Understanding Pickleball Paddle Thickness: 14mm vs 16mm Explained

Understanding Pickleball Paddle Thickness: 14mm vs 16mm Explained

Understanding Pickleball Paddle Thickness: 14mm vs 16mm Explained

Paddle thickness is one of the most talked-about pickleball specs—and also one of the most misunderstood. You’ll often hear that “14mm paddles are for power and 16mm paddles are for control,” but the reality is more nuanced. This guide explains what thickness actually changes, and how 14mm and 16mm paddles really differ on court.

What Does Pickleball Paddle Thickness Mean?

Paddle thickness refers to the distance from the face of the paddle to the back edge of the core. Most modern paddles fall between 12mm and 16mm, with 14mm and 16mm being the two most common options.

Why Thickness Matters

  • Dwell time: Thicker paddles allow the ball to stay on the face slightly longer, which affects control and forgiveness.
  • Energy return: Thinner paddles tend to rebound the ball more quickly, producing a livelier response.
  • Stability and forgiveness: Thickness influences how stable the paddle feels on off-centre hits.

Comparing 14mm and 16mm Pickleball Paddles

14mm Paddles: Faster Response and Accessible Power

14mm paddles have a thinner core, which creates a firmer, more immediate response at impact.

Advantages:

  • More accessible power: The quicker rebound can help players generate pace more easily, especially on drives and serves.
  • Faster feel: The paddle feels lively and responsive, which some players prefer in quick exchanges.
  • Lighter swing feel: Often feels more manoeuvrable due to reduced core mass.

Considerations:

  • Shorter dwell time can make soft shots and resets less forgiving.
  • Off-centre hits tend to feel harsher.
  • Can transmit more vibration, depending on construction.

16mm Paddles: Control, Forgiveness, and Stability

16mm paddles use a thicker core, which increases dwell time and softens ball impact.

Advantages:

  • Greater control: Longer dwell time helps with dinks, drops, and resets.
  • Improved forgiveness: More stable on off-centre contact, especially at the net.
  • Softer feel: Better shock absorption and reduced vibration.

Considerations:

  • Power is still available, but relies more on technique and swing speed.
  • Can feel slightly slower in rapid hand battles for some players.

Practical Differences: Feel, Control, Power

Feature 14mm Paddle 16mm Paddle
Feel Firm, quick rebound Softer, longer dwell time
Control More demanding on touch shots Higher forgiveness and consistency
Power Easier access to pace Power comes from technique, not rebound
Stability Less forgiving on mishits More stable across the face
Vibration More feedback Better vibration dampening

Who Should Choose Which Thickness?

  • 14mm paddles: Suited to players who like a faster, more responsive feel and want easier access to power—often favoured by aggressive players and those coming from tennis.
  • 16mm paddles: Ideal for players prioritising control, consistency, and comfort—particularly effective for net play, dinking, and all-court styles.

Pro Tips for Selecting Paddle Thickness

  • Thickness works in combination with core material, face material, and paddle shape.
  • More thickness doesn’t remove power—it changes how that power is delivered.
  • If you value forgiveness and soft-game confidence, thicker is usually better.
  • If you prefer a lively, immediate response, thinner may feel more natural.
  • Always consider comfort and consistency over raw speed.

Common Misconceptions About Paddle Thickness

  • “Thicker always means more power”: In reality, thicker paddles prioritise control and forgiveness, not rebound speed.
  • “Thinner paddles lack control”: Control is still possible, but requires cleaner technique and timing.
  • “Thickness alone defines performance”: Face material, balance, and construction matter just as much.

FAQs

Q1: Do thicker paddles really reduce power?
A1: No. They simply deliver power more predictably and with greater control, relying more on swing mechanics than rebound.

Q2: Are thinner paddles harder on the arm?
A2: They can be, depending on construction. Thinner paddles generally transmit more vibration, which may affect comfort.

Q3: Are both thicknesses legal for competitive play?
A3: Yes. Both 14mm and 16mm paddles are fully compliant with USA Pickleball regulations when built within size and material limits.

Q4: Which thicknesses do you sell?
A4: Vanta is launching with 16mm models of ORIGIN and DRIVE. 14mm versions will be added to the range in due course.

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