Drew Pierce - Pickleball Rookie

The Ultimate Pickleball Grip Guide: Continental, Eastern, and Western Explained

April 21, 2026November 26, 2025 by Drew Pierce

The Continental Grip (“Hammer Grip”) is the best all-purpose grip for beginners because it requires no hand adjustments at the net. To improve control, add an overgrip: use Tourna Grip for sweaty hands or Wilson Pro for comfort.

If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while, you’ve probably realized that how you hold your paddle matters—a lot. Your grip affects everything from power to precision, and choosing the right one can transform your game.

In this guide, we’ll break down the three main pickleball grips: Continental, Eastern, and Western…and dive into overgrips to help you maximize comfort and control on the court.

The Ultimate 2025 Pickleball Gift Guide: 10 Ideas for Every Budget

November 30, 2025November 24, 2025 by Drew Pierce

The best pickleball gifts for 2025 range from the Franklin X-40 balls (the perfect $15 stocking stuffer) to the Spinshot Machine (the ultimate $2,000 splurge). For beginners, the JOOLA Essentials Set is the top choice, while stylish players will love the Recess paddle collection.

Recess Pickleball Paddle: The Instagram-Worthy Paddle

Looking for the perfect blend of style and substance? Recess paddles have taken the pickleball world by storm with their eye-catching designs and quality construction. These aesthetic beauties feature durable fiberglass surfaces with honeycomb polypropylene cores that actually perform on the court. Whether you’re shopping for someone who loves gingham prints, trendy colorways, or wants a paddle that looks as good hanging on the fence as it does in their hand, Recess delivers. Great for recreational players who want to show their personality while playing their best game. This is the gift for “Her” (or anyone who appreciates court-ready style).

Why the SwiftNet 2.1 Is Worth Every Penny (And Why I Threw Out My Cheap Net)

November 20, 2025 by Drew Pierce

The SwiftNet 2.1 solves the #1 problem with portable nets: sagging. By using a recycled carbon fiber boom, it maintains perfect regulation tension without bowing. At only 17 lbs, it is half the weight of standard steel nets, making it the gold standard for players who want “true court” play in their driveway.

You know that thing you bought on Amazon for $100 because you thought all portable pickleball nets were basically the same?

Yeah. I had one of those too.

The metal poles started rusting after three months. Setup took 20 agonizing minutes every single time, which meant less time actually playing. But the absolute worst part?

Is the Slinger Bag Worth $949? My Honest Review for Solo Players

November 30, 2025November 20, 2025 by Drew Pierce

The Slinger Bag ($949) justifies its price by acting as a portable, 144-ball capacity “coach” that pays for itself in 3 months compared to private lessons. While cheaper machines like the Franklin Sports exist, they lack the oscillation, battery life, and app control required for serious solo training.

Drilling alone is boring. There, I said it. Hitting against a wall ruins your rhythm. You want to practice ‘fast hands’ volleys, but you have no partner. And don’t even get me started on trying to work on your third shot drop when the only thing dropping is your motivation to schlep to the courts by yourself.

What’s Next for the $3 Billion Pickleball Boom?

November 20, 2025September 28, 2025 by Drew Pierce

The $3 billion pickleball market is poised for massive corporate entry in 2025, with major brands like Nike and Under Armour likely to acquire paddle tech or launch specific footwear. For investors, the real opportunity lies in “Pickleball-tainment” venues and premium apparel, as the sport transitions from a hobby to a permanent athletic category.

Pickleball isn’t just a weekend hobby anymore—it’s becoming a business goldmine that’s caught the attention of major corporations worldwide. After diving deep into market research and industry trends, I’ve uncovered some fascinating predictions about which major brands will soon enter this explosive market and why the opportunity is too big to ignore.

Demystifying Pickleball: Your Top 14 Questions Answered (Before You Even Hit the Court!)

December 7, 2025September 16, 2025 by Drew Pierce

Pickleball is a beginner-friendly sport that combines tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Played on a smaller court with a paddle and plastic ball, it is famous for its simple rules—like the underhand serve and “two-bounce” rule—making it accessible and fun for all ages and fitness levels.

So, you’ve heard the buzz. Pickleball. It’s everywhere! Your neighbors are playing it, your local community center just added courts, and even professional athletes are getting in on the action. But maybe you’re feeling a little lost in the sauce, wondering what all the fuss is about. Don’t worry, you’re not alone!

We’ve compiled the 14 most frequently asked questions from curious newcomers like yourself, along with clear, concise, and fun answers to get you up to speed. By the time you finish this, you’ll be ready to grab a paddle and confidently step onto the court!

Master the Chill: Your Ultimate Guide to Cold-Weather Pickleball

March 3, 2026September 5, 2025 by Drew Pierce

To play pickleball in the cold, wear layers (base, fleece, wind shell) and use a softer ball like the ONIX Fuse G2 to prevent cracking, which happens below 45°F. Expect the ball to feel harder and bounce lower. To avoid injury, double your warm-up time to 15 minutes and wear court shoes with deep tread.

Don’t let dropping temperatures send you into hibernation! Playing pickleball in the cold presents a unique set of challenges, from what to wear to how the ball flies. But with the right preparation and a little know-how, you can stay on the court all year long.

This guide answers all your burning questions about playing pickleball in chilly weather, offering simple, thorough, and ridiculously helpful advice.

The 11 Most Common Pickleball Injuries (And How to Avoid Them)

June 16, 2026September 1, 2025 by Drew Pierce

The most common pickleball injuries are wrist fractures, ankle sprains, and “pickleball elbow,” particularly for players over 50. Most are caused by falls or overuse. To stay safe, prioritize proper court shoes to prevent slips, warm up before every game, and focus on balance and core exercises off the court.

Let’s be honest—pickleball might look like a gentle game, but it can be surprisingly tough on your body. Whether you’re a kitchen warrior or a baseline bomber, injuries happen. The good news? Most of them are totally preventable if you know what to watch out for.

Here’s the real talk on the 11 most common pickleball injuries and how to keep yourself off the sidelines.

How to Choose the Perfect Pickleball Paddle for Your Game

March 1, 2026August 11, 2025 by Drew Pierce

To choose the perfect pickleball paddle, prioritize weight and material. For beginners, the ideal setup is a lightweight paddle (7.0–7.8 oz) with a polymer core and graphite face, offering the best control and injury prevention. Ensure the grip size fits your hand (typically 4–4.5 inches); when in doubt, choose smaller and add an overgrip.

So, you’re hooked on pickleball. Welcome to the club! You’ve learned the rules, you’re getting the hang of the dink, and you’re starting to hold your own on the court. But now you’re facing a new challenge: choosing your very own pickleball paddle.

With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find the perfect paddle for your game.

Beginner Pickleball Drills: Essential Exercises to Elevate Your Game

March 1, 2026July 2, 2025 by Drew Pierce

Two pickleball players demonstrating a dinking drill in the non-volley zone

To elevate your game, beginners should focus on four core drills: Dinking (for soft control), Volleys (for quick net reactions), Groundstrokes (for baseline consistency), and Serve/Return placement. Practice these weekly to build muscle memory, improve footwork, and develop the consistency needed to win matches.

Pickleball has taken the world by storm, and if you’re new to the court, you’re likely eager to improve your skills. While playing games is undoubtedly the most fun way to learn, incorporating targeted drills into your routine can dramatically accelerate your progress. This article will guide you through essential pickleball drills designed specifically for beginners, helping you build a solid foundation and confidence on the court. If you’re just starting your pickleball journey and need a refresher on the basics, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide: What Is Pickleball?