Matt’s Pickleball Newsletter: Pickleball Appes Pulse Deep Dive, Ronbus Ripple Power Showdown, Paddletek’s ESQ-Cs, and New PBCor Rules

Welcome to this week’s edition of Matt’s Pickleball Newsletter!

This issue has everything a pickleballer could want, whether you’re a paddle gearhead or a newcomer looking to polish your basics. First, we’re breaking down the latest from Pickleball Apes with an in-depth look at their Pulse paddles, each tailored to different styles of play. Then, we’ve got a power showdown with the Ronbus Ripple R1 and R2 paddles, famous for delivering game-changing punch—and release date. Next, we’re exploring the Paddletek Bantam ESQ-C models—one’s a power beast, and the other is an all-court chameleon. Plus, we’ll unpack the new PBCoR regulations and what they mean for the future of paddle design and gameplay. Finally, for those brushing up on the rules, our Pickleball Scoring 101 guide has got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Pickleball Apes Pulse Paddle Reviews: Pulse V, Pulse S, and Pulse E

The Pickleball Apes Pulse paddles are built for versatility, with advanced features that adapt to different styles. Each model in the Pulse line—Pulse V, Pulse S, and Pulse E—offers unique attributes that suit different types of play, making this series an all-around hit.

• Pulse V: Known for its “break-in” power boost, the Pulse V gains about 5% power over time, offering players a paddle that grows with their game. After several hours of play, expect more dwell time and a resonant tone, ideal for those who want a versatile paddle that evolves.

• Pulse S: The Pulse S has a hybrid shape that combines reach and stability, ideal for all-court players who need balance across offensive and defensive shots. It’s designed to perform consistently without requiring a break-in period, making it reliable from the start.

• Pulse E: With its elongated shape, the Pulse E provides exceptional reach and leverage, perfect for singles players and those who play from the baseline. Its higher swing weight offers stability, while its textured surface enhances spin potential.

Curious about which Pulse model suits you best? Read the full review here for an in-depth look, and use code MPB at checkout for 10% off.

💥 Ronbus Ripple Power Paddles: Ripple R1 & R2

The Ronbus Ripple R1 and R2 are setting a new standard for power paddles, with an official release date rumored to be November 22. These paddles bring serious heat to the court, designed for players who crave maximum explosiveness. Here's how they stack up:

• Ripple R1: The R1 offers the same impressive power as the R2 but in a different shape, which suits players who prefer a hybrid-shaped paddle. Its design is built to maximize direct impact and responsiveness, giving players a powerful, punchy feel in every swing. If you favor a classic shape for hard-hitting play, the R1 might be your choice.

• Ripple R2: The R2, while also a power paddle, is a standard-shaped paddle that enhances control slightly, thanks to a larger sweet spot that makes it a bit more forgiving than the R1 on off-center hits. This makes it easier to handle aggressive shots with a touch more consistency and precision, offering a performance edge for players who like a power paddle with added control.

Whether you’re looking to step up your power game or find a versatile paddle that can handle intense rallies, the Ronbus Ripple series delivers. For a closer look, read the full review here, and stay tuned for the launch if you’re eyeing an upgrade! And don’t forget, code RCMPB will save you $20 at checkout if you decide to make a Ripple yours.

If power is your priority, the Ronbus Ripple R1 and R2 paddles are the ones to watch. These paddles pack a serious punch, designed for players who want maximum explosiveness on the court.

And don’t forget to use code RCMPB for $20 off your purchase if you decide to add a Ripple to your game!

🛠 Paddletek Bantam ESQ-C: Power vs. All-Court Play

The Paddletek Bantam ESQ-C series delivers versatility and performance, offering two unique models—the 12.7 mm and 14.3 mm cores—that cater to different play styles. Both models are designed for players who want power and precision, but each brings its strengths to the court.

• Paddletek Bantam ESQ-C 12.7 mm: This is the power paddle of the lineup. With its thinner core, the 12.7 mm ESQ-C generates much more pop, making it ideal for aggressive players who like to drive the ball hard and keep opponents on their toes. Its responsive face provides a high level of power without compromising too much on control, allowing players to push the pace and maintain offensive pressure.

• Paddletek Bantam ESQ-C 14.3 mm: This model, with a slightly thicker core, leans more toward all-court (power-leaning) play. It’s not strictly a control paddle, but its design offers more stability and a balanced feel, making it perfect for players who need versatility on both offense and defense. The 14.3 mm ESQ-C is an excellent choice for those who want a paddle that adapts well to different types of shots, from baseline power to delicate dinks.

For players seeking the perfect combination of power and adaptability, the Bantam ESQ-C lineup has a model to match your style. Read the full review here for a closer look at which might best suit your game.

How I Made My Pickleball Paddle Lighter, Faster & More Powerful! 🏓💥

Ever wondered if a small adjustment could seriously improve your paddle performance? I did just that by shortening my paddle handle by half an inch, resulting in a lighter, more maneuverable, and faster paddle. This mod was a game-changer, reducing the swing weight from 119.8 to 107.1 (!!!) while keeping the static weight almost identical—8.17 oz vs. the original 8.21 oz! The result? A paddle that feels quicker, more stable, and a lot more powerful on the court.

To see the process and the performance changes, check out my full YouTube video on the paddle mod here (step-by-step article coming soon!):

Paddle Mod Tools and Tips:

• Magnetic Tape: A small but essential tool for added weight control and custom control and personalization tweaks. Get it on Amazon.

• Overgrip: Tourna Mega Tac—tackiest grip on the market! Get it on Amazon.

Whether you’re looking to improve your control, power, or overall comfort, small modifications like these can make a noticeable difference.

📉 Industry Update: PBCoR Regulations and the Future of Paddle Design

With USA Pickleball’s new PBCoR regulations coming into effect, paddle manufacturers are being forced to rethink their designs. The new limits on paddle rebound (PBCoR of 0.44, soon to be 0.43) are aimed at balancing power across paddles but could curb innovation, especially among smaller companies.

• For Power Paddles Like Ripple: These regulations will likely affect high-powered paddles the most, as they’re designed for maximum rebound speed. Ripple’s engineers will need to adjust designs to meet the new standard, which may impact the power-focused paddles significantly.

• Implications for All Players: Players who prefer high-power paddles might see fewer options in the future. However, tighter regulations could lead to advancements in control and spin-focused designs as manufacturers innovate around these new limitations.

This regulatory shift could redefine paddle designs and gameplay in the future. Read the full article on PBCoR here to understand how this affects the industry.

Pickleball Scoring 101

For those just getting into the game or looking for a quick refresher, understanding pickleball doubles scoring can be a game-changer and make the game more fun. From calling the score to knowing when and how to switch sides, this guide covers it all to help you keep the match flowing smoothly.

You’ll find easy explanations for calling out the score correctly, the “first serve rule,” and tips on remembering which side to serve from based on the score. Dive into the full guide in my Pickleball Scoring 101 post.

Pickleball Paddles of 2024: Paddle Ratings Now Live!

Curious about which paddles are dominating the courts this year? I’ve just updated my Paddle Ratings Page, where you can dive into detailed reviews and ratings for control, power, finesse, and overall playability. Whether you’re gearing up for competitive play or just looking to upgrade your gear, this comprehensive guide breaks down each paddle’s strengths, helping you make an informed decision.

From S-Tier paddles like the CRBN 2X and Paddletek Bantam ESQ-C to paddles still under review, the ratings offer something for every player. Also, I’m very close to adding the Ronbus Pulsar FX R2 as an “S” rated paddle, but I need a little more time with it first!

🔗 Explore the full Paddle Ratings Page here and find the paddle that’s perfect for your game.

Pickleball Discount Codes: Save Big on Paddles, Gear & Accessories!

Discover exclusive discount codes from the best pickleball companies, helping you save on paddles, gear, and accessories. Visit our Pickleball Discount Codes page for special offers from top brands. Don’t miss out—click through and start saving on your favorite pickleball products today!

Matt's Pickleball Gear Essentials: Top Picks for Every Player

Curious about the gear that powers my game? Check out my recommendations for paddles, shoes, and accessories. Whether you're looking for performance-(or budget!)-enhancing equipment or the perfect fit for your play style, these are my go-to picks. Visit my Pickleball Gear Essentials to explore the full list and shop the products that make a difference on the court.

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