USA Pickleball Halts Robus Ripple Paddle Release: USA Pickleball has paused the release of the highly anticipated Robus Ripple paddle after concerns were raised about its testing results. The paddle, which featured a unique wave-like texture, was expected to bring power and performance to the game. However, it has not passed certification tests, leaving manufacturers and players questioning its future.
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Testing Issues and Certification Delay
The Robus Ripple paddle, designed with a wave-like texture, was thought to offer unique advantages in the game of pickleball.
However, concerns emerged about its legality, particularly in relation to USA Pickleball’s rule 2E2. This rule addresses the surface of the paddle, and questions arose as to whether the Ripple paddle’s surface complied with these standards.
In response to the issue, USA Pickleball issued a statement explaining that the paddles tested were beta samples, not final production models.
“USA Pickleball is committed to upholding the integrity of paddle certification through rigorous, standardised testing procedures to ensure fair play and compliance with established performance thresholds.” – (statement)
Manufacturer’s Testing and Production Delays
Ronbus, the company behind the Ripple paddle, had already conducted internal testing and provided prototype models to influencers and paddle reviewers. However, USA Pickleball clarified that these prototypes were not yet certified products.
“Regarding the certification status of the Ronbus Ripple.R1.14 PBCoR.43, paddles initially provided for PBCoR testing were beta samples, not final production paddles. USA Pickleball received no production samples for certification until explicitly requested. As a result, the Ripple.R1.14 PBCoR.43 paddle has not been fully certified by USA Pickleball and should not be represented as such.” – (statement)
Element US Space and Defense conducted independent testing on the production samples and found that they did not pass USA Pickleball’s certification tests. As a result, the paddle could not carry the USA Pickleball “Approved” seal until it underwent and passed all necessary tests.
“While Ronbus has conducted internal testing and seeded prototype models with influencers and paddle reviewers, these beta units do not constitute fully certified products. USA Pickleball’s independent testing, conducted in partnership with Element US Space and Defense, revealed that the production paddles submitted for final certification did not pass PBCoR testing.” – (statement)
Player Reactions and Impact on the Game
Professional pickleball players have offered mixed reactions to the Ripple paddle. Zane Navratil, a professional player, initially praised the paddle for its performance, noting its potential to change the game. However, other players have raised concerns about its impact, suggesting it may alter the balance of the sport.
USA Pickleball’s commitment to fair testing means that no paddle can be marketed as approved until it has undergone a full testing process. This ensures that players can trust the integrity of the sport and its equipment.
Future of the Ripple Paddle
For now, the Robus Ripple paddle remains uncertified, and its future in competitive pickleball is uncertain. Until Ronbus submits final production samples that meet certification requirements, players and manufacturers must wait for further updates.
The decision to halt the paddle’s release shows USA Pickleball’s commitment to maintaining the sport’s fairness and integrity. If the paddle meets all necessary standards, it may still have a future in the sport.
News in Brief: USA Pickleball Halts Robus Ripple Paddle Release
USA Pickleball halted the release of the Robus Ripple paddle due to concerns over testing. The pickleball paddle did not meet certification standards, raising questions about its legality. Professional players have mixed opinions, and the paddle’s future depends on meeting USA Pickleball’s strict requirements.
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