Lightweight
Lightweight paddles (roughly under 7.8 oz) put speed first - quicker hands at the net, easier maneuvering, and less strain on the elbow and shoulder. They're a favourite of control players, dinkers and anyone managing tennis elbow. Shop the light end of our paddles range from Selkirk, Joola and Onix.
How to choose: if you love hand battles at the kitchen line or want to protect your arm, go light - just know you'll swing a bit harder for the same power. Want more put-away pop without the strain? Compare the midweight options.
A lightweight paddle generally weighs under about 7.8 oz. The lower weight makes it faster to move at the kitchen line, easier to manoeuvre in quick hand battles and gentler on the elbow and shoulder. Many popular lines come in a lightweight version, like the Selkirk AMPED Epic, Invikta and S2 Lightweight paddles. Compare with our midweight and heavyweight paddles.
Many players with tennis elbow or shoulder discomfort find a lighter paddle easier on the arm, since it takes less effort to swing and hold up at the net. A thicker 16mm core and a softer control face can also help absorb vibration. Popular arm-friendly options include the Selkirk SLK Halo Control and the AMPED Control Lightweight series. If you have ongoing pain, check with a doctor or physiotherapist, and see our injury and recovery products.
A little. With less mass behind the ball, you need a faster swing to hit drives and serves as hard as with a heavier paddle. In return, you gain quicker reactions at the net and more control on dinks and resets. An elongated shape adds some reach and leverage, and many players fine-tune the balance by adding a bit of lead tape. If you want more put-away power, compare our midweight paddles.
Popular picks include the Selkirk AMPED Epic, Invikta and S2 Lightweight, SLK Evo Hybrid 2.0 and SLK Halo Control; the Paddletek Bantam and Tempest Wave; the Onix Z1 and Evoke Premier Light Weight; the Babolat RBEL Gen 3; and the Head Extreme Lite. The best one depends on the shape and feel you prefer.
Yes. Lighter paddles are easier to hold up and swing through a long session, which is why many seniors and players returning from a break prefer them. For kids, a lighter paddle with a smaller grip, like the Onix Z Jr., is easier to control and helps them learn good technique. Pair it with the right balls for your court.
If your game is built around dinks, resets and fast hand battles at the non-volley zone, a lightweight paddle is a great fit: it reacts faster and gives you a soft, precise touch. Players who like to drive from the baseline or finish points with power usually prefer a midweight or heavyweight paddle. Read our paddle buying guide for more help.









































