Why Pro Pickleball Players Are Changing Paddles

Pro pickleball paddle sponsorships are changing fast in 2026, and it’s not just a money grab. In this video, Zane Navratil breaks down why so many pro pickleball players are switching paddles, which paddle brands are leaving the pro game, and which new UPAA-approved brands are entering with major signings. You’ll also see why what pros use often looks totally different from what pickleball paddle reviewers recommend, because pros play under UPA-A (UPAA) paddle rules, while most amateurs buy paddles based on USAP approval and different performance priorities. What you’ll learn in this pro pickleball paddle breakdown Why paddle deals and player contracts cause big switches early each year Which brands are exiting the pro pickleball paddle market (and why) The biggest paddle sponsor changes involving names like Anna Leigh Waters and Gabe Tardio Why UPAA approval matters for PPA and MLP events How paddle testing, challenges, and fines work in pro pickleball Why pros prioritize peak playability and “break-in” (trampoline effect) over durability A pro player’s guide on how YOU should choose the right pickleball paddle This video covers the business and equipment side of professional pickleball, including paddle certification differences, why some popular reviewer-loved paddles aren’t used on tour, and practical advice for picking a paddle that fits your game. 00:00 Why Are Pro Pickleball Players Changing Paddles? 00:21 Understanding the Industry Dynamics 01:18 Current Player Contract Movements 02:13 Brands Exiting and Entering the Pro Game 06:09 How Pros Choose Their Paddles 10:48 Differences Between Pro and Amateur Paddles 15:27 How to Choose the Right Paddle for You 17:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🏓 Two Weeks FREE - The Transition Zone - https://tzpickleball.com/znp-14d 💦SLAMIT Hydration - Stay hydrated and locked in on the court with SLAMIT—the best-tasting electrolyte and clean energy alternative proven to boost reaction time. Save with code ZANE20. https://slamit.com/?ref=ZANE 💸 Save Money on PPA Tour Tickets and Registration! https://linktr.ee/ZaneNavratilPickleball 🛒 Pickleball Central — Shop the largest selection of pickleball gear, accessories, and apparel. Automatic discounts applied to your cart + Free Shipping on orders over $49. https://pickleballcentral.com/Zane 👉 Contact Me for in-person coaching, clinics, or virtual coaching https://www.zanenavratilpickleball.com/pages/contact 📩 Subscribe to my Newsletter to keep up with me on and off the court! https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ Gear I Use & Recommend 🏓 ProXR Paddles — Use code ZNPSubscriber for 10% OFF + Free Shipping https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/shop/ 🏓Paddletek Paddles - Use code ZANE10 for 10% OFF https://www.paddletek.com/zanenavratil 👟 Sqairz XRZ Pickleball Shoes https://www.tkqlhce.com/click-101357574-17026154 👕 Muev Performance Apparel https://muevbrand.com/?sca_ref=9229898.RwZgkXC9mqHg1 🦞 Lobster Ball Machines — Use code ZANE5 for 5% OFF Ball Machines & Accessories https://www.lobstersports.com/collections/pickleball-machines 🎤 Get a personalized shoutout from me on Cameo! https://cameo.com/zanenavratilpickleball 💜 Join me in supporting Stop Alzheimer’s Now, a non-profit dedicated to ending Alzheimer’s through research and awareness. https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/ #pickleball #propickleball #pickleballpaddles #PPA #MLP #pickleballnews Source: Zane Navratil Pickleball

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