A few thoughts I forgot to throw into the video because I was editing at 1AM before my 8AM flight: 1. If you're going to make an illegal paddle, why not just go completely crazy? Sand paper for the face, larger holes, etc. Why keep certain things in spec but not others? Only thing I can think of is that they know rules are changing slightly next year. If that isn't the case, I don't understand the point of this paddle. 2. No, the holes really don't do anything. At least not that I can physically tell while hitting it. Seems far too small to be reducing any noticeable amounts of air drag. 3. I'm not sure how revolutionary I think it is because other companies could probably mimic this almost immediately. Foam core is not new technology, so to claim "5 years ahead of everyone" seems like a giant stretch. More revolutionary would be keeping it in spec and doing something amazing. 4. If paddles went to something like this in the future, it could be pretty cool. Like I said, feels very unique and I really enjoyed the feel of it.
Comment from IFP about foam core: Effective November 1, 2014: The IFP/USAPA Rules Committee has determined that paddles manufactured with a foam core material and with a one‐piece construction on the surface do not reliably pass the deflection test. After use, these paddles have been shown to degrade in a manner that creates more deflection and higher ball speed potential. Because of these attributes, no paddles manufactured in this manner will be accepted for IFP/USAPA sanctioned tournament play after December 31st, 2015. As of November 1, 2014, no additional paddles with this construction will be tested for deflection. Clarification Note: Foam core paddles with one flat piece of material on each side of the paddle head (not wrapped around the edge of paddle) and one piece face material paddles with other than foam core material will continue to be acceptable for sanctioned tournaments and will be given the deflection test upon proper submission and payment for testing; provided that, these paddles pass all other paddle specifications and meet the requirement of preserving the traditional nature and character of the sport and preserve the skills traditionally required to play the sport.
Here's my guess as to #1 and your findings in #2 support it. I don't think the ideas behind the paddle were to make something with unreal performance. I think they were more focused on sound and feel. The holes in the face are not there to increase spin or reduce air resistance; they are there to reduce the sound at impact. With a typical 8mm cell diameter PP core, a paddle is basically 100's of tiny little enclosed drums that result in that loud 'pop' sound we are all familiar with. The foam core eliminates all those tiny little drums and the holes prevent it from being one big enclosed drum. Obviously, the foam will have more dampening properties, both aurally and tactically, than a PP core.
My idea of a crazy illegal (but fun) paddle would be to glue on table tennis rubber! Cool spin, less noise, and higher swingweight so more power. Been wanting to do this for awhile to use all my old TT rubbers.
This is essentially a mini pedal paddle. And it’s where it’s going to try and quiet the paddles down. Several companies already have similar designs but are waiting what will be approved materials. I am involved with one of those companies.
I think you're underestimating the number of wealthy retirees who would happily spend $225 on a paddle and never have any intention of playing in a tournament. I could see these becoming popular in clubs where the noise is a challenge.
This AM (11/7/22) Diadem added a statement on their pre-order site: "Not meant for USAP tournament play. This concept paddle is a glimpse into the future and the foundation of Diadem's tournament paddles launching in 2023."
I told a friend they should make a paddle with pin holes everywhere through it. It'd be easier to swing and the holes wouldn't affect the direction of the ball being hit. (Like the selkirk paddle with the massive hole towards the bottom). I wouldn't waste money on a paddle I can't use in a tourney like you said
All I can say it looks like you guys had a lot of fun playing with it. There was a lot of curiosity, surprise, and fun with this new paddle. I hear there may be a Diadem Warrior V2? I wonder if it will replace the Nomex core in the original Warrior?
I have a EVA foam paddle and I found it was so easy to use wrist to hit the ball with little effort and achieve high precision. But after a while, my wrist starts hurting a lot. I am looking for the proper use of it to leverage the strength of the paddle without risking physical injury.
What's the difference between a lot of little holes and a big smiley hole like in the Selkirk 😂 The sport does need to reduce the noise, it's a problem for most of places.
I don't get the move from Diadem. I could see it as a long term move to sway public opinion to then sway paddle requirements. Like it could be to increase speed in the sport overall and reduce noise on courts?
I'm fairly positive the announcers or whoever said it would not be approved for tournament play. Which is interesting, particularly with that price point... The people who would be most willing to pay $200+ for a paddle are typically the ones who take things seriously enough to also want to play in tournaments in the like. I'll be very interested in seeing sales numbers for this thing.
What was the production number I wonder...did they make 200, 2000, 10000?...I run into this all the time with new softball bats...they sell out 200 in 2 hrs to really hype the demand
It seems like they can move the holes to the perimeter to make that part legal, they can also dampen the deflection to a point where it can be approved. Because of how it dampens the vibration and popping sounds, this tech can save a lot of injuries, to the arms and hearing.
At least they printed the balance point on the paddle (like they do on tennis racquets). Given all those head-heavy Jooola Hyperion CFS16s, let's hope that becomes a standard among manufacturers.
Interesting concept. Heard from a few people that attended the DIACON event that it was a great party too. Diadem has had some killer good paddles so far. Don’t see why this one wouldn’t be as well
Interesting concept. I only play rec so not getting approved is no big deal to me. Seems like this paddle would break down quick with a "foam" core. Pricey as well, so I'm saving my 2hundred+ for the Black Ace. I do play the ICON often and like it a lot.
@@jeffcaptain6738 why wouldn't they? It's REC play, if rec players have an issue with someone using this paddle then they are just looking for something to gripe about. I have seen plenty of illegal clubs on the golf course and never heard anyone complain.
I did look at this paddle and was interested BUT since watching this video and not being adept at all the rules of pickleball, I am glad I didn't spend the money...besides, I wanted a new paddle yesterday and can't wait 3 weeks for a paddle to get to my house....LOL
UPDATE: This paddle is on sale on diadems website 51% off. I just ordered one and paid 130 shipped. it is illegal? Yes. Is it lowkey cheating, maybe? Will i always use it? No. I main a DBL blackdiamond 2.0 and love it, but how fun would it be to have this in my bag just to whip out here and there? 100% worth IMO. I'm a filthy casual just obsessed with the game and to have all that technology for $130? are you kidding me
I love Diadem, but this just feels way overhyped. I absolutely agree on your point about how not having the USAPA approval making this a much tougher sell. Like, what kind of player do they think is going to drop that cash for a paddle they can’t use? It reminds of how Proton announced they’re trying to enter the paddle sphere a few weeks ago with a $290 paddle that also hasn’t been submitted for approval, in spite of the fact they’re marketing it as a tournament paddle.
13:00 Uniqueness is not a property that is a sliding scale (most unique, very unique). It means one of a kind. Something is either unique or it is not unique. This paddle makes absolutely no sense to me from a business perspective. My prediction, this will make a very small splash with a few people buying them out of curiosity. A handful of players may like it enough to actually play with it, but like you said in the video, the subset of players who are serious enough to dish out more than $200 for a paddle, but who don't play in tournaments can't be very big. I think this is going to fizzle within a couple of months. Maybe they will make enough on curiosity purchases to cover their costs and make a profit, but it doesn't seem like part of a long term company business strategy to me.
All the comments saying “it’s just rec play”. Can’t wait to show up on ur court overhead serving and say it’s just rec play. What a dumb thing to say. This paddle is useless if it’s against rules.
Nothing revolutionary about an illegal paddle. But they could have gone all in and gone rubber surface, more holes, insane grip (3000+ RPM?!!), the list goes on. Also, I'd say if you're playing with a competitive 4.0+ crowd, they'll probably not let you use that paddle in a game, even in rec. I remember local players getting smack talked over the CRBN gritgate debacle.
If we're just going to ignore rules, why not play with a racquetball racquet? You should throw one in for comparison, I imagine the spin would be crazy!
I’m not sure who their target market would be for this, I don’t know anyone who strictly plays rec that would be willing to spend $225 on a paddle. Seems like a waste of time for them to create!
a lot of people would pay...I play Rec softball and guys pay 400-500-1000 for a bat that will hit 20 feet farther...no money involved, just bragging rights...why, because they can...LOL
I would like to add that if the paddle is illegal and is not going to be submitted for approval, why not disregard size restrictions, deflection limits, and surface texture. Make a paddle the size of a tennis racquet with strings or a material that will grab and propel the ball with speed and control. Why not just throw way the equipment rules and have a free for all. This will certainly ruin the game of pickleball.
This is not new concept and will never be approved. 15 years a go a Canadian company came out with a foam paddle and was immediately banned from any tournament play because of deflection(bounce) is way out of approved specs. It became a dangerous paddle to use in rec play because of speed of paddle. Stupid money wasted by manufacturer. What real manufactures do is change the industry within the rules provided. Not even talking about holes in the paddle again another illegal concept.
Why would you use a non conforming paddle, even in rec play? How about if I go to my local court with an oversized tennis racket and play with that? How about a lacrosse stick?
As of November 1, 2014, foam core paddles will not accepted for testing and as of December 31, 2015 no foam paddle is allowed for tournament play. Also the paddle specifications 2.2. Surface: states "The paddle hitting surface shall not contain holes, indentations, ...". If we want to use an illegal paddle why not use a tennis racquet or any paddle homemade or from other sports. What is the sense of having rules if we are not going to abide by them.
![World’s Most Expensive Pro Racket [$500]](/img/n.gif)
A few thoughts I forgot to throw into the video because I was editing at 1AM before my 8AM flight:
1. If you're going to make an illegal paddle, why not just go completely crazy? Sand paper for the face, larger holes, etc. Why keep certain things in spec but not others? Only thing I can think of is that they know rules are changing slightly next year. If that isn't the case, I don't understand the point of this paddle.
2. No, the holes really don't do anything. At least not that I can physically tell while hitting it. Seems far too small to be reducing any noticeable amounts of air drag.
3. I'm not sure how revolutionary I think it is because other companies could probably mimic this almost immediately. Foam core is not new technology, so to claim "5 years ahead of everyone" seems like a giant stretch. More revolutionary would be keeping it in spec and doing something amazing.
4. If paddles went to something like this in the future, it could be pretty cool. Like I said, feels very unique and I really enjoyed the feel of it.
Love the honest review
Comment from IFP about foam core:
Effective November 1, 2014: The IFP/USAPA Rules Committee has determined that paddles manufactured with a foam core material and with a one‐piece construction on the surface do not reliably pass the deflection test. After use, these paddles have been shown to degrade in a manner that creates more deflection and higher ball speed potential. Because of these attributes, no paddles manufactured in this manner will be accepted for IFP/USAPA sanctioned tournament play after December 31st, 2015. As of November 1, 2014, no additional paddles with this construction will be tested for deflection.
Clarification Note: Foam core paddles with one flat piece of material on each side of the paddle head (not wrapped around the edge of paddle) and one piece face material paddles with other than foam core material will continue to be acceptable for sanctioned tournaments and will be given the deflection test upon proper submission and payment for testing; provided that, these paddles pass all other paddle specifications and meet the requirement of preserving the traditional nature and character of the sport and preserve the skills traditionally required to play the sport.
Here's my guess as to #1 and your findings in #2 support it. I don't think the ideas behind the paddle were to make something with unreal performance. I think they were more focused on sound and feel. The holes in the face are not there to increase spin or reduce air resistance; they are there to reduce the sound at impact. With a typical 8mm cell diameter PP core, a paddle is basically 100's of tiny little enclosed drums that result in that loud 'pop' sound we are all familiar with. The foam core eliminates all those tiny little drums and the holes prevent it from being one big enclosed drum. Obviously, the foam will have more dampening properties, both aurally and tactically, than a PP core.
My idea of a crazy illegal (but fun) paddle would be to glue on table tennis rubber! Cool spin, less noise, and higher swingweight so more power. Been wanting to do this for awhile to use all my old TT rubbers.
Flubber core incoming
This might be the solution to the noise complaint issues being experienced in many locations.
This is essentially a mini pedal paddle. And it’s where it’s going to try and quiet the paddles down. Several companies already have similar designs but are waiting what will be approved materials. I am involved with one of those companies.
What a unique paddle. It definitely seems to be one of the pickleball paddles of all time.
What?
@@jeffcaptain6738 he’s saying it’s definitely one of the paddles ever created
@@jeffcaptain6738 It's one of a paddle
It sounds rad lol, like a foam bat.
One possible advantage is the (much) lower noise for rec players playing in courts with close neighbors.
I think you're underestimating the number of wealthy retirees who would happily spend $225 on a paddle and never have any intention of playing in a tournament. I could see these becoming popular in clubs where the noise is a challenge.
I might be haha. I just know in my areas the rev players are cut throat about the rules 😂
This AM (11/7/22) Diadem added a statement on their pre-order site: "Not meant for USAP tournament play. This concept paddle is a glimpse into the future and the foundation of Diadem's tournament paddles launching in 2023."
I told a friend they should make a paddle with pin holes everywhere through it. It'd be easier to swing and the holes wouldn't affect the direction of the ball being hit. (Like the selkirk paddle with the massive hole towards the bottom).
I wouldn't waste money on a paddle I can't use in a tourney like you said
All I can say it looks like you guys had a lot of fun playing with it. There was a lot of curiosity, surprise, and fun with this new paddle. I hear there may be a Diadem Warrior V2? I wonder if it will replace the Nomex core in the original Warrior?
I'm thinking for the Warrior & Icon v2 (confirmed for 2023), may use some tech from this paddle
I have a EVA foam paddle and I found it was so easy to use wrist to hit the ball with little effort and achieve high precision. But after a while, my wrist starts hurting a lot. I am looking for the proper use of it to leverage the strength of the paddle without risking physical injury.
What's the difference between a lot of little holes and a big smiley hole like in the Selkirk 😂 The sport does need to reduce the noise, it's a problem for most of places.
I don't get the move from Diadem. I could see it as a long term move to sway public opinion to then sway paddle requirements. Like it could be to increase speed in the sport overall and reduce noise on courts?
I'm fairly positive the announcers or whoever said it would not be approved for tournament play.
Which is interesting, particularly with that price point...
The people who would be most willing to pay $200+ for a paddle are typically the ones who take things seriously enough to also want to play in tournaments in the like.
I'll be very interested in seeing sales numbers for this thing.
diadem said the vice paddle is sold out. 😜
What was the production number I wonder...did they make 200, 2000, 10000?...I run into this all the time with new softball bats...they sell out 200 in 2 hrs to really hype the demand
It seems like they can move the holes to the perimeter to make that part legal, they can also dampen the deflection to a point where it can be approved.
Because of how it dampens the vibration and popping sounds, this tech can save a lot of injuries, to the arms and hearing.
I came out with this idea a long time ago , I just did this with my drill
At least they printed the balance point on the paddle (like they do on tennis racquets). Given all those head-heavy Jooola Hyperion CFS16s, let's hope that becomes a standard among manufacturers.
Great video as always. Would like to see a review on the Yonex Ezone Pickleball Paddle. Have you tried one?
Interesting concept. Heard from a few people that attended the DIACON event that it was a great party too. Diadem has had some killer good paddles so far. Don’t see why this one wouldn’t be as well
I play pickle ball with my one wall paddle, sounds the same
Interesting concept. I only play rec so not getting approved is no big deal to me. Seems like this paddle would break down quick with a "foam" core. Pricey as well, so I'm saving my 2hundred+
for the Black Ace. I do play the ICON often and like it a lot.
Why would anyone let you use an illegal paddle for rec play?
@@jeffcaptain6738 why wouldn't they? It's REC play, if rec players have an issue with someone using this paddle then they are just looking for something to gripe about. I have seen plenty of illegal clubs on the golf course and never heard anyone complain.
1:31 suspect activity.
I did look at this paddle and was interested BUT since watching this video and not being adept at all the rules of pickleball, I am glad I didn't spend the money...besides, I wanted a new paddle yesterday and can't wait 3 weeks for a paddle to get to my house....LOL
It’s 40 percent off now so may give it a try!!
How was that Prokeneex?
I like it! Need more time with it, but felt pretty good. More enjoyable than previous ProKennex paddles.
Any idea what the face material is? Fiberglass, carbon fiber, etc?
I haven’t seen it stated anywhere.
Goodyear rubber
iPhone comparison = marketing genius 😂
I’ve tried but I find it too muted.
UPDATE: This paddle is on sale on diadems website 51% off. I just ordered one and paid 130 shipped. it is illegal? Yes. Is it lowkey cheating, maybe? Will i always use it? No. I main a DBL blackdiamond 2.0 and love it, but how fun would it be to have this in my bag just to whip out here and there? 100% worth IMO. I'm a filthy casual just obsessed with the game and to have all that technology for $130? are you kidding me
The new preferred paddle for 90's school principals. Some of y'all know what I'm talking about. Lol
Been there, that sucker stung, bigtime.
I love Diadem, but this just feels way overhyped.
I absolutely agree on your point about how not having the USAPA approval making this a much tougher sell. Like, what kind of player do they think is going to drop that cash for a paddle they can’t use?
It reminds of how Proton announced they’re trying to enter the paddle sphere a few weeks ago with a $290 paddle that also hasn’t been submitted for approval, in spite of the fact they’re marketing it as a tournament paddle.
13:00 Uniqueness is not a property that is a sliding scale (most unique, very unique). It means one of a kind. Something is either unique or it is not unique.
This paddle makes absolutely no sense to me from a business perspective. My prediction, this will make a very small splash with a few people buying them out of curiosity. A handful of players may like it enough to actually play with it, but like you said in the video, the subset of players who are serious enough to dish out more than $200 for a paddle, but who don't play in tournaments can't be very big. I think this is going to fizzle within a couple of months. Maybe they will make enough on curiosity purchases to cover their costs and make a profit, but it doesn't seem like part of a long term company business strategy to me.
All the comments saying “it’s just rec play”. Can’t wait to show up on ur court overhead serving and say it’s just rec play. What a dumb thing to say. This paddle is useless if it’s against rules.
Holes are too small to have a airflow effect.
Will it make me a better player? 😏
No clue, but they shouldn't have just tested it by someone who's 3.125 at best. No way of know how good it actually is 🤣
@@jonysun 😂
It'll take you from the Minor league to the Major's upon pre-order. You don't even have to wait for it to arrive.
Nothing revolutionary about an illegal paddle. But they could have gone all in and gone rubber surface, more holes, insane grip (3000+ RPM?!!), the list goes on. Also, I'd say if you're playing with a competitive 4.0+ crowd, they'll probably not let you use that paddle in a game, even in rec. I remember local players getting smack talked over the CRBN gritgate debacle.
If we're just going to ignore rules, why not play with a racquetball racquet? You should throw one in for comparison, I imagine the spin would be crazy!
I’m not sure who their target market would be for this, I don’t know anyone who strictly plays rec that would be willing to spend $225 on a paddle. Seems like a waste of time for them to create!
Rich people Lolol
a lot of people would pay...I play Rec softball and guys pay 400-500-1000 for a bat that will hit 20 feet farther...no money involved, just bragging rights...why, because they can...LOL
I would like to add that if the paddle is illegal and is not going to be submitted for approval, why not disregard size restrictions, deflection limits, and surface texture. Make a paddle the size of a tennis racquet with strings or a material that will grab and propel the ball with speed and control. Why not just throw way the equipment rules and have a free for all. This will certainly ruin the game of pickleball.
It sounds like table tennis paddle
With tensor rubber
4💩&😂 what's The weight?
8.0
This is not new concept and will never be approved. 15 years a go a Canadian company came out with a foam paddle and was immediately banned from any tournament play because of deflection(bounce) is way out of approved specs. It became a dangerous paddle to use in rec play because of speed of paddle. Stupid money wasted by manufacturer. What real manufactures do is change the industry within the rules provided. Not even talking about holes in the paddle again another illegal concept.
Why would you use a non conforming paddle, even in rec play? How about if I go to my local court with an oversized tennis racket and play with that? How about a lacrosse stick?
As of November 1, 2014, foam core paddles will not accepted for testing and as of December 31, 2015 no foam paddle is allowed for tournament play. Also the paddle specifications 2.2. Surface: states "The paddle hitting surface shall not contain holes, indentations, ...". If we want to use an illegal paddle why not use a tennis racquet or any paddle homemade or from other sports. What is the sense of having rules if we are not going to abide by them.
exactly
Vintage Shamrock paddles had holes. Not much of a revolution.
As far as a true review…. Horrible review.