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Gear Guide
Gear Guide
Paddle Edge Guards: Do You Actually Need One?
A small strip of tape that can meaningfully extend your paddle’s life — if you play the way that needs it.
Edge guards protect the vulnerable rim of the paddle face from chips and cracks — whether you need one depends mostly on how you play, not how much you spent on your paddle.
Who Actually Benefits
If you play on rough outdoor courts, tend to scrape your paddle on the ground during low volleys, or set your paddle down on concrete between games, an edge guard is a cheap way to protect against small chips that can eventually affect the paddle’s structural integrity.
When It’s Not Necessary
Players who mostly play indoors on smooth courts and store their paddle carefully see far less edge wear — an edge guard is optional insurance rather than a must-have in that case.
A NOTE ON PERFORMANCE
A poorly applied edge guard can add slight weight to the paddle’s rim, subtly changing swing feel — if you go this route, apply it carefully and evenly around the full edge.