evolution of other racket and paddle sports , and how changes in materials and equipment have affected those sports , thus aiding in our decision-making .
It is an ongoing process to research more representative and comprehensive methodologies of testing for critical performance characteristics using industry-standard ASTM test methods to evaluate surface friction , ball rebound , material behavior , etc . Benefits of implementing these industry-standard protocols include increasing reproducibility by the manufacturers while reducing variation in testing .
In 2016 , a testing method was put in place to measure the material hardness of tournament balls , with the goal of ensuring consistent playability and rebound characteristics . As part of our goal to improve the relevance , accuracy , and consistency of our testing procedures , and as a logical transition from the first phase of testing for those performance characteristics , we implemented an industry-standard ASTM compression test method that is the norm in the sports industry . structural materials and finishing graphics . In addition , articles 2 . E . 2 . a and 2 . E . 6 were put in place to address applied surfaces and finishes that increased friction . Since then , there has been a significant trend in materials , both in construction material and finishes , that required re-evaluating both the means of testing as well as what the acceptable threshold should be . As a result , the EEC implemented an ASTM test using coefficient of friction that evaluates that attribute regardless of the surface material or cosmetic finish .
The variety and potential combinations of core and surface materials require standardized testing to ensure compliance with USA Pickleball standards .
Most recently , new paddle configurations have started to emerge , e . g ., “ open throat .” In response to that , the EEC has developed a test to assess a paddle ’ s overall flexibility to ensure that it falls within an acceptable performance range .
In addition to the above advancements in testing , this year the EEC has formally launched a Compliance program to better ensure that paddles and balls continue to be manufactured to original specification throughout their life cycle . This is modeled after similar programs in other racket and paddle sports .
An outdoor ball undergoing the compression test .
Also in 2016 , a test was devised to limit extreme friction-inducing characteristics that were a result of surface irregularities common in that period ’ s paddle
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OCTOBER 2021 | MAGAZINE 87