Faster, Better, & Cheaper
Faster, Better, & Cheaper
Plus: Simply Pickleball Podcast with Vatic Pro CEO
Hi Pickleballers -
Have you ever heard of Moore’s Law? Gordon Moore was a semiconductor engineer who founded Intel. In 1965, he observed that the number of transistors and components in computer chips doubled every two years. More transistors mean faster processing time.
In 1965 there were less than 100 transistors in a chip, and today, they have up to 114 billion. It’s a stretch, but for some reason, pickleball paddles' evolution reminds me of Moore’s Law.
Are pickleball paddles going to get twice as fast every two years?
No, that’s not going to happen. There are strict rules for the design and materials used to make pickleball paddles. Rule 2.E.1 says a paddle must be made of “material deemed safe”. Any paddle used in tournament play must be approved by the USA Pickleball. Most paddles used by recreational players are USA Pickleball-approved paddles.
However, most brands now include a thermoformed option, which is generally the hardest-hitting type of carbon fiber pickleball paddle.
Ok, so what is changing with pickleball paddles?
Price. Pickleball paddles are getting cheaper. In the past year, high-end thermoformed carbon fiber paddles have gone from $250 to $100 for several manufacturers. Vatic Pro led the charge, and many others have followed their lead.
Materials. Carbon fiber is finding its way down to the entry-level and intermediate paddle market. Many manufacturers are also experimenting with other materials that will hopefully debut in early 2024.
Size. There will likely be a trend toward smaller faces and longer handles for two-handed backhands. Essentially, more efficient use of the paddle face and weight distribution.
Durability. Currently, the expectation is that a carbon fiber paddle should only last 3-6 months with regular play. This is because the core gets crushed over time, and the surface grit gets worn down. This leads to a loss of spin and power. Paddle manufacturers are experimenting with different types of materials to extend the lifespan of paddles.
With all these changes on the way, I’ve been wondering what will happen to prices. It’s a race to the bottom, as many paddles are similar and made in the same manufacturing facility. Without technological advances, I think many high-priced (over $150) paddle manufacturers will have to drop their prices.
On the other hand, if there’s some sort of paddle technology breakthrough, certain paddle companies could start charging a premium.
Either way, we’re in the early days of pickleball, and innovation is happening fast. The pace of change won’t last decades like the computer chip, but I think we’re in for an exciting couple of years.
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In keeping with our theme of faster, better, and cheaper pickleball paddles, this week’s pod is with Vatic Pro founder Daryl Wang. Daryl shares his story of building the fastest-growing and popular pickleball paddle company. Daryl and his family understand manufacturing and know high-end carbon fiber pickleball paddles shouldn't cost over $200. Find out how Daryl delivered the best-selling Vatic Pro Prism for under $100. Does Vatic Pro have new paddles on the way? Listen in to find out...
Listen on Apple: Click here
Listen on Spotify: Click here
Interview with Daryl Wang, Vatic Pro CEO
Latest Blog: Pickleball 101
Are you a pickleball evangelist, trying to convert everyone you meet (especially tennis players)? If so, we put together a 101 guide for first-time players. It covers basic rules, scoring, and how to play.
Check it out and share it with your friends
**Anna Leigh Waters Autographed Paddle Giveaway**
Click here to enter the ALW signed pickleball paddle giveaway. The winner will be announced in The Simply Pickleball newsletter by 12/20/2023.
In Case You Missed It
Tip of the Week
Repetition is one of the best ways to improve hand-eye coordination in pickleball. If you don’t have a partner or access to a pickleball court during winter, a home pickleball simulator might be the way to go. Check out the Dink Master in our Pickleball Training Aids. They still have their Black Friday sale going, which won’t last long.
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Bread & Butter: SIMPLYPB
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Rally Club Pickleball Clothing: SIMPLY15
Paddles and More: SIMPLY15
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Woody
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