Thank you to Chris and Aizec at Pickleball Studio for doing the impossible task of editing these games! And thanks to Ryan and Carlos for hosting us at The Lab!
Thank you to Chris and Aizec at Pickleball Studio for doing the impossible task of editing these games! And thanks to Ryan and Carlos for hosting us at The Lab!Pickleball Pros Need To Eat SO Many CaloriesJohnkew Pickleball2025-10-08 | ...Are Some Paddles Better for Amateurs?Johnkew Pickleball2025-10-07 | ...Paddle Neck Flex Research, Plus Zephyr, Falcon, and More Paddles | KewCast Ep. 79Johnkew Pickleball2025-10-06 | In KewCast Episode 79, John and Eddie break down whether handle flex changes PBCOR, and its affect on paddle performance. We review findings from Dr. Daniel Russell’s Penn State study on bat flex and explore how those insights apply to pickleball paddles. Plus, we test how pivot point placement affects PBCOR results in our Ball Cannon experiments — and the results might surprise you.
Referenced Study: “Do Flexible Handles Affect the Performance of Baseball or Softball Bats?” 👉 https://www.acs.psu.edu/drussell/bats/handle-flex.html
⏱️ Video Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:44 Adidas new paddles; signs CJ Klinger, adding to pro roster 3:14 Bread & Butter Locos shipping early to 3 JOHNKEW code users 4:38 Paddles of the Week: Body Helix Falcon 17:25 Element 6 Zephyr 23:26 Bread & Butter Loco Production Models 31:26 Tales from the Ball Cannon: what happens to PBCOR if you change the pivot point from 2- to 3-inches? 39:14 Deep Dive: Paddle neck flex and paddle performance 1:00:06 Kew & A: Eddie's 20 questions for John 1:09:46 If you’re launching a pickleball paddle line and HAVE to skip a shape, which one are you leaving out?
Topics Covered: –PPA Sacramento Vintage Open: Surprising performances from tennis pros like Jack Sock & Genie Bouchard –Paddle Deep Dive: Luzz Tornazo, Gherkin Wraith, RPM Friction Pro, Six Zero Ruby Pro, Diadem Edge BluCore, and more –Full-Foam Paddle Iterations: EVA, EPP, MPP & SCF foams explained—density, stiffness scaling, and real-world performance –Black Opal Break-In Updates: KewCOR scores before & after break-in –Fan Q&A: Wide-body power paddles, all-court vs control paddles for sub-4.5 players, and more
Subscribe for more paddle reviews, tech insights, and pro tournament analysis every week!
⏱️ Video Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:10 LT Ball is in stock at PBCentral 3:59 Thoughts on wooden paddles used at PPA Sacramento Vintage Open 11:02 Paddles of the Week: Luzz Tornazo 17:24 Gherkin Wraith 21:13 RPM Friction Pro 27:14 Six Zero Ruby Pro 34:43 Diadem Edge BluCore 45:14 Chorus Phoenix 50:48 Chorus Tour Bag 53:40 Vatic V-Sol updates 1:05:28 Foam Deep Dive 1:20:05 Selkirk Court Strike Shoes 1:28:24 Update on Six Zero Black Opal Break In 1:33:10 Kew & A: Should paddle companies consult with reviewers before going to market with a paddle only to get killed by bad reviews? 1:40:45 Should we still be recommending less powerful paddles for beginner players when there's plenty of control in modern power paddles? 1:43:23 What do we do with all the paddles after we're done reviewing them?
Stay Connected: 📬 Subscribe to the Newsletter: johnkewpickleball.beehiiv.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy 🎵 Listen on Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 📸 Follow on Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball 🐦 Follow on Twitter (X): twitter.com/JohnkewPickleJames Ignatowich Unfiltered: Pro Life, Paddle Tech, and the Future of PickleballJohnkew Pickleball2025-09-26 | What’s it really like to be a top pickleball pro—and what do the best players in the world think about paddle tech, innovation, and the future of the game? In this exclusive interview, James Ignatowich—known for his insane power, the two-handed backhand dink, and honest takes—speaks freely about life on tour, paddle regulations, and where paddle technology is headed.
In this interview, we cover:
–Life on the road as a top pro (and James’ crazy pre-match meals!) –Why James started his own paddle company –Honest opinions on paddle regulations: power, spin, and “peak paddle” –The science behind the perfect paddle: sweet spot, stiffness, power vs. control –Pros and cons of paddle shapes: elongated, hybrid, widebody –Cutting-edge paddle tech: full foam cores, epoxy durability, sweet spot physics –Viewer Q&A: serving, sweet spots, and paddle recommendations
Whether you’re a pickleball gear nerd or just want a peek behind the scenes of pro pickleball life, this conversation with James delivers insight, humor, and some surprising predictions about the future of the sport.
★RPM (James's new paddle company; use code JOHNKEW for 10% off): rpmpb.com ★Pickleball Science website: pickleballscience.org
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:20 James's journey to becoming a paddle nerd 8:31 What's the vision for James's new paddle company: RPM? 11:29 Does paddle neck flex affect PBCOR? 13:34 PBCOR is not perfect and is still under development 15:53 Can we use a robot arm to swing the paddle to make PBCOR more accurate? 25:24 Paddle regulations: where does James stand on limiting power, spin, etc.? 32:35 Full send body bags are becoming more common. James's thoughts on this? 34:41 Is there a 'perfect paddle'? 38:09 Paddle power preferences: more or less? 39:34 What defines 'control'? Lack of power, or sweet spot size? 39:56 Preference: stiff or soft paddles? 40:23 Preference: dense or hollow feel? 41:46 Preference: lower or higher pitch sound from paddle? 44:47 Is there a paddle shape that's better for amateurs? 48:28 What’s the biggest mistake you see people make when choosing a paddle? 53:28 Who are the male pros who play with widebody paddles? 55:35 Paddle shapes: pros and cons for elongated, hybrid, widebody 1:02:32 Does a square paddle perform better than a rounded paddle? 1:06:01 What’s the weirdest thing about being a touring pickleball pro? 1:08:13 James ate 3 dinners in one night during his stay. Is this normal? 1:10:13 What's the story behind the "Big Poppa Jimmy" nickname? 1:11:26 When do we hit peak paddle? 1:16:00 What's the next low-hanging fruit in paddle innovation? 1:19:13 Are Pros Slowing Down Paddle Innovation? 1:24:17 Predictions: Future Paddle Technology 1:27:29 Ideas for More Durable Grit/Spin 1:37:09 How to innovate to improve sweet spot 1:48:41 Q&A: Do all pros hit the high sweet spot only on drives and serves? 1:52:22 Is it ideal for you to serve hitting the sweet spot every time or more so the upper zone of the paddle, even if it’s more of a dead spot, for whip and topspin? 1:53:37 Do you guys recommend looking for a paddle to shore up a weakness or one that plays into existing strengths? 1:56:25 What's the point of an elongated paddle with a sweet spot right in the middle if most people hit near the top of the paddle?
John and special guest Pickleball Will break down the latest pickleball paddle releases and give their first impressions on: –Six Zero Black Opal and Ruby Pro –Vatic V-Sol Pro & Power –Several more
We also do a deep dive on why PBCOR doesn't change when you add perimeter weight to the paddle.
⏱️ Video Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:12 What's Will been doing? 13:54 Will's new paddle line 22:48 Paddles of the Week: Rapid Fire with Will 23:34 Franklin C45 Parris Todd 25:48 Bread & Butter Loco 28:21 Luzz Cannon & Inferno 32:24 Ronbus Quanta 34:03 CRBN TruFoam Waves 37:03 Vatic V-Sol Pro & Power 41:18 Six Zero Ruby Pro 46:51 Six Zero Black Opal 52:32 Deep Dive: Why does adding weight not make a difference to PBCOR? 1:01:17 Kew & A: Can you clarify how much the swing weight on the Ronbus Quantas went up after your perimeter weighting? 1:03:24 How does the Luzz Inferno compare to the Bread & Butter Loco? 1:06:46 Will's new bag collab: Courtside 1:08:59 ADV Flex Backpack
Products Mentioned in Pod: ★ADV Bags: Save 10% with code JOHNKEW: https://www.advtennis.pro/discount/JOHNKEW ★Bread & Butter Loco - take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/dvdvmhv6 ★CRBN – Use code JOHNKEW for 10% off: crbnpickleball.com/discount/JOHNKEW ★Franklin – Use code JOHNKEW for 10% off: franklinsports.sjv.io/WqZr1O ★Luzz Pro 4 Inferno – Use code JOHNKEW for 10% off: http://bit.ly/48ehxhF ★Luzz Cannon – Use code JOHNKEW for 10% off: http://bit.ly/47F9URk ★Ronbus Quanta: Take $20 off with code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com/quanta-series.html ★Six Zero – take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: https://www.sixzeropickleball.com?sca_ref=3538395.LI0TTTs35q
Stay Connected: 📬 Subscribe to the Newsletter: johnkewpickleball.beehiiv.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy 🎵 Listen on Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 📸 Follow on Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball 🐦 Follow on Twitter (X): twitter.com/JohnkewPickleSix Zero Black Opal: Factory Tour + First ImpressionsJohnkew Pickleball2025-09-19 | Six Zero's first major release in more than a year – the Black Opal – officially drops on October 19. In this video, we take you behind the scenes at the China factory to reveal how the Black Opal is made and what sets it apart from other paddles. We also share our first impressions on: –Performance & Playability –Specs & Construction –Design & Materials Get the full inside look before launch day...
Chapters: 0:00 China factory tour vlog 2:25 John & Eddie's first impressions 14:45 John & Pickleball Will's first impressions
Products Mentioned in Pod: ★Six Zero – take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: https://www.sixzeropickleball.com?sca_ref=3538395.LI0TTTs35q
John and Eddie break down the latest pickleball paddle releases and give their first impressions on: –Honolulu J6NF/FC+ –Friday Fever Widebody –Pakle Evo-01 –Reload 14mm
We also do a deep dive on the LT pickleball—comparing it to the Vulcan VPRO and Franklin X-40—to see how it performs in terms of speed, spin, and durability.
Plus, we discuss the latest pro paddle shakeup at the PPA Tour, what it means for pro players, and how it could impact the game moving forward.
⏱️ Video Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:11 Paddle shakeup at PPA Cincinnati 9:00 Kawamoto Twins Upset Everyone 12:20 PPA Cincinnati Pick-Em Results: "Influencers" Battle 17:36 Other notable matches in PPA Cincinnati 19:40 Paddles of the Week: Honolulu J6NF and J6FC 26:14 Friday Fever Widebody 34:01 Pakle Evolution 01 38:44 Reload 14mm4 46:12 Ball Analysis: LT Ball vs. Vulcan vs. Franklin X-40 57:32 Gear of the Week: PIKKL Skins
Stay Connected: 📬 Subscribe to the Newsletter: johnkewpickleball.beehiiv.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy 🎵 Listen on Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 📸 Follow on Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball 🐦 Follow on Twitter (X): twitter.com/JohnkewPicklePaddle Shakeup at the PPAs // Plus CRBN Waves, Luzz, Facolos & Quanta InsightsJohnkew Pickleball2025-09-11 | John and Eddie break down the major paddle shakeup happening at the PPAs after the new UPA-A rule regulations went into effect. 🏓 We share first impressions of the latest paddles hitting the scene: –CRBN TruFoam Waves –Luzz Pro-Cannon & Pro4 Inferno –Facolos Elite-X
Plus, we dive deep into the Ronbus Quanta, including how adding weight affects PBCOR performance and whether it gives you that extra edge on the court.
🔔 Subscribe for more paddle reviews, gear breakdowns, and the latest pickleball news.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 5:08 UPA-A Regs and Pros Scrambling for Paddles in Cincinnati 6:00 Selkirk Boomstik with MOI weights not allowed at PPA 12:38 Current status of paddles NOT approved for PPA pros 22:48 Unexpected paddles pros are playing with in Cincinnati 27:00 After years of dragging my feet, I'm now a fan of the MLP format 36:25 Paddles of the Week: Luzz Pro-Cannon 44:32 Luzz Pro4 Inferno 51:52 Facolos Elite-X 56:40 CRBN TruFoam Waves 1:01:33 Ronbus Quanta: Updated Thoughts 1:14:02 How does adding weight to Quanta effect KewCOR? 1:25:03 Kew Paddle Mobile App in the works 1:30:42 Kew & A: What feels softer, the Loco or the Quanta? 1:31:54 Does the Quanta dropping for $100 prove that other companies are overcharging for their paddles?
Stay Connected: 📬 Subscribe to the Newsletter: johnkewpickleball.beehiiv.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy 🎵 Listen on Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 📸 Follow on Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball 🐦 Follow on Twitter (X): twitter.com/JohnkewPickleRonbus Quanta Initial Impressions, plus China trip, CRBN Waves Release Date, and Durability UpdatesJohnkew Pickleball2025-09-05 | In KewCast Episode 74, John and Eddie discuss John's trip to China to visit faddle factories and production, the Ronbus Quanta, CRBN Waves launch date, and updates on spin durability and break-in on the Selkirk Boomstik and Gearbox GX2 Power.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:41 John's trip to China 2:46 Hong Kong and PPA Asia 8:07 Mainland China - Paddle Factories 14:36 Carbon Fiber Factory 15:52 Face Layup Factory 18:59 Foam Factory 24:31 James Ignatowich & Selkirk part ways; James starting new paddle company (RPM) 26:49 PPA Las Vegas: Thoughts on Alshon targeting Gabe with full send body shots 34:56 Honolulu Mystic Flood Relief paddle 35:49 CRBN Trufoam Waves launching 9-25 35:51 Gherkin – why no paddle for Eddie? 37:56 Paddles of the Week: Ronbus Quanta Series 51:48 ProXR Jolt 55:37 Are JOOLA Pro IVs still elite-tier firepower, or have they moved down to mid-tier? 1:00:37 Update on spin for Boomstik and GX2 Power 1:04:14 Update on Gearbox GX2 Power Break-In 1:06:28 Kew & A: Is Gen-3 Dead? 1:10:28 Will John do any more drum videos?
Listen/subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball Twitter: twitter.com/JohnkewPickle2025’s Hottest Pickleball Paddle Releases Ranked (Best Budget, Overall & Performance)Johnkew Pickleball2025-08-27 | July didn’t slow down—paddle releases exploded. In this video I put the newest paddles through controlled lab testing (ball cannon, KewCOR metrics, and x-ray/dissection) and rank them using real data, not opinions. My performance score weighs four pillars—firepower, spin, control, and durability—then I calculate an overall score that also factors value and how well a paddle improves with perimeter weighting.
You’ll see how July’s drops reshuffle the board, why some former “best of” models have slipped, and which paddles deliver elite performance without elite prices.
Chapters: 0:00 Paddle Releases in July 2025 0:49 Paddle Lineup 3:30 Top Performance Paddles 5:24 Best Overall Paddles 6:47 Best Budget Paddles 7:25 Concerns 9:20 The Best Paddles (Overall, Performance, Budget)
🔥 Vatic Saga - take $10 off with code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/48V3yM4
DISCOUNT/AFFILIATE CODES: ★Gearbox: take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/48vIn2p ★Body Helix: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: bodyhelix.com/?ref=JOHNKEW ★GRUVN: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/5e5hyjer ★Honolulu Pickleball: Get $20 OFF any Kevlar paddle using code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR, or 10% off any other paddle using code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/3Yl0OnI ★PaddleTek: Get 10% OFF your purchase with code JOHNKEW: paddletek.com/6xAhP5 ★Pickleball Central: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW: pickleballcentral.com ★Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947 ★JOOLA: Get 10% off of most products with code JOHNKEW: joola.com/?bg_ref=SGHmrvEFDJ ★CRBN: Get 10% OFF CRBN using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/47dvfre3 ★11SIX24: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW, or at this link: http://tinyurl.com/65zfxjb5 ★Bread & Butter: Get 15% OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/5n956578 ★Pickleball Apes: Get 10% OFF at checkout using code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/4crabzvw ★Ronbus: Get $20 OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Six Zero: Get 10% OFF using code 10JOHNKEW, or at this link: tinyurl.com/3rkdsdb3 ★Vatic: Get $10 OFF purchases up to $220, and $20 OFF above that using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/mum92h26 ★Vatic Saga Flash: Take $10 off this paddle with the code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/48V3yM4
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballAnalyzing the LifeTime BallJohnkew Pickleball2025-08-22 | Watch the full episode by clicking below!Can the New Loco Hang with J2NF and Boomstik?Johnkew Pickleball2025-08-19 | In KewCast Episode 73, John and Eddie discuss the remake of the Loco, Bread & Butter's first full-foam paddle, and we ask whether all the indoor pickleball facilities are sustainable.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:51 Ben takes #1 from ALW on People's Choice Pro Rankings 4:44 New Paddle Sightings: Catherine playing with Boomstik 8:36 Will most pickleball facilities be closed in 10 years? 25:31 Paddles of the Week: Bread & Butter Loco, Redux 36:17 Future Deep Dive: Ball Cannon, Meet Ballistic Gel Head 38:02 Kew & A: What does Eddie mean when he says a paddle is 'buttery'? 40:41 Does the Honolulu J2NF have any kind of break-in? 42:25 Do we know the type of foam used in the SURTR? 44:27 Would you pay for the Boomstik with your own money?
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:17 Selkirk Boomstik Interview with Tom Barnes 2:42 How long did R&D take on the Boomstik? 4:42 What kind of metal is used on the MOI weights? 5:31 MOI Weights: Why This Weight, and Why This Location? 8:53 John's theory about the MOI weight and placement - is it true? 14:14 Are loose edge guards a concern on the Boomstik? 16:53 Is there a Boomstik without MOI weight approved at UPA-A? 20:24 Are there plans to release a Boomstik without the MOI weights? 21:36 Will the Boomstik be released as a main line paddle eventually? 23:29 What kinds of durability testing were performed on the Boomstik? 25:20 Is there a break-in period with the Boomstik? 27:25 Has Selkirk addressed the issue of disbonding with full-foam paddles? 28:25 Kew & A: Can you chart out how the Life Time Ball degrades over time? 34:30 How does the Boomstik compare to the Element 6 Surtr? 36:42 If you weighted up the Selkirk ERA exactly the same as the Boomstik, how would they compare? 40:17 How is the dwell time of the Boomstik compared to the Gearbox GX2 Power? 42:00 What's your choice betwen the Boomstik elongated vs. widebody?
In this review, I’ll walk you through the full breakdown of the Selkirk Boomstik: from internal x-rays and core dissection to KewCOR firepower testing and real on-court impressions. We’ll look at spin, pop, control, hand speed, and more — plus how the Boomstik stacks up against other elite paddles like the Gearbox GX2 Power and Honolulu Full Foam.
You’ll also see what’s going on under the hood — like the dual-density full-foam core, first-of-its-kind MOI perimeter weighting, and Infinigrit surface texture that’s tested at three times the durability of raw carbon fiber. I’ll show you why the widebody’s sweet spot is one of the best I’ve tested, explain how the unique carbon layup changes spin and feel, and share my thoughts on value, durability, and whether this $333 paddle is worth the premium.
DISCOUNT/AFFILIATE CODES: ★Gearbox: take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/48vIn2p ★Body Helix: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: bodyhelix.com/?ref=JOHNKEW ★GRUVN: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/5e5hyjer ★Honolulu Pickleball: Get $20 OFF any Kevlar paddle using code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR, or 10% off any other paddle using code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/3Yl0OnI ★PaddleTek: Get 10% OFF your purchase with code JOHNKEW: paddletek.com/6xAhP5 ★Pickleball Central: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW: pickleballcentral.com ★Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947 ★JOOLA: Get 10% off of most products with code JOHNKEW: joola.com/?bg_ref=SGHmrvEFDJ ★CRBN: Get 10% OFF CRBN using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/47dvfre3 ★11SIX24: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW, or at this link: http://tinyurl.com/65zfxjb5 ★Bread & Butter: Get 15% OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/5n956578 ★Pickleball Apes: Get 10% OFF at checkout using code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/4crabzvw ★Ronbus: Get $20 OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Six Zero: Get 10% OFF using code 10JOHNKEW, or at this link: tinyurl.com/3rkdsdb3 ★Vatic: Get $10 OFF purchases up to $220, and $20 OFF above that using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/mum92h26
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballDoes Heat Make Paddles More Powerful?Johnkew Pickleball2025-08-08 | Does Heat Make Paddles More Powerful?Is the Great Paddle Boom of 2025 Coming to an End?Johnkew Pickleball2025-08-07 | In KewCast Episode 71, John and Eddie discuss the new Honolulu shapes, and give initial impressions on several other new paddles.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:15 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: LT Ball now official PPA ball 10:10 GRUVN LAZR Issues with Disbonding? 13:01 Poll results: podcast preferences 19:35 Anna Leigh Waters edged out Ben Johns again to claim #1 on People's Choice poll 26:53 Jaume Martinez-Vich playing with Adidas paddle 28:01 Chorus Phoenix will be released 32:46 Are the weird PBCOR results at USAP the result of the methodology, or the paddles? 36:40 Paddles of the Week: Honolulu J2NF long handle 42:04 Honolulu J7NF and J3NF 48:21 Mark 1X-R2 53:48 Proton Peacock 1:00:40 Whisper paddles - USAP quiet approved 1:05:58 Today's Paddles, Ranked By Firepower and Feel/Forgiveness 1:07:24 Hudef Apex 1:10:39 Back to Rankings of Power and Feel/Forgiveness 1:18:44 Kew & A: What does perimeter weighting do to pop on both stationary shots versus flicks/punches? 1:21:25 Boomstik vs. Gearbox GX2 Power: which one do you pick? 1:22:04 Should you pick a paddle that plays to your strengths, or helps with your weaknesses?
Products Mentioned in Pod: ★Franklin: take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: franklinsports.sjv.io/WqZr1O ★Gearbox: pre-order GX2 Power here, and take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/4mcs3tD ★Ronbus: take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Thrive: pre-order Fury here, and take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: http://bit.ly/45kmIJZContender for Best POWER Paddle on the MarketJohnkew Pickleball2025-08-04 | 👇 Pre-order Gearbox GX2 Power here, and take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: 🔥 bit.ly/4mcs3tD
In this review, I’ll walk you through the full breakdown of the Gearbox GX2 Power: from internal x-rays and core dissection to KewCOR firepower testing and real on-court impressions. We’ll look at spin, pop, control, hand speed, and more — plus how the GX2 stacks up against elite paddles like the JOOLA Perseus IV.
You’ll also see what’s going on under the hood — like the carbon fiber ribs, internal foam, and perimeter weighting that make these paddles feel different. I’ll show you my tungsten tape mod setup, explain why the hybrid might be my new main, and share why I think Gearbox has a real edge in durability and value.
🛒 Clear automotive tape mentioned by Eddie: amzn.to/4lc7mNF 🛒 Pickleball Effect tungsten tape (use code JOHNKEW for 10% off): http://bit.ly/4kOuUsr
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction & Disclosures 0:40 Specs & Price 1:56 A Look Inside: X-Ray & Paddle Dissection 4:09 Performance Metrics 5:51 KewCOR Firepower Scores 6:36 On-Court Impressions 9:16 Modding the Paddle 10:16 Final Thoughts 10:57 Three Reasons Why This Might Become My New Main 11:28 Why GX2 Power is JOOLA's Main Competition
DISCOUNT/AFFILIATE CODES: ★Gearbox: take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/48vIn2p ★Body Helix: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: bodyhelix.com/?ref=JOHNKEW ★GRUVN: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/5e5hyjer ★Honolulu Pickleball: Get $20 OFF any Kevlar paddle using code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR, or 10% off any other paddle using code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/3Yl0OnI ★PaddleTek: Get 10% OFF your purchase with code JOHNKEW: paddletek.com/6xAhP5 ★Pickleball Central: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW: pickleballcentral.com ★Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947 ★JOOLA: Get 10% off of most products with code JOHNKEW: joola.com/?bg_ref=SGHmrvEFDJ ★CRBN: Get 10% OFF CRBN using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/47dvfre3 ★11SIX24: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW, or at this link: http://tinyurl.com/65zfxjb5 ★Bread & Butter: Get 15% OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/5n956578 ★Pickleball Apes: Get 10% OFF at checkout using code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/4crabzvw ★Ronbus: Get $20 OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Six Zero: Get 10% OFF using code 10JOHNKEW, or at this link: tinyurl.com/3rkdsdb3 ★Vatic: Get $10 OFF purchases up to $220, and $20 OFF above that using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/mum92h26
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballJuly’s Paddle Madness Ends with a Banger Coming Out of Nowhere // Plus, Selkirk BoomstikJohnkew Pickleball2025-07-31 | In KewCast Episode 70, John and Eddie discuss some of the last few paddle releases to close out July, and one of them really surprised us. Plus, our initial thoughts on the upcoming Selkirk Boomstik release.
Pre-Order Thrive Fury here, and take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: http://bit.ly/45kmIJZ
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:00 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: New Pro Player Association Advocating for Pro Rights 12:21 MLP Dallas - some of the best competition ever seen 20:10 Paddles of the Week: Selkirk Boomstik 25:27 Franklin Pariss Todd C45 30:28 Thrive Fury 41:15 Ronbus Refoam 50:20 Today's paddles ranked by power and feel/ forgiveness 59:00 Deep Dive: Does adding perimeter weight to your paddle increase its power? 1:08:19 Kew & A: What is your opinion on people who choke up on the grip for all shots, using elongated paddles? 1:12:44 How does the new Gearbox GX2 Power compare to the Gearbox Ultimate? 1:18:09 How does the handle length of the GX2 Power compare to the Honolulu J2NF? 1:19:02 Please explain the term 'launch angle'
Products Mentioned in Pod: ★Franklin: take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: franklinsports.sjv.io/WqZr1O ★Gearbox: pre-order GX2 Power here, and take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/4mcs3tD ★Ronbus: take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Thrive: pre-order Fury here, and take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: http://bit.ly/45kmIJZ
Listen/subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball Twitter: twitter.com/JohnkewPickle🚨 The Gearbox GX2 Power Surprised Us 🚨Johnkew Pickleball2025-07-25 | John & Eddie discuss the GX2 Power in KewCast 69. 🚨 Sign up for the giveaway! 🚨 We’re excited to announce the GX2 Power Giveaway ahead of the launch of the new GX2 Power paddles on August 7th, 2025. Five lucky winners will receive their choice of the GX2 Power Elongated paddle and the all new highly anticipated GX2 Power Hybrid shape!
How to Enter: 1. Follow @gearbox_pickleball @johnkew.pickleball on Instagram
The giveaway ends August 6th at 11:59 PM PST! Gearbox will notify the winners via email on August 7th.Which Paddles Survived the July Shake-Up?Johnkew Pickleball2025-07-24 | In KewCast Episode 69, John and Eddie consider top contenders for new mains after all the new paddle drops this summer.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:23 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: Vatic pulled Vcore launch 6:28 Ben Johns MLP Trade 8:19 New Poll: tell us what you like most/least about the KewCast 9:31 Paddles of the Week: Sypik Triton 15:00 Chorus Phoenix 22:03 Enhance Gen 4.5 27:50 Side Tangent: does a square patch of fiberglass in the center of the paddle cause inconsistency across the face? 31:17 Gearbox GX2 Power 37:46 Top two contenders for new mains 39:36 Gearbox GX2 Power Giveaway 41:30 CRBN TFG4 46:29 Deep Dive - Weighted Endcaps Don't Do What You Think They Do 56:16 Gear of the Week: Pickleball Effect Cap Coins 58: 40 Wringer Apparel - 24 hr code 1:01:27 Kew & A: How do you define the 'control' paddle category? 1:05:12 Kevlar is UV-sensitive. Is the sun bad for Kevlar-faced paddles? 1:08:05 If paddles get more powerful in the heat, don't balls get less springy? 1:08:53 Eddie's playing in a wooden paddle tournament - are there any good wooden paddles?
Products Mentioned in Pod: ★Chorus: take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/ms6r8zja ★Enhance Pickleball: Take $20 off with code JOHNKEW: http://bit.ly/4lDopJi ★Gearbox: pre-order GX2 Power here, and take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/4mcs3tD ★Wringer: 20% off for the next 24 hours with code KEW20, then 10% off with code JOHNKEW: http://bit.ly/4kVkeaC
The CRBN TruFoam Genesis 4 is the latest addition to the True Foam Genesis lineup, featuring a modernized hybrid shape with a longer handle, low swing weight, and top-tier spin. In this deep-dive review, I break down the new design, internal structure, and performance metrics — including radar chart comparisons, KEWCOR testing, and custom weight mods to boost stability and sweet spot size.
It's a lightweight, maneuverable power paddle built to last — but with strong competition from newer all-foam contenders, is it still worth the premium? Let’s find out.
DISCOUNT/AFFILIATE CODES: ★CRBN: Get 10% OFF CRBN using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/47dvfre3 ★Body Helix: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: bodyhelix.com/?ref=JOHNKEW ★GRUVN: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/5e5hyjer ★Honolulu Pickleball: Get $20 OFF any Kevlar paddle using code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR, or 10% off any other paddle using code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/3Yl0OnI ★PaddleTek: Get 10% OFF your purchase with code JOHNKEW: paddletek.com/6xAhP5 ★Pickleball Central: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW: pickleballcentral.com ★Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947 ★JOOLA: Get 10% off of most products with code JOHNKEW: joola.com/?bg_ref=SGHmrvEFDJ ★11SIX24: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW, or at this link: http://tinyurl.com/65zfxjb5 ★Bread & Butter: Get 15% OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/5n956578 ★Pickleball Apes: Get 10% OFF at checkout using code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/4crabzvw ★Ronbus: Get $20 OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Six Zero: Get 10% OFF using code 10JOHNKEW, or at this link: tinyurl.com/3rkdsdb3 ★Vatic: Get $10 OFF purchases up to $220, and $20 OFF above that using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/mum92h26
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballYou Won… So Why Did Your DUPR Drop? We Ask the Person Who Created the AlgorithmJohnkew Pickleball2025-07-22 | In this episode, Scott and John sit down with the data scientist who wrote the algorithm for DUPR. She explains why point differential matters, and why DUPR believes this is a more accurate system.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:30 Sarah's background in data analytics 2:42 History of the DUPR algorithm 5:41 Sarah's DUPR rating 8:54 How is the current DUPR algorithm different than the original DUPR system? 11:10 What's the purpose of DUPR? Conflating rating vs. ranking 16:09 How is it possible that you can win a game and your DUPR goes down? 17:09 Do other sports use a rating system where winners can go down and losers go up? 19:13 How do John and Scott feel about the new algorithm? 21:33 Developing a healthy relationship with your DUPR without becoming obsessed 24:05 If you're playing a team with a lower rating, do you need to win 11–0 so your DUPR doesn't drop? 27:20 Is it reasonable to expect a team to win by 11-2 if they have a higher rating? 29:13 Why not allow over-performing teams who lose to go up, but not punish the winning team? 33:37 How many points is a 4.5 team expected to win against a 4.0 team? 35:50 Stronger teams find ways to win. Should the algorithm be weighted for this, even if they don't meet the expected point differential? 39:33 Is it better to know your expected point differential, or just focus on each point? 43:59 Is it a good idea to allow rec games to be recorded in DUPR? 47:53 Why not include age and gender in DUPR algorithm? 59:00 Are more powerful paddles messing up the DUPR algorithm? 1:02:44 Matching your paddle to different balls to maximize performance 1:06:50 Advice for people looking to break through DUPR plateaus
Listen/subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 Follow John on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball Twitter: twitter.com/JohnkewPickle Follow Scott on: Instagram: instagram.com/scottfliegelmanpickleballWhats next for Quang Duong after UPA TERMINATION?Johnkew Pickleball2025-07-21 | What's next for Quang Duong after UPA TERMINATION?Two NEW Foam Paddles with Massive Power—At a Surprising PriceJohnkew Pickleball2025-07-18 | In this video, I break down two of the hardest-hitting all foam paddles on the market — the Body Helix Flik F1 and the GRUVN LAZR 16HD. We’ll go deep on radar charts, firepower scores, KewCOR testing, and key playability differences. You’ll see how each foam paddles performs on power, spin, control, and forgiveness — plus durability concerns and long-term value. I also share my personal thoughts on who should (and shouldn’t) be using these max-power paddles.
DISCOUNT/AFFILIATE CODES: ★Body Helix: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: bodyhelix.com/?ref=JOHNKEW ★GRUVN: Take 10% OFF with code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/5e5hyjer ★Honolulu Pickleball: Get $20 OFF any Kevlar paddle using code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR, or 10% off any other paddle using code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/3Yl0OnI ★PaddleTek: Get 10% OFF your purchase with code JOHNKEW: paddletek.com/6xAhP5 ★Pickleball Central: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW: pickleballcentral.com ★Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947 ★JOOLA: Get 10% off of most products with code JOHNKEW: joola.com/?bg_ref=SGHmrvEFDJ ★CRBN: Get 10% OFF CRBN using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/47dvfre3 ★11SIX24: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW, or at this link: http://tinyurl.com/65zfxjb5 ★Bread & Butter: Get 15% OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/5n956578 ★Pickleball Apes: Get 10% OFF at checkout using code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/4crabzvw ★Ronbus: Get $20 OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Six Zero: Get 10% OFF using code 10JOHNKEW, or at this link: tinyurl.com/3rkdsdb3 ★Vatic: Get $10 OFF purchases up to $220, and $20 OFF above that using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/mum92h26
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballWhat Sunlight Does to Paddles // Plus Zane Navratil Scoop on Quang DuongJohnkew Pickleball2025-07-16 | In KewCast Episode 68, special guest Zane Navratil stops by to give us the scoop on the Quang Duong/UPA-A situation, and John and Eddie discuss how heat and sunlight affect your paddles. .
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:38 Poll Results: How much control are you willing to sacrifice for power? 5:32 Does leaving your paddle out in the sun destroy it? 22:52 Paddles of the Week: Two All-Foam Powerhouses: Body Helix Flik & GRUVN LAZR 16HD 38:32 Zane Navratil Talks Quang Duong Contract Elimination 58:20 Kew & A: My main right now is the vapor alpha pro power. Is it worth getting the J2K FC+ or the NF? 1:01:04 For PBCOR, how much variability is there between the ball hitting on the hole versus between the holes? 1:03:33 Is there a way to measure a paddle's control?
DISCOUNT/AFFILIATE CODES: ★Honolulu Pickleball: Get $20 OFF any Kevlar paddle using code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR, or 10% off any other paddle using code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/3Yl0OnI ★PaddleTek: Get 10% OFF your purchase with code JOHNKEW: paddletek.com/6xAhP5 ★Pickleball Central: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW: pickleballcentral.com ★Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947 ★JOOLA: Get 10% off of most products with code JOHNKEW: joola.com/?bg_ref=SGHmrvEFDJ ★CRBN: Get 10% OFF CRBN using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/47dvfre3 ★11SIX24: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW, or at this link: http://tinyurl.com/65zfxjb5 ★Bread & Butter: Get 15% OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/5n956578 ★Pickleball Apes: Get 10% OFF at checkout using code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/4crabzvw ★Ronbus: Get $20 OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Six Zero: Get 10% OFF using code 10JOHNKEW, or at this link: tinyurl.com/3rkdsdb3 ★Vatic: Get $10 OFF purchases up to $220, and $20 OFF above that using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/mum92h26
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballDeciphering the Honolulu All-Foam Varieties, Plus, More Rankings of New Release PaddlesJohnkew Pickleball2025-07-10 | In KewCast Episode 67, John and Eddie do a blind test to see if we can tell any difference between the Honolulu J2NF and J2FC+, and we do another ranking of firepower and forgiveness for all of the current all-foam paddles.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:20 Ben Johns re-takes #1 Spot from ALW on People's Choice Poll 4:17 User-Submitted Paddle Analytics Dashboard 11:48 Paddles of the Week: Honolulu J2FC+ vs. J2NF 21:59 Firepower-Forgivness Ranking of All-Foam Paddles 25:22 Gear of the Week - Six Zero bags 44:17 Tales from the Ball Cannon - switching to a Life Time ball for paddle testing 56:19 Are Control Paddles an Endangered Species? 1:03:54 Kew & A: Has spin durability taken a back seat to power? 1:06:21 Is there an objective way to measure dwell time? 1:07:57 Where would you put the Selkirk ERA in firepower & forgiveness rankings? 1:09:00 I'm upgrading from a Vatic Prism Flash - Saga 14 or 16? 1:10:00 Does the fiberglass patch in the Body Helix Flik result in inconsistent response? 1:11:45 What's the round thing underneath John's hat bill?
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:58 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: GRUVN LAZR-16HD Solid Foam PBCOR Update 6:50 Poll Results: What's Your Main Paddle? 22:58 Paddles of the Week: Body Helix Flik F1 TerraCore XC 31:44 Vatic Pro VCore 41:09 Apes Harmony – production models 50:15 Ronbus Ripple V2 R5 55:46 CRBN4 TruFoam Genesis 1:00:31 11Six24 Alpha Power Production Model 1:06:09 Revolin Torch 1:11:05 PaddleTek Bantam GTO-C 1:18:22 Firepower Rankings for all the paddles discussed 1:23:00 Deep Dive - PaddleTek's Unique Surface Layup 1:29:07 Kew & A: Is there a metric for paddle plushness/ stiffness?
In this video I give a detailed breakdown of the new PaddleTek GTO-C — where it fits in the Bantam lineup, it's top-tier power, how it’s shaped and balanced, and what I found when I cut one open.
✅ Hybrid shape with unique balance tweaks ✅ Gen 1 cold-pressed, no foam walls ✅ Spin, pop, power, and real flex test data ✅ How it compares to other Bantams
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction & Disclosures 0:46 Specs & Technology 1:45 X-Ray & Paddle Dissection 3:41 Performance Metrics 4:52 KewCOR Power Testing 5:34 Playability, Mods, and Final Thoughts
DISCOUNT/AFFILIATE CODES: ★PaddleTek: Get 10% OFF your purchase with code JOHNKEW: paddletek.com/6xAhP5 ★Pickleball Central: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW: pickleballcentral.com ★Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947 ★JOOLA: Get 10% off of most products with code JOHNKEW: joola.com/?bg_ref=SGHmrvEFDJ ★CRBN: Get 10% OFF CRBN using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/47dvfre3 ★11SIX24: Get 10% OFF using code JOHNKEW, or at this link: http://tinyurl.com/65zfxjb5 ★Bread & Butter: Get 15% OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/5n956578 ★Honolulu Pickleball: Get $20 OFF any Kevlar paddle using code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR, or 10% off any other paddle using code JOHNKEW: bit.ly/3Yl0OnI ★Pickleball Apes: Get 10% OFF at checkout using code JOHNKEW: tinyurl.com/4crabzvw ★Ronbus: Get $20 OFF your purchase using code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com ★Six Zero: Get 10% OFF using code 10JOHNKEW, or at this link: tinyurl.com/3rkdsdb3 ★Vatic: Get $10 OFF purchases up to $220, and $20 OFF above that using code JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/mum92h26
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballSo Many Great Paddles on Pre-Sale and Coming SoonJohnkew Pickleball2025-06-26 | John and Eddie cover some of the pre-sales currently happening, solid performing all-foam paddles for under $200, reveal the Connor Garnett paddle giveaway winners, and discuss how to make all foam paddles even better.
📌 24-Hour Melin Discount Code! Use code JWILL20 for 20% off all Melin hats: alnk.to/apV7YLQ (Active noon MT Thursday, June 26 – Noon MT Friday, June 27) ★Pre-Order: 10% Off Honolulu J2NF, code JOHNKEW: http://bit.ly/4luljXK ★Pre-Order: 10% Off GRUVN LAZR Solid Foam, code JOHNKEW: http://bit.ly/45NzFxT ★Pre-Order: 10% off Avoura Rivelle & Revaya, code JOHNKEW: avourapickleball.com/JOHNKEW
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:04 New 24-hr Melin code 3:51 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: John's San Clemente PPA Experience 5:36 Jack Sock's Nasty Nelson 9:05 Connor Garnett comes back 0–10 against Jack Sock 10:58 Hayden Patriquin tells me why he prefers 16mm over 14mm C45 Dynasty 13:43 Observations on Jessie Irvine coaching Gabe Tardio 15:20 Thoughts on JOOLA discontinuing consumer discounts 18:03 Fed Staksrud and Adidas Split 21:03 ProKennex Black Ace RE-Listed? 26:18 Thoughts on Aizec's Holbrook Arma breaking 30:07 Why are JOOLA Pro IVs and Proton Flamingos core crushing? 34:40 GRUVN LAZR-16HD All Foam is available for pre-order 39:32 Honolulu J2NF on pre-order 46:05 Paddles of the Week: Gearbox GX2 Power 57:09 Avoura Rivelle & Revaya on pre-order 1:07:16 Connor Garnett Paddle Giveaway Results 1:13:41 Poll Results: Your Main Paddle 1:14:57 Gear of the Week: Rudy Project Eyewear 1:18:58 Deep Dive: Ideas on making the best performing all-foam paddle
*Correction: using my code or affilate link will provide a $20 gift card, not $30. The cutoff between $20 and $30 gift cards is $200.01, so if you add the $10 tungsten tape to your order, you'll get a $30 gift card.
The SLK ERA is Selkirk’s first serious entry into the Gen 3 power paddle space—and it marks a sharp turn for Selkirk. With a generous sweet spot, solid spin, and a surprising level of pop, it stacks up well against the best paddles on the market - at a reasonable price. Both the elongated and widebody models offer impressive balance between power and control, with premium construction at a competitive $200 price point.
Timestamps: 0:00 Selkirk SLK Era 0:33 Specs & Technology 2:23 Dissecting The Paddle 3:57 SLK Era Elongated Radar Chart 4:32 SLK Era Widebody Radar Chart 6:00 On-Court Impressions 10:02 Modding The Paddle 10:35 Weighted vs Stock Stats 11:10 Final Conclusions
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballAre Gen-3 Paddles Less Predictable? On Location in San Clemente with Connor GarnettJohnkew Pickleball2025-06-18 | John sits down with Connor Garnett at the PPA Orange County Cup to talk paddles, gear, and Connor gives a lesson on his famous two-handed backhand.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:42 Connor's events & partners 3:38 Paddle Giveaway - San Clemente Draw Predictions 6:26 Paddles of the Week: Connor's Paddle - ProXR Protohype XIX 10:30 Gear Deep Dive: Why does Connor play with an elongated paddle instead of a widebody? 15:34 How does paddle shape affect the sweet spot? 17:58 How does Connor modify his paddle? 21:29 How to break through plateaus at 3.0, 4.0, 5.0 levels 25:10 What's Connor's favorite drill? 26:46 Recommended times spent drilling vs. playing? 30:15 Body mechanic principles for acheiving more power 34:00 What is Connor doing to prevent burnout? 37:42 Pro Tip: Connor's advice on how to hit the two-handed backhand
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:08 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: Franklin C45 Dynasty and Tempo Review 8:32 Holbrook Arma review - durability claims 15:25 Poll Results: People’s Choice Favorite Pro Paddles 20:04 New Poll: What is your Paddle Main? 21:14 Paddles of the Week: ProXR Protohypes XIX & XXI (played by Connor Garnett and Jack Munro) 31:16 ProXR Protohype VI (Played by Zane N., Kate Fahey, and Riley Newman) 35:10 Kew & A: Can you talk about sweet spot location on paddles based on shape and face size? 42:53 Clarifications on the differences between the original 11Six24 Vapor Power vs. the Alpha Vapor Power 44:39 Should pro tours customize ball performance for climate/location similar to Formula 1 tire selection? 47:38 Does using the same ball at all tournaments/climates make it more interesting because it opens the potential for cold weather/warm weather specialists? 49:12 Can we compare Anna Leigh Waters to Serena Williams? 54:07 If PBCOR is tests are biased towards full swing (power) rather than pop, then why did the Black Ace Pro fail?
Listen/subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball Twitter: twitter.com/JohnkewPickleFranklin C45 Dynasty & Tempo NEW Paddle ReviewJohnkew Pickleball2025-06-10 | Franklin just dropped two new shapes in their C-45 paddle line — the Dynasty and Tempo — and now all their top pros are using them. In this video, I test both and compare them to the original Hybrid to see if they actually perform or if it’s all hype. I break down power, control, spin, sweet spot, and durability after 25+ hours of play. If you're thinking about switching to the C-45, this review will help you decide.
Today we're doing a quick paddle review of the Holbrook Arma, Holbrook's first entry into the power paddle category. We'll examine the tech, on-court performance and what you should know before deciding if you'll pick one up yourself.
Thanks for watching — more paddle reviews coming soon.Is Tennis Cheaper than Pickleball? Plus, new affordable Gen-3 paddle that plays greatJohnkew Pickleball2025-06-04 | In this episode, we compare the equipment costs of playing pickleball versus tennis, and answer the question: is tennis actually cheaper because you don't have to replace the racquet so often? Also, a newcomer to the elite power paddle category from a company you've never heard of: Element 6.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:50 Update on John's surgery 2:20 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: Holbrook Arma Giveaway 5:08 GRUVN LAZR-16HD Solid Foam passed PBCOR 6:34 New CRBN TruFoam Waves paddles 8:02 Help us update Latest Pro Paddle Sightings webpage 10:05 Quang Duong fined $50K from PPA, and barred from playing MLP and PPA events 13:01 People’s Choice Favorite Pros poll results 15:49 New poll: rank your favorite paddles the top pros are playing with 17:11 Paddle trends of top pros 24:12 Paddles of the Week: ProXR Gen-3 Protohypes (XXVI & XXIX) 32:03 11Six24 Vapor Alpha Pro Power 41:08 Element 6 Surtr 50:07 Gear of the Week: Slyce Gen-2 Adjustable Weighted Speed Caps 54:43 Mace training for strength, mobility, stability 56:50 Are Equipment Costs for Pickleball Actually More than Tennis? 1:05:06 Kew & A: Is there any truth that you can detect the sweet spot by sound, ie knocking on the paddle?
In this video, I break down the long-awaited Ronbus Ripple V2, one of the few paddles pushing right up to the legal core limit without going over. I ran a full round of tests and found that this paddle delivers elite-tier power and pop, but its durability and break-in is still unknown.
We’ll look at what makes this paddle unique, from its complex six-layer face construction to its EVA foam core reinforced with a carbon lattice. I compare all three shapes (R1, R2, R4), dive into KewCOR power metrics, sweet spot sizes, spin performance, and give my take on who this paddle is for—and who should avoid it.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:36 Disclosures 0:56 Specs & Technology 2:08 X-Rays & Dissection 5:36 Performance Metrics & KewCOR 8:37 How Powerful is it Really? 9:41 On-Court Impressions 10:51 Modding the Paddle: What Works, What Doesn't 11:30 The Ripple Compared to Other Elite Power Paddles 12:44 Durability: Let's Be Honest 14:06 Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Ripple V2?
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballPaddles Are Amazing Right Now, But Why Are Balls So Bad?Johnkew Pickleball2025-05-27 | In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the latest pro player paddle sightings, affordable options for Gen-3 and all-foam paddles, and we dive into why pickleball balls are lagging behind in performance.
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:45 Update on John's foot injury 5:11 Latest News/Gear Gossip: New webpage lists top pros and what paddle they’ve been most recently spotted with 6:32 Fed Stakstrud Playing With Signature Paddle 9:07 Latest poll: People’s Choice Pro rankings 13:18 Pickleball TV App Subscription – Worth It? 20:14 Paddles of the Week: Friday Fever 26:40 Honolulu J2NF Series 40:40 Gear Deep Dive: Why are balls still so bad? 42:30 Should pro tours use different ball for summer versus winter (hot vs. cold)? 45:17 Does the number of holes in the ball matter? 45:50 Are balls with seams bad? 50:18 Comparing power level of Franklin X-40, Vulcan V-Pro Flight, and Lifetime balls 52:00 Why do pickleball balls even have holes, and are more holes better? 1:02:22 What would the best-performing ball look like? 1:05:46 Kew & A: My wife prefers playing with other men; should I be concerned?
Products mentioned in podcast: 📌Honolulu: Take 10% off with code JOHNKEW (https://808pickle.com?sca_ref=4978161.g3fNpksoBn), or $20 off any Kevlar paddle with code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR (808pickle.com/collections/aramid-fiber-paddles) 📌Friday Pickleball: Take $5 off with code JOHNKEW: fridaypickle.com/JOHNKEW
Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:13 John injured his foot 3:08 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: Quang Duong playing with Holbrook Arma at PPA Atlanta 5:03 Catherine P. and Rachael R. both playing with Selkirk SLK Era 5:52 Lifetime Ball used at PPA Atlanta - Pro Impressions 8:01 Vulcan ball out at PPA events; negotiations with 3 other companies 11:01 New website for ultra-technical pickleball analysis 15:22 Paddles of the Week: Honolulu J2H+ 18:44 Pickleball Apes Harmony series 23:38 GRUVN All-Foam Paddles 30:26 Counterfeit Paddles Are Becoming Problematic 41:28 Paddle testing at amateur tournaments is coming: Go-No-Go machine 51:38 Tales from the Ball Cannon: how does KewCOR correlate to radar gun results? 59:24 Kew & A: Given John's drumming background, is Eddie also a fan of Tool? 1:02:41 What would be the ideal jobs for John & Eddie outside of pickleball?
Products mentioned in podcast: 📌Honolulu: Take 10% off with code JOHNKEW (https://808pickle.com?sca_ref=4978161.g3fNpksoBn), or $20 off any Kevlar paddle with code JOHNKEW-KEVLAR (808pickle.com/collections/aramid-fiber-paddles) 📌Pickleball Apes: Take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: https://www.pickleballapes.com?sca_ref=4876737.4JZ4MIHBSA 📌GRUVN: TAKE 10% off with code JOHNKEW: https://gruvn.co?sca_ref=4937714.X1H4Uman8f
This sequel to Selkirk’s original Luxx brings subtle but important upgrades—including more power, improved feel, and their new Infinigrit surface that promises 3X longer-lasting spin.
In this video, we review the Luxx, its new tech, including the new foam-filled neck, reduced thickness, and Selkirk’s durability claims for Infinigrit.
We test the paddle’s spin, power, pop, control, maneuverability, and sweet spot...and compare it to the original Luxx using our brand-new KewCOR metric to see how much firepower it really adds.
Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleballRonbus Ripple Rises from the Ashes, Holbrook Arma, Dylan Fraziers New PaddleJohnkew Pickleball2025-05-15 | In this episode, John and Eddie discuss the new Ripple V2, Holbrook Arma, new Volair offerings, and answer some viewer questions.
0:00 Introduction 2:16 Latest News/ Gear Gossip: John's experience at US Open 7:20 Selkirk HQ Tour 19:55 Quong Duong's new paddle (Sypik) 21:42 Jay Devilliers playing with JOOLA paddle 23:06 Paddles of the Week: New Volair Paddles 34:32 Holbrook Arma 48:12 Ronbus Ripple V2 1:09:31 Selkirk Era 1:12:38 Kew & A: Have you ever tested ball rebound speed/power with the cannon? 1:15:09 How noticeable are firepower differences for paddles that are middle-of-the-pack versus top-end? 1:20:42 How did John and Eddie meet? What's the origin story?
Products mentioned in podcast: 📌Holbrook: Take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: http://bit.ly/4fha6Xc 📌Ronbus: Take 10% off with code JOHNKEW: ronbus.com 📌Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947
Listen/subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: http://tinyurl.com/u2t7a3uy Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/57kv8de8 Follow on: Instagram: instagram.com/johnkew.pickleball Twitter: twitter.com/JohnkewPicklePickleball Pioneers: Selkirk Founders Discuss New Vision for 2026 - Kewcast Episode 58Johnkew Pickleball2025-05-09 | In this episode, John sits down with the founders of Selkirk to dive into the brand’s origin story, how they’ve stayed at the forefront of paddle innovation, and what drives their approach to growing the sport.
0:00 Selkirk Founders Introduction 1:17 What's going on behind the curtains at Selkirk HQ? 2:43 What paddles are they maining? 4:12 What are the DUPRs of the Barnes brothers? 5:17 What other paddle companies do they admire? 15:04 Do paddle companies purposefully build paddles that break so they can sell more? 20:20 Is Selkirk getting their own PBCoR results in their lab? 28:08 How is Selkirk addressing paddle durability? 41:43 How will tariffs affect Selkirk moving forward? 51:56 As a 'performance paddle' company, Selkirk's reputation has slipped. Will Selkirk become more relevant in 2026?
Products mentioned in podcast: 📌Selkirk: Get digital gift cards up to $40 off (contingent on total price) with code INF-JOHNKEW, or this link: tinyurl.com/57np7947
Chapters: 0:00 The first time I saw Jack play, I noticed he was ambidextrous, and my wife noticed his hair 1:49 What's it like being able to play with both hands? 5:54 Jack's unique path in content creation 12:37 How Jack ended up with ProXR 15:05 Jack's thoughts on widebody paddles versus elongated 17:16 Jack and I meet on the court to explore the pros and cons of widebody versus elongated paddles 33:34 Juggling college with pro pickleball 35:08 Where does the money come from for a full-time pickleball pro? 38:02 Pro tours: APP vs. PPA 38:51 What does Jack do outside of pickleball and college? 41:35 Jack's fitness and nutrition regimen 44:03 Jack's future plans