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RPM Pickleball

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RPM-FRICTION-PRO

RPM Friction Pro Widebody V1 Pickleball Paddle

$249.99
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Details

Widebody pickleball paddle with CarbonBite carbon fiber face and Tri-Density core, available in 14mm and 16mm. Choose faster pop and counters or softer control with added dwell and stability.

Middleweight/Small Grip

RPM Friction Pro Widebody Pickleball Paddle

Built for fast-paced doubles and controlled hand battles, the RPM Friction Pro Widebody Pickleball Paddle uses a 16in x 8in shape to give us a larger, more forgiving hitting surface without sacrificing speed at the net. The widebody profile keeps the sweet spot centered and stable, which shows up immediately in resets, blocks, and quick exchanges where consistency matters most. With a CarbonBite carbon fiber face and RPM LABS construction, we get reliable spin generation and a connected feel across the face.

Under the surface, the Tri-Density Core and DwellZone construction work together to expand the sweet spot toward the edges while maintaining a solid response. On court, that translates to cleaner counters, more confident redirects, and the ability to shape the ball without over swinging. Whether we are absorbing pace at the kitchen or rolling topspin off the bounce, this platform stays predictable and forgiving. The difference between the 14mm and 16mm is simply a play style preference. 

+ Key Features
  • CarbonBite Carbon Fiber Face - High-friction raw carbon surface that grips the ball, helping us generate heavier topspin and more controlled roll shots.
  • Tri-Density Core Technology - Multiple material densities expand the sweet spot and maintain stability, especially when contact drifts toward the edges.
  • DwellZone Construction - Internal layering designed to increase pocketing, giving us better control on resets, drops, and spin-heavy shots.
  • Widebody 16in x 8in Shape - Larger hitting surface improves forgiveness and confidence during quick exchanges at the net.
  • Balanced Swing and Twist Profile - Low swing weight keeps the paddle fast in hand battles, while higher twist weight resists twisting on off-center hits.
+ 14mm | Quick Rebound and Reactive Feel
The 14mm version is built for speed and immediate response. The thinner core returns energy faster, so in hands battles and counter exchanges the ball comes off the face quickly with a crisp feel. It shines on punch volleys, speed-ups, and aggressive drives where we want the paddle to do less absorbing and more redirecting. Compared to the 16mm, it has a firmer feel with less dwell, which means touch shots require a bit more precision but reward us with a livelier response.
+ 16mm | Extended Dwell and Controlled Stability
The 16mm version slows things down in a good way. With increased dwell time and a softer feel, it gives us more control when resetting pace, dropping into the kitchen, and blocking hard drives. The added thickness also improves stability on off-center contact, which helps keep shots consistent during fast exchanges. It trades some rebound speed for a more forgiving, settled response that benefits players focused on control, placement, and defensive consistency.
 
Expert Review
"The 16mm feels calmer on resets and blocks, while the 14mm comes alive in hand battles with quicker pop. Same widebody platform, just a different pace off the face depending on how aggressive you want to play."
PickleballCentral Gear Expert

Frequently Asked Questions

+ What is the difference between the 14mm and 16mm versions?
The 14mm rebounds faster and feels more reactive in counters and drives. The 16mm holds the ball longer, giving more control and stability on resets, drops, and blocks.
+ Which thickness is better for control?
Most players looking for a calmer, more forgiving response will prefer the 16mm because it adds dwell time, softer feel, and more consistency in the soft game.
+ Who should choose the 14mm version?
Players who like quick hands, fast counters, and a crisp response will benefit most from the 14mm.
+ Who should choose the 16mm version?
Players focused on resets, defense, and maintaining control during fast rallies will prefer the 16mm.

Specifications

RPM Friction Pro Widebody Pickleball Paddle Technical Specifications
Average Weight: (14mm) 7.8 ounces, (16mm) 7.9 ounces
Weight Range: (14mm) 7.6 – 8.0oz, (16mm) 7.7 - 8.1oz
Grip Circumference: 4.125" (Small) Actual grip sizes may vary up to 1/8".
Grip Style: Perforated, Cushioned
Grip Manufacturer: RPM
Handle Length: 5.25"
Paddle Length: 16.0"
Paddle Width: 8.0"
Paddle Face: CarbonBite Carbon Fiber
Core Material: Tri-Density Honeycomb and EVA Foam
Core Thickness: 14mm (0.551"), 16mm (0.629")
Construction: Axial Carbon Layup w/Gen 3 core design
Edge Guard: Yes, 1/8" overlapping paddle face
Swing Weight: (14mm) 108, (16mm) 109
Twist Weight: (14mm) 7.1, (16mm) 7.3
Manufacturer: RPM Pickleball
Approvals: USAP, PBCoR .43
Made in China
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