CRBN TruFoam Waves: Power, Feel, and the Next Evolution of Foam-Core Design

A Paddle That Redefines Feel

When CRBN launched the TruFoam Genesis, it changed what players expected from a foam-core paddle. The new TruFoam Waves builds on that foundation, but with a completely new internal design that adds flexibility, feel, and power in one balanced package.

As Brodie Smith puts it, “I really want to break down why I genuinely love this paddle so much, what makes it so special, and why I’m going to recommend it to so many players out there.”

This paddle isn’t just an iteration—it’s a genuine leap forward in paddle technology.

The Core That Changes Everything

The Genesis core used circular voids cut into the foam to create its signature response. The Waves, true to its name, replaces those with a wave-pattern structure running from top to bottom.

That subtle shift transforms how the paddle flexes and compresses, allowing it to both absorb and release energy in a controlled way.

“It has these wave designs within the foam pattern of the core. And that allows the paddle to play in such a different way than the Genesis did.”

The result? A paddle that feels softer on touch shots yet delivers explosive power when you accelerate through contact.

Feel That You Can Actually Control

The secret behind that feel comes down to dwell time—how long the ball sits on the paddle face. Brodie describes the TruFoam Waves as having a dwell time “unmatched compared to any other paddle that exists.”

That extra hold gives you what players call pocketing: the ball sits deeper on the face, allowing more control over spin, arc, and direction.

“It feels like tennis strings on a tennis racket. So if you’re a tennis player, this is kind of a dream for you.”

The payoff is clear: third-shot drops dip with precision, resets land softly, and drives carry heavy spin without sailing long.

Power Without the Pop

Most “power paddles” on the market rely on stiffness or pop, which can make them difficult to control near the kitchen. CRBN took a different route. The TruFoam Waves is built for plow-through power—not trampoline pop.

Because the paddle compresses slightly through contact, it stores and releases energy more efficiently. That means you can swing hard without losing feel.

“It’s soft when I need it to be. And then when I need this paddle to rip, it rips so hard.”

It even maxes out CRBN’s PB Core 43 exit velocity—the upper limit of power allowed under official testing—while still maintaining touch and consistency.

Designed With Player Feedback

The TruFoam Waves was shaped by extensive playtesting with high-level players. Brodie explains that CRBN intentionally designed it for “that heavy, heavy pocketing dwell time versus something that’s super poppy.”

The goal was to give competitive players more control in transition and more confidence at the kitchen line—two areas where feel often makes or breaks a match.

Who It’s Built For

This paddle fits a wide range of players, but it especially shines for those who:

• Come from a tennis background and love that string-bed sensation

• Prioritize touch and control when transitioning to the kitchen

• Want accessible power that doesn’t sacrifice precision

• Value spin and shape in their drives and drops
  

As Brodie puts it, it’s for anyone who wants to “really feel the responsiveness of that ball sitting on the paddle.”

Dialing in Your Setup

Brodie recommends experimenting with lead tape for extra balance and stability:

“I really like going towards the bottom corners of the paddle. That really expands the sweet spot even more… I like to bring mine up from the stock weight where it starts at about eight ounces, and I like to bring it to maybe 8.6, 8.7 ounces.”

Adding a few grams of weight to the bottom corners increases stability through contact and smooths out transitions for players who value consistency under pressure.

CRBN’s 30-Day Test Drive

Even with all the hype, Brodie keeps it simple: “All bias aside, this is personally, genuinely, the best paddle that I’ve ever played with.”

But the best part is that you can test it yourself, risk-free. With CRBN’s 30-day return policy, players can order, play, and return within 29 days—no questions asked.

Need help choosing the right shape or setup? Reach out directly via Instagram, comment on the Pickleball Cheat Code episode, or email partners@crbnpickleball.com.

Final Word: A Paddle for Every Moment

The CRBN TruFoam Waves is soft when you need it, powerful when you demand it, and consistent every shot in between. It’s not just about hitting harder—it’s about playing smarter and feeling every inch of connection between your paddle and the ball.

🎧 Listen to the full bonus episode of Pickleball Cheat Code on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.