Joola Scorpeus Pro IV Showdown: 16mm vs 14mm - Which Core is Right for You?

Dissecting the differences between Joola's popular Scorpeus paddle variants

Published: April 10, 2025 | By Pickle Madness

Meet the Joola Scorpeus Pro IV

The Joola Scorpeus Pro IV has established itself as a top contender in the professional pickleball scene. Known for its standard shape and huge sweet spot, it offers players high-end technology and construction. However, choosing the *right* Scorpeus Pro IV often comes down to a crucial decision: the 16mm or the 14mm core thickness. While sharing many features, these two variants offer distinct playing characteristics. Let's dive into what they share and, more importantly, how they differ to help you find your perfect match.

Shared DNA: Core Scorpeus Pro IV Features

Despite the core differences, both the 16mm and 14mm Scorpeus Pro IV paddles share these key Joola specifications:

Surface: Carbon Friction Surface (CFS)
Paddle Length: 16 inches
Paddle Width: 8 inches
Grip Type: White Feel-Tec Grip
Grip Length: 5.25 inches
Class: Professional ($279.99)

The Core Question: 16mm vs. 14mm Explained

The core thickness is arguably the most significant factor influencing a paddle's feel and performance. Generally speaking:

A thicker core (16mm) tends to absorb more energy upon impact. This often translates to enhanced control, a softer feel, better vibration dampening, and increased stability, potentially sacrificing some pop.
A thinner core (14mm) typically deflects more energy back into the ball. This usually results in increased power potential, more pop (especially on faster swings), a crisper feel, and more direct feedback, sometimes at the expense of some control or stability compared to thicker cores.

Let's see how this applies specifically to the Scorpeus Pro IV variants.

Joola Scorpeus Pro IV 16mm

Key Specifications

Core Thickness: 16 mm
Average Weight: 8.1 oz
Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches

Performance Profile & Feel

The 16mm core positions this Scorpeus Pro IV as the choice for players prioritizing control and stability. Expect a plusher, more dampened feel upon ball impact, absorbing vibrations effectively. This translates to greater confidence in your soft game – dinks, drops, and resets – as the thicker core helps take pace off the ball. Its slightly higher average weight (8.1oz) further enhances stability, making it effective at blocking hard drives and resisting twisting on off-center hits. The 4.25-inch grip circumference may also feel more substantial in hand for some players.

Ideal Player

This paddle likely suits players who value touch, precision, and a stable feel. If you rely on strategic placement, consistent dinking, and solid blocking, and prefer a more forgiving, vibration-dampened response, the 16mm version is probably your better fit.

Joola Scorpeus Pro IV 14mm

Key Specifications

Core Thickness: 14 mm
Average Weight: 7.9 oz
Grip Circumference: 4.125 inches

Performance Profile & Feel

With its thinner 14mm core, this variant of the Scorpeus Pro IV leans towards power and pop. Players can expect a crisper, more responsive feel with greater feedback on contact. The thinner core typically allows for more energy return to the ball, potentially generating higher ball speed on drives, serves, and put-aways. Its slightly lower average weight (7.9oz) may contribute to quicker hand speed and faster swings. The smaller 4.125-inch grip circumference might be preferred by players with smaller hands or those seeking maximum wrist action.

Ideal Player

This model is geared towards players who want more offensive firepower and enjoy a connected, crisp feedback from their paddle. If generating pace, hitting aggressive serves/drives, and benefiting from potentially faster hand speed are your priorities, the 14mm version could be the better option.

Scorpeus Pro IV: 16mm vs. 14mm At a Glance

Feature	Scorpeus Pro IV 16mm	Scorpeus Pro IV 14mm
Core Thickness	16 mm	14 mm
Average Weight	8.1 oz	7.9 oz
Grip Circumference	4.25 inches	4.125 inches
Expected Feel	More Plush, Dampened, Stable	Crisp, Responsive, More Feedback
Primary Strength Bias	Control, Stability, Touch, Solid Power	Power, Pop, Speed
Potential Trade-off	Slightly less pop, heavier	Slightly less control/stability
Ideal Player Focus	Control-oriented, strategic player	Power-oriented, aggressive player

Conclusion: Choosing Your Scorpeus Pro IV

Ultimately, the choice between the Joola Scorpeus Pro IV 16mm and 14mm hinges on your personal playing style and preference for feel. Both are professional-grade paddles sharing excellent features like the Carbon Friction Surface. If you prioritize a controlled, stable game with a softer feel, the 16mm version is likely your best bet. If you seek more power, pop, and a crisper response to play aggressively, the 14mm version probably aligns better with your needs. Consider your strengths, weaknesses, and what you value most in a paddle's performance to make the right decision for your game.