The following information was provided by one of Selkirk’s engineers during a brief break from work in the Selkirk Lab.
If you're in the market for an advanced pickleball paddle, understanding the concepts of swing weight and twist weight is crucial.
Both characteristics significantly influence a player's control, power, and overall gameplay experience.
Understanding swing weight and twist weight
To understand paddle weights effectively, engineers must first determine a paddle's static weight.
Static weight refers to a paddle's weight when it's not in motion and is most easily determined simply by placing a paddle on a scale.
Swing weight and twist weight, however, are measured by moving the paddle along different axes.
What is swing weight?
Simply put, swing weight measures how heavy a paddle feels as you swing it. Engineers measure swing weight vertically, from the top of the paddle to the handle.
Imagine you are holding a hammer and you swing it through the air — you will feel the weight most heavily toward the end of the hammer.
Now, imagine you swing a yardstick through the air. You will likely feel a balanced weight as you swing because neither end is heavier than the other. This is swing weight.
Items that have a heavier point at the end will have a higher swing weight than those with an even weight distribution. Paddles with a lower swing weight are easier to maneuver, while paddles with a higher swing weight often offer more power.
What is twist weight?
Twist weight measures a paddle's stability by testing how resistant a paddle is to twisting left to right during gameplay.
Think of a figure skater as they are spinning in circles. If they keep their arms tight to their body, they can spin fast. However, if they stick their arms (or more weight) out, they begin to slow down.
To measure twist weight, engineers measure how weight is distributed from the center of the paddle. Paddles that have a light twist weight will move more when struck by a ball while paddles with a high twist weight will move less.
Weight and balance scales: Assessing static weight distribution
Before dynamic measurements begin, understanding a paddle's static weight distribution is essential.
Selkirk LABS employs weight and balance scales to evaluate how mass is distributed along the paddle's length. By placing the paddle on two scales, engineers can determine the balance point and assess whether the weight is more concentrated toward the handle or the head.
This information is vital, as it influences the paddle's maneuverability and the player's ability to generate power.
The swing weight machine: Measuring moment of inertia
To accurately assess swing weight, engineers utilize a specialized device known as the Swing Weight Machine, also referred to as the Moment of Inertia (MOI) Rig.
This machine measures the paddle's moment of inertia around an axis typically located 2 inches from the handle's end — approximating where players commonly grip the paddle.
The process involves displacing the paddle by a small angle, such as 5 degrees, and timing the duration of its oscillation. The period of this swing is then used in calculations to determine the MOI, providing a precise measurement of the paddle's swing weight.
Twist weight machine: Evaluating torsional stability
Another critical aspect of paddle performance is its resistance to twisting, known as twist weight or torsional stability.
The Twist Weight Machine measures how much a paddle resists twisting when subjected to off-center hits.
In this test, the paddle is secured at the handle and rotated, simulating the motion of a player twisting their wrist. The machine measures the paddle's rotation response — a higher twist weight indicates greater resistance to twisting, which can enhance control during off-center shots.
Importance of swing weight and twist weight in paddle selection
Understanding both swing weight and twist weight is essential for players seeking to optimize their equipment for their playing style.
A higher swing weight can provide more power but may reduce maneuverability, while a lower swing weight offers increased control and faster reaction times.
Similarly, a higher twist weight enhances stability on off-center hits, contributing to consistent shot accuracy, but will increase the overall weight of a paddle.
By considering these factors, players can select paddles that complement their strengths and address areas for improvement.
