The future of pickleball paddles is here, and Diadem Pickleball is leading the charge with innovative technology designed to enhance performance and durability. With the upcoming launch of their new BluCore Foam paddles, Diadem is bringing players a fresh take on core construction—one that eliminates common issues like dead spots and delamination while delivering unmatched consistency and control. We sat down with Michael Manglardi, co-founder of Diadem Sports, to get an exclusive first look at what makes BluCore technology a game-changer.
Foam Core Paddles are coming to market - what is the biggest benefits of Foam Cores?
Foam cores solve one of the biggest problems with pickleball paddles: durability. Several industry-leading brands, like Diadem, have begun introducing foam cores to the market because it eliminates several of the disadvantages of honeycomb such as dead spots, delamination, and collapsed cores. Aside from the durability benefits, foam core paddles also lead to more consistent play across the face of the paddle and a larger sweet spot. Lab testing has shown that foam core paddles also offer vibration dampening benefits to players with arm sensitivities.
How does Blue Core Foam differ from other foams in the market?
Diadem's BluCore Technology is the first of it's kind solid core tech to enter the market. Other foam cores have experimented with holes and cutouts, but after extensive testing Diadem determined that a solid core construction was preferred. BluCore utilizes a solid core construction process, meaning there are no gaps or holes in the material. This was intentionally designed for the ultimate consistency across the paddle. BluCore also uses a proprietary blend of closed cell EPP pellets and resin, which are then put into a mold and heated to a precise composition level that we found was ideal for performance. With BluCore, you'll get the long-lasting durability you demand matched with consistent control. So, why is it blue? We tested a range of different colors during development and found the pigment used to create the blue color was the top-performing among all of the cores. Its distinct blue color also makes it clear to consumers that they're getting a genuine, authenticated Diadem BluCore paddle and not a knock-off or counterfeit.
Can you describe how shape and core thickness change play characteristics so our readers can find the right paddle for them?
Paddles come in a wide range of shapes and thicknesses depending on a particular player preference. Generally speaking, a thinner paddle generates more power while a thicker paddle offers more balance and control. When looking at the paddle's shape, an elongated, or pro-shape, paddle gives players better reach, especially for those with two-handed backhands. A wide-body, or max-shape, paddle gives you the largest hitting area and a bigger sweet spot. A standard shape falls right in between and is the most balanced of paddle shapes.
Diadem’s BluCore paddles represent the next step in paddle evolution, offering players a high-performance option that balances power, control, and durability. With their official launch just around the corner, this is only the beginning of what’s to come. Stay tuned for more details, and be ready to experience the difference when these paddles arrive next month—find them soon at PickleballCentral.com!