USA Pickleball Removes Facolos Pro Series Elite X From Approved List After Failing Compliance Review
USA Pickleball has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of paddle certification, stressing the importance of rigorous, standardised testing procedures to ensure fair play and adherence to performance thresholds.
Following additional review and testing, the Facolos Pro Series Elite X paddle was found to exceed allowable surface roughness standards. During the process, Facolos, which counts Gabe Tardio as arguably its biggest athlete, acknowledged that the production version of the paddle differed from the model originally submitted for certification.
As a result, the Facolos Pro Series Elite X has been removed from the USA Pickleball approved paddle list. The governing body confirmed it has been in communication with the manufacturer regarding the paddle’s status and potential next steps in the marketplace.
USA Pickleball underscored its commitment to transparent and consistent equipment testing, emphasising that any paddle seeking or maintaining certification must continue to meet all applicable requirements and compliance thresholds.
Here is USA Pickleball’s complete statement:
Following additional review and testing, the Facolos Pro Series Elite X paddle was found to exceed USA Pickleball’s allowable surface roughness standards. During the review process, Facolos acknowledged that the production version of the paddle differed from the version originally submitted for certification testing.
Based on these findings, the Facolos Pro Series Elite X paddle has been removed from the USA Pickleball approved paddle list. USA Pickleball has been in communication with the manufacturer regarding the status of the paddle and potential next steps related to the marketplace.
USA Pickleball remains committed to transparent and consistent equipment testing standards. Any paddle seeking or maintaining USA Pickleball certification must continue to meet all applicable testing requirements and compliance thresholds.
For the most up‑to‑date list of USA Pickleball‑approved equipment, players are advised to consult the USA Pickleball Equipment Standards and Approved Paddle List.
