Cart
0
Picking the right pickleball paddle is one of the most important steps to improving your game. Whether you're a beginner or a competitive player, understanding how paddle features impact your performance will help you choose the right fit.
At The Pickleball Studio, we specialize in high-performance pickleball paddles from leading brands like CRBN, Six Zero, Honolulu, Obelisk, and Joola (select models only). Our top recommendation for serious players is the CRBN Trufoam Genesis Series, which incorporates 4th Generation Foam-Injected Edge Technology for unmatched control, stability, and forgiveness.
Understanding Paddle Thickness: 16mm vs 14mm
Paddle thickness directly affects feel and performance:
-
16mm Paddles
Thicker paddles offer increased control, touch, and stability. They're perfect for players who value precision and consistency at the kitchen line. CRBN’s 16mm Trufoam Genesis paddles are a top choice in this category, offering a plush feel and larger sweet spot thanks to their premium foam-injected edge walls. -
14mm Paddles
Thinner paddles are more responsive and offer extra power and pop. While they tend to have a smaller sweet spot, they’re a good choice for aggressive players who prefer fast-paced drives and putaways.
CRBN Trufoam Genesis Series & 4th Gen Foam Technology
The CRBN Trufoam Genesis Series features 4th Generation Foam-Injected Edge Technology, designed to increase twist weight, expand the sweet spot, and reduce vibration. This innovation improves stability on off-center hits, giving players greater forgiveness and better control under pressure.
The Genesis Series also uses T700 raw carbon fiber faces for elite spin potential, trusted by serious players who demand feel, control, and shot-shaping ability.
Weight: Choosing the Right Balance
Paddle weight affects swing speed, comfort, and power:
- Lightweight (7.3 – 7.6 oz): Easier to maneuver but may lack stability.
- Midweight (7.7 – 8.3 oz): Ideal balance of power and control. Most CRBN paddles fall in this range.
- Heavy (8.4 oz+): Generates strong power but can feel sluggish for quick net exchanges.
Looking for a balanced performance paddle? The CRBN 1X and Genesis models are optimized to sit in the midweight category, giving players an ideal blend of finesse and force.
Swing Weight & Twist Weight Explained
-
Swing Weight
This tells you how heavy a paddle feels during motion. Lower swing weights are easier to whip for fast volleys, while higher swing weights offer plow-through on drives and blocks. -
Twist Weight
A high twist weight means more stability and less twisting on off-center shots. The CRBN Genesis Series, with its foam-injected edges, boasts excellent twist weight, helping players maintain control even on mishits.
Handle Length & Shape: Why It Matters
Many players today prefer elongated paddles with longer handles—like those found in most CRBN models. These offer several benefits:
- Two-handed backhands: The extra length provides room for a second hand.
- More leverage and spin: Elongated handles allow for greater wrist motion and shot variation.
- Improved reach: Useful at the kitchen line or during fast exchanges.
The CRBN 1X and Genesis Series both feature elongated handles and paddle faces, giving players a modern, versatile tool for both singles and doubles.
Spin Potential
All CRBN paddles use raw T700 carbon fiber, offering maximum spin and grit for shaping shots. Whether you're adding topspin to your drives or slicing dinks, raw carbon fiber surfaces provide the ball bite you need for competitive play.
Still Not Sure? Let Us Help
Choosing the perfect paddle can be overwhelming, but we’re here to make it easier. Reach out to us at hello@thepickleballstudio.com.au or browse our [CRBN Paddle Collection] to learn more about which model best suits your game.
At The Pickleball Studio, we only stock brands and models we believe in—tested for performance, comfort, and durability. Whether you're looking for a control-focused paddle like the CRBN Genesis 16mm, or a more powerful 14mm option, we’ll help you find the gear that elevates your play.