United Pickleball Association releases guidance on when to stop using pickleball paddles
Last Edited
Mar 12 2025
Category
News
Some are calling it the CCR rule, but it has nothing to do with classic rock or the Fogerty brothers.
The United Pickleball Association of America recently released new guidance intended to help paddle manufactures and players recognize when a paddle should be retired from play to maintain performance standards in competition.
While not an official rule, the guidance was put in place to uphold the integrity of competition and ensure paddles perform as intended within the parameters set by UPA-A.
Indicators that a paddle is no longer playable
Cracking: Any visible cracks or structural damage on the paddle face, edge guard,
throat or handle.
Crunching: A crunching sound when squeezing the paddle face, indicating internal
breakdown.
Rattling: Loose materials inside the paddle that produce a rattling sound when
shaken.
Any of these signs strongly suggest that the paddle should be retired from competitive play, according to the UPA-A. The governing body of the PPA Tour encourages all players and manufacturers to adhere to these best practices to maintain the highest level of performance and consistency in professional events.
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