Ask a Referee - Equipment FAQs
Maddie Toren is the youngest certified USA Pickleball referee in history and a leading force behind the scenes of the sport. As Founder & CEO of PKLD Agency, Maddie specializes in managing brand presence and digital strategy for pro pickleball athletes, Major League teams, and top industry brands.
Certified by USA Pickleball and widely recognized for her standout social media work, Maddie blends her passion for officiating with her expertise in digital engagement—helping the biggest names in pickleball connect with fans and grow their influence on and off the court.
Equipment FAQs
Can a pickleball player use their hand to hit the ball if the paddle is dropped?
No, players must use the paddle to hit the ball; hitting the ball with the hand is a fault.
Can a pickleball player use a different paddle for each game in a match?
Yes, players may switch paddles between games as long as each paddle complies with regulations.
Can a pickleball player hit the ball with any part of the paddle?
Yes, players can hit the ball with any part of the paddle, as long as it complies with equipment regulations.
Can a pickleball player use a paddle with a different surface texture on each side?
No, the surface texture of a pickleball paddle must be uniform on both sides.
What happens if a pickleball serve touches the receiver’s paddle but does not land in bounds?
It is a fault on the receiver, and the serving team wins the point.
What is the pickleball rule regarding the maximum grip circumference of a paddle?
There is no specific maximum grip circumference for a pickleball paddle, but it must be comfortable and meet general equipment standards.
Can a pickleball player use a non-standard ball in a sanctioned tournament?
No, the ball used must be on the official USA Pickleball-approved list for sanctioned tournaments.
Can a pickleball player change their paddle during a match?
Yes, players are allowed to change paddles during a match as long as the new paddle meets specifications.
What happens if a pickleball player accidentally drops their paddle during a rally?
The rally continues unless the dropped paddle interferes with play or results in a fault.
Can a pickleball player wear sunglasses during a match?
Yes, players are allowed to wear sunglasses during a match as long as they do not interfere with play.
What is the penalty for catching or carrying the pickleball on the paddle during a rally?
Catching or carrying the ball on the paddle is a fault, and the opposing team wins the rally.
What is the penalty if a pickleball player’s paddle touches the net during a rally?
It is a fault, and the opposing team wins the rally.
What is the required surface texture of a pickleball paddle?
The paddle surface must be smooth, without texture or objects that can impart excessive spin on the ball.
In pickleball, can a player cross the plane of the net with their paddle after striking the ball?
Yes, but only after the ball has crossed the plane of the net, and they must not touch the net or the opponent’s court.
Can a pickleball player use an anti-skid paint on their paddle for extra spin?
No, anti-skid paint or any material that causes additional spin is not allowed on paddles.
Can pickleball players use rubber or synthetic rubber on their paddles?
No, rubber and synthetic rubber are prohibited materials for paddle surfaces.
Can a pickleball player’s paddle be reflective to distract their opponent?
No, the paddle’s surface must not be adversely reflective, as it can affect the opponent’s vision.
What is the consequence if a pickleball player’s equipment lands in the non-volley zone after a volley?
It is a fault if any part of the player’s equipment lands in the non-volley zone as a result of a volley.
What is the penalty for using a pickleball paddle that exceeds size limits during a match?
If discovered during the match, the player must switch paddles, and no penalty is applied.
Is there a maximum paddle thickness allowed in pickleball?
No, there is no restriction on paddle thickness.
Is there a limit on the weight of a pickleball paddle?
No, there is no restriction on paddle weight.
Are sandpaper paddles allowed in pickleball?
No, sandpaper characteristics on the paddle surface are prohibited.
What is the penalty if a pickleball player is caught using an unapproved paddle during a match?
If caught during the match, the player or team forfeits the match.
Can a pickleball paddle have moving parts that increase head momentum?
No, moving parts that increase head momentum are not allowed.
Can decals or tape be placed on a pickleball paddle?
Decals and tape can extend no more than 1 inch above the grip or 0.5 inches inside the edge of the paddle.
What is the maximum combined length and width of a pickleball paddle?
The combined length and width of the paddle must not exceed 24 inches.
What is the penalty for violating the pickleball paddle surface specifications?
The player or team forfeits the match being played if the violation is discovered after the match has started.
Can a pickleball player switch hands while holding the paddle?
Yes, a paddle can be switched from hand to hand at any time.
Can a pickleball player use both hands on the paddle during a shot?
Yes, two-handed shots are allowed in pickleball.
What must a pickleball player do if they have an equipment malfunction during a rally?
Players must continue the rally unless the malfunction results in a fault.
What is the maximum allowable length of a pickleball paddle?
The paddle length cannot exceed 17 inches.
Can a pickleball player ask for a ball change during a match?
Yes, players can request a ball change if the ball is cracked or damaged.