A question popped up on a pickleball Reddit forum that caught my eye: what’s the real deal with the Hesacore grip? The comments flooded in. Players praised its unique honeycomb design for reducing vibration and helping with sweaty hands. It’s clear this grip has a loyal following, but is it right for you? To help you decide, I’ve put together the ultimate hesacore pickleball grip review. We’ll break down the pros, the cons, and whether this popular upgrade, sometimes misspelled as a ‘hexicore’ grip, is actually worth the hype for your game.
My Honest Hesacore Pickleball Grip Review
- The Hesacore grip is popular due to its effectiveness in vibration dampening, especially for players with elbow issues.
- Many players reported improved grip and comfort, often noting that it reduces unwanted paddle twist during play.
- Concerns were raised about the thickness of the grip, as it may not be suitable for players with smaller hands.
- Overall, players appreciate the grip’s design and functionality, often finding a noticeable difference in their performance.
Why a Comfortable Grip Is a Non-Negotiable
When it comes to pickleball, the comfort level each player experiences during matches can significantly affect their performance. Many individuals in the thread reiterated that Hesacore grips offer better feel and comfort compared to standard grips. One user, “Bfairbanks,” remarked, “They are very good with vibration dampening. This is especially good if you have elbow issues.” This sentiment was echoed by another user, “Tusk103,” who noted, “I first started using them as a way to help dampen vibrations that were irritating my forearm.” Comfort is essential not just for function but also for enjoyment. When players can grip without discomfort, they can focus more on their strategy and less on their aching hands or forearms. Moreover, users highlighted the grip’s ability to help maintain control even under sweaty conditions—an invaluable trait for those prone to slipping during intense matches.
What Exactly is the Hesacore Grip?
So, what’s all the buzz about? At its core, the Hesacore grip isn’t a replacement for your overgrip but rather an addition that goes underneath it. It’s a unique piece of equipment designed to fundamentally change how your hand connects with the paddle. Think of it as a foundation for your grip, engineered to give you more stability and comfort without forcing you to squeeze the life out of your handle. This design is especially helpful for players who find their hands getting tired or sweaty during long matches, as it provides a more secure connection that can reduce fatigue and prevent the paddle from twisting on off-center hits.
The Patented Honeycomb Undergrip
The magic behind the Hesacore grip is its patented design. It’s essentially a silicone sleeve with a distinct honeycomb texture that you install directly onto the paddle handle before putting on your overgrip. According to Hesacore, this design provides a more secure and ergonomic hold, reduces vibration, and helps players maintain a relaxed hand position. This multifaceted surface allows your fingers to fit perfectly into the contours, which means you don’t have to apply as much pressure to maintain control. For players who have dealt with tennis elbow or other forearm strain, this reduction in vibration and muscle tension can be a game-changer, allowing for longer play with less discomfort.
Product Details and Variations
Hesacore understands that every player’s preference is different, so they offer several variations of their grip to suit different needs and hand sizes. Whether you prioritize a soft, cushioned feel for maximum comfort or a firmer grip for more direct feedback and control, there’s likely an option for you. The main differences come down to material composition, stiffness, and size. Choosing the right one depends on your personal play style and what you’re looking to improve, whether it’s absorbing impact, getting a better feel for your shots, or simply finding a more comfortable hold. Let’s break down the most popular options available.
Hesacore Tour Grip (Standard White)
The Tour Grip is the standard, go-to option for most players. Its multifaceted design creates more contact points between your hand and the paddle, which helps you secure the paddle without a death grip. This model is ideal for players looking for a balanced feel that offers both comfort and a solid connection to the paddle, making it easier to execute precise shots like dinks and drops. It’s a great starting point if you’re new to Hesacore and want to experience its core benefits.
Hesacore Gel Grip (Soft Blue)
If comfort is your top priority, the Gel Grip is the one for you. As the softest option in the lineup, it’s specifically designed for maximum vibration dampening and injury prevention. Players who are sensitive to impact or have a history of arm issues will appreciate the extra cushioning this light blue grip provides. It allows for a gentler feel on every hit without sacrificing the ergonomic benefits of the honeycomb design, making long sessions on the court much more enjoyable.
Hesacore Carbon Grip (Stiff Black)
For advanced players who want a firmer, more responsive feel, the Carbon Grip is the perfect fit. Made with stiffer materials, this charcoal-colored grip offers enhanced control and a more direct transfer of energy to the ball. This option is tailored for expert players who rely on subtle feedback from the paddle to execute advanced techniques. If you value precision and a solid feel over cushioning, the Carbon Grip delivers that crisp response you’re looking for.
Hesacore Extra Small Grip (Thinnest Pink)
Hesacore also caters to players who prefer a thinner handle or have smaller hands. The Extra Small grip, which comes in pink, provides all the benefits of the honeycomb design without adding significant bulk to the paddle’s handle. This ensures that players who need a smaller circumference can still enjoy the improved ergonomics and reduced grip pressure that Hesacore is known for. It’s all about making sure you can find a perfect, comfortable fit for your hand size and playing style.
Finding Your Perfect Fit with the Hesacore Grip
A standout benefit mentioned by players was the customization aspect of Hesacore grips. The ability to adjust the grip to find the optimal fit is crucial for enhancing comfort and performance. “Artistic_Play_3988” explained that the design allows one’s hand to be secured in a consistent position, stating, “You can feel where the bones/pressure points fit in the grips’ ‘pockets,’ so you have a secure lock on where your paddle is in your hand.” This hands-on comfort factor lets players customize their gear to match their hand size and grip style. A balancing act of grip thickness and firmness is essential, as reported by “PrimalPlayTime,” who uses the grips on all paddles to accommodate their larger hands. Adjustability has proven to be a favorite feature, allowing players to dial in their settings, which often translates into improved shots on the court.
Sizing and Length Options
When you’re ready to try a Hesacore grip, you’ll find two primary sizes to choose from: Small (S) and Medium (M). The selection process is pretty straightforward. The Small size is generally recommended for players who use just one overgrip on their paddle, while the Medium is designed for those who prefer the feel of two or more overgrips. Getting this right is key, as the correct size ensures the hexagonal pattern fits your hand properly, giving you that secure, locked-in feel. This simple sizing guide helps you find a comfortable fit that can really improve your control on the court.
The standard Hesacore grip measures 5.25 inches long, which works well for most pickleball paddles. However, one of the most common points of feedback relates to its thickness. Even the Small size can feel a bit bulky if you have smaller hands. Some players find that the increased circumference makes it harder to maintain a relaxed grip, which can be counterproductive. As one player noted in a Reddit discussion, “If you have small hands, even the ‘Small’ Hesacore might feel too big.” It’s an important consideration, so if you already feel like your standard grip is on the thicker side, you might want to proceed with caution.
What If You Have Smaller Hands?
Despite the overwhelming positive feedback regarding Hesacore grips, some users raised an important concern: grip thickness. The added circumference might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with smaller hands. “Bfairbanks” candidly shared, “The potential con is that they add to the circumference of the handle, so if you have smaller hands then it might not be comfortable.” It’s interesting how something as seemingly simple as grip size can drastically alter the playing experience. This raises the question: should players investigate whether a modified version of the Hesacore might fit them better? An inclusive approach in product design could pave the way for more players to benefit from these grips while ensuring comfort remains a priority. For those with smaller hands contemplating the use of these grips, it may be beneficial to test different sizes before settling in.
Installation and Proper Use
Getting the most out of your Hesacore grip starts with putting it on correctly. It’s not as simple as slapping on a new overgrip, but the process is straightforward and well worth the effort. Proper installation ensures you get the intended feel and performance benefits, from a more secure hold to better vibration dampening. Think of it as setting the foundation for a better connection with your paddle. Before you even hit the court, taking a few extra minutes to get the setup right can make a significant difference in how the grip performs during a match. Let’s walk through the essential steps and tips to ensure you do it right the first time.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
First things first, you need a clean slate. Before you can install the Hesacore, you have to completely remove the paddle’s original grip. This isn’t just about peeling off the top layer; you need to get rid of any underlying material and sticky residue left behind by the manufacturer. A clean, bare handle is crucial for a secure fit. Once the handle is prepped, you can slide the Hesacore grip on. It’s designed to be a snug fit, so it will take some gentle but firm effort to work it all the way down until it sits flush with the butt cap of the paddle.
Why an Overgrip is Essential
This is a critical point that many new users miss: the Hesacore is an undergrip, not a replacement for your regular overgrip. It’s designed to provide the ergonomic structure, while a traditional overgrip provides the tacky, sweat-absorbing surface you’re used to. Playing with just the bare Hesacore grip will feel slick and uncomfortable, and it wasn’t designed for that kind of direct contact. Always apply your favorite overgrip on top of the Hesacore to complete the installation. This combination gives you the best of both worlds—the structural support of the honeycomb design and the familiar feel of a proper grip surface.
Installation Tips for a Smooth Fit
If you’re struggling to slide the Hesacore grip onto the handle, here’s a pro tip that many players swear by: use warm water. Soaking the grip in warm tap water for a few minutes can make the material more pliable and easier to maneuver onto the paddle. Just be sure the water isn’t boiling hot, as that could damage the grip. A little bit of water can act as a temporary lubricant, helping it slide on smoothly. Once it’s in place, the water will evaporate, and the grip will shrink slightly to form a tight, secure fit on the handle.
Is the Hesacore Grip Reusable?
One of the great things about the Hesacore grip is its durability and reusability. Unlike a standard grip that you have to cut off and throw away, you can transfer your Hesacore to a new paddle. If you decide to upgrade your equipment or if your current paddle breaks, you can carefully work the grip off the old handle and install it on your new one. This is a fantastic feature that adds long-term value, especially considering its higher initial cost compared to a simple overgrip. Your investment in comfort and performance can move with you from paddle to paddle.
On-Court Performance: The Pros and Cons
Once the Hesacore grip is installed, the real test begins on the court. Like any piece of specialized sports equipment, it comes with a unique set of advantages and potential trade-offs. For many players, the ergonomic design is a game-changer that improves comfort and control. However, its distinct shape and added weight aren’t universally loved and can require an adjustment period. Understanding both sides of the coin is key to deciding if this grip is the right fit for your playing style. It’s less about whether the grip is “good” or “bad” and more about whether its specific characteristics align with your personal preferences and on-court needs.
Potential Benefits of the Hesacore Grip
The primary draw of the Hesacore grip is its patented honeycomb design, which aims to create a better interface between your hand and the paddle. This isn’t just about comfort; the design is intended to fundamentally change how you hold and control the paddle during play. Proponents of the grip report a wide range of benefits, from a more relaxed hand to increased power and stability on their shots. These advantages stem from the way the hexagonal pattern allows your fingers to sit more naturally, providing a secure connection that you can’t get from a traditional, smooth grip surface.
A More Relaxed Grip and Increased Finesse
One of the most frequently cited benefits is the ability to maintain a secure hold with less pressure. The hexagonal cells give your fingers a place to rest, allowing you to use a looser, more relaxed two-finger grip without the fear of the paddle twisting in your hand. This reduction in grip tension can be a huge advantage for your soft game. When your hand and forearm are relaxed, you have more feel and finesse for executing precise dinks, drops, and resets at the net. It frees you up to focus on touch rather than squeezing the handle.
Generating More Power and Spin
While it helps with the soft game, the Hesacore grip can also contribute to more powerful shots. The unique design provides better support for your fingers, particularly the bottom three, which are crucial for leverage. This secure connection allows for a more efficient transfer of energy from your arm to the paddle. With the paddle held firmly in place, you can generate more paddle head speed and control, which translates directly into stronger drives and more spin on your shots. You’re not losing energy through a slipping or unstable grip.
Improved Paddle Balance and Stability
The Hesacore grip adds a small amount of weight to the handle of your paddle. While this might sound like a drawback, it can actually improve the paddle’s overall balance. By making the handle slightly heavier, it can counteract a head-heavy feel, creating a more “balanced” sensation. This added stability is especially noticeable on off-center hits. The paddle feels less likely to twist or flutter on impact, giving you a more solid and forgiving response, which can build confidence in your shots during a fast-paced game.
Drawbacks and Considerations
Of course, no single piece of equipment is perfect for every player, and the Hesacore grip is no exception. The very features that some players love can be disadvantages for others. The added weight, increased thickness, and structured design all come with potential downsides that you should consider before making the switch. These factors can affect everything from your hand speed in quick exchanges to your ability to make subtle grip adjustments mid-rally. It’s important to weigh these considerations against the potential benefits to see if it aligns with your game.
Added Weight and Slower Hand Speed
The most common complaint about the Hesacore grip is the noticeable weight it adds to the handle. While this can help with balance, it can also make the paddle feel heavier overall. For players who rely on quick hands for fast exchanges at the net, this added weight can be a detriment, potentially slowing down their reaction time. If your game is built around lightning-fast blocks and counters, you might find that the grip makes your paddle feel a bit more sluggish than you’d like.
Limited Wrist Action
The Hesacore grip significantly increases the circumference of the handle. For players with smaller hands, this can be uncomfortable, but even for those with larger hands, the added bulk can be restrictive. This thickness can limit your ability to snap your wrist, an action that is key for generating topspin on certain shots or adding extra whip to a serve. If your playing style involves a lot of wrist action, you might find that the grip’s size gets in the way of your natural mechanics.
Difficulty Changing Grips Mid-Play
The hexagonal pattern is designed to lock your hand into an optimal position. While this is great for consistency, it can make it more difficult to quickly change your grip during a point. Rotating your hand to switch from a forehand to a backhand grip might feel less fluid because your fingers naturally want to settle into the indentations. For advanced players who make constant, subtle grip adjustments, this structured feel can feel more like a hindrance than a help, disrupting the flow of their game.
The Verdict: Is the Hesacore Grip Worth It?
So, what’s the final word? The Hesacore grip is a polarizing piece of equipment that offers significant, tangible benefits for the right type of player. If you struggle with tennis elbow, sweaty hands, or a tendency to squeeze the paddle too tightly, the ergonomic design and vibration dampening could be a revelation for your game. It encourages a more relaxed hold, which can improve both your soft game and overall comfort on the court. However, it’s not a magic bullet. Players who rely on quick hands and frequent grip changes might find the added weight and structured design to be more restrictive than helpful.
Cost, Alternatives, and Paddle Resale Value
At around $20 to $25, the Hesacore grip is a notable investment compared to a standard $5 overgrip. For some players, that price tag is a major deterrent, especially when they can achieve a larger grip size by simply adding extra overgrips. However, the Hesacore offers a unique ergonomic shape that you can’t replicate with layers of tape. Because the grip is reusable, you can carry that investment over to your next paddle, which helps justify the cost over the long term. It’s a specialized tool, and like any specialized tool, it comes with a premium price for its unique design.
Claims vs. Reality: A Look at the Stats
Hesacore makes some specific performance claims, stating that its grip can provide 8% to 14% more grip compared to traditional grips. This is said to reduce the effort needed to hold the paddle, freeing up your muscles to work more efficiently. While it’s hard for the average player to verify these numbers without a lab, the anecdotal evidence from the pickleball community largely supports the sentiment. Players consistently report feeling a more secure connection to their paddle, which allows them to relax their hand. Whether it’s exactly 8% or not, the perceived increase in grip and control is very real for many users.
It’s More Than Just Gear, It’s Community
Delving into a community’s thoughts reveals how product choices go beyond mere functionality, indicating a deep connection between players and their gear. Many respondents shared personal anecdotes about their journey with the Hesacore grips. For instance, user “Ineedyoursway” expressed their fondness for the texture, stating, “I also like having the grip a little squishy. It’s mostly a mental thing for me.” This illustrates that, while physical aspects like grip and comfort stand out, players also connect emotionally with their equipment. Embracing certain grips can enhance one’s enjoyment of the game, enabling users to focus entirely on their play rather than grapple with uncertainties about their equipment. Whether it’s the vibrations absorbed by the pads or the comfort they provide, grips can significantly impact not only play but also the overall experience on the court. Such stories paint a vibrant picture of how mutual camaraderie exists within the pickleball community, where shared experiences create a deeper connection over a common love for the game.
Players seeking every edge in their pickleball game often turn to innovative gear like Hesacore grips. Throughout various perspectives shared in the community, it’s clear these grips garner both attention and affection. From addressing vibration dampening for those with chronic elbow issues to providing a uniquely customizable fit for different hand sizes, it’s no wonder many players recommend making the switch. Whether it’s combatting sweaty hands or enjoying the feel of the paddle during game time, players are finding resonant solutions tailored to their needs. With community feedback fostering informed choices, it will be exciting to watch how the Hesacore grip evolves and continues to impact the vibrant world of pickleball.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I use the Hesacore grip by itself, or do I still need an overgrip? This is a great question, and it’s a crucial one for getting the setup right. You absolutely need to put an overgrip on top of the Hesacore. Think of the Hesacore as the foundation—it provides the ergonomic shape and vibration dampening. Your overgrip is the final layer that gives you the tacky, sweat-absorbing surface you need for proper control during a match. Playing with just the bare Hesacore will feel slick and uncomfortable.
I have smaller hands. Will the Hesacore grip be too thick for me? The added thickness is definitely the biggest consideration for players with smaller hands. Even the “Small” size adds noticeable circumference to the handle. While Hesacore does offer an Extra Small (pink) version to minimize bulk, it will still feel thicker than a standard grip. If you already feel like your paddle’s handle is a bit too large, this might not be the right fit for you, as it could make it harder to maintain a relaxed grip.
With a few different models available, how do I pick the right Hesacore grip? Choosing the right model comes down to your personal preference for feel and comfort. The standard Tour Grip (white) is a great all-around option for a balanced feel. If you struggle with arm pain or just want maximum comfort, the soft Gel Grip (blue) is designed for the best vibration dampening. For advanced players who want a very direct and firm connection to the paddle, the stiff Carbon Grip (black) is the way to go.
Is the Hesacore grip a permanent change, or can I move it to another paddle? One of the best features of the Hesacore grip is that it’s completely reusable. Unlike a traditional grip that you have to cut off, you can carefully work the Hesacore off your old paddle and slide it onto a new one. This adds a lot of long-term value to your purchase, as your investment in comfort can move with you when you decide to upgrade your equipment.
Will this grip actually help with my tennis elbow? Many players find significant relief from tennis elbow and other forearm strain when using this grip. Its two main benefits are vibration dampening and promoting a more relaxed hold. The honeycomb material absorbs a lot of the shock from ball impact, and the ergonomic shape allows you to control the paddle without squeezing it so tightly. This combination reduces the stress on the tendons in your arm, which can make a big difference during and after play.
Key Takeaways
- Get a Better Grip with Less Effort: The unique honeycomb texture helps you hold the paddle securely without a death grip. This is a game-changer for reducing arm strain and managing sweaty hands during long matches.
- Be Mindful of the Added Size: This grip will make your handle thicker and slightly heavier. If you have smaller hands or your game depends on quick wrist movements, the extra bulk might feel restrictive.
- Install It Correctly for Best Results: The Hesacore is an undergrip, meaning it goes on the bare handle before your overgrip. Proper installation is key to getting the intended comfort and control, and since it’s reusable, you can move it to your next paddle.