Paddle Core

Pickleball paddles are typically constructed using a sandwich design, where a honeycomb material is placed between two surface layers. This design resembles an I beam, providing the core with the necessary strength for gameplay. The surface layers are commonly composed of graphite, carbon fiber, or fiberglass, while the honeycomb core can be made of aluminum, resin impregnated paper, or polymer.
The core of a pickleball paddle is essentially the inner structure that lies beneath the paddle's face. It plays a crucial role in providing the paddle with structural integrity and influences its overall feel and responsiveness during play. Different core materials can impact the weight, control, and power of the paddle, making it essential to choose the right core material based on individual preferences and playing style.
Among the various core shapes available, the honeycomb pattern is the most commonly used due to its effectiveness in enhancing the paddle's performance on the court. By understanding the significance of the core in a pickleball paddle's construction, players can make informed decisions when selecting a paddle that best suits their needs and playing abilities.

Core materials

Wood
Pickleball paddles with a wooden core have a rich history in the sport and are commonly found in beginner sets. These paddles allow players to experience the traditional feel of wood and offer a unique playing experience. The type of wood used in these paddles plays a significant role in their performance, as it can provide a sturdy and responsive feel when hitting the ball. However, it's important to keep in mind that wood is a heavier material, which means that wooden paddles are typically designed to be shorter and thinner. This design choice may limit their speed and power capabilities, but it adds to the nostalgic charm of playing with a wooden paddle.

Foam
There are different types of foam cores available, including EVA, EPS, and EPP, each with their own unique characteristics. Foam core paddles are known for their soft touch and ability to dampen vibrations, making them a preferred choice for players who value comfort during gameplay. However, due to the high energy return of foam paddles, they are not suitable for official tournaments as the ball tends to bounce off the paddle too quickly upon impact. Manufacturers are actively researching ways to modify foam paddles to meet the regulations for competitive play, extending their use beyond recreational settings.
Foam cores are available in a variety of types, such as EVA, EPS, and EPP, each offering distinct qualities. These foam core paddles are favored by players who seek a comfortable playing experience, as they provide a soft feel and effectively absorb vibrations, reducing noise during gameplay. However, the quick rebound of the ball from foam paddles makes them unsuitable for official tournaments, where precise control is crucial. Manufacturers are currently working on finding solutions to make foam paddles compliant with competitive play regulations, aiming to expand their usage beyond recreational settings.
When it comes to foam cores, there are different options to choose from, including EVA, EPS, and EPP, each with its own set of characteristics. Foam core paddles are known for their ability to offer a soft touch and minimize noise during gameplay by absorbing vibrations. This makes them a popular choice among players who prioritize comfort. However, due to the high energy return of foam paddles, they are not approved for official tournament use as the ball tends to come off the paddle too quickly upon impact. Manufacturers are actively exploring ways to modify foam paddles to meet the regulations for competitive play, allowing them to be used in more than just recreational settings.

Nomex
Nomex cores, the original cores on the market, are well-known for their durability and solid texture. They are primarily composed of resin-coated paper, creating a tough material that can endure heavy usage.
Introduced in the 1960s, one of the standout features of Nomex cores is their fire-resistant properties, offering an extra layer of safety while playing.
Despite the durability of Nomex, it is also responsible for the distinct "Pop" sound that can be heard loudly during gameplay, which some players may find satisfying while others may find it distracting.
These paddles provide a good amount of power, but players might notice a slight compromise in control due to the strong rebound effect off the paddle surface.
When it comes to gameplay, Nomex paddles are a great option for intermediate to advanced players, and are particularly favored by singles players for their blend of power and longevity.

Aluminum
Aluminum cores are often praised for their flexibility, making them the preferred choice for players who prefer a more finesse-driven approach to the game. They are also incredibly lightweight, allowing for quick maneuverability and precise shots on the court.
However, it is important to note that aluminum cores do have their limitations. While they excel in control, they do lack the power that other core types, such as polypropylene or Nomex, can offer. This can be a drawback for players who rely on strong, forceful hits during gameplay.
Another factor to consider is the noise level produced by aluminum cores. The distinct popping sound they make can be bothersome to some players. Additionally, their susceptibility to dents can affect the overall durability of the paddle, potentially impacting performance over time.

Carbon Fiber
Paddle manufacturers have been extensively utilizing carbon fiber for the faces of their paddles, but they have recently begun to explore its potential as a core material as well. While a carbon fiber core offers impressive strength and rigidity, it presents a challenge in terms of achieving a delicate touch when interacting with the ball. Carbon fiber has become increasingly popular as a material choice for paddle faces, but manufacturers are pushing the boundaries by incorporating it into the core as well. This use of carbon fiber as a core material provides unmatched strength and rigidity, but it can pose difficulties in achieving a gentle and soft touch while playing with the ball. Despite its widespread use in paddle faces, manufacturers have been experimenting with carbon fiber as a core material too. While a carbon fiber core offers exceptional strength and stiffness, it can present challenges in achieving a gentle and delicate touch on the ball.

Polymer and polypropylene
Polymer and polypropylene are commonly chosen by players due to their versatility as core materials. These cores possess larger honeycomb cells and a softer texture, making them highly favored. However, in order to safeguard them from impact damage, a robust surface skin is essential. Despite this necessity, polymer-core paddles offer a diverse array of playing attributes, ranging from gentle touch and precise control to enhanced power and spin. Consequently, they are suitable for players of all skill levels, including beginners and advanced individuals. Moreover, these core materials tend to produce less noise while delivering excellent power and control.