What Pickleball Paddles Are Banned?

Pickleball paddle regulations have evolved over the years to standardize equipment and maintain safety and fairness across the sport. Certain paddles have been banned from professional tournaments and events sanctioned by the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) and USA Pickleball Association (USAPA). Understanding current paddle rules can ensure you have legal gear that aligns with your playing style.

Overview of Banned Pickleball Paddles

The USAPA and IFP prohibit any paddle that does not conform to their published equipment standards. Bans aim to level the playing field and prevent potential risks from faulty paddle designs. Popular brands like Engage, Selkirk, Gamma, Onix, Paddletek, ProKennex, and Wilson have had specific paddle models disallowed in recent years.

Paddles with a polymer honeycomb core were banned in 2022, including top sellers like the Selkirk Amped, Engage Encore, and Gamma Micron. However, paddles with composite graphite or fiberglass faces over aluminum or Nomex cores remain legal.

As of January 1, 2023, paddles with holes larger than 2.1mm are illegal in USAPA tournaments. This impacted the Control series paddles from Selkirk.

Additionally, elongated paddles over 17 inches long are prohibited by the IFP, even though the USAPA permits them. Any paddle not on the USAPA’s approved list is considered banned.

So what exactly led to these equipment regulations, and how can you ensure you have a legal paddle?

The Rise and Fall of Polymer Honeycomb Paddle Cores

Honeycomb polymer paddle cores gained popularity for enhancing power and control. Brands like Selkirk advertised up to 30% more power with these responsive lightweight cores.

However, some argued the advanced honeycomb technology provided unfair performance advantages. The delicate cores were also prone to cracking and breaking, causing safety concerns.

In January 2022, after extensive lab testing, the USAPA and IFP jointly banned paddles with polymer honeycomb cores from sanctioned play. This rendered iconic paddles from Selkirk, Gamma, Engage, and others illegal overnight.

The ban sparked debate within the pickleball community. Some supported standardizing equipment for fairness. Others felt the ban punished innovation and reduced consumer paddle choices.

Regardless, all honeycomb polymer core paddles, including many paddles less than 2 years old, can no longer be used in professional tournaments.

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Outlawing Oversized Paddle Holes

Pickleball paddles contain holes in the surface to allow airflow and reduce weight. However, concerns emerged that large, elongated holes presented safety risks and unpredictable play.

For example, Selkirk’s Control series paddles, featuring elongated Power Apertures, could grab and throw the ball farther than expected. Players risked injuries from erratic power hits.

On January 1, 2023, the USAPA banned paddles with holes exceeding 2.1mm in diameter, essentially outlawing Selkirk Control paddles. This addressed safety issues while still permitting paddle innovation.

The ruling reinforced the USAPA’s role in overseeing equipment regulations. It also demonstrated pickleball’s efforts to nurture creativity alongside competition integrity.

Ongoing Debate Around Paddle Length

Another gray area is paddle length. The USAPA permits paddles up to 17 inches long. However, the IFP international rules restrict paddles to a maximum length of 15 3⁄4 inches.

This means some oversized paddles sanctioned for USAPA domestic play could be deemed illegal in international IFP tournaments. The inconsistent standards cause confusion for manufacturers, retailers, and players.

Proponents of longer paddles argue the expanded surface area increases reach and power. Others contend these advantages detract from the precision and reflexes that pickleball was founded upon.

As pickleball globalizes, unifying equipment guidelines will be key. For now, having separate paddle length rules adds complexity when navigating regulations.

3 Tips for Choosing a Legal Pickleball Paddle

With pickleball paddle bans making headlines, how can you ensure your gear is tournament-approved? Here are three tips:

• Consult the USAPA Approved Paddle List. All sanctions paddles are listed on the USAPA website. Review regularly for updates.
• Understand banned technologies, like polymer honeycomb cores and oversized holes. Avoid paddles integrating these features.
• Measure length and diameter of paddle face holes. Adhere to regulations of 17 inches maximum length and 2.1mm maximum diameter.

Choosing an allowed paddle will give you confidence competing in events of any level while supporting pickleball’s integrity.

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The Future of Pickleball Paddle Regulations

As pickleball evolves from hobby to serious sport, equipment oversight will continue adapting. We will likely see expanded materials testing and design standards to balance innovation, fairness, and safety.

With pickleball’s rapid growth, regulators face pressure to both encourage new paddles tailored to play styles while upholding equity. Brands must also grapple with investing in technologies that may ultimately get banned.

Moving forward, clear communication between governing bodies, manufacturers, and players will be essential. Compromise and collaboration will allow pickleball’s regulations and equipment to mature in sync.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some examples of banned pickleball paddle brands?

Some of the biggest brands impacted by recent bans include Selkirk Sport, Gamma Sports, Engage Pickleball, Paddletek, Onix Sports, ProKennex, and Wilson. Specific paddles like the Selkirk Amped, Engage Encore Pro, and Gamma Micron have been prohibited due to polymer honeycomb cores.

Why were honeycomb paddles banned?

Honeycomb polymer cores were banned over concerns they provided unfair performance advantages and had durability issues leading to breakage. Governing bodies felt banning these paddles leveled the playing field.

Can you still buy banned paddles?

Yes, you can still purchase “banned” paddles like the Selkirk Amped from many retailers. However, you cannot use them in IFP or USAPA sanctioned tournaments. Always check legality before buying a paddle.

What is the difference between USAPA and IFP paddle rules?

The main difference is the USAPA permits paddle lengths up to 17 inches, while the IFP restricts paddles to 15 3⁄4 inches maximum. All other regulations around materials and hole sizes are aligned.

How do I know if my current paddle is legal or not?

Check your paddle model against the USAPA Approved Paddle List. Also inspect your paddle length and hole diameters to ensure they comply with regulations. When in doubt, consult your paddle manufacturer.

Conclusion

Pickleball paddle technology will continue evolving alongside regulations that ensure fair, consistent standards. While change can be disruptive, bans aim to enhance integrity as pickleball takes center stage. Staying up-to-date on permitted equipment empowers you to find the best paddle to elevate your game. Focus on legal paddles tailored to your playstyle and strengths so you can shine on the courts.