The full-scale initiative rolls out next week and will test paddles for power and spin – while paying particularly close attention to any knockoffs trying to pass as the real thing
For the first time in its history, USA Pickleball is requiring onsite paddle testing at its amateur events.
After more than a year of development and collaboration, the new field-testing initiative between USAP and third-party testing lab Pickleball Instruments will roll out over the next two months, beginning with the 2026 Golden Ticket Tournament next week in Glendale, Arizona.
Testing will monitor paddle properties – think deflection and spin – but also its manufacturer and point of origin, with the express intent of flagging and monitoring potential counterfeit products.
“Equipment integrity is fundamental to fair competition,” said Carl Schmits, Chief Technical Officer of USA Pickleball.
“This field-testing platform gives us the ability to verify performance standards, increase transparency, and lay the groundwork for identifying counterfeit equipment, all while empowering players with meaningful data about their paddles.” Later this year, the initiative will expand more broadly to clubs and competitive venues nationwide.
Paddle Data in the Palm of Players' Hands At participating events, all paddles used in competition will be subject to onsite testing to verify compliance with USA Pickleball standards.
Pre-testing will also be available to reduce any potential delays.
The testing p... FULL ARTICLE FOUND ON: https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/counterfeit-paddles-are-on-notice-as-usa-pickleball-launches-onsite-testing-for-amateur-events/
