USAP to Set New Paddle Standard with PBCoR: USA Pickleball (USAP) is set to advance its equipment testing protocols with the introduction of the paddle/ball coefficient of restitution (PBCoR) test in the fourth quarter of 2024. This development marks a significant shift in the way equipment is assessed, reflecting the sport’s evolution and the increasing complexity of pickleball gear.
Collaborative Development Efforts
Over the past eight months, USAP has collaborated with a committee that includes the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), Element Space & Defense, and various equipment manufacturers. The committee has been focused on crafting a robust PBCoR test to keep pace with emerging materials and technology. This week, they outlined the rollout timeline and fine-tuned their approach to ensure accuracy and relevance in the new testing standards.
Phased Approach to Equipment Certification
Carl Schmits, USA Pickleball’s Chief Technical Officer, emphasized the importance of a thoughtful implementation process. “USA Pickleball’s equipment certification has philosophically taken a ‘crawl walk run’ approach. Our team wanted to ensure our process was timely, affordable, implementable, and had input from manufacturers so we could respond appropriately to equipment developments in the industry. We’re excited to announce we’ve now entered the ‘run’ phase,” Schmits said.
Commitment to Integrity and Innovation
USAP’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport remains steadfast. While equipment testing is not a major revenue source for the organization, it is crucial for ensuring that pickleball remains accessible and fair. The PBCoR test, which measures the rebound speed relative to the incident speed of colliding objects, will offer new insights into paddle power and performance. Additionally, a spin rate test is in development and expected to be released later in 2024.
Historical Context and Future Directions
Since its partnership with Element Space & Defense in 2015, USAP has progressively enhanced its testing procedures. Initial tests focused on the coefficient of friction (COF) to measure paddle spin, followed by ball compression tests and evaluations of paddle rigidity. In response to new “raw carbon” paddles that emerged in 2022, USAP introduced 3D optical scanning to refine testing methodologies. The upcoming PBCoR test represents the latest advancement in USAP’s ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of equipment testing.
News in Brief: USAP to Set New Paddle Standard with PBCoR
USA Pickleball will introduce the paddle/ball coefficient of restitution (PBCoR) test in Q4 2024, marking a major update in equipment testing standards. Developed in collaboration with the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, Element Space & Defense, and manufacturers, the PBCoR test will measure paddle power by comparing rebound speed to incident speed. This follows a history of evolving tests, including spin rate and ball compression, and reflects USAP’s ongoing commitment to ensuring fair play and advancing equipment standards.
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