Pickleball Overgrips: Do You Really Need Them?
If you’ve ever felt your paddle slipping mid-rally, especially when sweat starts to creep in, you might be wondering, “Do you actually need a pickleball overgrip”? The short answer: maybe—but understanding what they do, when they help, and how to pick one can make your time on the court much more comfortable and controlled.
What Is an Overgrip and What Does It Do?
Bodhi Performance Overgrips
An overgrip is a thin tape wrapped over your paddle’s original handle. Think of it as a quick, inexpensive upgrade that can give you better traction, comfort, and control.
Here’s what overgrips bring to the table:
Add tackiness to prevent slipping.
Absorb sweat for consistent grip.
Provide light padding to reduce hand fatigue.
Protects the original grip.
Adjust handle thickness to your comfort.
Overgrips are especially useful if you’re looking for a more secure feel in your hand or want to add a little extra comfort during long play sessions.
When Overgrips Really Help
Overgrips are most useful in situations where your paddle might feel slippery or uncomfortable. Not sure if it’s worth it? Here’s when overgrips make the biggest impact:
Sweaty Play: Hot courts, intense rallies, or naturally sweaty hands? An overgrip absorbs moisture and keeps your paddle in control.
Indoor or Air-Conditioned Play: Even in cooler, dry conditions, a tacky overgrip can improve precision and control.
Switching Courts: If you play both indoors and outdoors, having a grip suited to each environment ensures consistent performance.
Price, Comfort, and Replacement Tips
Overgrips are cheap—usually $5—$7 per pack—but the feel can vary depending on your needs:
Tacky grips: More stick and control in dry conditions, but can get slick when soaked.
Dry grips: Great sweat absorption, less stick, smoother feel.
Cushioned grips: Softer on hands and wrists—perfect for long sessions.
UDRIPPIN Pro Tour Overgrip
If the grip feels slippery, dirty, or frayed, it’s time to swap it. A fresh overgrip costs a few bucks and can instantly improve your control and comfort on the court.
Top Overgrip Picks
Tourna Original Dry: Perfect for sweaty or hot-weather play, absorbs moisture well, and is durable.
Gamma Sports Supreme: Affordable, versatile, and lightweight—great for all-around use.
Bodhi Performance PROtack™: Premium, ultra-tacky, and designed for maximum grip and durability.
CRBN DryTec™: Combines tack and softness to absorb both shock and moisture, keeping your hand dry and comfortable even in intense play.
UDRIPPIN Pro Tour: High-quality tack that lasts in any weather, sweat-absorbent with extreme grip and slightly thicker for better feel.
So… Do You Need One?
You don’t need an overgrip to play well—but once you try one, chances are, you’ll never go back. It’s an easy, low-cost upgrade that can instantly improve comfort, control, and confidence on the court. For most recreational players, having a reliable overgrip on hand and replacing it regularly is a small tweak that can make a big difference in your game.
