In the dynamic world of Pickleball, players constantly seek ways to optimize their performance. Adding lead tape to your paddle is a strategic choice that can enhance your gameplay. This guide will delve into the benefits of using lead tape, along with a step-by-step tutorial on how to apply it to your Addict Pickleball paddle.

Benefits of Lead Tape:

Lead tape,  or environmentally safer alternatives like tungsten tape, offers  players the opportunity to customize their paddle’s weight distribution. Here are the advantages of incorporating lead tape into your pickleball equipment:

1. Increased Power: Additional weight on your paddle can amplify your shots, providing more power during gameplay.
2. Enhanced Control: Lead tape adds stability to your paddle, allowing for more precise and controlled shots.
3. Expanded Sweet Spot: By strategically placing lead tape, you can enlarge the sweet spot of your paddle, resulting in improved consistency and accuracy.
4.  Personalized Performance: Tailoring the weight distribution of your paddle with lead tape enables you to fine-tune it to match your playing style and preferences.

Lead Variations

Lead tape comes in a few different shapes and sizes, so here’s a quick reference to help you select the right one.

• ½ Gram (per inch): This is the lightest version of lead you can buy for your paddle customization and the one we recommend the most. Since it is so light, you can apply as much lead as you like, finding the perfect combination to suit your playstyle. You can always add more lead if you find that it’s too light. 
• 1 Gram (per inch): This lead falls right in the middle of the weight category, being heavier than the ½ gram but not being too heavy. If you know you like a heavier paddle, or are looking to significantly increase the weight in a specific area we would recommend this lead tape. 
•  2 Grams (per inch): This lead is the heaviest variation you can buy, and we honestly rarely recommend this to anyone. It is simply too heavy and will drastically increase the static weight of your paddle.

1. Mind the Temperature:

• Store your paddle in a dry, temperate environment to prevent unnecessary wear from extreme temperatures.

• Zone 1 – Top (Head): Recommended for players seeking increased power in their shots. Ideal for advanced players in singles matches.
• Zone 2 – Middle (Sides): Enhances stability and control, perfect for players focusing on resets and blocking.
• Zone 3 – Bottom (Throat): Balances weight without compromising hand speed. Suitable for players experimenting with paddle weight adjustments.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Lead Tape:

Follow these instructions to apply lead tape to your Addict Pickleball paddle effectively:

• Prepare the Surface: Clean your paddle’s surface thoroughly with a damp cloth to remove any debris or dirt.
• Measure and Cut: Measure and cut the lead tape to your desired length and weight. Use a scale for precise measurements if necessary.
• Peel and Apply: Peel off the backing of the lead tape to expose the adhesive side. Carefully apply the tape to the designated zone on your paddle, ensuring it is straight and evenly distributed.
• Smooth Out: Use your fingers to smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles in the tape, pressing firmly to secure it in place.
• Repeat and Trim: Repeat the process on the opposite side of the paddle if desired. Use scissors or a sharp knife to trim any excess tape from the edges for a clean finish. Once applied, use Edge Tape to cover up your lead and protect your paddle!

Setup Suggestions

• “Ole Faithful”: Adding about 4-5 inches of lead to both sides of your paddle throat is a surefire way to increase the stability of your paddle and the size of your sweet spot. I recommend this setup for anyone looking to level up their paddle game. 
• “Four Corners”: Adding 2 inch strips to the four corners of your paddle is a great way to improve your paddles power and sweet spot without sacrificing too much hand speed. 
• The “Hunterlo”: This weight setup is a bit on the experimental side, but definitely worth trying. First, remove the under grip of the paddle and apply 3 rings of lead to the base of the paddle, each ring directly above the previous one. Second, starting at the base of the handle, apply 1 strip of lead going all the way up to the throat of the paddle on both sides (approx. 8-9 inches per side). Lastly, apply a 5 inch strip of lead to the top of your paddle, and cover all your lead with Addict’s Edge Tape. 

Experiment with different configurations and placements of lead tape to find the optimal setup that suits your playing style and preferences. Elevate your game with lead tape and unlock your full potential on the court.