The 2025 Paddle Ban!


Did you hear about the paddle ban starting July 1, 2025?

So, USA Pickleball, which is considered to be the governing body of pickleball, sets standards for rules and regulations of the game. 

In their testing of paddles, they have decided that certain paddles which are widely used currently do not meet its standards.

Therefore, those specific paddles will be banned from tournament play as of July 1, 2025. 

Is your paddle on the list?

Mine is.  

Here is the list:

    Gearbox:  Pro Power Elongated
    Joola:  Perseus 14 mm Mod TA-15
    Joola:  Perseus 16 mm Mod TA-15
    Prokennex:  Black Ace Ovation
    Prokennex:  Black Ace Pro
    Prokennex: Black Ace LG
    Prokennex: Black Ace XF
   

I have used the Joola Mod TA-15 for some time now.

And I like it.

However, I also want to play tournaments.

So, I will be shopping for a new paddle.

The story is that these "delisted" or "banned" paddles can be used in rec play or even in sanctioned tournaments until July 1, 2025.  

After that date, they can still be used but not in sanctioned tournaments.

The net effect will be that players like me will not keep using these "banned" paddles.

I won't because I want to play in sanctioned tournaments.

But, who wants to play and get beat by someone using a banned paddle? Even in rec play?

I don't.

There is something in that statement that just sounds wrong.  

If a paddle is banned, it should not be allowed anywhere. 

It should not be sold to the public.

So, I will be looking to change paddles soon.

I want to get accustomed to a new paddle.

And I don't want someone looking down on me for using a "banned" paddle.  Or thinking that I'm a cheater.

What do you think?

Does this "ban" affect you?

And if it doesn't affect your paddle, what are your thoughts about playing players using "banned" paddles?

Please email me your thoughts.

My email is: Ben@pickleball-living.com

I want to use an approved paddle.

And whether I win or lose, I want it to be considered fair both by me and by my opponents.

What about you?


Ben Holt
​CEO, Pickleball Living