Gear Signals: Paddle Testing Partnership & Trends
Key Questions
What paddle bans and testing updates are there?
USA Pickleball testing begins January 2026. UPA confirms Proton ban for PPA/MLP pro 2026 due to fraud/financial issues.
Why is RPM dominating the paddle market?
RPM Q2 is selling out quickly, with Ignatowich highlighting power/control/thermoform advantages over Enhance. James Ignatowich discusses RPM's market takeover in a video.
What are some new paddle releases mentioned?
New paddles include Titan Pro 16mm (titanium/T700/Nomex), Arronax Thunder 10/Zane Ford/11SIX24 vs LOCO, Nox/Spartus P1, YVMOVE Storm008 T800 CF, Chorus Coda Harmony Grit/Engage X2, Franklin C45° Aurelius (ALW light), JOOLA Pro V/Perseus, Enhance Turbo $99, Diadem Edge BluCore Hybrid/Pro ($250).
What is the new governing body in pickleball?
A new governing body was announced, stunning the pickleball world. It relates to ongoing paddle testing and regulations.
What paddle physics and accessories are covered?
Topics include cores, spin, thermoform, VYCE overgrip tutorial, junior demos, altitude, and lightweight carbon. Honolulu J2CR Crystal Blue Endurance Surface is a new option from Impact Pickleball.
USA Pickleball testing Jan 2026. UPA confirms Proton ban PPA/MLP pro 2026 (fraud/financial woes); new USPAPAU-B governing body (Chorus/small brands) challenges UPA on power/spin regs/open testing/90% TD buy-in. RPM Q2 selling out/Ignatowich market takeover (power/control/thermoform vs Enhance); Titan Pro 16mm; Honolulu J2CR Crystal Blue 16mm hybrid ($195 UPA pending); Arronax Thunder 10/Zane Ford/11SIX24 vs LOCO, Nox/Spartus P1, YVMOVE Storm008 T800 CF, Chorus Coda Harmony Grit/Engage X2, Franklin C45° Aurelius (ALW light), JOOLA Pro V/Perseus, Enhance Turbo $99 EPP/MPP/Selkirk Boomstik, Diadem Edge BluCore Hybrid/Pro ($250), RPM Friction Pro. VYCE overgrip tutorial; paddle physics (cores/spin/thermoform). Junior demos/altitude/lightweight carbon.