Ronbus Ripple R1 & R2 Review

[@ChefOfTheDead]

There seem to be very mixed opinions on the “break-in” of the paddle. Some say the power remains squarely under that of a gearbox or a mod, while others say it eventually gets slightly more power. Personally I see no reason why this paddle should receive any more scrutiny than a gearbox or gen 3 Joola

[@JJPickleball]

Here’s my take on it. The gearbox hits crazy hard but at least the sweet spot and control really suffer. You gain one thing but give something else up and have to be skilled to maneuver that. I use the Mod TA 15 and this paddle just does everything well. It definitely provides an advantage. The ripple has an even bigger sweet spot and from the paddles I have and have played against it definitely hits a little harder than the mod TA 15. I hate to say it but the paddle almost feels too good. Which is a great problem to have as a player and for Robbie. However, just like in golf at some point you have to limit distance before the game is broken. Technology and innovation are great for sports, but we can’t let technology outpace skill.

[@ChefOfTheDead]

@@JJPickleball Thanks for the reply. I agree that there should be limits of course. I just think the conversation around what should and shouldn’t be legal should be more nuanced and conversational. The thumbnail feels a bit inflammatory and potentially encourages people to harass others for using the paddle, when that should never ever occur.

[@JJPickleball]

@@ChefOfTheDead completely understand that. Obviously I need people to watch the video and I was fairly critical of the paddle so I figured it was justified. My intent is definitely not to have people interact with one another that way. I use the Mod myself and am about to switch off of it. With that said the ripple does hit harder than my mod and it is a little scary. Still a super fun paddle though. Should be a huge win for Ronbus.

[@ChefOfTheDead]

@@JJPickleball fair. If I end up buying a ripple and anyone ever harasses me for it I’ll come back to this comment section and yell at you ;)

[@JJPickleball]

@@ChefOfTheDead hahahaha I expect nothing less. Enjoy it if you do end up purchasing!

[@y2washere]

Looks great, can't wait to buy one. lol I have the Bantam TKO-CX 12.7 MM. I'm told the Ripple hits a good balance for control and power and that the added foam helps w the control side of things a bit. If it's as powerful as you're saying I'd likely drive a lot of shots but it's nice to still be able to reset when needed.

[@JJPickleball]

Sweet spot is amazing and power is awesome. Only concern is the control as the power heats up. I don’t think dinks will be an issue but drops will get harder in my experience. Im sure you’re going to love it.

[@sherylbuck7377]

I have the MOD TA 14mm and 16mm . I have tamed them both. Took me 3 weeks. How's the reset with this paddle? R1, specifically... Or should I option for TKO-C 12.7mm. I play a lot and I don't want to keep replacing my MODs when they break or wait for a replacement...

[@JJPickleball]

If your main priority is durability I would go TKO-C. The beta Ripple is super easy to hit resets with if you are used to the mod. The new ripple is a little more difficult as the power is big. Sweet spot is much better on the ripple than the TKO. Hope that helps. Other option is just get the 3S but then you lose the USAP stamp.

[@johngleue]

If you think about it, the best way to force everyone on a level playing field would be for everyone to use the exact same equipment. Then, it's easier to see that because individuals will have different preferences, strengths, and weaknesses, they will also want slight changes here and there to their paddles. But there must be some standard (limitations) put in place to make room for some uniqueness in paddles while maintaining the "sameness" in paddles to keep things as fair as possible. I only say this because there are some haters on your comments section lighting you up for being some kind of "paddle dictator." But although I'm very new to pickleball, your review seems very well thought out and makes perfect sense to me, and I agree.

[@JJPickleball]

I appreciate you actually listening to what I said. I talked about several angles to this paddle and the current state of pickleball. Although I don’t want paddles to all be the same as this channel wouldn’t really need to exist and I am a gear head. However, just like all sports technology and players evolve and the rules need to evolve as well. Including rules for equipment. I don’t want power gone, but it needs to be capped somewhere with clear limits. The Ripple is fine out of the box and then gets crazy hot. So my question is are these paddles ever tested after they are crazy hot? If so they are testing a different paddle than what everyone is using 3 weeks after using the paddle if they are able to “break it in”.

[@TheRealPapaBearChris]

Super excited about this paddle, love Ronbus! Hardest thing for me is the price point. It is hard for me to justify the $200+ paddles when you can get in to great, not good but great, paddles for much less (love my J2K). I will probable break down and get one, because the next evolution of my game is adding that power.

[@JJPickleball]

This paddle is certainly something special. The Ronbus connect members that were able to buy this paddle for 200 on the dot certainly lucked out (if they were actually able to get their hands on one in the restocks). The J2K is an amazing paddle, but power definitely seems to be the trend.

[@WesleyDinkerz]

The ripple is much less scary to be on the other side of than the gearbox pro power so I don't understand what the problem is

[@JJPickleball]

@@WesleyDinkerz the Ripple I played against was faster than any gearbox I have played against. Or at least on par after it’s broken in. Out of the box the paddle is no issue to handle.

[@WesleyDinkerz]

@@JJPickleball wow thats wild I had one and a few friends as well and it's significantly less powerful than a gearbox pro power, if the gearbox user had a shoulder high put-away we always turned sideways and shielded ourselves cause there was no way we could defend

[@JJPickleball]

@@WesleyDinkerzthe gearbox is certainly the top of the market for power. The Ripple has been more inconsistent in this area. We have one that isn’t that hot at all. But the other 4 we have tested or played against all got to a mere identical or maybe slightly less power level than the gearbox after 2-3 weeks of heavy play.

[@juice1837]

@@JJPickleball Its possible your opponents generated more power on their own. I've seen the Mod TA in the hands of some old ladies and they can't generate anywhere near the power of some young ex-tennis players that know how to wrist-lag and generate power from their legs. You should have given them your Ripples to compare and see if indeed their paddles ran hotter.

[@JJPickleball]

@@juice1837this could be the case but switching between my Mod and Ripple myself between games I did not notice much of a difference. One clarification I want to make is I don’t think the Ripple should be singled out. My point I was trying to voice was the gearbox, ripple, and mod Ta. However, to close this thought out, in my experience a broken in Ripple is on par with a Mod TA 15 paddle in terms of power. While the Ripple also has more spin. We also have one dud in our play testing. One of our R1’s is nothing special at all. But everyone other R1 we have hit played significantly faster.

[@yoonyulntaeny]

Apart from this one, the Gearbox and the Mod, what are the other most powerful paddles on the market that are pushing the limits?

[@JJPickleball]

You really nailed it. The Mod, ripple, and gearbox pro power are the top 3 most powerful paddles in my play testing. The 3s, paddletek bantam tko-c 12.7, and gearbox ultimate would all be just behind those.

[@yoonyulntaeny]

@JJPickleball In that case, I really can't understand why the 3s can't get USAPA approval

[@JJPickleball]

@@yoonyulntaenyit certainly would pass. The issue is the massive lawsuit Joola and USAP are in right now over the original Gen 3’s. Apparently USAP said “anything you send in will not pass” in some texts. There is some bad blood right now, and with the UPA-A trying to take over Joola partnered with them to try to hurt USAP most likely.

[@yoonyulntaeny]

@@JJPickleball That makes sense. Thanks for explaining it to me!

[@PKB-AG]

I tried a Diadem Hush - and it's not approved for a reason - hits very hard almost like an EVA foam (also not approved). these are on the other side of the limit

[@chriscloutier8567]

can you be more clear about the broken-in paddle? assuming it becomes more powerful based on video, but more specificity would be appreciated.

[@JJPickleball]

So “breaking in” is typically the time period of using the paddle with big swing speed which causes the paddle to change. With paddles like the gear box and the ripple that are all foam, the theory is that the foam is breaking apart slightly and then becomes not as dense so the paddle will compress more.

[@sbinsdca]

There is very little break in with the Ripple beta paddles. Haven't tried the production paddle yet.

[@garygorgo3600]

When do they come out for sale. Would like to. buy one?

[@JJPickleball]

There is no set date still. They keep delaying it seems. Supposed to be out soon!

[@zaturnzxt648]

I understand the criticism but really do appreciate the neutral input at the end, letting us viewers know that at the end of the day, the paddle is still a great choice if we really want it. Thanks for the review and hope to see more come!

[@JJPickleball]

Appreciate it. Tried to argue both sides. I understand it’s a divisive issue to most though.

[@mr.mr.3301]

There’s a reason why MLB does not allow aluminum bats. They’re really needs to be a technology or some sort of standards.

[@JJPickleball]

Exactly. I have no issue with the game adapting, but you have to adjust and establish a clear set of rules for equipment. Still feels like the Wild West currently.

[@PKB-AG]

Yes, better standards and more transparency. Thank goodness for independent reviews.

[@mr.mr.3301]

@@JJPickleball in theory they could engineer a way of applying an equal amount of force and if a new ball is hit over a certain speed it’s disqualified. Force, temperature, ball. Should be easy.

[@orangemike802]

Any way we can see what the construction is for the ripple that makes it so powerful? What's the innovation used differently compared to Joola?

[@JJPickleball]

I believe they utilize more of a EVA foam core vs perimeter foam with the Joola. I’m sure John Kew will do his X rays of the paddles to better show us the internals of the paddles.

[@moematza8364]

Do they have more power than the diadem vice?

[@JJPickleball]

Not that much power. Vice is a beast.

[@orangemike802]

So how are these paddles ok while the delaminated paddles an issue?

[@JJPickleball]

Because they still pass the deflection test “apparently”. It uses technology in the core that the Diadem Vice uses. Which is a quiet paddle that is not legal for tournament play by design. Delaminated paddles are essentially corrupted broken paddles. It gets complicated using the same terms in multiples ways.

[@seanrodriguez2620]

I’ve hit with the R1 16mm. I understand why that one is banned. I own the R1 14mm and it is a fair paddle to use. Good spin and great power, but still good to play against. If you can tame a power paddle go for it.

[@JJPickleball]

@@seanrodriguez2620 completely agree. Have you noticed yours getting hotter as well? Awesome you got to hit the 16 mm! I wish I could’ve compared.

[@seanrodriguez2620]

@@JJPickleballConfirming my paddle has not gotten hotter. I have used it for 3 weeks so far. Maybe if someone is a banger their paddle can get hotter, but technically a lot of Gen 2 paddles get hot. Joola Gen 2 Perseus, Crbx 3x, and 6.0 Double Black Diamonds have been known to core crush, delaminate or have inconsistencies with power. It really depends on the user.

[@JJPickleball]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@seanrodriguez2620usually when those paddles core crush though they become illegal. The difference now is some paddles are designed to “break in” and obviously claim to still be legal. The bonus in power is nowhere near what I’ve seen from delaminated crbns and the gen 2 joolas.

[@dkipu266]

I’ve not hit either.. but playing in a weekly “advanced” amateur group, I think we all know if someone brings a paddle like that, it’s not unexpected. It does “up the ante” a bit and does push others to consider buying > $200 priced paddles, and resulting in those types of short 3 to 4 hit points you mentioned. Where it may be a problem (all the fastest gen3’s) is with eye injuries…so many people in groups I play with just don’t wear eye protection of any kind. Having people crack a shot back with a great paddle from 14 feet away is going to result in more big red marks on arms and faces, and the occasional serious eye injury. Advanced and Intermediate organized groups should recommend or require eye wear.

[@miki49]

They’re def not getting banned. When you compare them to other legal power paddles out right now, they’re in the same general ballpark and don’t stand out as dramatically as you claim them to.

[@JJPickleball]

Other reviewers have had similar claims. This is after the break in. Stock these paddles aren’t an issue at all. However, the new modified version without the ripples in the face hit much harder stock. Apparently many tournaments are not accepting the original “beta” paddle anymore.

[@miki49]

@ Weird, Many reviewers I’ve seen say its speed and rpms are well within the range of current power paddles… So the production that’s about to be released on December 6th, is that the beta version? Or a third version?

[@JJPickleball]

@@miki49 I’ve hit them and they definitely start hotter than the beta. I only got 2 play sessions so far. However, Pickleball effect doesn’t see an issue with them and Pickleball Studio has a major issue with the power. Will be interesting to see if they actually get released. There’s a reason the 16 mm got banned and these paddles have taken 9 months to maybe get to market. Don’t get me wrong I love this paddle, but there’s just lot of questions around the paddle to me that would advise me to tell people to stay cautious.

[@miki49]

@@JJPickleball I mean, something’s getting released on Dec. 6th with the Ripple name on the Ronbus website lol Still believe there has to be other types of paddles out there that could either counter this, or at least make it harder for the Ripple to just run wild. Sure you can manipulate the ball with this paddle like nothing we’ve seen, but I’m hard-pressed to see that as an outright bad thing.

[@Guinnessdog77]

Pickln Alecto 3 is imo the perfect sweet spot, approved for tournament play. Kind of like a 2.75 generation. Kevlar face with perimeter foam like the Joola Mod but not quite as crazy power, but very close, easy to shape the ball and hits plush for dinks and I got it for $109. Had several friends hit with it and they were impressed. I’m buying another one because at this price I can weight them differently for conditions on the court and still be $50 under a Joola, Gearbox or Rhonbus. My one friend is a hard hitter and he smoked some balls with it and told me it should be illegal but he’s going to get one now….Hopefully you can do a review on them, their company also donates %50 of profits to charity.

[@JJPickleball]

Great recommendation for people to check out given the claims. Personally, I love Gen 1.5 the best.

[@mlee9049]

Do you prefer a shape for any specific reason?

[@JJPickleball]

The shape I prefer isn’t out. The R3 which they have in all their other lineups is just your standard elongated shape. Out of the 2 soon to release I like the R2 better. It felt a little quicker in the hands and the forgiveness was a little better with power being the same.

[@DannyBPlays]

I haaaaate these paddles. Almost identical to Joola 3s. Not as bad as Mod but close

[@JJPickleball]

Just wait until it breaks in. It’s worse or equal to the mod. Rumor they may be adjusting the core to prevent this change when the paddle breaks in, but we will have to wait and see. Thanks for the comment!

[@mr.mr.3301]

Another thought is if it gets too fast then they can just make slower balls as the standard. There has to be a limit.

[@JJPickleball]

Power paddles with Franklin balls in the summer is completely fine. But the winter season is worrying me with some of these paddles and current pickleballs.

[@HHHPedigrees]

Need them to release a R3 version

[@JJPickleball]

I’m in the same boat. It’s rumored but given how long this release has taken who knows when that’ll come out.

[@emulicus]

Did it get poppier after the time? Did paddle change in your 3 weeks you used it?

[@JJPickleball]

@@emulicus yes it does. Gets more powerful. Drops got harder and serves got better.

[@Forerunner42]

If volleys start consistently ending after only 3 volleys with these power paddles, I think we should call on the player base to adjust and improve their skillset rather than ban out technology. All sports evolve over time. Football and basketball from the 40s and 50s play very differently to today due to a combination of ball technology, field/equipment technology, and rule changes. We should embrace things that push us to get better rather than ban things outright. Just my two cents.

[@JJPickleball]

Completely agree but when the play is affected 4.2-4.6 player levels I am a bit on the fence. I don’t mind making the adjustment personally, but I don’t want it to shrink the game. Appreciate the comment!

[@lobstercrostini]

My Oni and the one Ripple I tried have definitely hit harder than all the Mods I've tried

[@JJPickleball]

I haven’t tested my oni’s power since it was delisted, but my Ripple most certainly hits harder than a mod.

[@MichelleConnor65]

I have the TA-15 (14mm) and the R1, I think that they play relatively the same. I like the feel of the Joola a bit better with less pop and more controlled spin. like the grip of the Joola a bit better too. Saying that I will rotate them for play.

[@JJPickleball]

I would love to hear how your ripple is in a month or so. Ours started great and just kept getting hotter.

[@kabob21]

Funny you say that you like the Joola’s grip better because if the Ripple has the same grip as the Pulsar FX R1 then it’s identical to Joola. I had a Hyperion C2 and have a Ronbus FX R1 and the mold and handle of the two are identical to the point that I’m pretty sure Ronbus and Joola use the same factory or factories in China for their paddles. Same story with the R2 and Scorpeus and the R3 and Perseus.

[@Lifespot-ep7vr]

the diff. is JOOLA will CORE CRUSH and ripple is not overpowered like the TA-15

[@Qs-Views]

The Ripples have a lot more to offer than just power BUT you need to be more accomplished to use it effectively. I can only attest to the 'beta' version i have and do agree that the 'production' units sound different. I do hold final judgement until I can hit the production units.

[@JJPickleball]

The Ripple as I continue to say is the best paddle ever created if it is does continue to pass every test. My opinion stems from 7 units I have hit. 6 of which hit harder than almost every paddle on the market. The final production starting closer to a broken in beta worries me. Just my opinion but I would not be surprised if there’s a ton of controversy around these similar to the gen 3’s.

[@MichaelZimmermann-wh9xh]

There's another way we could see Pickleball address the power and speed issue: through the ball. In the early 2000s, tennis introduced a new ball for hard courts. The purpose of the larger ball was to slow the game back down. Around that time, tennis serves got significantly faster on average, and points were won with short to no rallies. This is not good for selling the sport. Power is fun to play with but will make gaining viewership more difficult. I agree; left unchecked, paddles will get faster until pickleball is a shadow of what it once was. It's a conversation all manufacturers and players need to be having. At what point will it be too much, and how will it be regulated when we get there?

[@JJPickleball]

Good take. Is this around the time of the spaghetti string issues?

[@JaxxCrash]

Are they getting stronger for you the longer you play it?

[@JJPickleball]

Very much so. Starts off with a very reasonable pop and power and then gets to a crazy level. Paddle feels great but gets very hot the more you play.

[@JaxxCrash]

@@JJPickleball ahhh damn okay sad to hear everyone says that. We'll guess I'll skip it thank you

[@JJPickleball]

@@JaxxCrash definitely still give it a try if you can get yours hands on. Always better to be the judge for yourself.

[@guiancarlohabon4299]

Well if this is supposed to be a “sport” then the game should progress. The difference between pros and amateurs being able to use and handle faster balls/games should be a huge gap. If the game does not progress in any way then the sport will not gain traction in popularity, and conditioning would be pointless. It shouldn’t be the paddles problem, it should be the players ability to handle faster balls/progression of the game.

[@Vizaya]

A comment I agree with. It will still be pickleball. Just have to play defense differently.

[@JJPickleball]

@@guiancarlohabon4299 I agree with the comment but would push back on one thing. The problem I have with power (I am currently using a Mod-TA 15) is that the ability to generate power is far too easy. Joola is dominating the podium at PPA. Other companies haven’t caught up but likely will over time. But the problem I have is safety and how power is becoming to easy to generate. I’m all for innovation but we can design drivers in golf to go way farther than they currently do. Should we uncap that? There has to be a limit and I think slower paddles will showcase pros speed and flicks better. Versus watching some pros not use power paddles and your average 4.5 ex tennis player who can hit the ball harder with a ripple or mod.

[@afterthesmash]

The game should progress toward requiring a vast range of different skills, not one skill to dominate them all. The game can evolve for you by allowing overhead serves, removing the kitchen rule, and permitting any paddle at all. You can have your murderball, and I will keep my pickleball.

[@guiancarlohabon4299]

@@JJPickleball it’s just a paddle. A paddle won’t make the player. To me these paddles are still like boards compared to actually playing tennis no matter how much technology companies claim to put in for now lol. Of course someone like yourself who reviews paddles will obviously be sensitive to things like these but if you just focus on playing, these little things won’t matter as much to you and you’ll just focus on getting equipment that compliments your game or fills in the holes. There will eventually be a limit and the great thing is innovation is just starting. What we think is powerful or a standard now probably won’t be in the future. If most people find the new standard too powerful then will probably play with people on the same level and whoever plays with faster balls will, who knows maybe become a pro? Also it’ll probably get people to start moving their legs more in pickleball. Just like in most athletic sports the best movers become the best players. Man also maybe change court rules. Sorry, this topic is fun but thank you for engaging. Pickleball is young, Tennis had to slow down the courts and fluff up the balls I think because the serves were killing the opposing players. Now tennis players still serve like maniacs and adapted to slower courts and still manage to return of serve crazy serve speeds.

[@prestonjohnson3320]

Currently a 4.0 and anytime I play another 4.0+ player I feel that the play is on me so much faster. One guy who knows how to use the paddles can completely change how you play. The points and shorter but the game feels sketchy because of the speed on drives in the mid court. Makes me feel like I have to fight fire with fire to get these guys to slow down.

[@JJPickleball]

Certainly a growing problem. Best advice to learn which balls are going out, and to get good at blocks. Otherwise find a power paddle that is fast enough but provides better control.

[@picklepractical]

Pastor Jeff, I didn’t know you played pickleball!

[@tylerwhite8930]

I can't unsee it now 🤣

[@pavanvullanki]

😂😂😂😂

[@JJPickleball]

Someone’s gonna have to send me a picture. I feel like I’ve seen this comment before 😂

[@picklepractical]

@@JJPickleball he’s from Young Sheldon!

[@ginjaninja3627]

With these kinds of paddles out, everyone should be wearing eye protection on the court. My protective glasses have save my eyes twice.

[@JJPickleball]

Definitely good advice

[@cjudo]

i haven’t tried this, but it seems really similar to the paddle i use the spartus olympus

[@JJPickleball]

I’ve heard good things about that paddle. Haven’t been able to hit it myself yet so I can’t comment on it :/

[@samgong8040]

Tennis evolved the same way, serves are much faster than ever before, players just get better as well. If we uses your logic, tennis would still be using wooden rackets. But with almost all sports, things evolve to make the game more interesting. Also, the same ppl that complain when we switched from wooden pickleball paddle to carbon, to thermofoam, to now, at every stage, there will be complainers, DON'T BE ON OF THEM. Ben Johns hates the power paddles, because it lessens his dominance, however Ignacio loves them. So, it depends on where your game is, but don't try to make everyone play your game the way you play.

[@JJPickleball]

Completely agree but spaghetti strings were also banned in tennis because they were too powerful and lower skilled players were able to beat higher levels players. As things evolve limits also do as well. Sport is inevitably going to change, but setting a clear limit is needed as well. Which USAP just announced this past week that they will be rolling back power paddles over the next 2 years. We will see if UPA-A will join or if Joola’s money will steer their decision.

[@samgong8040]

@@JJPickleball I have a few seniors that uses these paddle because they don't have the swing speed or power to strike the ball like they use to. These paddle levels the playing field for them a little, I see the smiles on the faces like they found the fountain of youth. Therefore, there are places for the power paddles. Now, as with the Arms race, just because someone is using a power paddle, they still have to control it, most players can't, and often pop up the ball. There are probably a handful of skilled players that can handle the power. So if you can place the shot and get them off balanced, control the point, and limit their power.

[@JJPickleball]

@@samgong8040 I have made this same argument in a previous Joola review. I have nothing against power paddles personally. I use the Mod TA 15 and I don’t play a power game. I just use the tools to help me secure put aways. Older players taking advantage of these paddles is great. But I also have senior players at my park use the vice paddle. This paddle isn’t legal for tournament play but in their hands no one complains. That’s a very small percentage of players and the concern is tournament play, and safety with younger players and tennis players ripping balls at rec. The paddleteks and the 3’s in my opinion are fine. Tons of power with very few being able to make those paddles scary. The Ripple, gearbox, and Mod TA 15 seem to be a bit overkill in my opinion. You can have the sport advance and also limit the output. Look at golf where in a few years the ball is being rolled back to go 5-10 percent less far due to players hitting the ball too far with new club innovation.

[@samgong8040]

@@JJPickleball I guess we will agree to disagree, because we are coming from a different perspective. I value your opinion in this matter, always like an open dialogue.

[@JJPickleball]

@@samgong8040I have no issue with the power game. I just like trying to represent concerns I hear at the park and comments online. Theres no right answer, but it will be intriguing to see what the pro tour does, and the actual limits the USAP just announced.

[@owenallenaz]

Power without spin is out. I don't really see an issue with power paddles. Coming from TT very very few TT players use the fastest paddles, instead opting for the spinniest rubber, because spin wins more than power. The games going to get faster, younger and more athletic because thats what happens to all sports that get popular.

[@JJPickleball]

I agree and that’s what happened with the gearbox. However, the Ripple has god dwell time and top tier spin.

[@abhaysharma6292]

Seems like a cure all!

[@JJPickleball]

Crazy good paddle. Gonna cause more people to complain. Paddle is crazy hot.

[@kabob21]

I wonder if either Ronbus or Joola would confirm this but I’m almost positive they use the same factory or factories to build their paddles. The Joola Hyperion C2 I had and the Ronbus Pulsar FX.R1 I currently own have identical shapes and the handle under the grip tape is also identical. They have their own unique core technologies, though. Doesn’t end there, out of curiosity I just checked the Mod TA-15 I recently purchased and yup the pattern/color/layup of its surface carbon fiber is the same as my Pulsar FX.R1 too. Grit is a bit more on the Mod.

[@JJPickleball]

@@kabob21 would be interesting. I was talking with a company and they mentioned the ripple has EVA foam in the core so I think that’s why the power gets hotter over time, versus perimeter foam on the gen 3S’s. Not 100 percent on this but that’s what I’ve been hearing.

[@rousseau327]

This is very common in the manufacturing space within the same industry. If the manufacturer is of any significant size in their operations, they will be manufacturing product for multiple companies competing in the same space.

[@rachelmaxwell7530]

I come from a table tennis background and I am always looking for a consistent paddle with a larger sweet spot. If I play with a top end table tennis paddle it's consistent across the whole blade these paddles in Pickleball so far are very inconsistent, making it almost impossible to replicate the same shot. Runbus Ripple are getting close.

[@JJPickleball]

The J2K has a great sweet spot. But there is a Christian Bible verse on it which turns some people off. Monarch line from 11six24 has good sweet spots also. It is challenging but the Ronbus does have an amazing sweet spot but with a less consistent face compared to an all court or control paddle.

[@WingsOfPeaceToronto]

your review should be illegal :) - Ripple is not as scary (powerful/fast) as Joola Gen 3 or Gearbox - there are countless reviews by respectable youtubers to confirm that.

[@JJPickleball]

Out of the box it certainly isn’t. However, Pickleball Studio and John Kew on both of their podcasts have noticed similar power to what I found. You can also check John Kew’s paddle database on his website for power and his test have the Mod and the Ripple identical for serve speed. The issue is once the paddle has broken in. Not when the paddle is brand new. Most have agreed the power is around that of a Paddletek Bantam brand new.

[@JJPickleball]

You can also watch Chris and Aizec say similar remarks in this pod in the ripple section. kzbin.info/www/bejne/emivap2bYqiVqZYsi=kP79Avazu47M_AoA

[@monkmelodies-relaxmusic2339]

Marketting stunt

[@JJPickleball]

Two things can be true at once. And they have made pretty significant changes from this now “beta” paddle to the one that is releasing on December 6th.

[@billkennedy401]

I first heard about the Ripple during a Chris Olson podcast over a year ago and, since then, about every month I have had a conversation with the owner on Chris's Discord channel. I finally got one last week BUT Ronbus ships their paddles in a padded envelope that is not USPS proof and, when it arrived, the face was cracked. I wanted the 16mm but, as that paddle's release date is uncertain, I was happy to try the 14mm - which I still haven't had the chance to do. But, considering how long I've been waiting for the release, it has become my quest! I have tried the Hudef EVA paddle and the illegal OM paddle and I have to admit that MY game doesn't seem fitted to EVA power _ but, as I said, Ripple has become my obsession. I will say that the feel of the face is very gritty but, in this paddle's case, from what I have heard, the dwell time works in conjunction with the grit to enhance the spin. Personally, I would gladly sacrifice uber-power for uber-spin _ I like to spin the ball. Hopefully I'll get my replacement paddle in the next week, or so, and I'll have a better idea if the power is too much. Here's the point - old tennis players in the game understand the power aspects _ young players coming in and swinging for the fences will probably be able to control the power better because they aren't used to anything else. That is going to be dangerous. People get hurt when they face someone who can't control a power paddle - that's when people get hit in the face.

[@CoffeeThenChampagne]

This is a great thing for pickleball! Adapt or lose out. Can’t wait to hit with this paddle, my tennis background can’t wait 😮‍💨🤘🏼😎

[@JJPickleball]

Amazing for singles. Definitely think it makes the game better. Worse for doubles around 3.0-4.0. Higher level players can handle it and the soft game still exists. I just worry about safety at the parks for some people who don’t know how to properly use them.

[@CoffeeThenChampagne]

@@JJPickleball 3.0 and 4.0 should shouldn’t use an advanced paddle in the first place, players should be more honest with themselves and safety should be instructed as a beginner like tennis and other main stream sports/athletics. Pickleball needs more athletes at this point and start focusing on pro level and recreation-play. Big difference! Also, at the rate of growth pickleball is going, slowing down development in paddles will only bring more strain then relief for the sport, players and fans. You have to create excitement for growth when calling Pickleball and action and entertaining sport. No one wants to see 50 dinks they want to see athletic play and skillful shots. Tennis went through the same phase when it came to racket technology I think Pickleball should look at the history of tennis to see where they cannot make as many mistakes and instead make more growth.

[@russellmurray8162]

I’ll buy one as soon as I can get a hold of one. Need to keep up with the arms race. Bangers are gonna bang unfortunately dinking is going by the wayside

[@JJPickleball]

That’s why I’m using the Mod. Such a disadvantage if you don’t have it as long as you can control it.

[@oscarmillavega]

Big tennis bite click ! Do not click

[@JJPickleball]

I refuse to play tennis so am misunderstanding the comment. But appreciate the engagement.

[@rousseau327]

What do you mean "not what pickleball is supposed to be”? What exactly is pickleball supposed to be? The goal is to put away the game as soon as possible. People don’t reset or dink around because they just feel like doing it, they do it because slowing down a point and being patient will give them better chances at winning the point. Instead of debating whether or not we should limit paddle technology advancements in the power space, we should be challenging paddle designers/manufacturers to make better control technology for people who don’t like to wallop every ball as hard as they can.

[@JJPickleball]

Completely agree with this comment. What I meant by “what pickleball is supposed to be” is a game of skill and strategy. Not just swing as hard as you can so that the competitors can’t handle it. Although this should be a strategy it shouldn’t be the only strategy going forward. I want power but also hope pickleball maintains all strategies. The issue with power paddles at lower levels is it may prevent players from developing skills as the paddle allows them to win points more easily. Eventually this will stop working for them, but unfortunately it does work in a lot of instances at lower levels.

[@rousseau327]

@@JJPickleball Swinging as hard as you can with any paddle, without skill, means the ball flies out of bounds. It takes skill to consistently swing that hard and land it in the court, where you want it to land. I'm really struggling to understand your logic with saying this is a strategy, but somehow arriving at the conclusion that it should be a restricted strategy, because other strategies are now less effective. People use the best strategy to win. Period. If the best strategy is to draw out the soft game for 30 rallies each point, people will do it. Regarding your point on lower level players abusing power in their skillset: let them. If they are happy playing at lower levels, then let them be happy. If they want to progress to higher levels, they HAVE TO learn more than just powerful drives. But it makes no sense to prohibit advancements in power play just because some people just WANT to play the slower game instead. This brings it full circle that paddle companies need to make better control paddles. Make a paddle that can stop a Ripple or Mod TA right in its tracks every time someone drives, and it'll sell like hotcakes. Don't prohibit the development of power paddles.

[@JJPickleball]

@@rousseau327 I completely understand what you are saying. The pros are using these paddles and still utilize the soft game for majority of their points because they are quicker and more skilled. However, Joola does typically still dominate the podium. Power paddles do show a clear advantage but pros are able to manage it better. So the argument would be for everyone to get better. I completely agree and can get behind that myself. However, I don’t think your average player will, and you can expect some to just keep hammering the ball, but the game won’t progress as a whole from what I have been seeing. Too many body bags in open play with players that are not skilled enough to avoid. You can say those balls don’t land in but if you are able to serve the ball fast enough so returns are near impossible, and speed ups are too quick for your average player….then this is the issue I see. Even the Pro tour is trying to de weaponize the serve. Which I also think is wrong, but this goes above rec play. I think some of the confusion on this is that I personally do not really have an issue if the game goes that way for myself. I am just worried for the growth of the game long term for average players. Last example that’s most relevant to this. I have a pickleball friend at my park that is pretty decent and played your more traditional game of pickleball. He now is obsessed with power paddles. Owns all of them and wants the ripple. All he does now is speed up and drive. He wins more points now but loses more games. You can say he just needs to adjust but in most players minds power is just easier than grinding out long points or hitting the more skilled angles to get a pop up to win a point. There is no right way to play, but I have seen many 4.0 players now suffering from only playing power and it’s not helping their game.

[@rousseau327]

@@JJPickleball Regarding your first paragraph, this is why my stance on this is we shouldn't hold back power advancements, we should be pushing companies to make paddles that combat power players. Power paddle drives, serves, and speed ups are fast, but they are not inhumanly fast that we can't react to it. But if power players want an advantage to their play style, they should be allowed that opportunity. Players who play a slower game should be allowed that too, but not by holding back the power players. Regarding your second paragraph, if he wins more points but loses more games, then what's the problem? Sounds like he's having fun, not really reaping any matching winning benefits of the power paddle. I'm not saying he needs to adjust at all. I'm saying if he wants to get better, he has to. But if he's having fun, then why should he? As soon as he's actually frustrated by the fact that he's losing so much, he'll look to get better, which includes refining other aspects of his game. At which time, hopefully paddle companies have something for those types of players too.

[@49pickles]

Here’s my affiliate code if you choose to buy one. Please tell me you don’t have codes for any of the brands you mentioned in this video.

[@JJPickleball]

I did not list any affiliate codes in this video. I do not have an affiliate code for Ronbus. However, even for most reviewers out there talking about this paddle. They are giving their honest opinions. If you have an affiliate code for every company it’s the same as having none in my opinion. I knew this would be a hot topic so I avoided adding one for this paddle. I wanted my opinions to be taken for what I said without the thought of me selling this paddle. Plus I chose to release my video before the paddle is even out. If it ever actually comes out.

[@dadtdm5646]

Cool, the minister from Young Sheldon now reviews pickleball paddles! Saying that, wasnt mich of a review. Just a soapbox about new generation power paddles

[@JJPickleball]

This seems to be catching on. I see the resemblance 😂

[@christophertynanpickleball]

Another Phoenix player

[@JJPickleball]

Yes!

[@pauljohnmarcelino2121]

I'm gonna use a tennis racket against the ripple lol

[@JJPickleball]

Feels like it is one at this point.

[@logical333]

I agree. These paddles are ruining the game. We only have a small court area to play in, so, why would we want hot power paddles with 20 ft x 44 ft to play in? Any male player with a power like these merely wants to overpower his opponent instead of using finesse and strategies. So, it's all changing the game for the worse

[@JJPickleball]

I think power does need to play a roll in the game, and it is fun seeing how it’s making pros adapt. However, for an average player going from just average to being able to overpower someone with one of these paddles on serves and speed ups…..that’s a big issue.

[@JB-ys8mj]

Power paddles are great for the soy boys and girls who have never seen the inside of a weight room. Get a $50 Paddle and just start working out a little, you really can generate your own power.

[@JJPickleball]

I agree with this statement. However if the world number 1 was struggling to compete with the power paddles on tour with his gen 2 paddle. I do think there is some validity to the argument. Since he has switched he has started winning again.

[@JB-ys8mj]

@@JJPickleball the “world” number 1 player has permission to use different paddles to gain an edge. Anyone under the number 1 ranking needs to do the work to get to number one. Imagine the number one hitter on MLB using a power bat to get further. The big edge no talks about in pickleball is the use of Adderall and other PEDs.

[@JJPickleball]

@@JB-ys8mj your original comment was on a 50 dollars paddle providing plenty of power. My comment was that the number 1 player in the world couldn’t even win without joining the power paddle movement. Also, most pros are not able to pivot as they are signed to long term contracts. Ironically the world number 1 is signed with Joola and continued to use last years model until they started losing. Lastly, even in the MLB that’s why they can’t use metal bats. There has to be a fair balance of allowing power paddles and having a set limit on their performance.

[@JB-ys8mj]

Sarcasm is lost on you. Pickleball will never be a real sport until equipment doesn’t make a difference. These power paddles absolutely make a difference I see it every day in rec players

[@JJPickleball]

@@JB-ys8mjI understand the intent behind the original comment. However, technology has affected every sport recently. Softball bats were reinvented by proton a few years ago, golf clubs have made the sweet spot 10 times bigger which allows pros to swing harder and be less precise to hit the ball far, and tennis recently went through this exact same issue with power. All real sports have innovation and have to adjust the rules and equipment limits accordingly.

[@86309]

what is the R3 shape? Hybrid?

[@MrJgoodwin7]

Standard elongated.

[@JimAssalone]

@@MrJgoodwin7 It’s elongated 16.5” long with normal elongated shape making swing weight higher. The R1 is also elongated 16.5” but with the Hyperion shaped head decreasing swing weight a little but making it a little easier to maneuver at kitchen line.

[@JimAssalone]

There is no R3 Ripple at least not yet.

[@MrJgoodwin7]

Yep. Like I said it’s a standard elongated shape.

[@JJPickleball]

@@86309 like the Perseus from Joola.

[@TheDrewish]

Mod TA's seem like they should be illegal, at least for tournaments. These paddles make the game more like tennis. Not a bad thing but the courts aren't large enough, nor are the nets high enough for these paddles imo

[@JJPickleball]

They certainly seem to be over where the limit should be. But who is to say what it actually should be.

[@HeavyAndLow]

Agreed! Power is getting out of control. Having said that, these paddles are easy to beat. Just duck lol.

[@JJPickleball]

Literally how I beat the team that pickled us that I mention in the video.

[@tylerwhite8930]

100000000% agree. If you have four 4.5 level people playing and the game is won in the first 3-5 shots majority of the time, it's no longer Pickleball.

[@JJPickleball]

Game will evolve and I think power should be apart of the game. But as you say the game should still have the other parts that make it great.

[@KingKangUSA]

This is my second year playing pickleball, there are lots of players been playing 5 or more years, but they are getting beat by new bangers. It is now so confusing 4.0 and 4.5 players got beat by new 3.0 and 3.5 players. Only way I can survive is playing on seniors' team, but on senior's game, the power is a big part of the game.

[@rousseau327]

@@KingKangUSA If the "power dynamic" shifts in a sport, so will ratings. There was no guarantees to be begin that a 4.5 will stay a 4.5 forever, even if paddle technology never changed.

[@DanielS-pn3hy]

Hate to say this, but evolution is inevitable. As more tennis people come over to the sport the play styles will definitely change. Are we going to stop that from happening? Joola mods are coming to our courts. It's so much more fun. Comments on losing an eye or getting hit in the face need to stop. I've been almost hit in the face by regular paddles. It all depends on the person swinging the paddle on the other side of the net. If they have no control you don't know what's going to happen at all. Train up, buy some good glasses, and buy yourself one of these paddles and go get your fun. If not, stay in your lane. Stop being a Karen.

[@JJPickleball]

Don’t disagree with anything you said. I just want one of the governing bodies to put a clear limit. Wherever that is and make it consistent. Seems to still very much be the Wild West with paddle manufacturing right now.

[@logical333]

I agree!! All these hot paddles are ruining the game :(

[@JJPickleball]

Ruining the game may be a little harsh. I know I may have also used this when talking. The game does need to adapt. However, there needs to be clear boundaries for these companies to play in. The soft game separates pickleball from other sports, and the hot paddles are ruining the game for players development as people start and progress. The higher level you will always see the slow game because they can handle the speed. But most 3.0-4.0 players can’t.

[@michaelhoagland1120]

These gen 3's are changing the game in a very negative way and there needs to be a change. This is coming from a former owner of the gearbox pro power...

[@JJPickleball]

I certainly hope so. I like the innovation but there needs to be some change

[@ocdentalimplantcenter7076]

if you wimps can't handle the power, play golf !!! what the heck...so many rules and regulations...tennis, table tennis don't have this kind of bs

[@JJPickleball]

Tennis most definitely does have these rules. They went through this issue in the early 2000’s I believe with spaghetti string racquets. It allowed Lowe levels players to beat higher skilled players. I agree people need to adjust to power, but other sports have gone through these growing pains as well.

[@Lifespot-ep7vr]

Totally disagree with JJ. For Advanced players only who have a deeply developed sense of touch. It is NOT overpowered like a gearbox or a TA-15.

[@JJPickleball]

Once the paddle breaks in that’s what I’ve been seeing. Chris Olson of Pickleball Studio and his brother have seen and said similar on their podcast a few weeks back. As I’ve mentioned to other people one of the 4 ripples we tested is significantly less powerful than the other 3 after heavy play testing. Out of the box this paddle is not crazy powerful, it’s only after the break in where the paddle heats up. Thanks for the comment.

[@jhlewis10]

Tell me how pickleball is "supposed" to be. You sound like the old Karen who says "Oh, you must be a tennis player"

[@JJPickleball]

Pickleball shouldn’t become tennis fully. The kitchen is unique to pickleball. I don’t want to see the skill of that go away. I play a power game as well. Just want the game to continue to grow in entirety.

[@Guinnessdog77]

I’ve played at a high level in tennis for over 40 years and just took up Pickleball about a little over 2 years ago and have seen the transformation. Young tennis players are picking up the sport and are basically playing serve and volley and blasting every single ball at people. I still have pretty good reactions for my age and my court awareness let’s me avoid most body bags. That said I’ve played against Joola Mods and Gearboxes and your reaction time is severely reduced. My partner in one tournament almost had his nose broken with the ball being blasted off a gearbox so fast he couldn’t move his head out of the way because the idiot that played with it couldn’t control his shots he just hit everything as hard as he could at you. I’ve watched women get hit extremely hard in rec play by these idiots and younger tennis players. Now they are having a hard time getting people to play with them as nobody want’s to take a ball to the face. A young tennis player we play with hits it extremely fast and now just got the Joola Mod. He hit it so f’ing hard at my groin that even though I was able to block the shot my paddle nut tapped me and took my breath away. There needs to be a limit as it’s not as fun as when I first started and it’s more dangerous now even with eye protection you can still have your nose broken…

[@jd_fishin_flippin_1708]

@@Guinnessdog77What? Since when has any sport not had any risks or been safe ? Injuries can happen to anyone at any time. How in the world does someone get a broken nose from a wiffle ball ? My Lord people have gotten soft!

[@tonym753]

@@Guinnessdog77have to be selective in who you play against depending on what paddle they are using

[@adamheath4599]

@@jd_fishin_flippin_1708I mean the nose is pretty soft cartilage and the balls are hard. Getting hit by a ball traveling 65+ mph could definitely do some damage if it’s hit at the right area.

[@paulelkins425]

100% agree. The regulatory bodies have been asleep at the wheel. Open play still has a couple of obviously core corrupted paddles per day. Then posers were playing with EVA non-approved paddles i.e. Vice, Hudefs. Now we have legal power paddles that never should have been approved. It's definitely changing the game and not for the better. Even the Pros are overwhelmingly in support of dialing back the power standards. The arms race will continue until the regulatory bodies get serious with COR testing or the game's popularity drops as a result. It's happened to other sports such as racquetball.

[@JJPickleball]

Completely agree. I like innovation and think power should be apart of the game, but we should find a cap where generating your own power is more of a skill than part of the equipment.

[@ljgmdad]

Unsubscribed.

[@JJPickleball]

Sorry to see you go :( keep enjoying the game!