Every year in July, a fresh wave of paddles hits the market, hoping to make an impact and revolutionise the game of pickleball. Like every year, this year is no different. A paradigm shift is underway in paddle core technology - with foam-stuffed, fourth-generation (Gen 4) paddles entering the market and aiming to redefine performance. This year, the who's who of pickleball's top equipment brands are on a spree, releasing their latest models - freshly minted paddles with new price points and advanced features that promise to elevate your performance.

Traditionally, paddles have featured polypropylene cores, but the latest trend shows the arrival of a new material: the PureFoam core. According to Selkirk, one of the top pickleball equipment brands, "The core (PureFoam) represents a leap in paddle performance and durability, setting a new standard for what players can expect from their equipment."

While polypropylene cores have been a popular and effective option, they have inherent limitations. Over time, polypropylene can crush and deform under repeated impact, compromising the paddle’s responsiveness and creating inconsistencies that even seasoned players cannot anticipate.

The PureFoam core is poised to replace polypropylene thanks to its high-density foam composition. Selkirk, for example, has developed a core that resists crushing and deformation, ensuring consistent performance and a longer paddle lifespan.

Foam paddles don’t just last longer - they also enhance performance. The high-density foam core flexes upon impact, increasing dwell time and enabling players to generate more spin and control without sacrificing power.

It also improves the paddle’s responsiveness by creating an enlarged sweet spot, ensuring consistent play across the entire paddle face.

The foam core has a thickness that offers a balanced blend of power and control, making it ideal for all-court players who demand versatility. It is also precision-designed: this thicker core provides greater finesse at the net and tactical control for those who prioritize placement over power. For players who love to play faster shots with explosive power, this paddle is a great fit - it also reduces the chances of tearing.

Elongated, hybrid, and standard shapes — Gen3 core with fiberglass reinforcements — pre-order available now

New elongated and hybrid shapes, respectively — made in the USA — currently sold out

Elongated and standard shapes — USAP-approved — launch date TBD

Hybrid shape with long handle — full-foam core — one-year warranty — launch date TBD

Elongated shape with long handle — full-foam core — launch date TBD

Hybrid shape — thermoformed with SST core — USAP-approved — limited one-year warranty — launch date August 7

Standard shape — full-foam core with 5.5-inch handle — available for pre-order

Hybrid shape — full-foam core — USAP and UPA-A approved — one-year warranty — available for pre-order

New hybrid shape — 12.7mm or 14.3mm cores — $250, available now

Elongated, hybrid, and standard shapes — Gen3 with thick foam in all four corners — launch date TBD

Elongated and standard shapes — a basalt fiber face adds considerable spin — $225, available now

Standard shape with elongated handle — USAP-approved — launch date July 11

Elongated and standard shapes — Gen-3 construction with long handle — one-year warranty — $200, debuted in late June

Full-foam core starting at $99 — launch date end of July