Pickleball’s rapid rise has fueled a relentless drive for paddle innovation, with each new generation promising to elevate the game. Today, the spotlight falls on Gen-3 and Gen-4 paddles—two distinct approaches to performance that are reshaping how players approach the court. Gen-3 paddles, with their foam-enhanced designs, marked a bold step beyond traditional honeycomb cores, while Gen-4 paddles take it further, embracing a 100% foam core philosophy. Brands like CRBN, Selkirk, and Joola are at the forefront, each with their own spin on these technologies, but the real story lies in how these generations stack up. From power and durability to consistency and feel, here’s an in-depth look at Gen-3 versus Gen-4—and what it means for your next swing.
Defining the Generations
To grasp the differences, let’s break it down. Gen-3 paddles build on earlier designs—think Gen-1’s cold-pressed polypropylene honeycomb and Gen-2’s thermoformed upgrades—by weaving foam into the mix. This foam might line the perimeter, snake through the core in ribbons, or reinforce key areas alongside other materials like plastic or stringers. It’s an evolution aimed at boosting power and stability without reinventing the wheel. Gen-4, by contrast, tosses convention aside, replacing the entire core with advanced foam. No honeycomb, no hybrids—just pure, purpose-built foam engineered for a new level of performance.
CRBN’s Kyle Goguen offers a clear lens: Gen-3 is about enhancement, layering foam into existing structures, while Gen-4 is a clean slate, a full-foam foundation. This isn’t a simple “better or worse” distinction—these labels reflect construction philosophy, not a universal quality ranking. A top-tier Gen-3 paddle can still outshine a mediocre Gen-4 one, but the shift in materials signals a deeper divide in design goals.
Construction and Durability: Foam’s Big Bet
The heart of this comparison lies in the core. Gen-3 paddles, with their polypropylene backbone, rely on foam as a supporting player. The honeycomb structure provides lightness and rigidity, while added foam—whether injected, adhered, or strategically placed—amps up power and softens impact. But there’s a catch: these hybrid cores can develop weak points. Over time, the polypropylene crushes or the foam separates, leading to what players call “core crushing.” This deformation alters the paddle’s feel, often making it more powerful but less predictable—a headache for anyone chasing consistency.
Gen-4 paddles tackle this head-on. CRBN’s TruFoam Genesis, for instance, ditches polypropylene entirely for a proprietary foam that bounces back to its original shape, shrugging off wear that would doom a Gen-3 core. Selkirk’s PureFoam, debuted in their LABS Project 008, uses high-density foam to resist crushing, promising a paddle that stays true through months of play. Joola’s Tech Flex Power, while integrating foam outside the frame, pairs it with a propulsion core that leans into foam’s durability. The result? Gen-4 paddles don’t just last longer—they maintain their performance profile, skipping the break-in period that Gen-3 designs often require.
Power and Performance: Where the Rubber Meets the Ball
When it comes to raw power, both generations deliver, but in different ways. Gen-3 paddles use foam to enhance the energy transfer of their polypropylene base. The added material stiffens the paddle, channeling more force into the ball—ideal for aggressive players who love a booming drive. However, that power can shift as the core degrades, sometimes turning a controlled weapon into an unpredictable cannon.
Gen-4 paddles refine this equation. CRBN’s TruFoam Genesis offers a plush yet forceful hit, with cutouts that lighten the paddle and center the sweet spot, boosting dwell time for spin and precision. Selkirk’s PureFoam flexes to extend ball contact, pairing with a T700 carbon face for a crisp, powerful snap that doesn’t waver. Joola’s Propulsion Core, found in models like the Magnus IV and Hyperion IV, blends foam-driven explosiveness with a forgiving sweet spot, thanks to their hyper-foam edge wall. Gen-4’s edge lies in consistency—its power doesn’t creep up over time but stays dialed in, giving players a reliable baseline for every shot.
Control and Feel: Precision Under Pressure
Control is where the foam debate gets nuanced. Gen-3 paddles, with their hybrid construction, can feel responsive out of the box, blending the firmness of polypropylene with foam’s cushioning. But as the core breaks down, that feel shifts—sometimes softening too much, sometimes throwing off spin potential. It’s a trade-off: initial versatility versus long-term reliability.
Gen-4 paddles lean into foam’s natural strengths. The TruFoam Genesis mimics a tennis racket’s dwell time, offering a softer touch that enhances spin and placement without sacrificing feedback. Selkirk’s PureFoam dampens vibration for a quieter, cleaner strike, while its textured face grips the ball for wicked curves. Joola’s Tech Flex Power balances flexibility and structure, using perimeter foam to widen the sweet spot—a boon for mishits—while the textured carbon surface maximizes spin. Gen-4’s full-foam approach delivers a consistent, plush feel that adapts to finesse players and power hitters alike, with fewer surprises as the paddle ages.
Player Fit: Who Wins Where?
So, which generation suits you? Gen-3 paddles shine for players who prioritize a familiar feel with a power boost. They’re often lighter and cheaper, thanks to established manufacturing, and their evolving performance can appeal to those who like a paddle that “warms up” over time. Casual players or budget-conscious buyers might find Gen-3’s hybrid design hits the sweet spot, especially from brands still perfecting foam integration.
Gen-4 paddles, meanwhile, cater to the committed. CRBN’s TruFoam Genesis, at 14mm thick, prioritizes stability for all-court players, while Selkirk’s PureFoam targets spin enthusiasts with its Epic and Invikta shapes. Joola’s lineup—Magnus IV, Hyperion IV, Scorpeus IV—suits aggressive types who want forgiveness without losing punch. These paddles demand a higher investment, but their durability and consistency make them a favorite for tournament regulars and pros chasing regulation-friendly performance (all three brands boast USA Pickleball approval, with CRBN eyeing full pro certification).
The Regulatory Angle
Speaking of regulations, paddle rules are tightening. Core crushing in Gen-3 designs often skirts the line of “too hot” for sanctioned play, prompting scrutiny from bodies like USA Pickleball and the UPA-A. Gen-4 paddles, built with compliance in mind, sidestep this. CRBN’s TruFoam Genesis is PBCoR 43 certified, Selkirk’s Project 008 aligns with current standards, and Joola’s Tech Flex Power balances power within legal limits. For competitive players, Gen-4’s predictability isn’t just a perk—it’s a safeguard.
The Verdict: Evolution or Revolution?
Gen-3 versus Gen-4 isn’t a clear-cut battle of good versus better—it’s about trade-offs. Gen-3 paddles offer a proven hybrid approach, blending foam’s benefits with polypropylene’s legacy. They’re versatile, accessible, and powerful, but their longevity and consistency can falter. Gen-4 paddles, with their foam-only cores, rewrite the script, prioritizing durability and a steady feel that holds up under pressure. They’re a leap forward, but that innovation comes with a learning curve and a price tag to match.
Brands are betting big on both. CRBN keeps its X Series alive alongside TruFoam, Selkirk refines PureFoam while honoring its roots, and Joola pushes Tech Flex Power as a Gen-4 contender. For players, the choice hinges on priorities: Gen-3 for a budget-friendly, evolving paddle; Gen-4 for a future-proof investment that delivers from day one. As pickleball grows, this clash of generations isn’t just about foam—it’s about how far the sport can go, one swing at a time.