8 Best Long Handle Pickleball Paddles for Two-Handed Backhands

If you play with a two-handed backhand — or you’re making the jump from tennis — you already know that a standard-length paddle handle can feel cramped, awkward, and just short of giving you the leverage you need. The best long handle pickleball paddles solve that problem directly. After testing and researching the top models available on Amazon, here are the eight that consistently deliver: the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16mm (best overall), the Six Zero Double Black Diamond Elongated (best for control), the Selkirk SLK ERA Power Elongated 16mm (best for spin and power), the Engage Pursuit Pro MX 6.0 (best for tennis converts), the Vatic Pro V7 (best budget), the CRBN 3 TruFoam Genesis Elongated (best for versatility), the 11SIX24 Pegasus Jelly Bean (best for beginners), and the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta (best for advanced control).

These paddles all feature handles measuring at least 5.25 inches — the threshold where a second hand starts to feel natural and supported. Each was selected on four criteria: verified Amazon presence, strong review volume, consistent customer feedback, and demonstrated performance at multiple skill levels.

The buying decision isn’t just about handle length. Core thickness, face material, weight, and balance point all interact with that extended grip to produce a very different feel depending on what you’re asking the paddle to do. Whether you want raw power from the baseline, precise spin on third-shot drops, or a familiar tennis-like swing, there’s a long handle paddle here for you.

Below, you’ll find a complete breakdown of what makes each paddle stand out, followed by a full buying guide to help you match specs to your game.

What Is a Long Handle Pickleball Paddle?

Long handle pickleball paddles feature a grip section measuring 5.25 inches or longer, compared to the 4.5–5-inch handles found on most standard and widebody paddles. USA Pickleball rules cap combined paddle length and width at 24 inches, with a maximum paddle length of 17 inches. Because of this fixed limit, a longer handle directly reduces the length of the paddle face — that tradeoff is the defining characteristic of the long-handle category.

How Handle Length Affects Paddle Face and Sweet Spot

Every inch added to the handle comes at the cost of face real estate. A standard paddle typically runs 16 to 16.5 inches long with a face starting around 11.5 inches; an elongated long-handle model may have a face starting at just 10.5 to 11 inches. That narrower, shorter face means the sweet spot is smaller and sits higher on the paddle face. Off-center mishits are less forgiving than they would be with a widebody. Players who switch to long handles without adjusting their contact point often notice this immediately — the fix is simple, but it takes deliberate reps.

Long Handle vs Standard Handle — Side-by-Side Differences

The table below gives you a quick reference for what changes as handle length increases:

Who Should Use a Long Handle Pickleball Paddle?

Long handle paddles are a strong fit for players who favor power over placement, rely on a two-handed backhand, or are coming to pickleball from a racquet sport background. They are not the automatic best choice for everyone — beginners focused on learning placement and finesse players who live at the kitchen line may find the smaller face more punishing than helpful.

Why Tennis Players Prefer Long Handle Paddles

Tennis players transitioning to pickleball often gravitate toward long handles because the grip length feels close to what they’re used to. A 5.5 to 5.875-inch handle sits in a range that resembles the lower third of a tennis racket grip, making two-handed backhand mechanics feel intuitive rather than relearned. The best pickleball paddles for tennis players in this category also tend to be slightly head-heavy, which mirrors the weight distribution tennis players expect when driving from the baseline. For anyone whose muscle memory is built around a full racket swing, the transition is smoother with a long-handle paddle.

How Long Handles Help Two-Handed Backhand Players

A two-handed backhand requires both hands to be comfortably on the handle simultaneously. On a standard 4.5-inch handle, the non-dominant hand has almost no space — players end up gripping the throat of the paddle, which reduces control and creates inconsistency. With a 5.5-inch or longer handle, both hands sit naturally, and the non-dominant hand contributes meaningfully to the shot. The result is more paddle acceleration through the ball, better spin potential on backhand rolls, and improved reset control at the non-volley zone. Beyond the best pickleball paddles for two-handed backhand use, the best elongated pickleball paddles — which share the long-handle trait — are consistently rated as the top choice for this shot in competitive play.

The 8 Best Long Handle Pickleball Paddles

Here are the eight top-performing long handle paddles available on Amazon, each reviewed for performance characteristics, target player type, and real-world strengths and weaknesses.

#1 JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16mm — Best Overall

The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV is the most complete long handle paddle available today, and it carries Ben Johns’ name for a reason. It combines a 16mm polypropylene honeycomb core with a raw carbon fiber face, producing a paddle that generates serious power without becoming uncontrollable. The handle measures approximately 5.5 inches, providing genuine two-handed backhand support while staying responsive enough for fast net exchanges.

Key Specs:

• Core thickness: 16mm
• Face material: Raw carbon fiber
• Handle length: ~5.5″
• Weight: 7.6–8.1 oz
• Shape: Elongated

Performance Analysis: The 16mm core gives the Perseus Pro IV a softer, more controlled feel than its 14mm counterpart. Dinks and resets come off the face consistently — you’re not fighting the paddle to keep the ball low. From the baseline, raw carbon fiber adds meaningful spin, and the elongated shape creates additional reach on wide balls. The sweet spot is smaller than a widebody, but players above the 3.5 level will adapt quickly.

Pros:

• Exceptional balance of power, spin, and touch
• Raw carbon face grips the ball effectively for topspin and slice
• 16mm thickness provides forgiveness on aggressive drives

Cons:

• Premium price tier — not a budget option
• Smaller face requires accurate ball-striking

Best For: Intermediate to advanced players who want a do-everything paddle that excels at two-handed backhand shots, spin-heavy thirds, and counters.

My Verdict: The Perseus Pro IV is the paddle I’d recommend to almost any player making the move from standard to long-handle. It doesn’t punish you for switching — it rewards you for committing.

#2 Six Zero Double Black Diamond Elongated — Best for Control

The Six Zero Double Black Diamond Elongated earned its reputation by being one of the most forgiving elongated paddles on the market without sacrificing reach or spin. Six Zero pioneered edge-foam thermoforming in the elongated category, and the result is a paddle face with a surprisingly consistent response from rim to center.

Key Specs:

• Core thickness: 16mm
• Face material: Raw composite carbon fiber
• Handle length: ~5.5″
• Weight: 7.8–8.2 oz
• Shape: Elongated

Performance Analysis: Where most elongated paddles feel punishing on off-center contact, the Double Black Diamond is notably more forgiving. Edge-foam construction expands the effective hitting area, and the raw composite face generates strong spin without the harsh pop of a thermoformed-only construction. It handles dinks and drops as well as any control paddle in this list. Players coming from a widebody who are nervous about the smaller face will appreciate this paddle’s margin for error.

Pros:

• Exceptionally forgiving sweet spot for an elongated paddle
• Strong control on dinks, resets, and kitchen exchanges
• Unique raw composite face for spin and dwell time

Cons:

• Less outright power than some thermoformed competitors
• Higher price point relative to performance on pure baseline shots

Best For: Control-first players who want elongated reach and long-handle comfort without giving up kitchen-line touch.

My Verdict: If you’re serious about long handle paddles but control is non-negotiable, this is your paddle. The sweet spot margin separates it from most of its elongated competitors.

#3 Selkirk SLK ERA Power Elongated 16mm — Best for Spin and Power

The Selkirk SLK ERA Power Elongated delivers a high-spin, high-velocity experience from a mid-range price tier. Its Dynamic Fusion Core — a polypropylene honeycomb center surrounded by low-density EVA foam at the edges — expands the effective sweet spot while keeping shot velocity high. The three-layered face combining woven fiberglass with T700 raw carbon fiber pushes spin output to levels that many premium paddles can’t match.

Key Specs:

• Core thickness: 16mm
• Face material: Woven fiberglass + T700 raw carbon fiber
• Handle length: ~5.8″
• Weight: 7.9–8.4 oz
• Shape: Elongated (16.5″ long x 7.45″ wide)

Performance Analysis: The 5.8-inch handle is among the longest on this list and sits comfortably for most two-handed backhand players. Spin on serves and third-shot drives is impressive — you can shape the ball in ways that force weak returns. The three-layer face provides extra dwell time, which translates to more topspin on rolls and more bite on cross-court slices. Power from the baseline is above average for a 16mm paddle.

Pros:

• Exceptional spin generation from the three-layer face
• Long 5.8″ handle ideal for committed two-handed backhand players
• Dynamic Fusion Core improves edge consistency

Cons:

• Slightly heavier feel can slow down hand battles at the net
• Face material durability varies with heavy play

Best For: Intermediate to advanced players who prioritize spin and baseline power, especially those who rely on heavy topspin serves and third shots.

My Verdict: The ERA Power Elongated punches above its price point in spin and reach. It’s the best pickleball paddles for spin pick in the long-handle category for anyone who doesn’t want to pay flagship prices.

#4 Engage Pursuit Pro MX 6.0 — Best for Tennis Converts

The Engage Pursuit Pro MX 6.0 was designed with one player in mind: the tennis player who refuses to feel limited in pickleball. Its 5.875-inch handle is among the longest on the market without hitting the extreme 6.5-inch range, and the overall feel closely mimics the lower grip of a tennis racket during baseline exchanges.

Key Specs:

• Core thickness: ~12mm (thinner, more responsive)
• Face material: Carbon fiber
• Handle length: ~5.875″
• Weight: 7.5–8.0 oz
• Shape: Elongated

Performance Analysis: The thinner 12mm core gives the Pursuit Pro MX a livelier, more immediate response than the 16mm paddles on this list. Ball contact feels crisp and direct — there’s less cushion, which means more feel but also less forgiveness on aggressive shots. Tennis players find that their topspin mechanics transfer almost directly. Serving and third-shot drops feel natural because the handle length lets the non-dominant hand guide the swing the same way it would on a tennis backhand.

Pros:

• Nearly 6-inch handle is the closest thing to a tennis grip in pickleball
• Lively, responsive feel that tennis players adapt to quickly
• Excellent spin from carbon fiber face

Cons:

• Thinner core means less cushion — mishits feel harsher
• Not ideal for players who need soft touch at the kitchen line

Best For: Tennis players making the transition to pickleball, or any player with strong topspin backhand mechanics who wants the most racket-like feel available.

My Verdict: If you came from tennis and nothing has felt quite right yet, start here. The Pursue Pro MX 6.0 will let your game travel.

#5 Vatic Pro V7 — Best Budget Long Handle Paddle

The Vatic Pro V7 is the best value in the long-handle category, and it’s not particularly close. It features Toray T700 raw carbon fiber, edge-foam injection, and thermoformed construction — a spec sheet that belonged to paddles costing twice as much just two years ago. For players who want genuine long-handle performance without entering the premium price tier, this paddle delivers.

Key Specs:

• Core thickness: 14mm or 16mm (both available)
• Face material: T700 raw carbon fiber
• Handle length: ~5.5″
• Weight: 7.8–8.3 oz
• Shape: Elongated

Performance Analysis: The V7 is notably head-heavy, which works in its favor from the baseline — you can generate serious pop on drives without needing to muscle the ball. At the net, the head-heavy balance can feel slightly sluggish in fast hand battles, but the trade-off is worth it for players focused on baseline power. The raw carbon face grips the ball well for spin, and thermoformed construction means the edge-to-center consistency is far better than paddles at this price tier typically offer. It’s widely recommended within the pickleball community as the benchmark for budget performance.

Pros:

• Exceptional value — premium materials at a significantly lower price
• Strong spin from T700 raw carbon fiber
• Thermoformed construction improves edge consistency

Cons:

• Head-heavy balance reduces maneuverability at the kitchen line
• Less forgiving than foam-construction competitors

Best For: Budget-conscious players at the 3.0–4.0 level who want long-handle power and raw carbon spin without stepping into premium pricing.

My Verdict: If your current paddle is limiting your backhand and your budget is the constraint, the Vatic Pro V7 removes both limitations at once.

#6 CRBN 3 TruFoam Genesis Elongated — Best for Versatility

The CRBN 3 TruFoam Genesis takes a different approach to core construction than every other paddle on this list. Its TruFoam Core replaces the standard honeycomb structure with a continuous foam layer, eliminating the dead spots and inconsistency that honeycomb edges can produce. The result is a paddle that performs predictably on every contact point — center, edge, high, or low.

Key Specs:

• Core thickness: 14mm
• Face material: T700 carbon fiber + fiberglass hybrid
• Handle length: ~5.25″
• Weight: 7.8–8.3 oz
• Shape: Elongated (16.5″ x 7.5″)
• Approvals: USAP and UPA-A certified

Performance Analysis: The TruFoam Core produces noticeably consistent response. On third-shot drops, the paddle doesn’t suddenly change feel depending on where the ball hits — it’s the same touch every time. The carbon-fiberglass hybrid face maximizes both spin and dwell time, giving players who shape the ball more options. At 14mm, it balances power and touch better than thicker paddles for players who play a mixed game of aggression and reset. The 5.25-inch handle accommodates two-handed backhands without quite reaching the longer handles of the Selkirk or Engage options.

Pros:

• TruFoam Core delivers unmatched consistency across the face
• Excellent dwell time for precise shot shaping
• USAP and UPA-A tournament approved

Cons:

• 5.25″ handle is the shortest on this list — two-hand backhands are supported but not as spacious as the 5.5″+ options
• 14mm thickness produces a livelier response — less cushion on hard drives

Best For: Versatile players who want consistent touch across the full face, especially those who mix aggressive baseline play with precise kitchen exchanges.

My Verdict: The Genesis Elongated is the pick for the player who refuses to specialize. It rewards every style of play without excelling at just one.

#7 11SIX24 Pegasus Jelly Bean — Best for Beginners

The 11SIX24 Pegasus Jelly Bean stands apart from every other paddle on this list in one key way: its wider playing surface actually enlarges the sweet spot beyond what most elongated shapes allow. The Jelly Bean’s unique geometry prioritizes forgiveness — the aspect that beginners need most — while including an extra-long handle that supports two-handed backhand development from the start.

Key Specs:

• Core thickness: ~16mm
• Face material: Carbon fiber
• Handle length: ~5.5″ (extra-long for the beginner category)
• Weight: 7.4–7.8 oz (lightweight)
• Shape: Widened elongated

Performance Analysis: New players learn the game faster when mishits don’t punish them. The Jelly Bean’s wider face absorbs off-center contact far better than traditional elongated paddles, and the long handle lets beginners practice two-handed backhands from day one rather than developing a one-handed habit they’ll need to break later. The paddle delivers decent spin and enough pop to stay competitive against improving players — it won’t hold a beginner back as they advance to the 3.0–3.5 range. As a bonus, it’s available at a price point that makes it the easiest recommendation on this list for first-time buyers.

Pros:

• Wider face with enlarged sweet spot — more forgiving than traditional elongated
• Budget-friendly entry into the long handle category
• Long handle future-proofs two-handed backhand development

Cons:

• Not as spin-heavy or powerful as premium options
• Players above 3.5 will outgrow it relatively quickly

Best For: Beginners who want to learn on a long-handle paddle, especially those with a tennis background who plan to develop a two-handed backhand.

My Verdict: Don’t start on the wrong paddle and have to unlearn habits. The Jelly Bean lets beginners develop proper two-handed mechanics from the first session.

#8 Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta — Best for Advanced Control

The Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta is the premium pick for advanced players who want the reach and handle length of an elongated paddle combined with Selkirk’s top-tier control engineering. The Invikta shape is Selkirk’s dedicated elongated form, and the LUXX Control Air version represents its most refined execution — built for players who need precise placement on every shot.

Key Specs:

• Core thickness: 16mm
• Face material: Carbon fiber (Control Air surface)
• Handle length: ~5.5″
• Weight: 7.5–8.0 oz
• Shape: Invikta elongated
• Made or assembled in the USA

Performance Analysis: The LUXX Control Air Invikta’s defining characteristic is its ability to reset under pressure. The Control Air surface creates a slightly softer feel at contact, reducing ball speed and giving you more time to place the ball precisely. For players who live at the non-volley zone and use the two-handed backhand to reset hard-driven balls, this paddle provides tools that no other model on this list matches. Its Invikta shape extends reach without feeling unwieldy, and at 7.5–8.0 oz, it stays fast enough for hand battles.

Pros:

• Best reset and dink control of any paddle on this list
• Lighter weight aids hand speed at the kitchen line
• Premium build quality with Selkirk’s proven elongated Invikta shape

Cons:

• Prioritizes touch over raw power — not the right pick for baseline-first players
• Premium pricing reflects brand and build quality

Best For: Advanced players (4.0+) who play a control-heavy game centered on resets, dinks, and precise placement from both backhand and forehand sides.

My Verdict: The Invikta is a tool for players who have already mastered the game’s mechanics and want a paddle that responds exactly as commanded. Every shot lands where you intend.

Long Handle vs Short Handle Paddles: Power vs Precision

Long handle paddles give you more leverage, spin, and reach; short handle paddles give you more sweet spot, easier wrist snap, and better maneuverability at the kitchen line. Neither is universally superior — the right choice depends on your playing style, experience level, and shot tendencies.

The following table outlines the core tradeoffs. Use it alongside the best short handle pickleball paddle options if you’re still undecided:

When to Choose a Long Handle

You should strongly consider a long handle paddle if you use a two-handed backhand consistently, if you’re coming from tennis, or if your game is built around drives and spin from mid-court and the baseline. The leverage advantage is real — it translates directly into more ball speed and spin with the same physical effort.

When a Short Handle Makes More Sense

Short handles are the better fit if you focus primarily on dink battles and kitchen control, if you’re a beginner still developing your basic swing mechanics, or if wrist flexibility and fast reaction volleys are the core of your game. The larger sweet spot reduces the consequences of off-center contact, which matters most in the early stages of development.

How to Choose a Long Handle Pickleball Paddle

The right long handle paddle matches your playing level, swing style, and the specific tradeoffs you’re willing to make between power and forgiveness. Before selecting a model, run through these five criteria:

1. Handle Length: 5.25 to 5.5 inches covers the majority of two-handed backhand players. Only choose 5.75 to 6.5 inches if your hands are large or if you’re replicating a full tennis grip feel — the extra length amplifies every imbalance in swing mechanics.

2. Core Thickness: 16mm cores are softer, more forgiving, and better for control and dinks. 14mm cores are livelier, more powerful, but less cushioned on hard contact. Match this to your game style — finesse players go 16mm, power players often prefer 14mm.

3. Face Material: Raw carbon fiber (T700 or similar) provides the most spin grip. Fiberglass is softer with more pop. Hybrid constructions like the CRBN 3 Genesis balance both. Consider pickleball paddle materials in detail if this decision will anchor your buying choice — material interacts directly with how much spin and dwell time you get.

4. Weight: Lighter paddles (7.3–7.8 oz) improve hand speed at the net; heavier models (7.9–8.4 oz) drive the ball deeper with less effort. Long handle paddles tend to feel head-heavy regardless of total weight — factor this into your assessment.

5. USAPA Approval: Verify the paddle appears on the official USA Pickleball approved paddle list before purchasing for tournament play. Most paddles from established brands are approved, but newer models or specialty constructions occasionally fall outside compliance.

By now, you have a clear picture of which long handle paddles deliver the best balance of power, spin, and reach across eight price tiers and playing styles. Choosing the right paddle, however, is only half the equation — how you maintain it, customize it for your swing, and understand its role in competitive play will determine whether that investment lasts a season or several years. The next section covers the finer details that separate casual players from those who consistently get the most out of their long-handle gear.

Getting the Most From Your Long Handle Paddle

How to Add Lead Tape for Better Balance

Long handle paddles already shift the balance point away from the head compared to widebody designs, but players who want more plow-through on drives can tune this with lead tape. Adding a small strip (2–4 grams) to the 3 and 9 o’clock positions on the paddle face increases swing weight, making baseline drives feel more authoritative. Adding tape at the 12 o’clock position tilts the balance further toward head-heavy, which amplifies power but can slow your hand speed at the net. Start with 2 grams at 3 and 9 before adding more — the effect is larger than most players expect.

Grip Maintenance and When to Regrip

Long handle paddles see more grip surface contacted during a typical session because the non-dominant hand frequently rests higher on the handle. This accelerates grip wear at the top third. Replace your base grip or overgrip when you notice slipping, loss of tack, or compression that no longer bounces back under pressure. A fresh overgrip costs under $5 and takes five minutes to apply — most players wait far too long. A secure grip on a long handle paddle is more important than on a standard handle because two-handed shots depend on both hands maintaining reliable contact throughout the swing.

Are Long Handle Paddles USAPA Tournament-Approved?

Handle length itself does not affect USAPA approval status — the compliance rules focus on total combined length and width (max 24 inches) and total paddle length (max 17 inches). A long handle paddle that stays within these dimensions is eligible for tournament play as long as it’s on the official USAPA approved paddle list. Always check the list directly before purchasing for competitive use. The paddle packaging may say “tournament approved,” but only official list inclusion confirms eligibility.

Long Handle Paddles in Singles vs Doubles — The Real Difference

Long handle paddles perform differently depending on the format. In singles, the extended reach and baseline power advantage is substantial — covering more court and driving the ball deep are the two highest-leverage skills in singles, and a long handle amplifies both. In doubles, the kitchen line dominates, and the smaller face of an elongated long-handle paddle can work against you in fast-exchange dink battles where forgiveness matters more than reach. Many doubles specialists who prefer long handles compensate by choosing 16mm cores and higher-control constructions — like the LUXX Control Air Invikta — rather than raw power models. The best pickleball paddles for each format ultimately differ by game context, not just handle shape.