CRBN released their long-awaited TruFoam Genesis lineup, marking their first foam core paddle that could change the game. 

The pickleball gear experts at Pickleball Central jumped in to try out the paddle and see how it performs.  

“Up until now, no one has yet succeeded in creating a foam core pickleball paddle that’s top tier, competitive, durable, and not an overpowered rocket launcher,” said Joseph Sutton from Pickleball Central. 

Available in three shapes, CRBN’s TruFoam Genesis is made up of a high density foam to eliminate core crush, thickness, and the trampoline effect. 

The surface is a blend of carbon fiber and fiberglass, with the result being durable, poppy, balanced, and a good sweet spot. 

After playing with the TruFoam for about three months in Seattle’s 20-to-70 degree weather, Sutton described the power like this.

“The power is linear, unlike some exceptionally poppy paddles that want to jump off the face no matter how hard you swing. The TruFoams were responsive to energy input with a very predictable energy output. The softer shots felt shapeable and precise. And for the serves and drives, you can really swing out and put serious pace on the ball without feeling limited,” he described.

When it comes to spin, the TruFoam lands in the elite category. 

As a result of the foam core, the dwell time that the ball is on the paddle is elongated and allows the player to catch and release shots powerfully. 

The team at CRBN said that the core allows you to generate spin similarly to the strings on a tennis racket, so keep that in mind when you play. 

“Because the ball hangs on the paddle longer, your shots will actually launch at a higher angle, so you will need to close the face of the paddle more than you’re used to on top spin drops and dinks to keep the ball low over the net,” advised Sutton. 

Sutton believes that this will be the biggest adjustment for players switching to the TruFoam, but it's well worth the effort. 

So, who are these paddles for? They’re for the kind of players that like spin, want durability, and bring good technique to their game.

Beginners and players who hit more flat, this paddle is probably not for you. 

With all that in mind, this paddle appears to be a major game changer when it comes to a high-level paddle with an innovative core. 

Shop the new paddles now on Pickleball Central to see if they work for you.