Why Paddle Core Thickness Matters
Walk into any court and you will hear players debating the same thing: does core thickness really change how a paddle plays? The short answer is yes, and it is one of the most important specs to understand before you buy. The core is the honeycomb layer sandwiched between the paddle's two faces, and its thickness — usually measured in millimeters — influences how long the ball stays on the paddle, how much power you generate, and how forgiving the sweet spot feels.
Most modern paddles fall into two camps: 13mm and 16mm. Neither is objectively better. They simply suit different styles of play, and choosing well comes down to how you like to score points.
13mm vs 16mm: Power, Control, and Feel
The 13mm paddle
A 13mm core is thinner, which makes the paddle feel firmer and more responsive. The ball pops off the face quickly, giving you easier access to power on drives and put-aways. The trade-off is a smaller effective sweet spot and less dwell time, so resets and dinks demand softer hands. If you play an aggressive, attacking game and rely on speed-ups, a 13mm core can be a great fit.
The 16mm paddle
A 16mm core is thicker and softer. The ball sinks into the face slightly and stays there a fraction longer, which translates into more control, better touch around the kitchen, and a larger sweet spot that forgives off-center contact. The cost is a little less free power — you will need to generate more of it yourself. Players who win with patience, placement, and consistent dinking often prefer 16mm.
How to decide
- Choose 13mm if you want pop, quick hands at the net, and a firm, direct feel.
- Choose 16mm if you value control, soft resets, and a forgiving sweet spot.
- Consider your level: newer players usually benefit from the extra forgiveness of a thicker core, while advanced players may prefer the precision of a thinner one.
There is no rule that says you must stay in one lane forever. Many players keep both a 13mm and a 16mm paddle and switch based on the day, the partner, or the opponent.
Thermoformed and Elongated Options
Two other design choices often come up alongside core thickness. Thermoformed paddles are built by heat-bonding the layers together, which can create a stiffer, more powerful face with a durable edge. Elongated paddles have a longer face and a narrower body, extending reach and shifting the sweet spot higher up — helpful for players who like to hit with topspin or cover more court.
Brands such as TMPR, VELOZ, Gearbox, and Oneshot each approach these features differently, so it is worth comparing specs side by side rather than assuming a label tells the whole story. A thermoformed elongated paddle with a 16mm core, for example, will feel very different from a standard-shaped 13mm model.
Match the Paddle to Your Game
Think about the three shots you hit most often. If your game is built on drives and hand battles, lean toward a thinner core and a head-light feel. If your game is built on dinks, drops, and resets, lean toward a thicker core with a softer face. If you are somewhere in the middle, a 14mm or a mid-weight 16mm paddle can be a sensible compromise.
Comfort matters too. Players with elbow or wrist sensitivity often find thicker, softer cores more forgiving on vibration. Grip size and handle length also affect how the paddle feels in your hand, so do not overlook them.
Protect Your Investment
A paddle is a piece of equipment, and a little care goes a long way. Store it in a cover, avoid leaving it in a hot car, and replace the grip tape when it gets slick. Edge guard tape can reduce wear from court scrapes, and a spare paddle in your bag means you are never caught short.
Comfortable apparel also keeps you moving well through long sessions. Lightweight, moisture-friendly pieces make a real difference on warm days, and the Centerline Women's Courtside Track Jacket is an easy layer for warming up or cooling down. For a simple base layer, the Centerline Women's Essential Fitted Tank pairs well with almost anything on court.
If you prefer a skort with a bit of personality, the Pickleball Bella Dink 1 A-Line Skort and the Pickleball Bella Net Worth Drop Pleat Skort are both built for movement, while the Pickleball Bella Groovy Drop Pleat Skort adds a playful look to your rotation.
Final Thoughts
The 13mm versus 16mm decision is really a question about how you want to win points. Test both if you can, pay attention to how the ball leaves the face, and let your own results guide you. At The #1 Shop For Pickleball Equipment | Pickleball Superstore, you can compare paddles, apparel, and accessories side by side and build a setup that fits your game.
