Weight, balance, and surface grip explained for beginners. Those are the three things that actually change how a paddle feels, and most first-time buyers focus on the wrong one — usually the brand name or the colour.
Start with weight. For most adult beginners, a paddle in the 330–360g range is forgiving enough to swing fast without fatiguing the shoulder. Heavier paddles add power but demand more technique. Lighter paddles are quicker but punish off-center contact.
Surface grip matters more in beach tennis than in padel because you're swinging at a ball moving in salty, humid air. A textured carbon face lets you add spin even when your timing is slightly off. If you're buying your first paddle, prioritize surface texture over stiffness.