Nomex vs. Polymer Pickleball Paddle Cores, Which One is Right for You?

We’ll spare you the punny intro paragraph and just get to the core of the issue.

Oops.

Pickleball Paddle Cores

No need to rip open your favorite pickleball paddle to see what’s inside of there. Most likely, it’s made of nomex or polymer. Unless you’re playing with a wooden paddle. In which case, this article will be helpful in your decision to upgrade your paddle. And trust us, you should upgrade. You may want to check out our article on fiberglass vs. graphite pickleball paddles.

Either way, nomex or polymer, the core of your pickleball paddle is likely designed in a honeycomb pattern.

This is due to the design being durable and powerful without the extra weight. So paddle manufacturers have turned to this design to deliver the optimal power, while keeping their paddles relatively light (usually around 7.5-8 ounces).

A heavy paddle used to mean a more powerful paddle. But with the honeycomb core design, that has changed. So pickleballers can conserve arm strength without sacrificing the power and pop off the paddle they’re looking for.

Now, onto the differences between Nomex and Polymer.

Nomex Pickleball Paddle Cores

You’ll find nomex core paddles from plenty of major pickleball brands online and national retailers. If you walk into a tennis or pickleball shop with paddles on the wall, likely at least one is a nomex core.

Nomex is an older material, originally invented in the 60s for the use of helmets. I.e., a strong, durable material that isn’t super heavy. Sound familiar?

That’s exactly why pickleball paddle manufacturers started exploring with nomex cores. The material is extremely hard, giving players a good pop off the paddle. Yet, not unreasonably heavy, so players can still get a good swing with it.

Thus, nomex is a great core option for players looking for ultimate power. If you have pro-level ball control, maybe try a nomex core. See if you can maintain the same level of control with the extra power.

Polymer Pickleball Paddle Cores

Polymer is essentially the newer version of nomex. Remember, nomex wasn’t really created for the use of pickleball play. So as the sport has gained traction, one major innovation in the manufacturing process has been the incorporation of polymer in the cores of paddles.

So what the heck is polymer? In a word, plastic. Polymer is a type of plastic that’s especially durable, yet flexible. That’s the magic of it. It’s still extremely durable and will last for years and years of play. But it has a little more give to it than nomex. So polymer paddle cores offer that same pop off the paddle. But offer more control, too.

Plus, polymer is recyclable.

So which paddle core is right for me?

For 99% of players, we recommend a polymer core. It’s going to optimize your power and control and most likely be the weight you want it to be. Polymer will also allow you ultimate wrist action. So if you’re looking to improve your spin control, polymer is your best bet.

That said, if you’re truly looking for more power, give nomex a go.

Let us know in the comments which paddle core you prefer!