Pickleball Paddle Thickness Explained: 14mm vs 16mm for SA Players
Introduction
Pickleball paddle thickness is one of the least understood equipment features among South African players. Many players notice the number printed on the paddle but are unsure what it actually means or how it affects performance.
Thickness plays a major role in how the paddle feels on contact, how much control you have during soft shots and how much power is transferred to the ball. Understanding the difference between 14mm and 16mm paddles helps players make more confident buying decisions and avoid mismatches that can slow improvement.
What Does Pickleball Paddle Thickness Mean
Paddle thickness refers to the depth of the paddle core, usually measured in millimetres. The most common options are 14mm and 16mm, although some paddles vary slightly around these numbers.
Thicker paddles compress more on contact, which softens the feel and increases control. Thinner paddles flex less, producing a firmer response and more direct power.
Thickness works alongside paddle shape, surface material and weight, meaning it should never be chosen in isolation.
14mm Pickleball Paddles Explained
Fourteen millimetre paddles are thinner and feel firmer on contact. The ball comes off the face faster, which many players experience as added power and responsiveness.
A good example of a thinner paddle is the Essentials FS 12mm Black Pickleball Paddle, which delivers a crisp feel that suits beginners and recreational players who want easy depth without excessive swing effort.
Fourteen millimetre paddles are often preferred by players who enjoy faster hands, aggressive volleys and attacking play. They can feel lively at the net and effective on serves and drives.
The trade off is reduced forgiveness. Off centre hits feel more noticeable, and soft touch shots require greater control and technique.
16mm Pickleball Paddles Explained
Sixteen millimetre paddles have a thicker core that absorbs more impact. This creates a softer feel and increases dwell time, meaning the ball stays on the paddle slightly longer.
An excellent example of a thicker paddle is the Seneca CDS 16mm Pickleball Paddle, which is designed to prioritise control, stability and comfort during extended rallies.
Sixteen millimetre paddles are popular among control focused players, doubles specialists and players who spend a lot of time at the kitchen line. They make dinks, resets and blocks easier and more consistent.
The downside is slightly reduced power, especially for players who rely on compact swings.
Thickness and Control at the Kitchen
At the non volley zone, paddle thickness becomes especially noticeable. Thicker paddles reduce pop and help absorb pace, making it easier to drop the ball softly into the kitchen.
Players who struggle with balls sitting up too high often benefit from switching to a 16mm paddle. The added control reduces overhits and improves consistency during fast exchanges.
This is one reason why many professional control oriented paddles use thicker cores.
Thickness and Power from the Baseline
Thinner paddles shine during baseline play. The firmer response helps players drive the ball deep and generate pace with less effort.
A performance paddle such as the Ben Johns Hyperion C2 16mm Pickleball Paddle shows how even thicker paddles can still produce power when combined with advanced materials, but in general thinner paddles feel more explosive.
Players who enjoy singles play or aggressive serving often prefer the quicker response of a thinner paddle.
Comfort and Arm Feel
Paddle thickness also affects comfort. Thicker paddles absorb more vibration, which can reduce strain on the arm during long sessions.
South African players who play frequently or who experience elbow discomfort often find that moving to a thicker paddle improves comfort without sacrificing too much performance.
Comfort becomes increasingly important as playing volume increases.
Rules Around Paddle Thickness
There are no rules limiting paddle thickness in pickleball, as long as the paddle remains within maximum size requirements and surface regulations. Official equipment standards are published by USA Pickleball and can be reviewed at https://usapickleball.org.
This allows manufacturers to experiment with core thickness to suit different playing styles.
Practical Guidance for South African Players
If you prioritise control, doubles play and soft touch, start with a 16mm paddle. If you value power, speed and aggressive play, a 14mm paddle may suit you better.
Players unsure of their preference should test both thicknesses over multiple sessions. The difference often becomes clearer during long matches rather than short warm ups.
Conclusion
Pickleball paddle thickness has a significant impact on feel, control and power. Fourteen millimetre paddles offer speed and responsiveness, while sixteen millimetre paddles prioritise control and comfort.
By understanding how thickness influences performance and using real paddle examples as reference points, South African players can choose equipment that complements their style and supports long term enjoyment of the game.