RPM Q2 16mm Elongated Pickleball Paddle

RPM Q2 16mm Elongated Foam Pickleball Paddle

More dwell. More stability. More “calm” confidence in fast hands.
The RPM Q2 16mm Elongated is the thicker-core version of RPM’s Q Series launch paddle—built with paddle engineer/reviewer John Kew—for players who want a firm, connected feel with extra forgiveness and predictable power across the face.

What this 16mm version does best

• Softer dwell + steadier touch: the 16mm build gives you more time on the ball for dinks, drops, and resets (without feeling mushy).

• More forgiveness on off-centre hits: stability-focused construction helps keep blocks and counters on line when you catch it slightly wide.

• Heavy spin on demand: carbon fibre “CarbonBite” is designed to maximise grit and friction for topspin drives and nasty slices.

• Elongated reach: extra length helps in singles, on overheads, and when you’re hand-fighting at the kitchen.

Listed price: $249.99 USD

Feel + play style (plain English)

If you liked the idea of the Q2 but want it a touch more control-oriented, the 16mm is the safer bet. You’ll still get “accessible” power, but it’s delivered in a more manageable, more consistent way—especially on the soft game and when absorbing pace.

Key tech (and why it matters)

CarbonBite Surface Technology (spin)

RPM’s CarbonBite carbon fibre face is engineered to increase surface grit and friction—helping you roll drives, shape drops, and carve slices without feeling like you’re babying the ball.

Multi-zone Hybrid Core (full-foam performance)

A fully moulded EPP foam core with integrated groove channels is designed to promote controlled flex while reducing “hot/dead” areas, so the response stays more even across the face.

TPU Perimeter Inserts (9 & 3 o’clock)

Strategic TPU inserts aim to boost torsional stability (less twisting) and widen the effective sweet spot—huge for blocks, counters, and hands battles.

TPE Neck Inserts + tuned beam flex

High-density TPE in the neck area is used for vibration dampening, a lower balance point, and improved manoeuvrability—adding controlled flex without a “hinge-y” feel.

Patent-pending axial carbon layup

A proprietary carbon layup is designed to encourage a more uniform flex pattern across the face for consistent performance from upper to lower hitting zones.

Limited lifetime warranty

RPM states the Q2 is backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty against manufacturing defects.

Specs (RPM listed)

• Shape: Elongated

• Surface: Carbon Fibre

• Core thickness: 16mm

• Average weight: 7.8 oz (≈ 221 g)

• Swing weight: 114

• Twist weight: 6.1

• Length: 16.5 in (41.9 cm)

• Width: 7.5 in (19.1 cm)

• Grip length: 5.5 in (14.0 cm)

• Grip circumference: 4.125 in (≈ 10.5 cm)

• Balance point: 248 mm (24.8 cm)

• Approval note listed: “Registered Approval Body USAP PBCoR .43”

Who it’s for

Best for you if you:

• Want an elongated paddle that feels stable and controlled in the soft game

• Like to counter hard and keep volleys compact and accurate

• Build points with spin + placement rather than pure pop

If you want more instant pop: the 14mm version will generally feel quicker and livelier on speed-ups.