What Pickleball Paddles Are Banned

Pickleball is an exciting sport that is growing in popularity worldwide. It’s a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. But did you know that certain pickleball paddles are banned? In this article, we will take a closer look at what pickleball paddles are banned, why they are banned, and how to make sure you are playing with a legal paddle.

Why Are Some Pickleball Paddles Banned?

Pickleball paddles are banned from all professional matches if they do not conform to the USAPA’s standards. The United States Pickleball Association (USAPA) and the International Pickleball Federation (IFP) have rules and regulations for the sport of pickleball outlined in their rulebooks. The main reason why some paddles are banned is that they give players an unfair advantage over their opponents. Other reasons include safety concerns, noise, and durability.

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How to Know if Your Pickleball Paddle is Legal?

If you are unsure whether your pickleball paddle is legal or not, you can check the list of approved paddles on the USAPA or IFP website. You can also look for the USAPA or IFP seal on your paddle, which indicates that it has been tested and approved for use in official tournaments.

What Pickleball Paddles Are Banned by USAPA?

According to the USAPA, any paddle that does not meet the following specifications is banned from all official tournaments:

• The paddle face must be at least 7 inches (17.78 cm) in width and at least 15 inches (38.1 cm) in length.
• The total surface area of the paddle cannot be more than 24 inches (60.96 cm) long.
• The paddle length cannot be more than 17 inches (43.18 cm) long.
• The paddle must have a handle that is separate and distinct from the paddle face.
• The paddle must not have any attached devices or features that alter its shape or playing characteristics.

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What Pickleball Paddles Are Banned by IFP?

The International Pickleball Federation (IFP) has similar rules to the USAPA for the dimensions of the paddle. However, there are some slight differences in the specifications. According to the IFP, any paddle that does not meet the following specifications is banned from all official tournaments:

• The paddle face must be at least 7 inches (17.78 cm) in width and at least 15.5 inches (39.37 cm) in length.
• The total surface area of the paddle cannot be more than 24 inches (60.96 cm) long.
• The paddle length cannot be more than 17 inches (43.18 cm) long.
• The paddle must have a handle that is separate and distinct from the paddle face.
• The paddle must not have any attached devices or features that alter its shape or playing characteristics.

What Are Elongated Pickleball Paddles?

Elongated pickleball paddles are legal according to USAPA’s guidelines but are considered illegal by the IFP. These paddles are longer than 17 inches, but the total sum of their length and width is still under 24 inches. Some brands sacrifice the width to create long paddles having a maximum length of 17 inches. These paddles are 7 inches wide and are known as elongated pickleball paddles.

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Are Edgeless Pickleball Paddles Legal?

Edgeless pickleball paddles are not banned by the USAPA or IFP, but they are not approved for use in official tournaments. These paddles do not have an edge guard, which is a protective strip of material around the perimeter of the paddle. Edgeless paddles are often made of composite materials that have a softer touch and more control than traditional paddles.

What Pickleball Paddles Were Banned at the 2022 US Open?

During the 2022 US Open, some pickleball paddles were banned overnight. The paddles in question were the CRBN paddles, made by a small business with a loyal following. Despite being a well-reputed paddle company, their paddles did not meet the specifications outlined by the USAPA and were therefore banned.

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Can You Modify Your Pickleball Paddle?

It is not recommended to modify your pickleball paddle as it may result in an illegal paddle. Any modifications made to the paddle may alter its shape or playing characteristics, which is not allowed by the USAPA or IFP rules.

What Happens if You Play with an Illegal Pickleball Paddle?

If you play with an illegal pickleball paddle in an official tournament, you may be disqualified from the match. In some cases, you may also be banned from future tournaments. It is important to check that your paddle meets the USAPA or IFP specifications before playing in an official tournament.

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How to Choose the Right Pickleball Paddle for You?

When choosing a pickleball paddle, there are several factors to consider, including weight, size, material, and grip size. It is important to choose a paddle that is comfortable for you to hold and that suits your playing style. If you are a beginner, it is recommended to choose a paddle that is lightweight and easy to control.

The Best Pickleball Paddles in the Market

There are many pickleball paddles available in the market, each with their unique features and benefits. Some of the best pickleball paddles in the market are:

1. Selkirk AMPED Invikta: This paddle is perfect for advanced players who want power and precision.
2. Franklin Sports X-40: This paddle is perfect for beginners and intermediate players who want a lightweight paddle that is easy to control.
3. Paddletek Tempest Wave: This paddle is perfect for players who want a paddle with a soft touch and excellent control.

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How to Take Care of Your Pickleball Paddle

Taking care of your pickleball paddle is important to ensure that it lasts long and performs well. Here are some tips on how to take care of your pickleball paddle:

1. Keep your paddle clean: After every game, wipe your paddle with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the surface of the paddle.
2. Store your paddle properly: Store your paddle in a dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid leaving your paddle in a hot car or in a damp area.
3. Replace your grip: Over time, the grip on your paddle may wear out. Replace the grip with a new one to ensure that you have a comfortable and secure grip.
4. Avoid hitting hard surfaces: Avoid hitting your paddle against hard surfaces such as walls or the court surface. This can cause damage to the edge guard or the surface of the paddle.
5. Use a paddle cover: Using a paddle cover can protect your paddle from scratches, dents, and other damages.