Onix launched the Theory foam-core paddle as a sub-$100 play, 11SIX24 teased Jelly Bean 2 for late August, and budget foam continues to redefine what recreational buyers should expect from mid-tier specs.
By Deco
While pro tours filled the first week of August, paddle brands kept pushing foam cores down the price ladder. That matters more for most club shoppers than any single playoff scoreline. Here is the cross-market gear news worth tracking.
On July 31, Onix Pickleball introduced the Theory, a foam Cyro Core paddle with a raw carbon face, elongated shape, and 14mm / 16mm thickness options. Brand materials pitch it as a power–control–spin balance paddle with an oversized base for forgiveness — and, critically, as foam construction aimed at a sub-$100 retail band that used to be reserved for polymer honeycomb frames.
Availability notes point to Onix’s own site plus U.S. big-box sports retailers (Dick’s, Scheels). Canadian shoppers should treat those channel lists as U.S.-centric until local listings and CAD pricing appear; always confirm the live store page and return policy.
For context on what “full-foam” and multi-density marketing usually mean — and what they do not guarantee — see our foam cores explainer.
On July 30, reporting from The Dink detailed 11SIX24’s Jelly Bean 2, slated for August 21. Expected details:
That sits above true entry fiberglass but squarely in the “serious recreational / improver” band many players graduate into after a first season. Cross-check against our under-$100 paddle guide and skill tiers before assuming you need the newest foam SKU.
Foam used to be a flagship talking point. This week’s Theory launch and Jelly Bean 2 tease show brands racing to own accessible foam before holiday and fall league buying. Shoppers should still:
Broader IP and premium-foam stories (JOOLA’s spring patent actions; earlier Selkirk OMNI ReactCore messaging) remain the structural backdrop, but they are not new this week. The actionable news for buyers right now is simpler: foam is no longer only a flagship conversation. Shortlist two paddles max, demo if you can, and buy for the week you actually play — not the paddle bag you saw on FS1.
These are models we already list — not a live price. Confirm the current listing before you buy.
Coverage reference: source link (paraphrased; not a quotation).
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Founder & Editor
Deco (Declan Martin) is the founder and editor of US Pickleball Court and The Pickleball Court. He builds catalog-backed buying guides for paddles, court shoes, balls, bags, apparel, accessories, and portable nets, plus pro tour news and where-to-play coverage for US and Canadian players. Focus: verified facts, clear product comparisons, and honest disclosures — not hype.
