USAP Really needs to do something about GEN 3 Pickleball Paddles |

The Power Play: Pickleball's Foray into Foam Paddles Sparks Fierce Debate

As Manufacturers Push Boundaries with Gen 3 Foam Paddles, Players and Governing Bodies Grapple with Game's Future

The world of pickleball is abuzz with excitement and controversy as the sport ventures into uncharted territory – the realm of Gen 3 foam paddles. These innovative paddles, packed with an unprecedented amount of foam, promise to unleash a new era of power and performance on the court. However, as manufacturers race to embrace this technological advancement, players and governing bodies find themselves grappling with the game's future, igniting a fierce debate that has captured the attention of the pickleball community worldwide.

The Evolution of Paddle Technology

From the humble beginnings of cold-pressed Gen 1 paddles to the thermoformed Gen 2 paddles with foam edges, the pickleball world has witnessed a steady evolution in paddle technology. Now, Gen 3 foam paddles have burst onto the scene, introducing an unprecedented level of foam integration into the paddle's core.

Companies like Joola and Gearbox have taken the lead, boldly launching their Gen 3 lines and showcasing the potential of these power-packed paddles. The Gearbox Pro, in particular, has caught the attention of players and spectators alike with its extreme use of foam combined with carbon fiber, promising a game-changing experience on the court.

The Power Debate

While the allure of increased power and performance is undeniable, concerns have been raised about the potential impact of Gen 3 foam paddles on the game's integrity. Prominent figures like Zane Navratil have voiced their opinions, suggesting that at the pro and advanced levels, players should stick to Gen 1 or Gen 2 paddles without excessive foam to maintain the game's intended dynamics.

The concerns extend beyond just the pro ranks, with some questioning whether the influx of power from Gen 3 foam paddles will disrupt the delicate balance that makes pickleball so appealing to players of all skill levels.

The Mystery of Ben Johns' Paddle Choice

Adding fuel to the fire is the rumor that Ben Johns, the undisputed best pickleball player in the world, may be using a Gen 2 paddle masquerading as a Gen 3. If true, this strategic move could be seen as a testament to the potential drawbacks of Gen 3 foam paddles, even for the sport's most elite athletes.

While the rumor remains unconfirmed, the mere speculation has ignited a firestorm of discussion, with players and fans alike questioning the motivations behind Johns' alleged paddle choice.

The Governing Body's Silence

As the debate rages on, all eyes are on USA Pickleball, the sport's governing body, and its response to the Gen 3 foam paddle phenomenon. Manufacturers have reached out seeking clarification and guidance, but their inquiries have been met with deafening silence.

Larry Lynch, a paddle engineer and manufacturer, has voiced his frustrations, revealing that multiple attempts to obtain an official statement from USA Pickleball have been ignored. This lack of communication has left the pickleball community speculating about the governing body's plans and the potential implications for the future of Gen 3 foam paddles.

The Engineering Challenge

Behind the scenes, manufacturers like Kiwi Labs have been tirelessly experimenting with various foam compositions and core technologies, attempting to strike the perfect balance between power and control. Lynch's insights shed light on the intricate engineering challenges involved in creating a Gen 3 foam paddle that meets deflection test requirements while harnessing the power of foam.

From pure EVA foam paddles to paddles with injected foam cells and even combinations of Kevlar and polyethylene foam, the pursuit of the ultimate Gen 3 foam paddle has been a journey fraught with triumphs and setbacks.

The Path Forward

As the pickleball world grapples with the Gen 3 foam paddle phenomenon, a sense of cautious optimism prevails. While some manufacturers forge ahead with their Gen 3 offerings, others like Kiwi Labs are taking a more measured approach, focusing on developing foam-enhanced paddles tailored specifically for the intermediate player seeking control and consistency.

Lynch's vision is to create the perfect control paddle, utilizing foam in innovative ways to cater to the needs of the everyday player, providing a balanced and enjoyable experience on the court.

The Uncertain Future

As the debate rages on, one thing is certain: the pickleball landscape is poised for a seismic shift. Whether Gen 3 foam paddles ultimately become the norm or a niche offering remains to be seen. USA Pickleball's eventual response and potential introduction of an exit velocity test could significantly shape the trajectory of this technological revolution.

In the meantime, players, manufacturers, and governing bodies alike are being called upon to navigate this uncharted territory with wisdom and foresight, ensuring that the integrity and spirit of the game are preserved while embracing innovation and progress.

As the sun sets on this chapter of pickleball history, a new dawn is on the horizon – a future where the power of foam intertwines with the finesse of the game, ushering in a new era of excitement and possibility on the courts worldwide.