USA Pickleball Bans High-Advantage Paddles: USA Pickleball has announced a ban on certain pickleball paddles that exceed testing standards, known for their excessive trampoline effect. This decision aims to maintain fair play and competitive balance in the sport. The banned paddles will no longer be allowed in sanctioned tournaments starting July 1, 2025.
Background on Paddle Regulations
Pickleball has seen a rapid increase in popularity, leading to the need for regulations. The excessive trampoline effect of some paddles can reduce the emphasis on finesse, control, and skill.
This gives players using these paddles an unfair advantage over their competitors. To address this, USA Pickleball set limits, including the Paddle/Ball Co-efficient of Restitution (PBCOR) standard.
List of Banned Paddles
The following paddles have been found to exceed the PBCOR standards and will be sunset on July 1, 2025, for sanctioned tournament play:
- 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
Hot Seat: Power Paddle Bros who went up a full point when they started using a rocket ship
From the USA Pickleball website pic.twitter.com/hBAntS2dwB
— The Dink Pickleball (@Pickleball) December 28, 2024
Implications for the Sport
The ban on these paddles is significant for the future of pickleball. It ensures that players prioritize skill and pickleball strategy rather than relying on equipment to enhance performance.
This change may encourage more players to engage with the sport, knowing that fair competition is a priority. As players adjust to the new regulations, we can expect to see a renewed emphasis on traditional skills and tactics in pickleball gameplay.
News in Brief: USA Pickleball Bans High-Advantage Paddles
USA Pickleball has announced a ban on certain pickleball paddles known for their excessive trampoline effect, effective July 1, 2025, for sanctioned tournaments. This decision aims to ensure fair play and maintain competitive balance by limiting the advantages these paddles provide.
Banned models include various ProKennex and Joola paddles that exceed the Paddle/Ball Coefficient of Restitution (PBCOR) standards. The ban promotes a focus on skill and strategy, fostering integrity in the sport.
ALSO READ: Sacramento Open: A Golden Ticket to the 2025 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships