If you’ve ever wondered why some paddles feel like a soft pillow and others feel like a trampoline, the answer is usually hidden in the core thickness. Most players get stuck choosing between 13mm and 16mm, but the “right” choice depends entirely on whether you want to punish the ball or control the kitchen.
| Feature | 13mm (Power) | 16mm (Control) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Focus | Speed & Pop | Touch & Resetting |
| Sweet Spot | Smaller/Tight | Larger/Forgiving |
| Best Example | Lightweight Power Paddles | JOOLA Hyperion / LUX CAS 16 |
The 16mm Standard: Why Professionals Love It
The 16mm core is the gold standard for intermediate and advanced players who want to master the “soft game”. Because the core is thicker, it absorbs more energy from the ball, making it much easier to hit those unattackable dinks and resets. Thicker 16mm cores are generally preferred for their energy-absorbing qualities. This ‘dampening’ effect is exactly what you need when executing a [consistent third shot drop].
Take the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 or the LUX CAS 16 as examples. These paddles use that extra thickness to provide a 9.4+ control rating, giving you a “plush” feel that minimizes unforced errors at the net. If you’re serious about moving up in rank, understanding this technology is key—check our full Paddle Technology Guide for the deep dive.
The Vatic Pro Saga 16mm is one of the better examples of what a 16mm core does well — muted feel at the kitchen, above-average control on resets, with enough power on full swings to threaten from the baseline.
The 13mm Edge: For the Aggressor
A 13mm core is a different beast. It’s thinner, which means it doesn’t absorb as much energy. Instead, it acts like a spring, giving you more “pop” on your drives and overheads. The trade-off? It’s much less forgiving. If you hit the ball off-center, you’ll feel the vibration much more than you would with a 16mm paddle.
While the jump from 13mm to 16mm offers a noticeable increase in control, some specialty brands go even further. For those seeking maximum dampening, the Anbrose RRP pushes the limits with a massive 19.6mm core, providing a level of shock absorption that standard 16mm paddles simply can’t match.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose 16mm if: You want to win through placement, better dinking, and consistent resets. It’s the safer choice for developing players.
Choose 13mm if: You already have great ball control and you just want more weaponized speed to finish points at the net.
Remember, thickness isn’t the only factor. Your hand size also dictates how much control you have over these cores. Make sure you aren’t fighting your gear by reading our Grip Size and Handle Length Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I switch between 13mm and 16mm paddles without affecting my game? A: You can, but expect an adjustment period of 1–2 weeks. The feel difference is significant — 13mm paddles have a livelier, bouncier response while 16mm paddles feel softer and more dampened. Players who switch frequently between the two often report inconsistency in their dink depth and drive timing until they recalibrate. If you play competitively, sticking to one thickness during a season is generally advisable.
Q: Is 16mm always better for beginners? A: For most beginners, yes. The larger sweet spot and more forgiving response of a 16mm core reduce the penalty for off-center hits, which beginners experience frequently. However, beginners who come from tennis backgrounds and already have consistent swing mechanics sometimes prefer 13mm for its more familiar, reactive feel. It’s not a universal rule — if you can demo both, do so before committing.
Q: Does core thickness affect how loud a paddle is? A: Yes. Thicker 16mm cores absorb more impact energy, producing a softer, quieter sound. Thinner 13mm cores flex less on contact, generating a sharper, louder pop. If you play at facilities with noise restrictions or quiet zones, a 16mm paddle — especially with a foam-injected core — will help you stay compliant without sacrificing performance.
Q: Do professional players use 13mm or 16mm paddles? A: Both, depending on playing style. Aggressive baseline players and those who prioritize power often use 13mm or 14mm paddles for the extra pop. Players who specialize in kitchen control and reset-heavy strategies tend to prefer 16mm for the added touch. Many top professionals like Ben Johns have used 16mm variants precisely because kitchen dominance at the professional level requires that extra dampening.
Q: Can I feel the difference between 13mm and 16mm in my first session? A: Yes, most players notice the difference immediately, even if they can’t immediately identify why the paddle feels different. The most common first impressions are that 13mm feels “faster” and more reactive, while 16mm feels “softer” and more controlled. The difference is most noticeable on dinks and reset volleys rather than drives, where the extra dampening of a 16mm core produces a noticeably more predictable touch.
Case Study: The JOOLA Pro V Series
JOOLA uses their Propulsion Core in both 14mm and 16mm versions. To see these physics in action on real-world equipment, read our JOOLA Pro V 14mm vs 16mm Head-to-Head.
Also choosing between a 13mm and 16mm core often comes down to whether you prioritize the baseline drives of singles or the tactical dinks of doubles. Your core choice is the foundation of your success in [different pickleball formats like singles and doubles].