If you’ve stepped onto a court at The Pop or The EDGE lately, you’ve probably heard players debating more than just the score. They’re talking millimeters.
"Is that a 14mm?" "No, I switched to the 16mm for better resets."
When you’re looking at the newest models from brands like Selkirk and JOOLA in our shop, that 2mm difference might look tiny, but on the court, it changes everything. At Drop the Racquet, we get asked this question daily: Should I go with the thicker 16mm core for control or the thinner 14mm core for power?
Our founder, Tom Twitchell: a Certified Racquet Technician and longtime member of the U.S. Racquet Stringers Association: has seen players at every level struggle with this choice. Whether you’re a beginner just finding your footing or a seasoned tournament player looking for that extra "pop" in your speed-ups, understanding the "why" behind paddle thickness will elevate your game.
Let’s break down the science of the squeeze so you can select the perfect gear for your next match in South Burlington.
The Core Science: Why 2mm Matters
Most modern performance paddles use a polypropylene honeycomb core. The thickness of this core determines how the paddle interacts with the ball at the moment of impact.
- 16mm (The "Thick" Core): Think of this as a plush mattress. When the ball hits a 16mm core, it sinks in slightly deeper and stays on the face a fraction of a second longer. This "dwell time" absorbs energy, giving you more time to guide the ball exactly where you want it to go.
- 14mm (The "Thin" Core): This is more like a trampoline. Because the core is thinner, it’s stiffer. The ball rebounds off the face much faster. This "pop" translates to higher ball speed with less effort from your arm.
In 2026, as the game gets faster and more aggressive, choosing between these two is the most important decision you'll make when buying a new paddle.
The 16mm Core: The Control King
For many Vermont players, especially those transitioning into the intermediate ranks, the 16mm is the gold standard. If your game relies on strategy, patience, and staying in the point until your opponent makes a mistake, this is your weapon.
Why You’ll Love 16mm:
- Forgiveness and Sweet Spot: Generally, a thicker core offers a larger and more consistent sweet spot. If you don't hit the ball perfectly in the center every time (and let’s be honest, few of us do), a 16mm paddle like the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 is much more forgiving.
- The "Soft" Game: If you struggle with your dinks popping up too high or your third-shot drops sailing long, the 16mm core is a lifesaver. It absorbs the pace of your opponent’s hard shots, making it easier to "reset" the ball into the kitchen.
- Stability: Thicker paddles have more "plow-through." When a hard drive comes at you, the paddle is less likely to twist in your hand, giving you a more stable feel at the net.
Best for: Beginners, defensive-minded players, and doubles specialists who prioritize the "soft game."
The 14mm Core: The Power Pro
Are you the player who looks for any excuse to speed up the ball? Do you love winning hand battles at the kitchen? If so, the 14mm might be calling your name.
Why You’ll Love 14mm:
- Maximum Pop: On counters and flick shots, the 14mm core provides immediate feedback. You don’t have to swing as hard to get the ball moving fast. This "free power" is addictive.
- Maneuverability: Thinner paddles are often (though not always) slightly lighter or have a lower swingweight. This means faster "hands" at the net. In a rapid-fire exchange, those extra milliseconds of hand speed can be the difference between a winner and a net cord.
- Aggressive Serves and Drives: If you come from a tennis background and have a full, fast swing, you can generate incredible pace and spin with a 14mm model like the Selkirk Era Power.
Best for: Former tennis players, singles enthusiasts, and aggressive attackers who already have a controlled touch.
The Vermont Context: Indoor vs. Outdoor Play
Living in the Green Mountain State means our gear has to handle a lot. Most of our local play happens indoors during the long winter months at facilities like The Pop or The EDGE.
Indoor balls are typically softer and have fewer holes, which naturally creates a slightly slower game. Many local players find that a 16mm paddle works perfectly indoors because it enhances that control-oriented style of play.
However, once we move outside to the courts at South Burlington High School in the summer, the wind and harder outdoor balls change the dynamic. If you find yourself fighting against a stiff breeze on a public court, the extra punch of a 14mm paddle can help your shots cut through the air and reach the baseline.
Pro Tip: Remember that Vermont's cold weather can make paddle materials more brittle. We always recommend storing your gear inside your home: never in a cold car overnight!
Still Unsure? Get a "Twitch" Recommendation
At Drop the Racquet, we believe you shouldn't have to guess. While the tech specs are great, nothing beats the feel of the paddle in your own hand.
That’s why we offer a comprehensive demo program. You can come into the shop, talk to Tom about your specific playing style, and take out both a 14mm and a 16mm version of the same model to test on the court.
"I’ve seen players come in convinced they need a power paddle," Tom says, "but after ten minutes of dinking with a 16mm, they realize that's what was missing from their game. Or vice-versa! It’s all about finding the right partner for your arm."
Summary Checklist: 16mm vs 14mm
| Feature | 16mm (Control) | 14mm (Power) |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Soft, Cushioned | Crisp, Poppy |
| Sweet Spot | Large & Forgiving | Focused & Precise |
| Dinks/Drops | Easier to keep low | Requires more touch |
| Speed-ups | Requires more effort | High-speed response |
| Vibration | Low (Better for elbows) | Higher feedback |
Visit Us in South Burlington
Whether you’re looking to upgrade to the latest JOOLA Agassi Pro or just need a fresh can of balls, we’re here to help. We aren't just a retail shop; we are a community hub for everyone who loves racquet and paddle sports in Vermont.
Stop by to see our full selection of apparel, footwear, and the best paddles in the business. And don't forget: if you're also a tennis or squash player, our professional stringing service is the best in the state, with fast turnaround times and expert tensioning.
Get in touch or stop by today:
Address: 142 W Twin Oaks Terrace, South Burlington, Vermont 05403
Shop Phone: 802-951-2344
Tom's Cell: 802-310-1660
Website: droptheracquet.com
See you on the courts!