Elongated pickleball paddle with VantaGrit texture, CAC face, and Dual Density Foam Core. Choose 14mm for quicker pop or 16mm for added dwell, stability, and touch. 5.5in handle length.
Middleweight/Medium Grip
Holbrook Fuze VantaGrit Elongated Foam Pickleball Paddle
The biggest change to the Fuze lineup is right on the surface. The Fuze VantaGrit Elongated pairs Holbrook's new VantaGrit texture with its patent-pending Dual Density Foam Core, giving us a paddle built for aggressive spin, powerful contact, and lasting performance. VantaGrit is designed to maintain its bite longer than traditional raw carbon, helping us shape topspin drives, roll volleys, and sharp angles without losing that familiar gritty response. Underneath, higher-density foam in the upper portion of the paddle supports explosive power, while lower-density foam in the center helps create a more forgiving, consistent feel. A layered Carbon-Aramid-Carbon (CAC) face rounds out the construction with added touch for drops, resets, and controlled blocks.
With a 16.5in x 7.5in elongated shape, this version gives us the extra reach and leverage to attack from the baseline, stretch for volleys, and finish points overhead. The 5.5in handle also accommodates two-handed backhands, making it a natural fit for aggressive singles players and doubles players who like to dictate points. We have two distinct ways to experience this platform. The 14mm has a quicker response and lower swing weight for fast counters and speed-ups, while the 16mm feels more settled through contact, helping us absorb pace and manage depth on softer shots. Both deliver the same VantaGrit spin technology, so the choice comes down to how quickly you want the ball to leave the face.
+ Key Features
- VantaGrit Surface - Durable textured finish designed to maintain ball bite, helping us generate topspin on drives and shape roll volleys over the net.
- Patent-Pending Dual Density Foam Core - Higher-density foam toward the top and lower-density foam at the center balance offensive response with forgiveness on imperfect contact.
- Carbon-Aramid-Carbon (CAC) Face Technology - Layered face construction supports a connected response when transitioning from aggressive drives to softer drops and resets.
- Unibody Carbon Fiber Construction - Integrated construction reinforces the paddle structure for a consistent, solid feel during hard exchanges.
- 16.5in Elongated Shape - Extra reach and leverage help us cover passing shots, extend on volleys, and drive through the ball from deeper court positions.

+ 14mm | Quick Rebound and Attacking Speed
The 14mm is the more reactive option for players who like to initiate speed-ups and redirect pace. Its 114–115 swing weight makes it easier to get moving than the 16mm, particularly when we're countering at the kitchen or changing direction during quick exchanges. The thinner core provides a more immediate release, helping drives and flicks jump off the face without requiring an oversized swing. We would lean toward this version for an aggressive player who likes a firm, direct response and can manage touch through technique. Compared with the 16mm, expect less dwell on drops and defensive resets.
+ 16mm | Stronger Stability and Softer Touch
The 16mm gives the elongated shape a more substantial feel through contact. Its 117–118 swing weight provides additional momentum on drives, while the thicker core helps settle the response when blocking hard shots or dropping the ball into the kitchen. We notice the benefit most when taking pace off an opponent's attack, where the added dwell makes it easier to manage depth and trajectory. This is the version we would choose for players who still want reach and offensive leverage but prefer a more forgiving response in transition. It sacrifices some of the 14mm's quickness in exchange for stability and touch.
Expert Review
"The elongated shape gives us plenty of reach and leverage. We like the 14mm for quick counters and aggressive speed-ups, while the 16mm feels more settled when we're blocking pace or working through the transition zone."
PBC Gear Expert
Frequently Asked Questions
+ Q: What is the difference between the Fuze VantaGrit Elongated 14mm and 16mm?
A: The 14mm has a quicker, firmer response with a lower swing weight for fast counters and speed-ups. The 16mm provides more dwell and stability for blocking, resetting, and controlling depth.
+ Q: Which thickness should aggressive players choose?
A: Players who prioritize fast hands and immediate rebound will generally prefer the 14mm. Players who generate their own pace and want a more stable response on full swings may prefer the 16mm.
+ Q: Does the VantaGrit surface produce more spin than traditional raw carbon?
A: VantaGrit is engineered for high spin and lasting texture. Holbrook reports spin performance at 99.2% of the applicable RPM limit and substantially less visible wear in its comparative durability test.
+ Q: Is the elongated shape suitable for doubles?
A: Yes. It works particularly well for players who want added reach on volleys, offensive leverage on drives, and a 5.5in handle for two-handed backhands. The 16mm is the more settled option for defensive doubles play.
+ Q: Is the 14mm or 16mm better for control?
A: The 16mm generally makes touch easier through added dwell and a more forgiving response. The 14mm still offers precise placement, but its quicker rebound requires more deliberate paddle-face control on softer shots.