The CRBN TruFoam Genesis series is a game changer in pickleball paddles. These are the first “Gen-4” paddles to market and feature a 100% foam core that promises unparalleled durability, consistency and performance. But what does “Gen-4” mean and why should you care?
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For years pickleball paddles have used honeycomb cores, often made of polypropylene. These cores were functional but had limitations. “Gen-1” and “Gen-2” paddles with cold-pressed and hot-pressed honeycomb cores had dead spots, inconsistent bounce and were prone to breakage. “Gen-3” paddles tried to address these issues by adding foam to the core but still used honeycomb or other internal structures that could compromise performance over time.
CRBN has broken free from these limitations with the TruFoam Genesis series. By creating a proprietary TruFoam core they have eliminated the need for honeycomb altogether and ushered in the era of “Gen-4” paddles. This 100% foam core technology delivers performance, durability and consistency that was previously unimaginable.
What is TruFoam?
TruFoam is more than just a fancy name. It’s CRBN’s quest for pickleball perfection. Born from a desire to eliminate the dreaded “core crush” that plagues so many paddles, TruFoam is a proprietary foam technology developed over 18 months and 200 prototypes. This isn’t your average EVA or PMI foam; it’s a special blend inspired by the surf industry where foam cores have been trusted for decades for their durability and performance in harsh conditions.
Gen 4 Technology: Core Redesign
The TruFoam Genesis series has the first ever tournament approved 100% foam core. This new design eliminates the weaknesses of traditional honeycomb cores and delivers exceptional durability and performance from day one.
Features:
- Unbeatable Durability: No more core crush! The TruFoam core is super tough and won’t break down like traditional honeycomb cores. Play with confidence knowing your paddle will hold up and perform consistently game after game, month after month.
- More Spin and Dwell Time: The TruFoam core creates more dwell time – the time the ball is on the paddle face – and flexes to generate more spin. Imagine adding topspin to your drives for deep shots or backspin to your drops for tricky angles that keep your opponents guessing. With the TruFoam Genesis you’ll have the control to shape your shots and own the court.
- Balanced Power: Some players want maximum power but CRBN knows true mastery comes from balance. The TruFoam Genesis series has a balanced power level perfect for players who want to improve their game overall. The focus is on control and precision so you can place your shots. This is in line with the direction of pickleball where finesse and strategy are becoming more important.
- Thickness Simplified: Choosing the right paddle thickness can be a puzzle. CRBN has solved that problem with the TruFoam Genesis series. The core technology allows for customized performance so you can have optimal playability with one 14mm thickness. No more second guessing your paddle choice – the TruFoam Genesis has the perfect balance of power, control and feel.
- Premium Paddle Face: The TFG series has a unique T700 raw carbon fiber layup with an added layer of fiberglass for strength and performance. This combination gives a responsive feel and great ball control. The carbon fiber gives a crisp feel on contact and the fiberglass adds forgiveness and durability. You’ll feel connected to the ball and be able to make your shots with confidence and precision.
The 3 Shapes
The TruFoam Genesis series comes in three shapes. The 1 which is elongated, the 2 which is a standard/widebody shape, and the 3 which is a hybrid shape:
| Feature | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length (in) | 16.5 | 16 | 16.5 |
| Width (in) | 7.35 | 7.85 | 7.5 |
| Handle Length (in) | 5.5 | 5.25 | 5.25 |
| Handle Circumference (in) | 4.125 | 4.125 | 4.125 |
| Average Weight (oz) | 7.8-8.1 | 7.9-8.2 | 8.0-8.3 |
| Balance Point (mm) | 246 | 237 | 245 |
| Twist Weight | 5.75 | 6.75 | 6.21 |
| Swing Weight | 118-120 | 112-114 | 118-120 |
| Retail Price | $279.99 | $279.99 | $279.99 |
How does it play?
Power: The TruFoam Genesis series has more power than the X Series but CRBN didn’t make it overpowered. They prioritized control and precision. So if you want to take your game up a notch with a paddle that has balance of power and control the TruFoam Genesis is for you.
Control: The TruFoam core has great control so you can make a wider range of shots with finesse and confidence. The extra dwell time and spin generation makes the paddle control oriented.
Spin: The TruFoam core creates more dwell time and flexes to generate more spin. You can put more shape on the ball, add topspin to your drives and backspin to your drops and keep your opponents guessing.
Pop: The TruFoam Genesis has a nice pop on contact with the ball. The combination of the foam core and carbon fiber face gives a responsive feel.
Conclusion
The CRBN TruFoam Genesis series is a new breed of pickleball paddles. With their 100% foam core, unique design and balanced performance these paddles are for all levels of players. Whether you want unmatched durability, more spin or just a paddle that feels great in your hand the TruFoam Genesis series is worth checking out.
But there’s more to the story than just specs and features. CRBN’s commitment to innovation, their California based rapid prototyping process and their desire to make a paddle that will last a lifetime all contribute to making the TruFoam Genesis series something special.
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