First Consideration: Materials
In all sporting goods, the most important feature to consider is the quality of the materials. Based on years of experience with competitive beach tennis players, it has been found that the use of carbon or fiberglass composite materials in rackets has achieved the greatest success. High-grade carbon fibers, such as 3K, 12K, and T-700, have the best strength to weight ratios in the industry and will not crack or warp with heavy cycle use. Fiberglass composite materials provide additional flexibility and is impact resistant, which will reduce the likelihood of paddle damage during accidental drops. The average or low-end paddles use plastics or low-grade alloys which will bend, warp, or break when exposed to the sun, sand, and saltwater. A paddle made of premium layered composites will provide reliable structural integrity and performance over an extended period of time.
How to Identify Quality Workmanship
One of the first things I look for in a beach tennis paddle is the quality of the construction or workmanship. Poor construction in beach tennis paddles results in peddles that do not withstand use--this is why I have observed numerous paddle failures. Good paddle manufacturers use hot-pressing one-piece molds and cold-pressing to create a solid, unified paddle. These techniques allow for better material distribution and are less likely to have weak points. Paddles made with these construction techniques are less likely to split or deform. Paddles made with construction that was rushed or of lower quality will have loose attachments and surface defects, which are typically the result of limited use. Quality paddle construction will result in increased usable life of the paddle. Quality construction also ensures that the core and surface of the paddle withstand the daily abuse of beach tennis.
Certifying Agencies Guarantee Quality
Paddles are only considered reliable if they are accompanied by a certificate of international standards compliance due to the excessive testing that is required to receive such a certificate. Therefore, you should look for one that has been approved by reputable institutions such as the USAPA and has been tested by a CE agency. If a paddle has been approved and tested by the above agencies, then you are guaranteed that the paddle is safe, constructed properly, and of a quality that is consistent with the above agencies' standards. Also, reputable paddle manufacturing agencies undergo third-party auditing such as the BSCI to ensure that their manufacturing agencies are producing paddles that are ethically and environmentally safe. Certified paddles will ensure that they will last a long time as well as ensure that the paddles will meet the requirements to be used in competitions. Non-certified paddles are usually cheaper, but they will not last as long as the certified paddles due to the cheaper materials used in their construction and lack of quality control in their manufacturing.
Intended Design and Construction
Paddles are constructed in a way so that various design elements will enhance the paddles ability to with stand for long periods of time while not compromising the paddles ability to perform. The edge of the paddle frame is reinforced to reduce the chance of chipping and cracking from be struck by or striking the ground. The top surface of the paddle is constructed so that it is smooth and will resist the scratching of sand and other materials that become caught in the surface during use. The paddle handle is constructed so that it will resist slipping and will endure repeated gripping and will hold up to periods of prolonged perspiration, such as during a match or practice. We utilize a balanced weight distribution across the paddle to reduce the amount of stress that is placed on the structural components of the paddle and the impacts of swinging the paddle on the structural components of the paddle. All of the above design elements will ensure that the paddle will endure the rigors of repeated use and practices.
Value Over Time and Investment Reasoning
When you buy a beach tennis paddle, you want it to last a long time. Buying a cheap paddle means you will probably have to buy 2 or 3 more to replace it. This paddle is more expensive than a well made paddle, which is typically more expensive, because it will last several years and you will not have to replace it. This means you will not have downtimes because of equipment issues and you will always be able to play at a high level. Durable equipment is crucial in reducing consistent expenses and enhancing play for club members and coaching staff.
Production Support that You Can Rely On for Durable Products
Taspo has strong manufacturing backing for producing consistent and high quality beach tennis paddles. They have a good mix of advanced materials, compliance certification, professional quality assurance, and other resources to produce beach tennis paddles that are of high quality and consistency. In and of itself, the emphasis for durability in construction and materials will ensure the paddles will be maintained at a high and consistent level. This applies to all levels of recreational and competitive paddle tennis.