Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
EPP foam, an expanded bead-based polypropylene, delivers the Combat Paddle's hallmark "sweet spot" expansion, prioritizing control for dinking and resets. Its closed-cell, microcellular architecture provides exceptional rebound and thermal stability, ensuring consistent performance in variable court conditions.
Key scientific properties include:
- Density: 20–90 kg/m³, with optimal pickleball grades at 30–60 kg/m³ for featherlight (1.3 lb/ft³) responsiveness.
- Compressive Strength: 0.08–0.1 MPa at 10–25% strain for low-density variants, scaling to higher values with density; energy absorption increases nonlinearly with strain rate, ideal for dynamic hits.
- Young's Modulus: 2.34 MPa at 30 kg/m³ to 6.34 MPa at 60 kg/m³, exhibiting rate-dependent stiffening for precise energy return—up to 90% recovery post-compression.
EPP's edge in pickleball lies in its superior dwell time extension (ball stays on strings 10–15% longer than EVA alternatives), fostering spin and placement accuracy while muting vibrations for quieter, elbow-friendly play. Studies confirm EPP's multiple-impact resistance surpasses traditional foams by 20–40%, with modulus-density curves enabling firm yet forgiving cores that predictably handle touch shots. In the modular system, EPP inserts shine for intermediate players seeking control upgrades, offering a firmer alternative to softer foams without the rigidity penalty of honeycomb, thus broadening accessibility across skill levels.
EPP foam, an expanded bead-based polypropylene, delivers the Combat Paddle's hallmark "sweet spot" expansion, prioritizing control for dinking and resets. Its closed-cell, microcellular architecture provides exceptional rebound and thermal stability, ensuring consistent performance in variable court conditions.
Key scientific properties include:
- Density: 20–90 kg/m³, with optimal pickleball grades at 30–60 kg/m³ for featherlight (1.3 lb/ft³) responsiveness.
- Compressive Strength: 0.08–0.1 MPa at 10–25% strain for low-density variants, scaling to higher values with density; energy absorption increases nonlinearly with strain rate, ideal for dynamic hits.
- Young's Modulus: 2.34 MPa at 30 kg/m³ to 6.34 MPa at 60 kg/m³, exhibiting rate-dependent stiffening for precise energy return—up to 90% recovery post-compression.
EPP's edge in pickleball lies in its superior dwell time extension (ball stays on strings 10–15% longer than EVA alternatives), fostering spin and placement accuracy while muting vibrations for quieter, elbow-friendly play. Studies confirm EPP's multiple-impact resistance surpasses traditional foams by 20–40%, with modulus-density curves enabling firm yet forgiving cores that predictably handle touch shots. In the modular system, EPP inserts shine for intermediate players seeking control upgrades, offering a firmer alternative to softer foams without the rigidity penalty of honeycomb, thus broadening accessibility across skill levels.