UPA-A Introduces Revolutionary Paddle Testing: Simulating Months of Play in Minutes

In a groundbreaking development for the pickleball community, the United Pickleball Association of America (UPA-A) has unveiled a new laboratory-based stress test designed to simulate the effects of paddle degradation over time. This innovative approach, known as the Artificial Break In Standard (ABI), aims to address longstanding concerns about paddle performance changes and ensure fair play at the highest levels of the sport.

Understanding Paddle Performance Changes

It’s a well-known fact among pickleball enthusiasts that paddle performance can change significantly over time. As players break in their equipment, they often notice shifts in power, pop, and spin. While some paddles maintain relatively stable performance characteristics, others undergo drastic transformations that can push them beyond the limits of what’s permitted in competitive play.

Recent controversies surrounding paddle approvals have highlighted the need for more rigorous testing methods. Notable examples include the UPA-A’s decision to remove an entire company from its approved list, the USA Pickleball’s statement regarding Chorus Fire paddles, and the confusion surrounding a stalled paddle release. These incidents underscore the complexity of regulating equipment in a rapidly evolving sport.

The Challenge of Predictive Testing

The pickleball industry has long grappled with the challenge of accurately predicting how a paddle will perform after extended use. With new models constantly entering the market and the subjective nature of paddle “break-in,” traditional testing methods have often fallen short. The UPA-A’s new ABI standard represents a significant leap forward in addressing this issue.

Introducing the Artificial Break In Standard (ABI)

The UPA-A has partnered with Pickle Pro Labs (PPL), a third-party testing facility, to develop and implement the ABI standard. This innovative approach is the result of months of intensive research into paddle break-in periods and performance characteristics.

At the heart of the ABI standard is the Paddle Efficiency Factor (PEF), a metric that quantifies a paddle’s power output by measuring its energy transfer efficiency to the ball during play. According to the UPA-A’s official announcement, starting September 1, 2025, all UPA-A approved paddles must meet a PEF standard of 0.385 when new and cannot exceed a PEF ceiling of 0.405 after undergoing the standardized break-in procedure.

The Science Behind ABI

The ABI process is a carefully controlled method of physically altering a paddle’s structure to simulate the effects of extended play. This procedure is designed to push the paddle to its performance limits without causing visible damage. The resulting changes in performance are then measured through subsequent PEF testing.

For the 2025 season, the UPA-A has implemented a cap on the ABI process. This means that each paddle is only “broken in” to a predetermined threshold, which is calculated based on the paddle’s thickness. This approach aims to create a level playing field while still allowing for some degree of natural performance evolution.

The ABI Testing Process

According to a detailed white paper released by Pickle Pro Labs, the ABI method incorporates several sophisticated testing procedures:

1. Compression Cycling Method

This process utilizes a specialized vice with industrial-grade leather inserts. The paddle is subjected to precisely controlled compression at multiple points across its face, starting 3.5 inches from the tip and progressing through a series of predetermined intervals. Each location undergoes a minimum of 15 compression cycles, with the paddle secured in both vertical and horizontal orientations.

2. Edge Cycling Method

Following the compression cycles, the paddle undergoes an edge cycling procedure. This involves applying 10 to 15 degrees of force in alternating directions to the uppermost portion of the paddle. This motion is repeated at least 20 times to assess any potential structural decomposition.

3. Performance Evaluation

Throughout the ABI process, the paddle’s performance is evaluated using a combination of metrics, including Average Deflection Force (ADF) and paddle-ball coefficient of restitution (PBCOR). These measurements provide a comprehensive picture of how the paddle’s characteristics change under simulated use conditions.

The Human Element in Testing

It’s important to note that while the ABI process is highly standardized, there is still a human element involved. The white paper acknowledges that operator skill and experience play a role in the testing process, stating, “An operator will become more skilled in this process with repetition.” This recognition of the human factor underscores the complexity of paddle testing and the ongoing efforts to refine the methodology.

Future Developments in ABI Testing

The UPA-A and Pickle Pro Labs are not resting on their laurels. The white paper hints at exciting developments on the horizon, including:

• An automated ABI process to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and repeatability
• The potential for implementing useful-life testing of paddles, moving beyond the current fixed displacement process

These advancements promise to further enhance the accuracy and reliability of paddle testing in the coming years.

The Impact on the Pickleball Community

The introduction of the ABI standard has far-reaching implications for various stakeholders in the pickleball world:

For Manufacturers

The capped ABI process establishes a conservative and standardized benchmark for paddle break-in. This provides clearer guidelines for product development and quality control, potentially streamlining the approval process for new paddle designs.

For Players

The new testing standard aims to ensure that no paddle gains an unfair power advantage over time without being detected through on-site testing. This helps maintain competitive integrity and reduces the likelihood of equipment-related controversies.

For the Sport

By implementing a more rigorous testing protocol, the UPA-A is taking a significant step towards improving competitive integrity. The ABI standard helps confirm that certified paddles do not break in at an uncontrolled rate, promoting fairness across all levels of play.

Industry Reactions

The announcement of the new ABI standard has generated considerable discussion within the pickleball industry. We reached out to several prominent paddle manufacturers to gauge their reactions:

CRBN Pickleball

Garrett Gosselin and Kyle Goguen, Co-Founders of CRBN, expressed strong support for the initiative:

“We applaud UPA-A — or any governing body — for taking steps to ensure paddles don’t gain unfair performance through wear. A level playing field is essential, and as long as testing is transparent, fair, and free of loopholes, we’re fully on board. We hope this new standard encourages other brands to move away from paddles with a meaningful break-in period and helps move the sport we all love forward.”

11Six24

David Groechel, Founder of 11Six24, offered a more measured perspective:

“While I view the UPAA’s implementation of destructive testing as a positive development, it addresses a concern that was more prevalent 1-2 years ago. Today, most established manufacturers have already improved their durability standards, as market forces naturally eliminate paddles with recurring breakage issues from consumer consideration.”

The Bigger Picture: Regulation in Pickleball

The introduction of the ABI standard is just one piece of a larger puzzle surrounding equipment regulation in pickleball. As the sport continues to grow in popularity and professionalism, the need for consistent and fair standards becomes increasingly crucial.

The ongoing debates about paddle regulations highlight the complex relationship between technology, player skill, and competitive integrity. As discussed in a recent industry panel at RacquetX in Miami, the pickleball community is grappling with fundamental questions about how to balance innovation with fair play.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Paddle Testing

As pickleball continues its rapid evolution, we can expect further refinements and innovations in paddle testing methodologies. The UPA-A’s commitment to developing an automated ABI process and exploring useful-life testing suggests that we’re only at the beginning of a new era in equipment regulation.

These advancements will likely have ripple effects throughout the pickleball ecosystem, influencing everything from product design and manufacturing processes to tournament regulations and player strategies.

Conclusion: A Step Towards Fairness and Consistency

The introduction of the Artificial Break In Standard represents a significant milestone in the world of professional pickleball. By providing a more accurate and standardized method for assessing paddle performance over time, the UPA-A is taking important steps to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the sport.

While challenges and debates around equipment regulation are likely to continue, the ABI standard sets a new benchmark for transparency and scientific rigor in paddle testing. As the pickleball community adapts to these changes, players, manufacturers, and fans alike can look forward to a more level playing field and a renewed focus on the skills and strategies that make the sport so compelling.

As pickleball continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like the ABI standard will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the game. By embracing innovation while safeguarding fairness, the sport can continue to thrive and attract new players while maintaining the trust and enthusiasm of its dedicated fan base.