A passionate pickleball player found ripples on a new Paddletek paddle. Worried if it affects play, will they swap it in time for the tournament?
Summary
- Players split on whether ripples are cosmetic or affect performance.
- Some suggest returning the paddle while others advise testing it in play.
- Quality concerns raised, pointing to possible manufacturing defects.
fifty2weekhi
“Reported. They should replace it and perhaps let you keep the defective. Meanwhile, get another demo paddle for your tournament. That said, why not just play with this paddle and see how it really performs?”
TannerBannerBaker
“I got the same paddle a few days ago and it looked like this. After my first game, something broke loose in the core and now it rattles. I have a replacement coming in on Saturday.”
brochaos
“Just looks like different shades of the carbon. Does it actually feel lumpy when you run your fingers over it? Those are built by hand in the US; I’d be surprised if they let something actually faulty slip through.”
whyzfrsix
“Not sure if it would affect play, but that would bug me to the point where I’d exchange it.”
Players are torn between playing it safe and taking a chance. While cosmetic issues may not impact performance, quality remains a key concern. With limited time before the tournament, the pressure is on to decide whether to stick with the paddle or seek a replacement. Would you risk it for the game or play it safe?