In 2025, over a dozen high-performance pickleball paddles, including popular models (below), were banned from professional play for not meeting USA Pickleball and IFP regulatory standards:

JOOLA Perseus 14mm MOD TA-15

Gearbox Pro Power Elongated, and

 

ProKennex Black Ace

"The 2025 banned paddle list highlights key issues with JOOLA's Hyperion CFS 16mm, Gearbox's CX14E, and ProKennex's Black Ace Pro, primarily due to their enhanced carbon fiber layering and edge guard modifications that exceed USAPA deflection and surface roughness standards. Players should prioritize paddles with consistent core materials and avoid overly aggressive surface treatments to stay compliant." - Dr. Emily Carter, PhD in Sports Engineering and USAPA Equipment Compliance Advisor.

In this guide, we'll dive deep into the world of banned pickleball paddles in 2025 , exploring why these models were prohibited, their technical specifications, and what it means for players and manufacturers. Whether you're a professional athlete or a recreational player, understanding these bans will help you make informed decisions about your equipment and stay ahead of the curve.

Why Were These Paddles Banned? The Shocking Truth

The ban on certain paddles ensures fair play in pickleball, due to:

1. Excessive Surface Roughness: Paddles like the JOOLA Perseus and ProKennex Black Ace exceeded the 30µm limit, giving unfair spin.
2. Core Thickness: Paddles like the Gearbox Pro Power exceeded the 1/2 inch core thickness, disrupting game balance.
3. Material Violations: Some paddles used advanced materials beyond allowed limits.

At the 2025 US Open, players were disqualified for using banned paddles.

Core Material Composition Limits

The USAPA bans paddles that exceed the 1/2 inch core thickness or use prohibited materials with higher stiffness, giving an unfair advantage. This violates rule 2.2.1.

Core Restrictions:

• Max core thickness: 1/2 inch (12.7 mm).
• Prohibited materials: certain carbon fibers and polymers with excess stiffness.
• Violations lead to disqualification. Manufacturers must follow USAPA guidelines.

The top 7 Banned Paddles of 2025

Here's a closer look at the most controversial paddles banned in 2025:

Banned Paddle Face Design Flaws

• Sweet spot area consistently exceeded the 175 cm² limit by manipulating curve radii and bevel angles.
• Illegal modifications resulted in increased energy transfer, providing an unfair competitive advantage.
• Several ProKennex Black Ace models were banned due to core thickness and surface texture violations.
• The JOOLA Perseus models were banned due to surface roughness exceeding USAPA regulations.
• The Gearbox Pro Power Elongated paddle's shape also contributed to its ban, providing an unfair reach advantage.
• Analysis focused on surface texture depth (ranging from 35µm to 40µm) as a key factor in exceeding regulations.

How the Bans Are Shaping the Future of Pickleball

The banning of these paddles has had a ripple effect across the sport:

• Regulatory Crackdown : The USAPA and IFP are enforcing stricter equipment standards to ensure fairness.
  
  
• Player Backlash : Many professionals argue that the bans limit innovation and disrupt gameplay.
  
  
• Manufacturer Response : Companies like JOOLA and ProKennex are releasing compliant alternatives with reduced surface roughness and core thickness.

Example : JOOLA's updated Perseus line now features a 30µm texture depth, meeting USAPA standards while maintaining performance. For more details, check out our JOOLA Perseus review .

What Players Need to Know: 4 Tips for Choosing Compliant Paddles

To avoid penalties and ensure your paddle is tournament-ready, follow these tips:

Paddle Core Density Impact

Paddle core density significantly influences performance characteristics. Higher density cores (e.g., exceeding 60 kg/m³) generally provide greater power and control but reduce the sweet spot size compared to lower density cores (e.g., below 50 kg/m³). This trade-off affects shot consistency and power distribution across the paddle face.

What to look for: 

• Check USAPA Approval:Always verify that your paddle is on the USAPA's approved equipment list. Approval list click here.
  
  
• Understand Core Thickness : Stick to paddles with a core thickness of 16mm or less.
  
  
• Monitor Surface Texture : Ensure the paddle's surface roughness does not exceed 30µm.
  
  
• Test Before You Buy : Try out paddles in person to ensure they meet your playing style and regulatory requirements.

The Latest Innovations in Pickleball Paddle Technology

Despite the bans, manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of innovation:

• Nano-Carbon Fiber : A new material that enhances performance without violating regulations.
  
  
• Hybrid Polymer Cores : These cores offer a balance of power and control while staying within USAPA limits.
  
  
• Smart Paddles : Embedded sensors monitor performance and ensure compliance in real-time.

Example : Gearbox is developing a smart paddle that tracks spin rates and surface wear, helping players stay within legal limits. Learn more about the Gearbox Pro Power Elongated and its evolution.

Core Material Stiffness Effects

Paddle core stiffness, measured in pounds-force per inch (lbf/in), significantly impacts power transfer and ball control. Increased stiffness, as seen in some graphite cores, provides greater power but reduces feel and control, while softer polymer cores offer enhanced touch but potentially less power on serves and smashes.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead in the Game

The banning of high-performance paddles like the JOOLA Perseus , Gearbox Pro Power Elongated , and ProKennex Black Ace series in 2025 highlights the delicate balance between innovation and regulation in pickleball. While these bans aim to ensure fairness, they also underscore the need for clearer communication between manufacturers, players, and governing bodies.

As the sport continues to grow, players must stay informed about equipment standards and choose paddles that enhance their game without crossing regulatory boundaries. Whether you're a professional or a recreational player, understanding these bans will help you make smarter decisions and keep your game on point.

Call to Action : Ready to upgrade your paddle? Check out our guide to the best USAPA-approved paddles for 2025 and stay ahead of the competition!

PBPRO Approved Paddle List