As pickleball continues its global rise, core innovation has become a defining factor in paddle performance and product differentiation. From traditional polypropylene (PP) cores to cutting-edge materials from Joola, CRBN, and Selkirk, every technological leap reflects the industry’s pursuit of better vibration dampening, energy transfer, and durability. This article explores the latest breakthroughs in core technologies and offers insights for B2B clients developing their own performance-driven paddles.

The Limitations of Traditional Polypropylene (PP) Cores

While PP cores have long been favored for their lightweight structure and low cost, they present several limitations:

• Durability Issues: PP cores often collapse or deform under intense, repeated impacts.
• Inconsistent Feedback: As the core wears out, the paddle may lose its sweet spot and responsiveness.
• Performance Gaps: They fail to meet the demands of advanced players looking for enhanced touch and power.

These shortcomings have driven manufacturers toward more advanced core materials.

Joola’s Core Innovation: From Gen3 to Joola IV

Gen3: The Propulsion Core Advantage   

Joola’s Gen3 core, featuring a pending-patent Propulsion Core, marked a significant departure from traditional cores. It delivers:

• Explosive Power: Greater energy return on powerful shots.
• Balanced Feel: Maintains soft touch and control for finesse players.
• Improved Control: Enhanced vibration damping allows for stable and precise gameplay

Joola IV: Building on Gen3 Excellence

The Joola IV takes innovation further with refinements in structural composition:

• Superior Shock Absorption: Improved vibration reduction for a smoother feel.
• Optimized Energy Transfer: Delivers both power and consistency under high-intensity play.
• Balanced Performance: Offers an excellent blend of power, control, and comfort—ideal for competitive play and pro-level customization.

CRBN TruFoam EPP Core: A Full-Foam Revolution

CRBN’s TruFoam Genesis series features a fully foamed core using EPP (Expanded Polypropylene), providing a complete redesign over traditional honeycomb structures.

Core Benefits:

• True Durability: The fully foamed core resists dents and deformation even after prolonged use.
• Extended Dwell Time: The ball stays longer on the paddle face, increasing spin potential and control.
• Comfort + Customization: Offers a softer, more forgiving feel. For players seeking more weight, lead tape adjustments are easy and effective.

This technology strikes a balance between power and precision, positioning CRBN paddles as a strong choice for control-oriented players

Selkirk LABS Project 008: The PureFoam High-Density Core

Selkirk’s LABS Project 008 introduces its proprietary PureFoam high-density core—marking a notable evolution in paddle core materials.

Performance Highlights:

• High-Density Durability: Designed to withstand prolonged, high-intensity use without core breakdown.
• Available in 3 Thicknesses:
  • 10mm (power-focused),
  • 13mm (hybrid),
  • 16mm (control-focused).
    This allows players to match paddle specs to their playstyle.
• Vibration Damping + Enlarged Sweet Spot: Improved foam wall design helps expand the optimal hitting area and enhances comfort.

Selkirk’s new core is ideal for players seeking maximum touch, stability, and paddle longevity.

Gearbox Pro Power: The Epitome of Explosive Performance

The Gearbox Pro Power series is renowned for its unique SSTCore™ technology combined with the patent-pending Power Matrix Technology—designed specifically for players seeking ultimate explosive power.

• Core Construction: Utilizing Toray T700 raw carbon fiber, the SSTCore™ employs parallel carbon fiber rib structures to maximize energy transfer from the core to the face.
• Power Matrix Technology: This innovation magnifies energy transfer, delivering unmatched explosive power on demand while maintaining control and stability.
• TXR Surface Grip Technology: Enhances the paddle’s surface texture to boost spin performance, allowing players to shape shots with precision even on off-center hits.
• Design Features: The Pro Power Elongated model offers extra reach while maintaining a lightweight profile (approximately 8 oz), making it ideal for aggressive, high-level play.
  [Sources: Gearbox Pro Power details, Gearbox Pro Power review]

Despite its exceptional power and high spin capability, the Gearbox Pro Power has a smaller sweet spot and low twist weight, which demands high precision. Players must be adept at hitting the ball dead center to fully exploit its advantages.

Performance Comparison & R&D Takeaways for Manufacturers

Each brand’s core technology has its unique focus, yet all aim to enhance energy transfer, improve durability, and cater to diverse competitive needs:

• Joola Series: Focus on explosive power and precise energy transfer, ideal for fast-reacting offensive players.
• CRBN TruFoam: Emphasizes prolonged dwell time and spin, offering a solution for consistent ball control.
• Selkirk LABS Project 008: Uses PureFoam to deliver durability and a cushioned feel with selectable thicknesses for different play styles.
• Gearbox Pro Power: Represents the pinnacle of power, with its advanced SSTCore™ and Power Matrix, tailored for experienced, aggressive players.

Conclusion

The shift from PP to advanced foam and hybrid cores reflects a broader trend in pickleball paddle development—where performance, durability, and user experience converge. Whether it’s Joola’s explosiveness, CRBN’s control-friendly foam, or Selkirk’s engineered comfort, each core technology opens new pathways for product differentiation.

For B2B manufacturers, understanding these innovations is key to creating standout products. By investing in new materials and adapting to player demands, brands can shape the future of pickleball performance and gain a competitive edge in a fast-growing market.