USA Pickleball announces 'sunset' date for some power paddles
Last Edited
Dec 27 2024
Category
News
USA Pickleball on Friday announced that several paddles will be "sunset" in 2025 because they exceed updated testing standards.
The organization this fall introduced a new test measuring paddle/ball coefficient of restitution (PBCoR) to limit the "trampoline effect" that can lead to increased ball speed coming off the paddle.
USAP said the increased power that comes from the "trampoline effect" can compromise the integrity of the sport by reducing the emphasis on finesse, control and skill.
On Friday it was announced that the following paddles have exceeded testing standards and will be sunset and removed from certification for sanctioned play starting July 1, 2025.
JOOLA: Perseus 14mm Mod TA-15
JOOLA: Perseus 16mm Mod TA-15
Gearbox: Pro Power Elongated
ProKennex: Black Ace Ovation
ProKennex: Black Ace Pro
ProKennex: Black Ace LG
ProKennex: Black Ace XF
This phased transition, developed in collaboration with equipment manufacturers, provides a balanced adjustment period for the industry and players, USAP said in a news release. Each of those paddles will remain eligible for use in USAP-sanctioned events through July 1.
In response to Friday's announcement, JOOLA said it made the decision to officially retire the MOD TA-15 Perseus as one of its competition paddles.
"The decision to retire the MOD TA-15 is part of JOOLA's commitment to uphold and meet current industry standards, as we feel it is in the best interest of pickleball," JOOLA said in a statement. "We know the MOD-TA-15 has become a preferred paddle for many across all levels in our pickleball community."
JOOLA said production of the MOD TA-15 has ceased, though the paddle will still be available for purchase online and in stores while supplies last.
JOOLA also said it plans to launch new Pro Series paddles in March, which will meet the new testing standards of both UPA-A and USAP.
Customers who purchased a JOOLA MOD TA-15 Perseus paddle from Nov. 1 through March 1, 2025, will receive a 50% discount on a Pro 4 Perseus paddle as part of the company's Paddle Refresh Program, which will start March 15 and end on April 30, 2025.
To receive the discount, eligible customers must submit proof of purchase and a serial number by April 30.
The JOOLA Pro 4 Perseus paddles will be eligible for play in all PPA/MLP and USAP-sanctioned events in 2025, the company said.
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