Many players (including pros) don't know what's in the oar, so they don't really know if the core or surface really is and why it affects them.
It's not about the type of core or the type of surface, it's about the concept that there are different materials that affect the performance of their paddle board, and we're the only company that provides this material for every player.
We hear players say they use graphite paddles or they want honeycomb paddles. Without understanding the basic paddle structure, it is too early to talk about the core and surface. The pickle ball paddle consists of a honeycomb (its core -- meaning it is the middle layer of the paddle) that is sandwicched between two sides (the surface of each paddle). The core sandwiched between the surfaces is called the panel. The surfaces are bonded to the core on both sides with very strong adhesives. The entire blade shape including the handle is then cut from the large 8' x 10' panel including the handle. Next, the graphics are printed on each side of the blade surface. Edge guards are then attached to the sides of the OARS to protect the edges. Finally, the handle is built on top of the panel handle end. It consists of two trays (these are the reasons for giving the handle shape) with the end cover placed at the end and bottom of the tray (see drawing). Now, by increasing the handle in 1/8-inch increments, you can determine the size of the handle or each person's hand. The grip strap is wrapped around the handle (yes, the way it's wrapped is important if you're left-handed or right-handed), and a strap is placed around the top of the handle to hold it in place and complete the end, so it doesn't come undone.
Now that you know how these materials are put together, understanding what they do and how they make each paddle work is something every player should be concerned about.
Players who know their game and understand the gameplay characteristics of the materials that make their paddle and make it play a certain way are more capable of doing the best they can. Knowing the core, surface, weight, and handle/grip will enable you to build paddles that elevate your game. When you are confident in your equipment, it translates into performance on the pitch!
Which Surface and Why
The three most commonly used surfaces for pickleball paddles are Carbon Fiber Weave, Graphite and Fiberglass Composite. Each has characteristics that, when combined with a core material, give each paddle the performance profile that suits every player’s unique style and game.
Carbon Fiber - (softest surface material)
Carbon fiber surfaces are the most expensive, most durable and lightest weight. When bonded properly to a honeycomb core, Carbon Fiber weave (it is actually fabric before being bonded to a honeycomb core) is strong, durable, high tech and very distinctive in appearance. It provides the ultimate in ball control, but can lose a bit of power compared to the other surfaces.
Fiberglass Composite - (most neutral surface material)
Composite paddle faces take full advantage of the latest aerospace composite material technology. Variations of composite surfaces are expanding throughout the industry, increasing their playability. These paddles feature an incredible combination of touch, feel, and strength. The Composite surface provides a bit more power than the other two surfaces.
Graphite - (hardest surface material)
Graphite paddle surfaces are very thin, about the thickness of a fingernail. Light and responsive, yet hard and strong. Players like the quick action off the Graphite face. Graphite is a bit heavier than carbon fiber and slightly less durable (and more cost effective, which is a reason many manufacturers use it rather than carbon fiber). Because of Graphite’s stiff nature, the ball does not sink into it, so it is easier to direct the ball, providing fantastic ball placement.
Weight
Paddle weight is a hot button for players. Many believe that the weight determines how well they respond to the ball and should be based on their size and gender. That’s the opposite of what they need to think. Skill determines how well a player responds to the ball. Weight is more about what your body can cope with during play.
Before a player decides that they must have a certain weight based on their size or gender, they should instead be sure that: 1) their grip is properly sized, and 2) the paddle weight matches their level of strength, regardless of their stature or gender. That combination is the most important factor in choosing a proper weight.
Also keep in mind how the weight is distributed in a paddle. The key is how a paddle is balanced, not the total weight of the paddle itself. Mitigating the scale weight so the swing weight of the paddle feels light and responsive is what separates BEIVES Pickleball Paddles from the rest. You can pick up two paddles with the same weight and one may feel significantly heavier due to how the paddle weight is balanced. Blind studies have shown players typically think many of our paddles weigh an ounce or more less than their scale weight.