Main Points:
- Gen 3 paddles offer a major performance advantage over Gen 2 paddles.
- They feature an 8mm polypropylene core with tighter cell patterns for more power.
- A secondary foam layer melds into the core, increasing the sweet spot and enhancing feel.
- Swing weight and twist weight are critical—lighter paddles benefit from added weight at 8 and 4 o’clock positions.
- The reviewed paddle (Friday Gen 3) performed similarly—or better—than premium paddles like JOOLA Gen 4 and Carbon Tru Foam.
- Gen 3 paddles deliver a trampoline effect that boosts power without sacrificing control.
- Dinking and soft shots don’t activate the core, offering precision until power is needed.
- The Friday Gen 3 paddle was priced at $99 (limited-time offer), significantly cheaper than comparable $275+ paddles.
Catch the FEVER!
For a limited time, get the Gen 3 Friday Fever for $95 when you use code PICKLEBALLGLOBE at checkout.
You won’t find a better deal for such quality paddles!
Summary:
This video dives into the performance benefits of Gen 3 pickleball paddles, emphasizing why upgrading from a Gen 2 paddle is essential if you want to stay competitive—especially when playing against equally skilled opponents. Gen 3 paddles bring more than just cosmetic improvements; they deliver a significant edge through material innovations and core design changes that impact power, control, and feel.
One of the standout upgrades in Gen 3 paddles is the use of an 8mm polypropylene core, which has smaller and tighter cell structures compared to the 10–12mm cores found in Gen 2 models. This tighter configuration creates more rebound and power, contributing to what’s known as the “trampoline effect.” Additionally, Gen 3 paddles include a second foam layer that integrates into the paddle’s core, expanding the sweet spot and giving shots a plush, explosive feel.
The video highlights real-world comparisons between popular high-end paddles like the JOOLA Gen 4 and CRBN TruFoam and a new Gen 3 paddle from Friday. Surprisingly, the Friday paddle—after minor weight customization—performed on par or even better than its much pricier competitors. By adding 3 grams of weight to the 8 and 4 o’clock positions, the twist weight improved, making the paddle feel more stable and responsive at the net.
What’s especially useful for players is that Gen 3 paddles only activate their full power potential when the shot demands it. During soft shots like dinks and drops, the paddle offers excellent control without triggering the core. But when needed—on drives or serves—the core engages to unleash high-speed, top-spin shots. This versatility makes Gen 3 paddles ideal for both control-oriented and power-driven styles of play. For players seeking premium performance without the premium price, the video recommends seizing the limited-time $99 offer for the Friday paddle before prices potentially rise.
Catch the FEVER!
For a limited time, get the Gen 3 Friday Fever for $95 when you use code PICKLEBALLGLOBE at checkout.
You won’t find a better deal for such quality paddles!
Tags: CRBN | Friday Fever | Friday Pickleball | Joola | Limitless Pickleball | TruFoam