Buying Guide: Construction / Core How To Choose A Pickleball Paddle
At JustPaddles, we know that choosing the right pickleball paddle can be the difference between victory and defeat. That’s why we have created a comprehensive pickleball paddle buying guide for players of all levels.
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Pickleball Paddle Construction
Ever wonder what goes into that pickleball paddle you dominate the court with? Unveiling the secrets within, pickleball paddle construction is a fascinating blend of science and design. You can’t expect to take a flat piece of wood and dominate. Here is a breakdown of key components that go into making pickleball paddles:
Understanding Pickleball Paddle Core
The core of a pickleball paddle, the central layer between the face and handle, significantly influences your game's performance. This often overlooked component, typically made of materials like wood, foam, or polymer, determines factors like power, control, and feel.
Thin Core
13mm or Less
Powerhouses: These paddles offer a quick swing speed and generate impressive power. However, they can be less forgiving on off-center hits.
Standard
14mm - 16mm
All Around Player: provides the perfect balance of power, control, and touch, making it ideal for a well-rounded playing style that adapts to both offensive and defensive shots. Great for players just getting into pickleball!
Thick Core
16mm or More
Control Freaks: These paddles provide enhanced control, making them perfect for finesse shots like drops and dinks.Ideal for: Defensive-minded players who focus on consistency and precision.
Choosing the Right Core for Your Style
Ultimately, the best core thickness depends on your personal preference and playing style. Consider these factors:
- Power vs. Control — Prioritize power with a thin core or control with a thick core.
- Feel — Thin cores offer a crisp feel, while thick cores provide a softer, more forgiving touch.
- Skill Level — Beginners may benefit from a thicker core for more control, while experienced players can experiment with thinner cores for added power.
Choosing the Right Core Material
Polypropylene
- Least amount (quietest) of noise of any paddle core
- The softest and most flexible core
- The flexibility helps dampen a shot, but still has power
- Option for all types of play
Nomex
- Limited amount of paddles with modern technologies
- Hardest core
- First core used to create composite paddles
Foam Core
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: Foam core pickleball paddles are generally lighter than traditional paddles, making them easier to handle and quicker to swing.
- The soft foam core provides better control over shots, especially for dinks and placement, due to its shock-absorbing properties.
- Foam cores reduce the noise level during play, making them ideal for noise-restricted communities or indoor games.
- These paddles often provide a softer, more comfortable feel upon ball impact, reducing strain on the arm and wrist.
Want to Learn More?
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What is the best paddle on the market right now?
Once you have filtered your search on JustPaddles, our paddles are defaulted to list in the order of most popular. The best paddles on the market right now will depend on who you are asking. Here at JustPaddles, we carry a wide variety of great brands because we realize everybody has their personal preference.
Check out our blog on the Best Pickleball Paddles for an updated list of top pickleball paddles on the courts!
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