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【Overgrips vs. Replacement Grips】: Which One Do You Need? | HK Play Pickleball Pulse

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grips
In the world of pickleball grips, two terms often confuse new players: "replacement grip" and "overgrip." Although both are wrapped around the handle, their functions and uses are quite different. Understanding the distinction is key to making the right choice for your paddle.

Replacement Grip

  • Definition: This is the "base layer" on the paddle handle. When you buy a new paddle, the grip that's already on it is the replacement grip. It's relatively thick, has a cushioned layer, and an adhesive backing that sticks directly to the paddle's hard handle structure.
  • Function: Its primary purpose is to provide the fundamental cushioning and comfort, and to form the main shape and size of the grip.
  • When to Use: You need to install a new replacement grip only when the original base grip on your paddle is severely worn out, hardened, or peeling. This is a relatively infrequent process.

Overgrip

  • Definition: An overgrip is a much thinner layer of tape, often without an adhesive backing (or with only a small tab at the start and end). It is designed to be wrapped *on top of* the replacement grip.
  • Function: Overgrips have three main functions:
    1. Sweat Absorption & Tackiness: Their main selling point is absorbing sweat to provide better tackiness, preventing the paddle from slipping in your hand.
    2. Fine-tuning Size: Wrapping an overgrip slightly increases the grip's circumference. It's the easiest way to make a grip feel thicker if the original feels too thin.
    3. Protecting the Base Grip: It acts as a protective layer for the more expensive replacement grip underneath, extending its life.
  • When to Use: Overgrips are consumables and are replaced frequently. As soon as you feel it becoming slippery, losing its tack, or getting dirty, you should replace it to maintain optimal feel. For frequent players, this could be every few matches.

Which One Do I Need?

The answer to this question is: You need both, but for different purposes.

Almost all regular players wrap an overgrip on top of the factory replacement grip. The benefit of this setup is that you only need to regularly replace the inexpensive and easy-to-apply overgrip to maintain a fresh, dry, and comfortable feel, without the hassle of replacing the entire base grip frequently.

Conclusion:

  • A Replacement Grip is the "foundation" of your handle, replaced only when it's heavily worn down.
  • An Overgrip is the "outer coat," changed often to maintain the best feel and sweat absorption.

Next time your grip doesn't feel right, check which layer needs replacing! In most cases, a fresh overgrip is all you need to make your paddle feel brand new again.

#EmergingSports  #SportForAll #PickleballLazyGuide #PlayPickleball #PickelballGear  #HKPlayPickleballPulse #PlayPickleballGear #PickleballGrip #Gear101 #Overgrip #PickleballTips 

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