Newest paddles news & 2024 resolutions

John and Eddie discuss the last week of qualifiers for our paddle bracket, considering 8 Kevlar paddles for the competition. Also, we run some math on ball velocity, and the new JOOLA Gen-3 paddles are faster than human reaction time at the kitchen.

John and Eddie discuss the surprise decision by USAP to remove JOOLA Gen-3 paddles from the approved paddle list.

John and Eddie discuss the JOOLA paddle delisting, new Selkirk paddles, and answer an interesting listener question. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 4:14 Follow-up on last week's big news about JOOLA Gen-3 paddle delisting 16:56 PPA Atlanta Open highlights 27:55 Results of Next Paddle Review Poll 33:01 Selkirk Amped Pro Air first impressions 47:43 Q&A: Is Eddie Will's Dad?

John & Eddie discuss Daescu's pine tar suspension and fine, and we test out the new PIKKL paddles with replaceable skins. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction; personal stories from the past week 5:49 Daescu gets suspended and fined for pine tar scandal 11:00 Future challenge: we make our own modified paddles with illegal materials and challenge each other on the court 12:52 Vulcan ball new formula coming 14:46 Our plans for upcoming Dallas PPA event 17:40 First look at PIKKL skins, and Hurricane Pro/ Vantage Pro paddles 39:52 Kew & A: Does adding weight to the handle versus the face increase hand speed? 49:45 What paddles are we bringing to the Dallas PPA tournament? 54:04 Eddie's update on his experience with the Kineon Move+ red light device 1:02:56 Wrap-up

John and Eddie discuss the controversy surrounding the new USAP ruling on JOOLA Gen-3 paddles. And we cover our recent trip to Dallas for the PPA event. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 0:07 USAP's ruling on JOOLA Gen-3 paddles: latest news 25:59 Dallas Trip: First Day 35:36 Behind the scenes at Pickle Pro Labs 37:40 Notable moments watching pro matches at Dallas PPA 43:13 Content creator experiences at tournament, and meeting viewers 50:09 Six Zero Event at The Grove 1:00:57 Eddie's paddle setup for the tournament 1:02:20 John's experience in finals match for mixed doubles 1:05:30 John's paddle setup for the tournament 1:08:49 Other paddles tested: Bread & Butter Fat Boy 1:09:55 Six Zero Rub 14mm 1:11:21 Briffidi Brian's Frankenstein paddle 1:12:18 Gear of the Week: KTCHN Court Caddy Bag 1:16:36 New Franklin balls: FS Pro Eco 1:20:51 Bread & Butter Performance Tee 1:22:02 SLYCE weighted speedcaps 1:31:19 Wrap-up

John and Eddie discuss USAP dropping more hammers on paddle companies. And we cover the Mark paddles and other gear, including Brioti glasses. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 02:12 Latest USAP paddle ban news 11:16 PPA Sacramento memorable moments 20:36 Paddles of the Week: Mark One 23:50 Mark OneX 28:44 Mark Two 30:30 Bread & Butter Shogun 35:24 Gear of the Week - Franklin Eco balls update 38:32 Brioti Eyewear 45:15 Kew & A: How much is paddle balance point affected by Slyce endcaps? 53:43 What's up with Eddie's paddle setup - taking off the original grip on the Shapeshifter 56:05 Should Big Pickle loosen the regulations on ball spin? 1:00:14 Plans for next week

John & Eddie discuss the latest news on the UPA-A's paddle certification program, tournament results, what's in our tournament bags, and more. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 1:04 Eddie & John's results in the tournament 4:23 Eddie's clinic with Salome Davidze 7:46 John's experience at Proton event in Phoenix 17:09 UPA-A statement on paddle certification 36:26 What's in our bags for the tournament? 50:24 Paddle updates: Chorus Shapeshifter 54:08 Q&A - providing a rating for paddle stiffness (plushness vs. stiffness) 1:01:17 Plans for next week and wrap-up

John & Eddie discuss their initial impressions of Six Zero's new offerings, latest news with the UPA-A's paddle certification program, highlights from the PPA Orange County Cup, and answer viewer questions. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 1:19 Experiences in San Clemente after our tournament bracket 4:27 Updates on UPA-A paddle certification program 9:20 Notable matches at PPA Orange County Cup 13:45 John's observations about how various pros weighted their paddles in San Clemente 17:59 Notable matches, continued 28:53 Thoughts on the Six Zero Ruby 14mm and Black Diamond 14mm 42:14 Six Zero Quartz 50:01 Kew & A: Does a large twist weight hamper paddle maneuverability on shots like flicks? 54:59 USAP got a bad rap - weren't the only paddles they messed up on the JOOLA Gen-3s? 57:31 Ideas on how to get paddle companies to self-regulate 1:02:54 How much does climate affect ball spin rates? 1:07:48 Wrap-up; plans for next week

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss some current news, give initial impressions of some new and upcoming paddles and products, and deep dive into the new Firepower metric. Timestamps: 0:00 Introductions 3:15 Visit to CRBN's R&D facility in California 6:57 Mach 2 Forza, Pickleball Effect Edition 8:19 Reload paddles - replaceable raw carbon fiber face 16:49 Proton paddles banned at APP Newport 20:30 Bread & Butter Fat Boy 26:21 Proton Series 4 31:36 Bodhi grips 34:34 Deep Dive: new Firepower metric, power and pop 45:57 Kew & A - Best way to clean Kevlar-faced paddles 49:59 New Vulcan ball formulation

In this episode, John and Eddie compare the current options for widebody kevlar paddles. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 2:09 New Denver indoor facility 6:41 JOOLA Mod TA-15 Pre-Release 10:03 UPA International Championship 12:32 Kevlar widebody paddle comparison 14:23 Bread & Butter Fat Boy 23:01 11six24 Monarch Control 28:06 GRUVN LAZR 30:17 Honolulu J3K 33:01 Spartus Apollo 34:39 Best option for different categories (price, hand speed, power, pop, control) 38:27 What gets more spin: Kevlar or carbon fiber? 43:49 New metric: control score 49:51 Update on hand speed index 54:42 Kew & A: Is the new firepower metric analogous to CoR? 56:35 Kew & A: What’s with the Proton claims that the Series 4 has exposed Kevlar?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss current paddle news, and Chris Callie from Sorry Not Sorry joins for a pro tour recap. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 7:00 Pro Tour Recap with Chris Callie (Sorry Not Sorry) 23:44 Gear Gossip: Chorus Shapeshifter back in stock (Pre-Order) 25:09 Collin Johns MLP rant 41:17 Paddles of the Week: PaddleTek Bantam and Tempest 54:53 JOOLA MOD TA-15 1:05:40 Release of the Hand Speed Index 1:17:39 Kew & A: How did the dwell time on the Gearbox Ultimate compare to the JOOLA Gen-3? 1:19:52 Can you take an average of the Firepower and Control metrics to find the best paddle? 1:25:05 Outro

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the most powerful paddle on the market, news about UPA paddle certification, and lots of website updates. Also, Chris Cali from Sorry Not Sorry joins for a pro tour recap. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 4:41 Pro Tour Recap with Chris Cali 13:59 New website poll for next paddle review 17:30 New data analytics for paddle and ball databases 20:04 JOOLA 3S paddles 21:08 Conversation with UPA-A about paddle certification program 34:46 Paddles of the Week: Diadem Hush, Owl, Ace Heart 46:34 Update on hand speed index 50:47 Kew & A: Will JOOLA Mod TA-15 have a break-in period? 57:33: Why did Gearbox not release the Ultimate in a wide body?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the latest pickleball gear headlines, and our impression of the new Selkirk Kevlar paddle, Revolin basalt paddle, Body Helix Gold Kevlar, and Versix Vector. Timestamps: 0:00 Hellos and pleasantries 3:38 Centerline Athletics 4:40 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: website poll winner for next paddle reviewed 7:23 Melin hat 20% off code coming next week 9:18 Most recommended write-in paddles for review 9:49 JOOLA Gen 3-S versus MOD TA-15 - is there a difference? 16:49 Updates on UPA paddle certification program 23:09 Paddles of the Week: Selkirk SLK Halo Pro 27:21 Revolin Revo Pro with basalt surface 31:55 Versix Vector 36:01 Body Helix X4 Gold Kevlar 43:30 Kew & A: Which Slyce cap is recommended: 0.5 ounce of 1.0 ounce? 47:15 Why use concentrated perimeter weighting versus lighter-weight tape spread over larger area?

Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 4:19 MELIN 20% off code (active for 24 hours) 8:00 JOOLA 3S pre-sale; core specs 11:42 Thoughts on where power should be capped for paddles 17:58 Leaked Selkirk letters slamming UPA and PPL 36:49 Onix patent on thermoforming 41:57 Is big money ruining pickleball? 47:35 Paddles of the Week: Neonic Flare 56:15 Thompson paddles: 515 Uni & Twill 1:02:59 Gamma Airbender 13mm & 10mm 1:13:38 GRUVN CRUZ Gen 1.5 paddles 1:16:46 Deep Dive: Is all polypropylene the same quality/grade? 1:25:48 Kew & A: Any word on when the next CRBN paddle is coming out? 1:27:31 Where can the JOOLA 3S be played if it's only UPA-A approved?

Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 3:02 Paddle database updates 5:35 USAP using X-ray for similarity testing 8:38 Wave of titanium paddles coming 10:06 What in the world is titanium weave, anyway? 11:08 PPA Las Vegas recap 15:25 Johns brothers both playing with JOOLA 3S; Collin being more aggro 21:33 Paddles of the Week: Ronbus Ripple 32:55 Ethos Dunamis 37:11 Synergy Kevlar paddles 48:47 Chorus Shapeshifter new color ways unboxing 51:13 Deep Dive: clarification on last week's discussion of polypropylene core grades 56:25 Deep Dive: ideal custom weighting for a standard/widebody paddle - does a Slyce cap help? 1:07:40 Kew & A - How about replaceable paddle cores instead of just grit? 1:11:49 How does the Jelly Bean compare to the Vatic Prism Flash?

John and Eddie give their predictions on the future of paddle innovation, and their thoughts on new paddles, including the Spartus Olympus and Honolulu J2Ti. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:39 John's trip to Memphis 6:58 Update on release of Ronbus Ripple 9:17 Modifications to the Ripple 12:40 Website update: glossary of paddle terminology 13:57 Titanium paddles actually shiny polyester 21:06 Babolat discount code 22:07 Paddles of the week: Franklin Tour series 30:02 Honolulu J2Ti 35:52 Spartus Olympus 42:59 Nexus ProStar 46:49 Deep Dive: Predictions on Future Paddle Trends 1:17:11 Kew & A: How to secure Slyce caps? 1:22:24 What are the best alternatives to the Volair Mach 2 Forza?

John and Eddie talk about current events, new paddles, and spin loss on the Ruby compared to other paddles.

John and Eddie discuss where to put lead/tungsten tape to maximize performance, new paddles we're testing, and the possibility of a signature paddle

John and Eddie discuss pickleball current events, Body Helix paddles, answer listener questions, and discuss what the best paddle would be for most players.

John and Eddie discuss the Joola Alpha launch event, Get2Eleven gift codes, and the start of our paddle battle bracket tournament.

John & Eddie discuss the Joola launch date for their "Gen-3" paddles, other April releases, and the results of WEEK 2 of the Paddle Bracket Challenge.

John & Eddie discuss current events - is pickleball more athletic than tennis? Week 3 of the Paddle Bracket Challenge, including the new Engage Pro-1 paddles. A winner is picked from the reader questions for this week's giveaway: a Chorus backpack and photochromic safety glasses.

John & Eddie discuss Week 4 of the Paddle Bracket Challenge, pitting the new Joola Gen-3 paddles against the Gearbox Pro Power.

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the latest gear and tech news, John details his conversation with JOOLA about their new 3S paddles, and the performance of the 3S paddles is detailed. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:40 13 new paddles with metrics added to database 3:39 Paddle radar charts now available on user interface 6:57 Updates on paddle analytics user interface 8:29 Life Time stock up 56% due to pickleball 11:00 Property values decline 10% to 20% near pickleball courts due to noise 14:19 Newest PPA serve rule 20:09 Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau handed first loss in ages 21:35 Do the new JOOLA 3S's provide a competitive advantage? Breakdown of PPA Atlanta medalists by paddles they were using 25:18 Paddles of the Week: JOOLA 3S models 26:06 Breaking news on Gen-3 cores, and John's conversation with JOOLA about new technology in the 3S's 32:32 New information about JOOLA 3S core technology 37:41 Our impressions of the JOOLA 3S paddle performance 46:12 Comparing JOOLA 3S side-by-side with other power paddles: Gen-3's, Ronbus Ripple, and Gearbox Pro Power 56:15 Updated thoughts on Honolulu J2Ti, and direct comparison to J2K 1:00:49 Deep Dive: paddle x-rays 1:03:49 Comparing how different perimeter weighting setups on the Ripple affect performance (hand speed, power, pop) 1:11:44 Kew & A: How difficult is it to control the Ronbus Ripple compared to the JOOLA Gen-3s? 1:14:32 Two questions 1) is the Pikkl Hurricane Pro still on your radar for a full review ? And 2) what treatment(s) ultimately cured your Plantar Fasciitis?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the newest Selkirk release (Vanguard Pro), the JOOLA Scorpeus Anna Bright 3S, the best budget paddles, and using X-rays to detect core crushing. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:37 Life Time Balls 4:26 75% Rule for out balls 10:41 UPA-A equipment guidelines manual 15:00 Paddles of the Week: JOOLA Anna Bright Scorpeus 14mm 20:49 Budget paddle showdown: Quartz, Monarch Jelly Bean, Vatic Prism Flash 24:57 Selkirk Vanguard Pro 31:12 Deep Dive - detecting core crushing with x-rays 38:32 Kew & A: If you took 3 paddles to a tournament, what would they be?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the newest PaddleTeks, and Connor Garnett joins for a pro tour recap. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:52 Guest appearance by Connor Garnett to discuss this week's pro tour 17:04 Upset in Virginia Beach - Johns Bros taken out by Fed & Hayden 19:22 Paddles of the Week: PaddleTek ALW-C and ESQ-C 35:42 Gear of the Week: Our favorite bags 53:46 X-Rays of PaddleTeks reveal internal weighting system 1:08:00 Hand Speed Index update 1:14:15 Kew & A: How does the ESQ compare to the Ripple and the Scorpeus 3S? 1:20:30 Is it bad if a paddle rattles when you shake it?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the latest pickleball news, compare foam-enhanced, "Gen-3" paddles, discuss whether or not Gen-3 is a useful term, and answer some viewer questions. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:17 PPA Las Vegas Recap: crazy women's doubles finals match 3:23 Andrei Daescu switched to Proton Series 3 paddle 4:46 Should I review the Proton Series 4? Testing the durability first 7:59 The Pickleball Science expert was recently featured in Scientific American 11:28 UPA-A releases certification costs for 2025 13:45 Gen-3 Paddle Comparison 18:38 Apes Pulse Series 26:57 PICKLN Alecto 3 29:54 Ace Heart 33:49 Nexus ProStar 36:52 Spartus Olympus 44:20 Our favorite Gen-3 paddles 47:64 Ranking Gen-3 paddles from most powerful to least 52:26 Is “Gen-3” a useful or problematic term? 1:00:52 Deep Dive: building my own exit velocity rig for measuring pop 1:08:42 Kew & A: what exactly are percentiles and how do you use them in the paddle database?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the latest pickleball news, compare some top contenders for edgeless paddles, give updates on the Apes Pulse, and answer some viewer questions. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:32 John seeking partner for Worlds tournmanent 4:29 USAP releases regulations for new exit velocity PBCoR paddle testing/certification procedures 23:22 Selkirk is releasing new Labs 007 paddle 26:00 Survey from University of Manitoba on Health & Pickleball 31:59 Paddles of the Week: Holbrook Aero 42:57 Gamma Airbender 47:40 Thompson 515 Uni & Twill 54:19 Deep Dive: John's home rig for low-speed PBCoR 1:01:24 Gear of the Week: Slyce's new adjustable weighted cap 1:07:23 Kew & A: What's the best standard-widebody paddle option to play against bangers? 1:08:18 Side note: John's updates on Pickleball Apes Pulse paddles 1:16:53 Eddie's updates on Spartus Apollo paddle 1:19:35 Is the Spartus Olympus for advanced players? 1:23:04 Is there a good way to make grip size smaller?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the results of an experiment testing the durability of frozen pickleballs, reveal notable paddles scheduled for release in November, and our first impressions of the Vatic Pro Saga, Selkirk Labs 007, Diadem Icon Infinity, and Neonic Flare Prime. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:27 Pickleball Blue Book 7:02 Corrections/clarifications on USAP's PBCoR rollout 10:41 Notable paddle releases for November 16:33 New Melin hat 24-hr code coming 17:35 Paddles of the Week: Vatic Saga 23:47 Selkirk Labs 007 initial impressions 31:24 Diadem Icon Infinity 36:12 Gearbox Pro Power Ultimate Widebody coming 37:37 Neonic Flare Prime X and Flow Prime X 42:49 Deep Dive: Does grip strength on the paddle's handle change ball rebound? 49:07 PBCoR formula revealed: is it possible to get a ballpark calculation of PBCoR without all the fancy equipment? 54:42 Experiment: hitting frozen pickleballs to see which is the most durable 1:06:42 Kew & A: Do you now prefer standard/widebody paddles over hybrid shapes? If so, why?

In this episode, we all sit down together to talk about gear, current events, and answer viewer questions. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:38 Latest News 2:45 Plans for the Tournament 11:03 What paddles are we using for the tournament? 28:13 Why are companies releasing ultra-thin paddles? 33:33 Is low swing weight always better? 38:32 More on paddle x-rays 42:02 Kew & A

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss upcoming Black Friday deals, John's experience at Worlds, our impressions of the new Chorus paddle shape options and Volair CTRL Forzas, dive into polypropylene cell size and the mental game, and address viewer questions. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 6:57 Gearbox giveaway: Ultimate Elongated and Hyper 8:16 24-hour Melin Code for 25% off 8:46 Guide to Black Friday deals on paddles & gear 13:19 John's experiences at Worlds 33:42 Paddles of the Week: Volair CTRL Forza 37:06 New shapes for Chorus Shapeshifter 46:16 Gear of the Week: CRBN Drift Glasses 50:22 Tip of the Week: the Mental Game 55:51 Deep Dive: polypropylene cell size - does it matter? 1:01:37 Kew & A: Any updates on Apes Pulse V break-in? 1:04:41 Thoughts on the Neonic Flow Prime X gradient edges? 1:06:00 With all the paddles you're testing, do you currently have a main?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss more Black Friday deals, changes to the production model Ripple, Bread & Butter Invader, Chorus Fire, and our favorite shoes. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 5:47 Additional Black Friday Deals 10:26 Paddles of the Week: Chorus Fire 21:45 Bread & Butter Invader 25:05 Ronbus Ripple production models 31:15 Gear of the Week - our favorite court shoes 32:37 Lotto Raptor Hyperpulse 34:37 Adidas Barricade 35:56 Babolat Jet Terre 36:52 Babolat Jet Mach 3 39:13 Head Revolt Pro 4.0 40:33 Winner’s Edge 44:51 Kew & A: Why do pros return serve with an open stance, pushing off the right leg? 48:14 John seeks help from a coach to improve game 50:47 Can you use prescription lenses in CRBN Drift glasses? 52:03 Have you noticed a trend for paddle break-in, and how do you know when break-in is finished? 1:00:49 How does Vatic Saga firepower compare to 11Six24 Monarch Jelly Bean?

In this episode, John & Eddie discuss current pickleball news, reveal the paddles we just keep coming back to, and talk about our favorite things as we lead up to the holiday season. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 8:10 Latest News: UPA-A list of paddle companies in the paddle certification program 13:41 Newest Black Friday paddle deals 16:50 Paddles we keep coming back to 29:17 Our Favorite Things 1:00:06 Kew & A: Is DUPR rating deflation a thing? 1:05:05 Can a 4.8-level control-oriented player use a Ronbus Ripple?

In this episode, John interviews PPA CEO Connor Pardoe, and John & Eddie discuss the details of the 12 Days of Christmas giveaway, latest paddles we’re testing, check out different makes of handles, and answer viewer questions. TO ENTER THE CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY: leave a comment below telling us what paddle you’re currently playing with, and which of today’s giveaway paddles you would prefer (and why), AND FILL OUT THIS FORM ON MY WEBSITE: https://www.johnkewpickleball.com/christmas-giveaway-week-1 Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 8:35 Connor Pardoe Interview 39:24 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway 50:08 Paddles of the Week: Selkirk Labs 007 10mm 57:02 Body Helix Flik 1:07:07 Aiso Ryu 1:11:29 Deep Dive: Paddle Handle Construction 1:24:38 Kew & A: Which pros play with standard or widebody paddles? 1:28:00 When you test so many paddles, how do you choose your favorites?

In this episode, John & Eddie discuss the details of Week 2 of the Holiday paddle giveaway, latest paddles and gear we’re testing, discuss how paddle shape affects performance, and answer viewer questions. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 5:46 Latest News/Gear Gossip: New Melin Code 7:12 More Ronbus Ripple launch issues 14:47 Winners of Week 1 Christmas Paddle Giveaway 17:50 Analysis of paddles listed by giveaway participants 25:14 Week 2 Christmas paddle giveaway details 30:30 Paddles of the Week: new 11Six24 power paddles and shapes 41:26 Analysis comparing 11Six24 power paddles to existing power paddles on the market 1:04:58 New Diadem Max widebody paddles 1:07:53 Do ugly paddle shapes perform better? 1:20:45 Gear of the Week: Winner's Edge shoes update 1:24:39 Favorite productivity apps 1:29:51 Kew & A: Is Twist Weight Relative to Paddle Shape? 1:31:06 Are soft handles better for tennis elbow? 1:33:19 When you hit outside of the sweetspot on an Apes Pulse, does the ball die faster than a J2K? 1:35:37 Is John more excited by new archaeological discoveries or paddles?

In this week's episode, John and Eddie discuss our picks for the best paddles of 2024, give details on the final week of our Holiday Giveaway, and John presents the results of his dissection of the Apes Pulse V. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 4:25 Gearbox Ripple clarification 5:55 Giveaway: last week's winners 8:12 Analysis: Sweepstakes entries reveal a clear favorite ball 12:55 This week's giveaway details 22:14 Best of 2024: John & Eddie's paddle & gear choices 22:40 Best Performing Breakout Company 25:32 Best Performing Legacy Company 28:02 Best Budget Paddles 29:54 Most Underrated Paddle 34:00 Best & Worst Looking Paddles 39:01 Biggest Flop of 2024 41:49 Biggest Paddle Trend 43:13 Most Ridiculous Marketing Claims 44:58 Most Innovative Technology 48:48 Biggest Fad 52:10 Best Ball 54:51 Best & Worst Accessories 58:59 Best & Worst Training Devices 1:03:53 Best Tournament Experience 1:06:24 Paddle of the Year 1:11:35 Pickleball Apes Pulse V Dissection 1:26:49 Kew & A: Do lighter or heavier paddles provide more whip? 1:29:22 Why are pickleball paddles square when all other raquet sports have circular raquets and paddles? 1:33:07 Should eye protection be mandatory?

In this episode, John interviews Tom Barnes, co-owner of Selkirk, and author of the letters criticizing the UPA-A. We also cover a ton of latest news, including the latest paddles delisted by USAP. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:10 Latest News: USAP's Latest Paddle Delistings 5:38 Gearbox releases new paddle to replace delisted Pro Power Elongated 12:11 More UPA-A Drama 18:15 Tom Barnes Interview 46:25 Ben and Collin Johns Spit 50:59 Pro Sponsorship Shakeups 52:52 Winners of final week of Holiday Giveaway 56:14 Paddles of the Week: new Gearbox Ultimate Power 1:02:43 New ProKennex Black Aces 1:08:24 New Honolulu paddles/shapes 1:15:11 Gear of the Week: New Winner’s Edge color ways 1:19:08 Pickleball Apes Bag 1:21:25 KTCHN Sling Bag

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the latest paddle news, and discuss our favorite alternatives to the newly banned power paddles. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 4:34 John & Eddie coming to Mesa, AZ 5:28 Website Overhaul 8:09 Latest News: PPA letter to Selkirk pros 15:03 JOOLA responds to new MOD ban by USAP 19:20 Paddles of the Week: Neonic Flare Prime X Gold Colorway 23:23 Alternatives to Banned Power Paddles 25:03 Gearbox Pro Ultimate Hyper 26:12 PaddleTek ESQ-C 28:59 Chorus Fire 32:50 11six24 Power Paddles 36:56 Honolulu Power Paddles 38:34 CRBN TruFoam Genesis 42:40 Gearbox Pro Ultimate Power 50:06 PICKLN Alecto 3 52:42 Gear of the Week: New Franklin and Komodo balls 58:39 John's upcoming PBCoR setup 1:04:31 PBCoR Issues with Shorter Paddles? 1:07:24 Kew & A: If USAP is sunsetting the Gearbox PPE, why not the Integra? 1:08:24 Does adding weight to a paddle affect its PBCoR? 1:09:23 Thoughts on the Engage Aero paddle?

In this episode, John and Eddie and take a first look at the new Selkirk CourtStrike shoes, review last year’s resolutions, and make new ones for 2025. We cover the latest news, including events at the PPA Masters, review new paddles and look at x-rays. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:54 New Years resolutions 10:30 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: John’s Pickle Pod Appearance 12:21 PPA Masters Recap 13:33 What’s with Hayden’s new paddle? Franklin C45 24:57 Honolulu J2K+ and J2Ti+ production models & x-rays 29:18 Paddles of the Week: 11Six24 All Court – new formulation 36:26 Avoura Rhapsody 13 (plus x-rays) 43:09 Ethos Dunamis Pro 49:22 Technifibre paddles (Six Zero collab) 54:34 Gear of the Week: PBEffect Tungsten 3 gram strips 56:30 First Look: Selkirk CourtStrike Shoes 1:03:28 Eddie's eye issues and scleral lenses 1:09:14 Kew & A: How are paddles and balls affected by colder climates? 1:12:10 What's John's weight setup on the 11six24 Vapor Power? 1:13:39 Will the JOOLA 3S be USAP approved? 1:14:25 Update on John's basement PBCoR lab

In this episode, we discuss John’s crazy week visiting the paddle testing labs for USAP and UPA-A, look at some paddles to be released soon, and give our thoughts on stick-on buttcap weights. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:07 Latest News: John's trip to the PBCoR labs for USAP and UPA-A 16:24 USAP Media Day 29:05 Ronbus Ripple Drama at USAP 42:14 Kew Lab CoR-Ball Cannon Update & Tour 46:34 Paddles of the Week: 11six24 Power paddles 51:33 Gearbox GX2 Prototypes 1:00:52 Chorus Supercourt 1:05:09 Chorus Echo 1:08:10 Paddle Showdown: Selkirk 008 vs. Chorus Supercourt 1:16:07 Gear of the Week: Flick Weights and Slyce Speed Coins

In this episode, John and Eddie pit some popular paddles against each other, and see which breaks first at high collision speeds: the ball or the paddle. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:16 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: Gabe Tardio interview coming up 3:30 Upcoming JOOLA Event 4:49 Ben Johns playing with JOOLA Perseus 4 7:37 Hayden's full send body bag of Andre 8:23 Does “new pickleball's” hyper aggressive style have more to do with everyone getting better, or paddles becoming hotter? 14:02 Paddles of the Week: Ruby Infinity vs. Holbrook Aero Ti 23:19 Selkirk 008 vs. CRBN TruFoam 29:23 Deep Dive: PBCoR: does paddle clamp tightness (or free-swinging vs. fixed) make a difference? 40:22 With a 200 MPH collision, which breaks first, the ball or the paddle? 42:05 Kew & A: What are your thoughts on paddle companies sending reviewers paddles that are different than production models (e.g., more grit)? 48:21 Would you recommend an 11Six24 Vapor Power for a 3.25 player? 51:11 Playing with an Apes Pulse V, and notice that the ball impressions are near the top of the paddle. Should I go for a hybrid shape instead? 53:10 Do head-light paddles get lower PBCoR scores, and is this a way to game the system? 56:32 Is the CRBN TFG2 an upgrade to the Apes Pulse V?

In this episode, John and Eddie look at two new large-cell paddles: the Thrive Smoke, and Spartus Apex. We also look at two good choices for large tour bags, and discuss the latest from the home PBCoR rig. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 4:15 Latest News - Revised UPA-A Head Hunting Penalty 7:01 Paddles of the Week: Thrive Smoke 11:47 Spartus Apex 17:49 Gear of the Week: $150 Tour Bags 19:18 Six Zero Pro Tour Bag 22:30 Bodhi PROtour Duffle 26:26 Tales from the Ball Cannon - Solving why PaddleTek ESQ-C has a lower PBCoR 37:04 Does it make a difference firing a ball at a fixed paddle, versus a free-swinging paddle? 40:08 Kew & A: Would you be willing to pay $280 for the new JOOLA Perseus IV? 43:57 Anything new coming from Six Zero? 45:01 How does the JOOLA Perseus IV compare to the 11Six24 Power Vapor? 49:28 Would you buy a JOOLA Perseus IV, or a cheaper Persseus 3S? Is the price difference worth the upgrade?

Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 5:48 Latest News: PPA Recap 9:36 Paddles of the Week: Gearbox GX2 17:08 Gearbox GX2 vs. Gearbox Ultimate vs. Apes Pulse 28:02 Tales from the Ball Cannon: How does the Franklin hole-less ball compare to the Franklin X0=-40 with holes? 38:21 Gear of the Week: Babolat Jet Mach Pickleball Shoes 44:17 Kew & A: Can John's basement rig measure dwell time? 47:12 Comment on the Spartus Apex having two filled cells on one side and three on the other? 49:27 Thoughts on Pro Spin device? 52:35 What are your top most plush elongated power paddles? 56:35 Mixed doubles partner is very picky - been playing with Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 for two years; wants more power, but doesn't like the feel of raw carbon fiber

Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:44 Latest News: Babolat Code now 20% 5:35 John's experience at Texas Open: Men's 4.5 results 13:45 John's commentating experience 23:47 Paddles of the Week: Engage Pursuit Pro 1 Innovation 34:09 Engage Pursuit Pro 1 Hybrid & Widebody Shapes 38::24 Chorus Prelude Paddles 40:57 Shapeshifter 6K 43:39 Chorus Nightstriker 44:19 Chorus Fire Furia 48:23 Slapp Sho Paddle 53:21 Gear of the Week: Gearbox Socks 54:23 Bodhi Dry Grips 56:26 Yobow Back Pak + 1:02:20 Book Club: Pickleball Mindset 1:09:36 Kew & A: I’m new to pickleball but a highly competitive person. Do you feel it’s best to start with a control paddle and learn and get better before upgrading? Or learn with a power paddle and learn to control the power as you get better? 1:14:07 What's your "one arrow in the quiver" - the paddle that will be the deciding factor against your opponents? 1:18:04 I've been playing with the Spartus Olympus. Should I pull the trigger on the JOOLA Perseus IV 14mm? 1:20:03 What makes paddles have different launch angles, and can you manipulate launch angle with modifications?

In this episode, John and Eddie explore Head Heavy, Equal Balance, and Head Light weight customization across three paddle shapes: elongated, hybrid, and widebody. The results surprised us. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:18 Latest News: RacquetX conference in Miami 21:05 Paddles of the Week: Helios Apollo 27:13 Paddle Deep Dive: Does Balance Point Matter? 51:46 Pickleball Mindset: Key Takeaways 1:06:38 Kew & A: Key takeaway from Pickleball Mindset: Enjoy the process; pre-acceptance 1:07:08 Would a 17 x 10-inch paddle ruin the game? 1:11:21 What's the swing weight and twist weight for the Slapp SHO? 1:12:25 Is the Slapp Sho suitable for beginners? 1:13:01 Tales from the Ball Cannon: Brief Update

In this episode, John and Eddie finalize their paddle tier list, John gives several updates on his ball cannon/ PBCoR setup, and we discuss how the sweet spot of the paddle is more complicated than you think. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:27 Latest News: John & Eddie heading to Austin for Adidas paddle launch 3:16 Paddle Tier List - Final Week 1:12:25 Tales from the Ball Cannon: Correction in PBCoR formula to offset swing weight 1:18:24 Deep Dive: Is Sweet Spot Mechanical or Subjective? 1:24:32 CNN Article on "Torpedo Bats" - Implications for Pickleball Paddles

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the impacts of tariffs on paddle prices, explore new paddle break-in regulations, and as always, talk about our experience hitting new paddles. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:50 Latest News/Gear Gossip 4:03 Recap of Austin Trip: Adidas paddle event; Creator battle 14:23 Thoughts on Anna Leigh-Waters and Catherine Split Up 19:17 New Pickleball Central Discount System 21:41 Will Tariffs Blow Up Paddle Prices? 36:02 Paddles of the Week: Diadem BluCore 48:55 Bread & Butter Filth - New Shapes 51:35 Vatic Saga 14mm 55:55 Deep Dive: Paddle Break-In Regulation 1:18:28 Kew & A: Can I get to a 4.5 level without a drive?

In this episode, John & Eddie take a look at the new Adidas and Wilson paddles, and dive into new PBCoR results for 50 paddles. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:26 Latest News: Follow-Up on Break-In Regulations 10:00 Paddles of the Week: Selkirk Luxx II 15:28 Thompson Uni (Updated Handle) 20:34 Wilson Vesper paddles 28:50 Adidas Metalbone 37:13 Tales from the Ball Cannon - 50 Paddles Ranked by KEWCoR 1:09:59 Gear of the Week: Head Motion Pro BOA pickleball shoes 1:14:29 Kew & A: How far are we from the ceiling for paddle technology? 1:18:44 How much does grip/handle circumference play a part in performance?

In this episode, John and Eddie discuss our favorite foam core paddles, give our initial impressions of the Franklin C46 Dynasty and Tempo shapes, discuss USAP's counter lawsuit against JOOLA, and cover more Tales from the Ball Cannon. Chapters: 0:00 Preview of Show 1:46 Latest News: USAP Counter Lawsuit against JOOLA 9:00 Paddles of the Week: Our favorite foam core paddles 26:03 Franklin C45 Tempo and Dynasty Shapes 37:09 Gear of the Week: Wringer Shorts 40:14 Tales from the Ball Cannon - CT scan reveals why GRUVN CRUZN-16HD failed PBCoR 44:33 What does PBCoR actually measure? Power? 53:09 Kew & A: Based on your testing to date, what is the location of the maximum PBCoR on a paddle face?