Dallas, TX — August 6, 2024 — The United Pickleball Association of America (UPA-A) is proud to announce the launch of its Interim Certification Program, setting new benchmarks for paddle performance and consistency in the sport of pickleball. This program applies rigorous standards and testing to ensure that paddles not only perform as intended but maintain their performance characteristics over time.
The Interim Certification Program utilizes deflection testing to assess paddle power, establishing an Acceptable Deflection Force (ADF) of 46. This is a significant increase from the current limits enforced at UPA events, meaning that paddles will generate less power than what is allowed for currently. Additionally, the program sets a maximum RPM threshold of 2200. All paddles applying for UPA Interim Certification must adhere to both these thresholds and sustain these limitations throughout the paddle’s playing life.
“UPA-A is honored to be the first governing body to implement such a comprehensive certification program,” said Jason Aspes, President of UPA-A. “We are committed to enhancing the quality and fairness of the game through improved equipment standards.”
The UPA-A is diligently collaborating with its partners at the Pickleball Pro Labs (PPL) along with their research partners at University of Massachusetts Lowell to establish even more rigorous testing and standards for the 2025 professional season. With this certification, UPA-A is moving away from the materials based regulation in place currently to a more performance focused regulation. This allows paddle brands to continue innovating, while at the same time ensuring a level playing field and protecting the integrity of the game.
Detailed information about the 2025 UPA-A Professional Certification will be made public in mid-September. Starting in 2025, all professional pickleball players participating in UPA events, including those in the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP), will be required to use UPA-A certified paddles.
“By improving equipment certification, we aim to ensure a fair and level playing field, and to enhance the overall quality of equipment used in the sport,” added Aspes. “This initiative reflects our dedication to the continuous improvement and integrity of pickleball.”
