What Does 13mm Mean for a Pickleball Paddle?

What does 13mm mean for a pickleball paddle? Learn pickleball equipment rules, typical paddle sizes, how thickness impacts power, control & play for beginners through advanced — plus smart shopping tips for your ideal specs.

13mm pickleball paddle

Have you heard about the fun sport of pickleball? More and more people are trying out this popular game. When you decide to buy your first pickleball paddle, you will see numbers like “13mm” used to describe paddles. This refers to the thickness of the paddle core. Let’s explore what 13mm means and how it impacts your play!

Pickleball paddles must meet certain size rules to be used in official USA Pickleball Association tournaments and events. The paddles have to be between 0.170 inches (4.3 mm) and 0.310 inches (7.9 mm) thick. This rule makes sure paddles are fairly standard, so no player has an unfair advantage.

A 13mm pickleball paddle equals about 0.51 inches thick. This is below the minimum thickness allowed by tournament regulations. But many recreational pickleball players use paddles outside the official limits just fine. You only need to worry about regulations if playing in competitive events.

While 13mm is on the thinner size, most standard pickleball paddles range from 15mm to 16mm in core thickness (0.59–0.63 inches). This middle thickness provides a good blend of qualities. Let’s compare how changing the thickness impacts paddle performance.

The thickness of the internal paddle core is very important. This determines how the paddle feels and performs in several ways:

• Thicker cores (like 16mm) allow more power on shots
• Thinner cores (like 13mm) reduce the power

• Thinner cores give more control and finesse
• Players can shape shots easier with less power

• Thinner paddles are easier to swing and maneuver quickly
• Less arm strain for play sessions

• Maximum power comes from the sweet spot in the middle
• Thicker cores make the sweet spot bigger for beginners

So in summary — thinner paddles offer more touch and control, while maximum power and stability comes from thicker paddle cores.

The thickness of the internal paddle core is very important. But there are other factors that affect how a paddle feels too:

Common core materials are:

• Polymer — Lightweight but powerful
• Aluminum — Very stiff for extra pop
• Nomex — Ultra-durable and stable
• Wood — Touch and control

So core material types contribute additional properties beyond just thickness.

The paddle face (layer covering the core) also impacts shots:

• Graphite — Mix of power, control and touch
• Fiberglass — More flexible, good touch
• Carbon fiber — Stiff for extra power and pop

So the layers wrapping the internal paddle core change the access to power or control.

In addition to thickness, pickleball paddles come in different lengths and surface areas:

• Oversize — Above average size for reach
• Midsize — Balance of spin and touch
• Oversized — Easier to hit sweet spot

The official regulation size is about 24 inches long. But recreational players can explore lengths above or below that too.

Now that you know the pros and cons of different pickleball paddle sizes and constructions — when should someone consider a 13mm paddle?

Since it is below the regulated size, a 13mm paddle really works best for casual recreational play. Use it when just having fun with family or friends. The rules will not apply, so you can experiment.

As you are developing your pickleball skills and technique, the extra touch and control from a thinner 13mm paddle can really help. You will be able to shape shots easier as you practice. Power can come later as you advance.

A 13mm paddle is lighter and easier to maneuver compared to thicker paddles. This makes it a good choice if recovering from any hand, wrist or elbow injuries. Players with arthritis or joint issues may also benefit from a thinner, lighter weight construction.

• Bring a ruler! When shopping for paddles, bring a small ruler to check the actual thickness and size measurements of paddles you are considering. Marketing descriptions do not always match the real specs.
• Weight matters too. Pay attention to overall paddle weight in addition to thickness. Heavier paddles provide stability but cause more arm fatigue over longer play sessions.
• Ask about replacement policies. Pickleball paddle faces and edges can wear down over time with play on rough courts. Ask retailers if they allow face and edge replacements under warranty. This expands the paddle lifespan.
• Buy the best you can afford as your skills improve. Better paddles provide more precision, power and control. Upgrade in stages if needed.

Choosing your first or next pickleball paddle means learning specs like “13mm”. Now you know exactly what it refers to:

• 13mm means a thinner paddle core than standard sizes
• Thinner cores provide more control and finesse
• But you lose some power and stability from thicker cores
• Many factors impact paddle performance — thickness is one key element
• Recreational players can use 13mm paddles, outside tournament rules
• It’s a smart choice for beginner skill development

So while paddle regulations try to standardize equipment, there is still variety for different play styles! Understanding construction specs will help you pick the right paddle as you advance in pickleball.

Now that you know how specs like 13mm core thickness impact pickleball paddle performance, get out on the courts with your ideal match! Dial in the control and power combination that fits your current skills. Then watch your championship dreams come into focus, one paddle flip at a time.