After some digestion of the data set that PPL was kind enough to publish we can make some interesting assumptions. We will not go into their methods or the validity of testing only a pro events. We will just try our best to analyze the data and hypothesize what cor maybe set at.
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Given that PPL has established recommendations for paddle stiffness based on deflection tests, we can hypothesize that they would likely recommend a COR range that correlates with their deflection standards. Stiffer paddles (higher ADF) would likely have a lower COR, while more flexible paddles (lower ADF) would have a higher COR.
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PPL's approach to setting a minimum ADF threshold suggests does not bode well. We can hypothesize that they would recommend a COR range that maintains this balance, likely falling between 0.5 and 0.8. PPL conducted tests on 240 paddles and found that the average force required to deflect the face of a paddle by 0.0625 inches at the 5-inch location was 69.2 lb. This is known as the Average Deflection Force (ADF).
- PPL suggested setting a minimum ADF threshold at 30% below the group ADF of 69.2 lb to identify outliers. This means paddles with an ADF less than 49 lb at the 5-inch measurement location could be considered too flexible.
This if implemented will be the end of innovation in pickleball paddles. They will be nothing left but pure swing weight as a meaningful physical property of paddles. Not to mention that the suggestion that elasticity is a problem is even ridiculous and has not been proven. Even if we were to discover elastic paddles it's a very doubtful they would be a tribute to players game. To be clear this is nothing but material control of the market. This rule has no meaning except for to give the total initiative to establish brands as apparently they are so reliable (see: Joola) but even after the designs they make aren't really rational and could be improved we should stick with them because that's how we will help grow the sport.
Recreational players need to understand that if these rules are implemented over time they will set cultural trends within the game. All players need to realize that core are not based on any data science or rationale that's very strong. It's meant to set cultural trends in a game that is very young. You're playing with 8 oz of thermoplastic in your hand. It is not worth $300. The idea that a brand can somehow provide some sort of value to make up about $290 difference is insane. This can only continue if big brands continue to have their way totally. They can't really compete unless they use their extensive connections within the sport to essentially destroy competition behind the scenes and on the predication that it's good for the spirit of the game.
Diversity in equipment, rational rules, and reasonable prices are also part of the spirit of the game.
