Here are the main advantages players report when using paddles with extended or elongated handles:

1. More Reach At The Net

A longer handle gives you more leverage and allows you to extend your reach, which is useful for returning serves, overheads, and covering balls at the kitchen line.

2. Better for Two-Handed Backhand or Forehand

If you hit two-handed backhands or forehands, a longer handle (like the 5.3″ handle on the Max5 Vintage MX-0.1) gives you better grip positioning and control.

3. More Leveraged Power

A longer handle works like a longer lever, generating more power on serves, drives, and overheads.

4. Improved Grip Comfort

Players with larger hands often prefer longer and sometimes thicker grips. Cushioned grips on pickleball paddles help reduce vibration and fatigue. The Max5 non-slip, cushioned grips are especially praised for long-match comfort.

5. Better Control

With more room, you can adjust your grip higher or lower depending on whether you need finesse dinks or baseline power.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Long Handle Pickleball Paddle

While long handle paddles have clear advantages, it’s important to know what to look for before buying one:

Paddle Weight

• Lightweight (7–7.5 oz): Easier maneuverability, faster net play.
• Midweight (7.6–8.4 oz): Balanced control and power.
• Heavyweight (8.5 oz+): More powerful but can strain the wrist.

Paddle Shape

Some long handle paddles are elongated, which improves reach but reduces the sweet spot. Others keep a wider face for better forgiveness. Choose based on whether you value reach or control more.

Core Material

• Polymer Core: Quieter play, softer feel.
• Nomex Core: Harder, louder, and more powerful.
• Aluminum Core: Lightweight but less durable.

Grip Size

A longer handle doesn’t always mean a thicker grip. Choose a grip size that fits your hand comfortably to avoid fatigue.

Along with handle length, the paddle’s material—like carbon or fiberglass—plays a big role in control and power. Learn more in our guide on the best materials for pickleball paddles

Who Should Use Long Handle Pickleball Paddles?

Long handle paddles are not for everyone, but they are an excellent choice if you:

• Transition from tennis or racquetball and use two-handed shots.
• Want more power and spin on serves and drives.
• Have larger hands and need a more comfortable grip.
• Prefer versatility in both net play and baseline rallies.

If you are more focused on control, dinking, and soft play at the kitchen line, a shorter handle paddle might feel more manoeuvrable

Recommendation: Max5 Vintage MX-0.1 is ideal for intermediate and advanced players who want better control and longer reach, and it’s USAPA-approved, so you’re ready for tournaments

Pickleball Paddle Handle Size and Grip Guide

When shopping, focus on both length and comfort:

• Handle Length: Standard ≈ 5.0-5.25 in; Long handle = 5.25-5.5+ in.
• Grip Circumference: Choose based on hand size (too thin = unstable, too thick = hard to control).
• Cushion & Non-Slip Wraps: Look for cushioned grips that prevent twisting and reduce wrist fatigue.
• Weight & Balance: Long handles can shift the balance. Choose a lightweight pickleball paddle (7.5-8.5 oz) to avoid strain.
• Face/Core Material: Carbon fiber faces + polymer or premium honeycomb cores are the gold standard. Max 5 uses raw T700 carbon fiber and a polypropylene core (16mm) for superior shot feel.
• Grip Comfort/Cushioning: Look for cushioned grips, non-slip material, maybe vibration dampening, especially important if using two hands, or if you play many matches.

Best Long Handle Pickleball Paddles

Max5 Vintage MX-0.1 Carbon Pickleball Paddle (Black & Red)

• Carbon fiber face + engineered polymer core = spin + control.
• Extended cushioned grip prevents slippage, supports long rallies.
• Lightweight build avoids fatigue, even with elongated leverage.
• USAPA approved and tested by real players.

How Your Game Changes with a Long Handle Paddle

Switching to or using a long handle paddle will affect your game in the following ways:

• You may find stronger serves and overheads become more powerful because of the extra leverage.
• Two-handed backhands or forehands feel steadier and powerful; less wrist strain.
• When playing near net / in fast exchanges, you might need to adjust your footwork because swings can be slightly slower, or recovery takes a little more time.
• You’ll likely become more aware of grip adjustments (hand position) to maintain balance.
• Off-center hits may feel worse initially, so you’ll want to practice precision and sweet spot awareness.

Tips for Playing with Long Handle Pickleball Paddles

1. Adjust Your Footwork: Because the paddle is slightly longer, recovery may take a bit more time—focus on quick steps.
2. Practice Two-Handed Shots: Use the handle length to your advantage for added power and stability.
3. Experiment with Grip Pressure: A lighter hold allows more wrist action, while a firm grip gives stronger control.
4. Use Leverage in Serves: The added length helps you swing with more force—maximize it for deep, powerful serves.

Conclusion

If you want more reach, better stability for two-handed shots, and leverage for power, a long handle or elongated pickleball paddle could be exactly what your game needs. Just be aware of trade-offs: possibly smaller face, less forgiveness, and different handling at net. For many intermediate to advanced players, the benefits outweigh the downsides, especially when paired with lightweight builds and cushioned grips.

If you’re ready to improve two-handed control, gain more reach, and increase shot power, a long-handle paddle like the Max5 Vintage MX-0.1 is a smart upgrade.

Disclaimer:

This guide is for informational purposes only. All product details and specifications are accurate; some visuals may be AI-generated or illustrative.