Pickleball Overgrip

Tacky overgrip

Tourna Grip Original (non-tacky), Wilson Pro Overgrip (tacky), Gamma Supreme

Feel: Sticky feel, grabs your hand

Best for: Players who want maximum grip control without squeezing tight. Dry conditions.

Dry / absorbent overgrip

Tourna Grip Original, Head Primo

Feel: Dry, cloth-like texture

Best for: Players with sweaty hands. Humid outdoor conditions. The material absorbs moisture instead of getting slippery.

Thin overgrip (0.5mm)

Wilson Pro, Babolat VS Grip

Feel: Minimal added thickness, maintains original grip size

Best for: Players who want to replace grip feel without changing circumference.

Thick cushion overgrip

Gamma Honeycomb, Prince Duo Tack

Feel: Softer, more cushioned

Best for: Players with elbow or wrist concerns, the extra cushioning absorbs impact vibration.

When should you replace your pickleball paddle grip?

Replace your pickleball paddle grip when: the tape is slippery or no longer tacky, the grip feels worn smooth or shiny, you notice the paddle twisting in your hand during shots, the grip feels thin or you can feel the underlying handle, or you have visible tears or peeling. Active players typically replace their overgrip every 10-20 hours of play. Outdoor play in heat and humidity accelerates grip wear. A worn grip increases the tendency to over-grip tightly, which contributes to elbow injury.

How do you put an overgrip on a pickleball paddle?

To wrap a pickleball overgrip: start at the butt cap, angle the tape diagonally upward, and overlap each layer by about 1/4 inch. Keep consistent tension throughout, too loose creates air pockets, too tight compresses the cushioning. Wrap up to just below the bevel edge at the paddle face end. Secure with the finishing tape included in the package. The whole process takes about 2-3 minutes once you have the technique. Watch one application before your first attempt, the visual helps.

What is the difference between a replacement grip and an overgrip?

A replacement grip is thicker (2-3mm) and replaces the entire base grip that came with your paddle. An overgrip is thin (0.5-0.8mm) and wraps over the existing base grip to add tackiness and absorb sweat without significantly changing grip size. Most players use overgrips for routine maintenance, changing them frequently, while replacement grips are changed less often when the base grip itself wears through. Using multiple overgrips adds grip circumference, helpful for players who need a slightly larger grip size.