Full Foam vs. Foam-Enhanced Paddles: The 2025 Buyer's Guide That Clears Up the Confusion
If you've been shopping for a pickleball paddle recently, you've probably noticed the word "foam" appearing everywhere. CRBN TruFoam Genesis. Honolulu J2NF. JOOLA Perseus Pro IV with Hyper-Foam Edge Wall. Selkirk LABS Boomstik. The list goes on.
But here's where it gets confusing: not all "foam" paddles are created equal. Some feature 100% foam cores that completely eliminate the traditional honeycomb structure, while others use polymer honeycomb cores enhanced with strategically placed foam elements. Both are marketed as "foam paddles," yet they offer distinctly different playing experiences.
Welcome to 2025—the year foam technology went mainstream in pickleball. Whether you're upgrading from an older paddle or trying to understand what all the hype is about, this guide will cut through the marketing noise and help you make an informed decision about which foam paddle technology is right for your game.
Understanding the Foam Revolution: What Changed in 2025?
For years, polypropylene honeycomb cores dominated the pickleball paddle market. These cores, made from hexagonal cells arranged in a honeycomb pattern, offered a proven balance of power, control, and lightweight construction. But they had a fatal flaw: core crushing.
Over time and repeated impacts, the honeycomb cells could compress and deform, creating dead spots on the paddle face and inconsistent performance. Players would need to replace paddles not because they broke, but because they no longer performed the way they did when new.
Enter foam technology—a complete reimagining of paddle core construction that promises to solve the core crushing problem while delivering improved vibration dampening, more consistent sweet spots, and better durability.
But—and this is the critical distinction—there are two very different approaches to incorporating foam into paddle design.
The Two Types of Foam Paddles: Full Foam vs. Foam-Enhanced Hybrids
Full Foam Core Paddles: The True Gen 4 Revolution
What They Are: Full foam core paddles eliminate the honeycomb structure entirely, replacing it with 100% foam throughout the paddle core.
How They're Built: Manufacturers use specialized high-density foam materials (such as EPP foam, EVA foam, or proprietary foam blends) engineered specifically for pickleball. These foams are often arranged in multi-density configurations, with denser foam in the hitting zone and different foam formulations around the perimeter for optimal performance and weight distribution.
Key Benefits:
- No core crushing: Without honeycomb cells to compress, these paddles maintain consistent performance over their lifetime
- No break-in period: Full foam paddles perform consistently from the first hit
- Superior vibration dampening: Foam absorbs impact vibrations more effectively than honeycomb structures, reducing arm fatigue
- Edge-to-edge sweet spot: The continuous foam core provides more consistent response across the entire paddle face
- Enhanced durability: Foam cores are less susceptible to delamination and structural failure
Playing Characteristics: Most full foam paddles offer a denser, more connected feel when striking the ball. Players often describe a "pocketing" sensation where the ball seems to sink into the paddle face slightly before release, providing excellent control and high dwell time.
Examples of True Full Foam Paddles:
- CRBN TruFoam Genesis
- Honolulu Sword & Shield J2NF
- Selkirk LABS Boomstik
- Vatic V-Sol Pro
- Ronbus Quanta
- Six Zero Black Opal
Foam-Enhanced Hybrid Paddles: Gen 3.5 Evolution
What They Are: Foam-enhanced hybrid paddles retain a traditional polymer honeycomb core but incorporate foam elements in strategic locations—most commonly around the perimeter of the paddle.
How They're Built: These paddles start with a polypropylene honeycomb core (the same technology used in Gen 3 paddles) and then inject or insert foam around the edges, creating what manufacturers call a "foam edge wall" or "foam perimeter."
Key Benefits:
- Traditional honeycomb responsiveness: Players who love the crisp, responsive feel of honeycomb cores get to keep it
- Improved edge performance: Foam perimeters enlarge the sweet spot and reduce the harsh feedback from off-center hits
- Enhanced durability: Foam edge walls help prevent delamination, a common failure point in traditional paddles
- Proven technology: These paddles build on the well-understood performance characteristics of Gen 3 honeycomb paddles
Playing Characteristics: Foam-enhanced hybrids typically deliver the familiar pop and responsiveness of traditional honeycomb paddles, with added forgiveness on mishits and improved stability. The core feel remains similar to what most intermediate and advanced players are accustomed to.
Examples of Foam-Enhanced Hybrid Paddles:
- JOOLA Perseus Pro IV (Hyper-Foam Edge Wall)
- Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta (FlexFoam Perimeter)
Critical Clarification: Thermoformed ≠ Foam Core
Here's a common misconception we need to address: Thermoformed is a manufacturing process, not a core material.
Thermoforming refers to the way paddles are constructed. In this process, the paddle's components—face sheets, core, and edge guard—are carefully arranged in a specialized mold where heat and pressure fuse them together into a seamlessly integrated unit. This creates a more durable bond between layers and helps prevent delamination.
The key point: Thermoformed paddles can have either foam cores OR honeycomb cores. The manufacturing process is independent of the core material.
For example:
- The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV is thermoformed with a honeycomb + foam perimeter core
- The CRBN TruFoam Genesis is thermoformed with a full foam core
- Many Gen 3 paddles are thermoformed with traditional honeycomb cores
So when you see "thermoformed" in a paddle description, you still need to look at the core specifications to understand what you're actually getting.
Top Full Foam Paddles for 2025: In-Depth Reviews
CRBN TruFoam Genesis (RM 999)
The CRBN TruFoam Genesis represents the first true Gen 4 paddle to hit the market, and it's built with a 100% proprietary high-density foam core that CRBN developed over 18 months and 200+ prototypes.
Core Technology: CRBN's TruFoam blend is a unique foam material inspired by surfboard foam cores, reimagined specifically for pickleball. It's neither EVA nor PMI foam—it's a completely proprietary formulation engineered for durability, consistency, and control. The core features strategically placed voids to optimize weight distribution, flex, and energy return.
Specifications:
- Thickness: 14mm
- Available in multiple shapes (CRBN¹, CRBN², CRBN³, CRBN⁴)
- All models are USAP approved and PBCoR 43 Certified
- Price: RM 999 (regular RM 1,280)
Performance: On the power-to-control spectrum, the TruFoam Genesis sits firmly in the all-court category. It's not a pure power paddle, but it's also not a full control paddle. The foam core delivers a softer, more connected feel with improved durability and consistent performance that won't degrade over time.
Best For: Players seeking cutting-edge Gen 4 technology, those upgrading from paddles that have developed dead spots, and anyone who values long-term consistency over the life of their paddle.
View the CRBN TruFoam Genesis on Picklefox.com
Honolulu Sword & Shield J2NF (RM 855)
The Honolulu J2NF stands out as the best value proposition in the full foam category, delivering Gen 4.5 performance at a price point that undercuts most premium paddles significantly.
Core Technology: The J2NF features a sophisticated multi-density foam construction with an EPP foam core interlocked with EVA perimeter foam through a notched system that resembles puzzle pieces. This "floating-pivoting core" design provides exceptional durability and eliminates the need for any break-in period.
Specifications:
- Average weight: 8.0-8.3 oz
- Swing weight: 110-114
- Twist weight: 7
- Surface: Carbon fiber, fiberglass, carbon fiber (CFC) layup
- Grip length: 5.5" (original J2) & 6" (extended J2)
- USAP PBCoR test maxed out at .434
Performance: The J2NF is designed for players seeking the complete package: power, spin, control, and a large sweet spot. The multi-density foam construction provides exceptional feel and responsiveness while maintaining the durability benefits of full foam cores.
Best For: Players who want full foam performance without the premium price tag, those with faster hand speeds who appreciate responsive paddles, and anyone tired of dealing with core crush in their current paddles.
Check out our detailed comparison guide: Decoding Honolulu's J2NF, J2NFK, and J2NFT: A Complete Buyer's Guide
Selkirk LABS Boomstik (RM 1,418)
For players who want the absolute premium full foam experience, the Selkirk LABS Boomstik represents the pinnacle of current foam technology—and it's priced accordingly.
Core Technology: The BoomCore features PureFoam surrounded by an EVA Power Ring fused together in a 100% foam construction that prevents core crush and delamination. This is paired with Selkirk's MOI (Moment of Inertia) Tuning System with semi-permanent perimeter weighting for maximum sweet spot and balance.
Specifications (Elongated):
- Average weight: 8.1-8.4 oz
- Handle length: 5.8"
- Paddle length: 16.5"
- Paddle width: 7.45"
- Face: Multistrata T700 Carbon (3-layers) with InfiniGrit texture
- Core thickness: 16mm
- Swing weight: 118pts
Performance: The Boomstik delivers 14% more exit speed compared to Selkirk's SLK ERA Power, making it one of the most powerful paddles on the market. The InfiniGrit texture generates up to 2,200 RPM spin, rivaling the best spin paddles available. It's designed for intermediate to advanced players seeking maximum power and durability.
Available Shapes:
- Elongated: Longest paddle shape with longer handle
- Widebody: Wider paddle face with longer handle
Best For: Advanced players who prioritize power, those seeking the absolute longest-lasting paddle investment, and players who appreciate premium materials and construction.
Shop the Selkirk LABS Boomstik on Picklefox.com | Widebody Version
Other Notable Full Foam Options
Ronbus Quanta (RM 561): EP foam core with TPE elastomer insert for vibration reduction. A budget power paddle that competes directly with premium models, though it benefits from added weight customization to reach its full potential. Available in five different shapes with fourth-generation foam core technology at an exceptional price point.
Six Zero Black Opal: Delivers genuinely elite power generation with diamond-tough texture for deceptively good spin. Best suited for players with confident, loose playing styles.
Top Foam-Enhanced Hybrid Paddles for 2025
JOOLA Perseus Pro IV (RM 1,259)
The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV was one of the most anticipated paddle launches of 2025, used by 10 MLP pros and representing JOOLA's flagship Gen 3.5 technology.
Core Technology: The Perseus Pro IV combines a polypropylene honeycomb core with JOOLA's Hyper-Foam Edge Wall—specialized foam injected around the paddle's perimeter to deliver consistent edge-to-edge performance. This dual-layer foam design sits outside the frame but under the edge guard, using Tech Flex Power (TFP) technology to enhance the sweet spot and power generation.
Specifications:
16mm Model:
- Average weight: 8.1 oz (range: 7.9-8.3 oz)
- Paddle length: 16.5"
- Paddle width: 7.5"
- Handle length: 5.5"
- Grip: 4 1/4" (Medium)
- Average weight: 7.9 oz (range: 7.7-8.1 oz)
- Paddle length: 16.5"
- Paddle width: 7.5"
- Handle length: 5.5"
- Grip: 4 1/8" (Small)
Shared Features:
- Textured carbon fiber face
- USAP and UPA-A approved
- Price: RM 1,259
Performance: The Perseus Pro IV maintains the crisp, responsive honeycomb feel that made previous Perseus models popular while adding the forgiveness and sweet spot enhancement of the foam perimeter. The 16mm version offers more control and touch, while the 14mm provides additional power and pop.
Best For: Power players who appreciate the traditional honeycomb response, Ben Johns fans, and anyone upgrading from Gen 3 paddles who wants familiar performance with modern improvements.
Read our full analysis: The JOOLA Perseus Pro 4 in the Foam Era: Does This Gen 3 Powerhouse Still Pack a Punch?
Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta (RM 899)
The Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta represents Selkirk's premium foam-enhanced hybrid offering, combining their thickest honeycomb core with FlexFoam perimeter technology.
Core Technology: Features a 20mm X7 Thikset Polypropylene Honeycomb core—one of the thickest cores on the market—enhanced with FlexFoam Perimeter technology. This specially formulated foam is injected across the paddle's entire perimeter to increase durability, add strategic weight, enlarge the sweet spot, and absorb vibrations.
Specifications:
- Average weight: 7.95 oz (range: 7.8-8.1 oz)
- Paddle length: 16.45"
- Paddle width: 7.5"
- Handle length: 5.35"
- Grip: 4 1/4" (Medium)
- Core thickness: 20mm
- Face: Florek Blended Carbon Fiber with ProSpin+ NextGen Micro Texture
Additional Technologies:
- Aero-DuraEdge Edgeless Technology for increased edge reliability
- CM Anti-Torque Technology for enhanced stability and control
- 360° Proto Molding technology
- Made in the USA
- USAPA approved
Performance: The 20mm core thickness makes the LUXX Control Air one of the most control-oriented paddles in this category. It excels at soft game finesse, resets, and precise ball placement. The FlexFoam Perimeter adds forgiveness without sacrificing the deliberate, controlled feel that advanced players appreciate.
Best For: Control specialists, players with strong technique who value precision over power, and those seeking maximum touch and feel in the soft game.
Shop the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta on Picklefox.com
How to Choose: Full Foam vs. Foam-Enhanced Hybrid
The decision between full foam and foam-enhanced hybrid technology ultimately comes down to your playing preferences, experience level, and what you value most in a paddle.
Choose Full Foam Core If:
You prioritize long-term durability and consistency. Full foam cores eliminate the core crushing problem entirely, ensuring your paddle performs as well in month 12 as it did on day one. If you're tired of replacing paddles that develop dead spots, full foam is the answer.
You prefer a denser, more connected feel. The "pocketing" sensation that full foam paddles provide—where the ball seems to sink into the paddle face slightly—offers exceptional control and high dwell time. Many players describe it as feeling more "plush" or "solid" compared to honeycomb.
You value maximum vibration dampening. If you experience arm fatigue or discomfort during long playing sessions, foam cores absorb impact vibrations more effectively than honeycomb structures, reducing stress on your joints.
You want an edge-to-edge sweet spot. The continuous foam core construction provides more consistent response across the entire paddle face, making off-center hits more forgiving.
You're making a long-term investment. While some full foam paddles carry premium prices, their longevity means you won't need to replace them as frequently as traditional honeycomb paddles.
Choose Foam-Enhanced Hybrid If:
You love the traditional honeycomb response. If you're coming from Gen 3 paddles and appreciate the crisp, responsive pop of honeycomb cores, foam-enhanced hybrids preserve that familiar feel while adding modern improvements.
You want proven Gen 3.5 technology. Foam-enhanced hybrids build on years of honeycomb paddle refinement, incorporating foam strategically to address known weaknesses without completely reinventing the wheel.
Specific models match your playing style. The Perseus Pro IV, for example, is specifically designed for power players who want aggressive baseline play. If a foam-enhanced model perfectly suits your game, that may outweigh the theoretical advantages of full foam.
You're upgrading from older polymer paddles. Foam-enhanced hybrids provide a more familiar transition path than jumping straight to full foam technology, making the adjustment period smoother.
You prefer a responsive, lively feel. Some players find full foam paddles feel too dense or muted. If you prefer a paddle that provides more immediate feedback and responsiveness, foam-enhanced hybrids might suit you better.
Budget Breakdown: Finding the Right Foam Paddle for Your Investment
Under RM 900: Best Value
Ronbus Quanta (RM 561) - Exceptional value with true fourth-generation foam core technology available in five different shapes. EP foam core with TPE elastomer insert provides impressive power generation that competes directly with premium models.
Honolulu J2NF (RM 855) - The sweet spot of value and performance, offering true full foam Gen 4.5 technology with multi-density EPP and EVA foam construction. This delivers premium performance that rivals paddles costing significantly more.
RM 900-RM 1,300: Premium Performance
Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta (RM 899) - For control specialists who want the thickest core on the market (20mm) enhanced with FlexFoam Perimeter technology. Currently on sale, making it exceptional value in the premium control paddle category.
CRBN TruFoam Genesis (RM 999) - The first true Gen 4 paddle with 100% proprietary foam core technology. CRBN's 18-month development process and 200+ prototypes resulted in a paddle that sets the standard for foam core performance. Currently on sale from regular price of RM 1,280.
JOOLA Perseus Pro IV (RM 1,259) - The most anticipated foam-enhanced hybrid of 2025, combining proven honeycomb technology with Hyper-Foam Edge Wall innovation. Available in both 14mm and 16mm thicknesses to suit different playing styles.
Premium RM 1,400+: Top-Tier Investment
Selkirk LABS Boomstik (RM 1,418) - The pinnacle of full foam technology, featuring BoomCore construction with PureFoam and EVA Power Ring. The MOI Tuning System, InfiniGrit texture generating 2,200 RPM spin, and 14% increased exit speed make this the choice for players who want the absolute best and are willing to invest accordingly. Available in both Elongated and Widebody shapes.
Making Your Decision: Key Considerations Beyond Core Type
While the full foam vs. foam-enhanced hybrid decision is important, don't forget to consider these additional factors:
Playing Style:
- Power players: Look for paddles with higher exit speeds and thinner cores (14mm)
- Control specialists: Seek thicker cores (16mm-20mm) with deliberate, consistent feel
- All-court players: Consider mid-range options that balance power and control
Skill Level:
- Beginners: Start with value options like the Ronbus Quanta or Honolulu J2NF
- Intermediate: Consider the full range, focusing on paddles that address your specific weaknesses
- Advanced/Professional: Premium options like the Boomstik or CRBN TruFoam Genesis maximize performance
Paddle Shape:
- Elongated: More reach and power, smaller sweet spot
- Standard/Invikta: Balanced all-court performance
- Widebody: Larger sweet spot, better for doubles
Weight:
- Lighter (7.5-8.0 oz): Faster hand speed, better for quick exchanges
- Medium (8.0-8.5 oz): Balanced, suitable for most players
- Heavier (8.5+ oz): More power and stability, better for singles
The Future of Foam: What's Next for 2025 and Beyond
The foam revolution is just beginning. As manufacturers continue refining foam formulations and construction techniques, we expect to see:
More affordable full foam options as manufacturing processes become more efficient and economies of scale improve.
Hybrid foam designs that combine multiple foam densities and types within a single paddle for optimized performance across different zones of the paddle face.
Specialized foam formulations targeting specific playing styles—power-oriented foams, control-focused foams, and balanced all-court foams.
Integration with other technologies like advanced surface textures, carbon fiber layups, and edge guard innovations to create even more refined playing experiences.
The transition from honeycomb to foam cores represents one of the most significant technological shifts in pickleball paddle history. Just as carbon fiber faces replaced fiberglass for most serious players, foam cores are likely to become the new standard for premium paddles.
Conclusion: The Right Foam Paddle Is Waiting for You
The foam paddle revolution of 2025 has given players more options than ever before—but also more confusion. The key takeaway from this guide is simple: understand the difference between full foam and foam-enhanced hybrid technology, then choose based on your playing preferences and priorities.
If you want maximum durability, consistent long-term performance, and superior vibration dampening, full foam cores like the CRBN TruFoam Genesis, Honolulu J2NF, or Selkirk LABS Boomstik are the way forward. These paddles eliminate core crushing entirely and represent the true Gen 4 future of pickleball.
If you prefer the familiar responsiveness of honeycomb cores but want modern improvements, foam-enhanced hybrids like the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV or Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta deliver the best of both worlds—proven Gen 3 performance enhanced with strategic foam placement.
No matter which technology you choose, 2025 is the perfect time to upgrade. The foam revolution has matured enough that manufacturers have worked out the early kinks, prices are becoming more competitive, and the performance benefits are undeniable.
Ready to experience the foam revolution for yourself? Browse our complete collection of foam core and foam-enhanced paddles at Picklefox.com, where we carry the latest Gen 4 technology from top manufacturers. Our team is here to help you find the perfect paddle for your game—reach out with any questions, and let's get you equipped with technology that will last for years to come.
Additional Resources
For readers interested in learning more about foam paddle technology and specific models, these resources provide additional technical details and independent reviews:
- The Dink Pickleball - Full Foam Revolution Analysis
- Pickleball Effect - CRBN TruFoam Genesis Series Review
- ThePickleballStudio - Honolulu J2NF & J2FC+ Review
- Pickleheads - JOOLA Perseus Pro IV Review
- Speak Pickleball - Comprehensive Paddle Reviews and Specifications