Dwell time is one of the most misunderstood but important playing variables in pickleball.
Many factors, such as paddle materials, paddle shape and design, and player capability, can affect dwell time. At Selkirk LABS, engineers define it in precise terms to evaluate a paddle’s playability.
Defining dwell time
Simply put, dwell time refers to the amount of time the ball stays in contact with the paddle face after impact.
A longer dwell time allows a player to apply more spin, manipulate placement, and improve shot accuracy. Conversely, short dwell time results in quicker ball release and more power.
Why dwell time matters for pickleball players
For players who prioritize precision and touch — especially in drops, dinks, and resets — longer dwell time provides a noticeable advantage. It gives more control over shot direction and spin.
On the other hand, aggressive players who rely on fast volleys, drives, and power serves may benefit from paddles with shorter dwell time for quicker rebound and speed.
How Selkirk LABS measures dwell time
Using high-speed cameras and advanced testing tools, Selkirk Labs can capture precise dwell time down to the millisecond of contact to evaluate how different materials, core thicknesses, and surface textures affect ball retention.
These lab-based measurements are essential to validate — or sometimes challenge — what players subjectively report during testing. This data allows engineers to identify whether a paddle truly offers “more control” or “more pop” and helps them make informed design adjustments.
How paddle materials and shape affect dwell time
Dwell time isn’t just about how a paddle feels — it’s heavily influenced by design factors. Here’s how different components play a role:
Core thickness
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Thicker cores generally increase dwell time. They absorb more impact, allowing the ball to stay on the face slightly longer, which enhances control and touch.
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Thinner cores create quicker rebound and reduce dwell time. These are favored in paddles built for power and speed.
Core material and density
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Lower-density cores tend to provide more trampoline effect and can increase dwell time due to more compression on impact.
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Higher-density cores result in a firmer, more responsive feel, often shortening dwell time and contributing to a snappier rebound.
Surface material and texture
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Grittier surfaces enhance the paddle’s ability to “grab” the ball and may slightly increase dwell time, aiding spin and control.
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Hard, smooth surfaces tend to reduce dwell time, leading to a faster release and less manipulation time for the player.
Pickleball paddle shape and weight distribution
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Widebody paddles often have more surface area and a balanced weight distribution, which can contribute to more stable contact and, in some cases, slightly longer dwell time.
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Elongated paddles concentrate more mass higher on the face, which can reduce dwell time and promote a faster release, beneficial for power but less forgiving for control shots.
Edge guard and construction stiffness
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Stiff paddles with rigid construction (from edge guard to face) usually offer reduced dwell time, making them feel “poppier.”
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Softer or more flexible designs allow for deeper ball compression and longer dwell time.
