According to the USPA Pickleball paddle certification update on December 27, 2024, seven paddles have not met the specifications or standards. Their official statement is as follows:
“USA Pickleball is dedicated to preserving the sport’s equity and accessibility for players of all skill levels and varying abilities. To ensure consistency and maintain the integrity of the sport, we’ve introduced an enhanced testing standard, PBCoR (Paddle/Ball Coefficient of Restitution) in Q4 of 2024, to measure paddle performance and limit the “trampoline effect.”
The trampoline effect on pickleball paddles refers to the phenomenon where the surface of a paddle deforms and then rapidly returns to its original shape upon contact with the ball, effectively “springing” the ball off the paddle. This effect can amplify the ball’s speed and force beyond what is typical for normal play.
In pickleball, excessive trampoline effect can compromise the integrity of the sport by reducing the emphasis on finesse, control, and skill, giving players an unfair advantage. USA Pickleball regulates this characteristic by setting limits, such as through the Paddle/Ball Coefficient of Restitution (PBCoR) standard, to ensure fair play and maintain the sport’s competitive balance.
The following paddles have exceeded testing standards and will be sunset on July 1, 2025, for sanctioned tournament play only:
- Joola: Perseus 14mm Mod TA-15
- Joola: Perseus 16mm Mod TA-15
- Gearbox: Pro Power Elongated
- ProKennex: Black Ace Ovation
- ProKennex: Black Ace Pro
- ProKennex: Black Ace LG
- ProKennex: Black Ace XF
As part of this initiative, paddles exceeding the initial threshold will be sunset and removed from certification for sanctioned play starting July 1, 2025. This phased transition, developed in collaboration with equipment manufacturers, provides a balanced adjustment period for the industry and players. As part of our continued efforts to provide an elevated level of equipment testing, the screening process continues for existing equipment, with the list of equipment updated as screening continues in parallel with new PBCoR equipment testing. Through these efforts, USA Pickleball is committed to supporting the growth and fairness of pickleball for years to come.”
It’s important to note that this is not the first time USA Pickleball has banned or removed paddles from its PPA tournaments. In May 2024, USA Pickleball removed JOOLA’s entire Gen 3 paddle series from its list of approved equipment, causing confusion and concerns for recreational players. However, these paddles have been used in many tournaments not sanctioned by the PPA or USA Pickleball.
For the 2024 season, JOOLA’s GEN 3 paddle submission process began in November 2023. Unfortunately, Joola sent incorrect paddles for certification. JOOLA acknowledged the mistake and resubmitted the Gen 3 paddles for approval. However, USA Pickleball announced on June 4, 2024, that the resubmitted paddles did not meet their approved equipment standards, leaving the Gen 3 paddles unapproved for tournament play.
Of course, JOOLA was disappointed by the ruling and offered full refunds for any Gen 3 paddles purchased between April 16 and June 15, 2024, with a valid receipt. As of June 13, 2024, JOOLA announced they were pursuing legal action against USA Pickleball’s decision. It is essential to state that this situation only affected the Gen 3 series. JOOLA has numerous other paddles that remain approved and are widely used in tournaments.
In addition to the JOOLA Gen 3 series, other paddles were banned from PPA tournaments between 2023 and 2024. Notably:
- CRBN Paddles: In May 2022, USA Pickleball moved CRBN paddles to the list of unapproved paddles. In compliance with this ban, the PPA Tour continued disallowing these paddles in professional and amateur events.
- Gearbox Paddles: In 2024, Gearbox, a popular paddle manufacturer, opted not to renew its agreement with the United Pickleball Association of America (UPA-A). As a result, Gearbox paddles became ineligible for use at PPA events starting in 2025.
The decisions made by the USA Pickleball were part of ongoing efforts by governing bodies to ensure equipment compliance and maintain fair play standards in the rapidly evolving sport of pickleball.
The Joola and ProKennex have plenty of paddles that qualify for the 2025 PPA and USA Pickleball tournament season. However, brands that have not had approval issues are worth look at as well. Engage and Franklin are a good solid maker of paddles used by amateurs and professional players.
Engage Pursuit LX – This paddle is known for it’s power and control and large sweet spot. improves ball control & accuracy. Many players like it’s balance and light weight that together help then drive the ball to their target location.
Franklin Sports FS Tour Featherweight – Franklin designed this series of paddle for the players who prefer a lighter paddle. Many of players prefer to add weight to the areas of the paddle they prefer such as the head, middle rim section or closer to the handle.
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