Pickleball Paddle Core Thickness Explained
As you're searching to buy pickleball paddles, there's a great chance that you might've encountered these numbers: 12mm, 14mm, 16mm. These are all measurements of core thickness, which controls how much power or control your paddle can exert on the court. To help you find the perfect match for your game, our SCHEELS Experts break down exactly what these numbers mean and how to choose the best thickness for your play style.
Related Expert Advice: How to Choose A Pickleball Paddle
What is Core Thickness?
Core thickness, measured in millimeters, is the interior structure of the paddle. This measurement is the primary factor in determining how the paddle will perform on contact with the ball. Thicker cores (16mm) absorb more energy, providing you with a larger sweet spot for off-center hits and effortless defense. On the other hand, thinner paddles (12mm and 14mm) absorb less energy, offering maximum pop and faster hand speeds for aggressive, offensive play.
Types of Core Thickness on a Pickleball Paddle
The three most common core thicknesses on a paddle are 12mm, 14mm, and 16mm. Each of these paddles has its own specific property that can greatly affect your gameplay depending on what play style you’re hoping to prioritize.
Thinner Cores for Power
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12mm Paddles (The "Thin" Core): These ultimate power paddles feature less material to absorb energy. Since these paddles feature less material, it allows the ball to bounce right off the at the face with maximum velocity.
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14mm Paddles (The "Standard" Core): This paddle offers a balance of power and maneuverability. These paddles are thin enough to keep your hand speed fast at the kitchen line, but stable enough to be a go-to option for versatile players.
Thicker Cores for Control
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16mm Paddles (The "Thick" Core): These paddles offer a balance of control and stability. The added thickness dampens the ball's impact, giving the player more "touch" for dinks and resets. This profile also expands the sweet spot, meaning the paddle won't twist as much on off-center hits, making it perfect for beginners and defensive players alike.
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16mm+ (The "Chonk" Core): These are the thickest paddles for maximum absorption and ultimate forgiveness. These paddles feature a plush feel that makes hitting pickleballs effortless for players wanting more control on their shots.
How Core Thickness Affects Your Game
Core thickness dictates four main factors of your game: feel, sweet spot, vibration, and ball response.
| Thinner Cores | Thicker Cores | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Stiffer impact for instant hand feedback | Softer feel for premium comfort. |
| Sweet Spot | Smaller, requiring more force on hits. | Larger, providing maximum forgiveness on hits. |
| Vibration | Transmits more vibration to your hand | Less vibration and absorbs impact |
| Ball Response | Faster response with aggressive ‘pop’ to react quickly to incoming shots. | Slower response to help you control the pace. |
Whether you're a beginner figuring out your style or a seasoned pro heading to a competition, having a paddle that prioritizes your play style is a good step toward ensuring you have the best performance on the courts. If you have any questions regarding paddle thickness or choosing your paddle, feel free to head to your local SCHEELS store to talk to a Pickleball Expert!
