Best Pickleball Paddle Reviews and Comprehensive Buying Guides by Matt

The Diadem Warrior BluCore is packed with innovation—featuring a new closed-cell EPP foam core and Kevlar-Carbon Matrix surface—but does it actually feel different on court? In this review, I put both the Standard 14mm and Max 16mm models to the test to see if this new build changes the game or just feels... familiar. Use code MPB to save at checkout.

Meet the Franklin C45 Dynasty & Tempo paddles—two new shapes, four builds, and one big twist: they’re not done until you tune them. In this review, I go deep on the C45 series, launching June 10 at $229. Use code MPB to save at checkout.

Meet the Holbrook ARMA Series—a Gen 3 line that combines carbon fiber, Dual Density™ tech, and one of the loudest contact sounds we’ve ever tested. In this full Holbrook ARMA review, I compare all 4 models: 🔹 ARMA T – Power beast with raw carbon face 🔹 Metallic T – Softer, more forgiving version 🔹 ARMA X – Hybrid power with top-weighted mass 🔹 ARMA S – Fastest in hand, best for control ...and a discount code that'll take 15% off at checkout!

This week’s Paddle of the Week is a little different—I couldn’t pick just one. In Episode 14, I highlight two standout performers: a Gen 3 carbon paddle from a brand most U.S. players haven’t heard of yet, and a fully tuned foam-core paddle that plays elite right out of the wrapper. I also take you inside the 2025 Nerdy Tourney, an unforgettable creator event hosted by Bread & Butter Pickleball.

The Ronbus Ripple V2 series is here—and it's a full reset. In this in-depth review, I break down the R1, R2, and R4 models, explore the new FIRE Core tech, and compare them to Gen 3 platforms like the Gearbox GX2. Real spin RPMs, serve speeds, punch volley power, teardown visuals, and honest playtest feedback. If you’re after a poppy EVA foam core paddle with legit stability and torque-friendly shapes, this review has the data you’re looking for. When the Ripple V2 line launches on May 30, use code MPB at checkout to save.

In this week’s Paddle of the Week, it’s foam vs. firepower in one of the most loaded episodes yet! I test two game-changing foam-core paddles—GRUVN MUVN-16HD Solid Foam and the Honolulu Pickleball NF Series—the J2NFT, J2NFL, and J2NFK—up against powerhouse builds from Franklin C45 Dynasty and Holbrook ARMA Metallic T. If you’ve been wondering how foam stacks up against Gen 3 thermoform beasts, you’re about to get answers 🧠💥 You’ll hear which paddle surprised me, which one might need tuning, and why the foam paddles could be more than a trend. Plus, learn how minor weighting changes unlocked major results.