The founding of Paddletek Group──the full picture of the three-brand merger
In December 2025, the long-established U.S. paddle maker Paddletek merged with ProXR and Yobow to establish a new holding company,「Paddletek Group」. Four brands—including the padel brand Padeltek, not just pickleball—come under its umbrella, unifying product development, player support, and distribution.
As CEO,Ron Saslow, founder of the private equity firm Thirty-5 Capital, took office. Founder Curtis Smith commented, “The founding of Paddletek Group is an important milestone for both pickleball and padel.”
Why merge now?──the market environment behind it
Paddletek has a track record of having manufactured and soldover 1 million paddlesin the U.S., and in the sales data of the SFIA (Sports & Fitness Industry Association) it holds the No. 2 spot in the market for advanced players. Meanwhile, ProXR has broadened support among intermediate-to-advanced players with its proprietary spin technology.
By integrating the two companies' technology and distribution networks, the aim is to strengthen competitiveness against majors like JOOLA and Selkirk. In addition, it's a stepping stone to enter the globally fast-growing padel market with the Padeltek brand.
The capability of the first product, “Reserve HoneyFoam”
Released in early 2026 as the first product after the merger wasReserve HoneyFoam No.001. Its main features are as follows.
- HoneyFoam multi-foam core: a 3-layer foam expands the sweet spot and extends dwell time (contact time)
- EVA foam wrap: EVA foam placed in the 4 o'clock to 8 o'clock direction improves energy return
- PT-700 unidirectional carbon fiber surface: secures spin performance while maintaining grip even in high-intensity play
- 14mm / 16mm available in two types. 14mm is more pop-oriented, 16mm more control-oriented
Because it's a limited-production model, it's sold only at Pickleball Central and the Paddletek official site. It's announced that once stock runs out, there will be no restock as the “Reserve” series.
What happens to the player support setup?
Paddletek Group states clearly that it will continue to support the sponsored players of the existing Paddletek and ProXR brands. On the 2026-season PPA Tour and MLP too, multiple players using the group's paddles are entered. Details of specific contracted players are expected to be announced in sequence on the official site.
Entering the padel market──a new strategy for pickleball companies
Behind Paddletek Group's focus on padel too is the explosive increase in the padel population centered on Europe and South America. Pickleball and padel share commonalities in the equipment used and competitive characteristics, making it relatively easy to divert manufacturing technology. The company's move to go global with the Padeltek brand symbolizes a coming diversification trend across the pickleball industry.
What's the impact on the Japanese market?
At present there's no specific announcement regarding Paddletek Group's Japan rollout. However, domestically as well,demand for foam-core paddles is surging, and there's a strong possibility that new-material models like HoneyFoam will be distributed via Japanese distributors.
Points to watch going forward
Paddletek Group has stated it will “continue to introduce new paddle lines leveraging the strengths of both brands,” and the release of several more models within 2026 is anticipated. The specific lineup of padel products and new contracts with PPA Tour players are also worth watching.
Summary
The birth of Paddletek Group through the merger of the three companies Paddletek, ProXR, and Yobow could greatly change the competitive landscape of the paddle industry. The first product, Reserve HoneyFoam, shows high completeness despite being a limited model, and attention is gathering on the expansion of the lineup going forward.JOOLA's patent lawsuitAmid it rocking the industry, the company's move to go on the offensive through technical integration is one to keep an eye on.
FAQ
Q. What is Paddletek Group?
A. It's a holding company established in December 2025 when the U.S. paddle maker Paddletek merged with ProXR and Yobow. In addition to three pickleball brands, it also has the padel brand Padeltek under its umbrella.
Q. Where can I buy the Reserve HoneyFoam paddle?
A. It's sold exclusively at Pickleball Central and the Paddletek official site. Because it's limited production, no restock is planned after it sells out.
Q. Will ProXR remain as a brand going forward?
A. Yes. The ProXR name and product line will continue as a brand under Paddletek Group. It's announced that support for existing sponsored players will also be maintained.
