Best Pickleball Grips & Overgrips (2026)
Your grip is your only connection to the paddle. A worn-out, slippery grip costs you control, power, and confidence. The good news? A new grip costs $5-15 and takes 5 minutes to install — it's the cheapest upgrade with the biggest impact.
We've tested grips in hot, sweaty conditions to find which ones actually stay tacky when it matters.
🎾 Grip vs. Overgrip: What's the Difference?
Base grip (replacement grip): Goes directly on the handle. Thicker, more cushioned. Replace every 3-6 months.
Overgrip: Goes over your base grip. Thinner, primarily for sweat absorption and feel. Replace every 1-4 weeks depending on play frequency.
Best Overgrips
Tourna Grip Original
The classic dry overgrip that gets tackier when wet. Tourna Grip is counterintuitive — it feels almost chalky when dry, but the moment you start sweating, it grips your hand like velcro. Preferred by tennis and pickleball pros who struggle with sweaty palms. The blue version is iconic for a reason.
Gamma Supreme Overgrip
If you don't have extremely sweaty hands, Gamma Supreme offers better out-of-the-package feel than Tourna. It's tacky from the first wrap and maintains good grip in moderate conditions. Slightly more cushioned than Tourna, which some players prefer for comfort.
HEAD Prime Overgrip
The workhorse overgrip that won't break the bank. HEAD Prime is tacky, durable, and available in bulk packs that bring the per-grip cost way down. It's not as specialized as Tourna or Gamma, but it gets the job done for recreational players who want consistent feel.
Best Replacement Grips
Gamma Hi-Tech Replacement Grip
The most cushioned replacement grip available. Gamma Hi-Tech is perfect for players who experience hand fatigue or prefer a plush feel. It's thicker than stock grips, which can change the handle size — consider this if you're between grip sizes.
When to Replace Your Grip
- Shiny or smooth surface: The texture is worn off
- Slipping during play: Especially on serves or power shots
- Visible wear or peeling: Time for fresh grip
- Bad smell: Bacteria buildup — replace immediately
Pro Tips
Use a base grip + overgrip combo: Start with a cushioned replacement grip, then add an overgrip for sweat absorption. Replace the overgrip frequently, save the base grip for months.
Dry your grip between games: A small towel on your bag keeps your grip from staying damp and deteriorating faster.
Buy in bulk: If you play 3+ times per week, buy overgrips in 10-30 packs. Per-unit cost drops dramatically and you'll never hesitate to replace a worn grip.
The Verdict
For sweaty players, Tourna Grip Original is unmatched — it literally gets better when wet. For everyone else, Gamma Supreme offers the best combination of immediate tack and durability. Pair either with a Gamma Hi-Tech base grip for maximum comfort and you'll have the best grip setup possible.