Inside the Making of the New Friday Pickleball Paddle Gen 3 Fever, Launching May 16

The pickleball world is evolving fast, and so is Friday Pickleball! Hot on the heels of the popular Challenger paddle, Friday is set to launch its most advanced model yet the Friday Pickleball Paddle Gen 3 Fever.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how this paddle came to life-and why it’s set to make waves when it drops on May 16, 2025. Coupon Code: HAPPYPEOPLE

The Challenge: Evolving Beyond Gen 2

When Friday launched the Challenger, it quickly became a favorite among players for its Gen 2 raw carbon fiber construction, offering an ideal blend of performance, durability, and affordability.

But as Gen 3 paddles hit the scene, the game shifted toward more power and advanced materials. Friday recognized the need to evolve but also saw that many Gen 3 paddles on the market were plagued by durability, legal, and performance issues.

Despite these challenges, Gen 3 technology promised better dwell time, higher spin potential, and more power-if it could be done right.

The R&D Process: Relentless Testing and Innovation

Friday’s journey to the Fever paddle wasn’t easy.

Over eight months, the team built and tested more than 80 prototypes, experimenting with different materials, core densities, and surface layers.

Each prototype underwent rigorous testing, including:

• Durability Testing: Over 100 hours of play and high-velocity ball machine sessions to simulate years of impact in days.
• Core Analysis: Paddles were cut open to inspect for internal issues, such as rattling or core crushing.
• Iterative Design: Multiple USAP-approved prototypes were scrapped if they didn’t meet Friday’s high standards for longevity and performance.

One memorable prototype even included metal balls in the core for performance, but was scrapped when they caused rattling-underscoring Friday’s commitment to quality over shortcuts.

What Sets the Friday Pickleball Paddle Gen 3 Fever Apart?

After months of development, Friday landed on a new construction late last year that finally checked all the boxes.

The Fever paddle earned PBCoR .43 certification and was fast-tracked for a summer launch.

Key Features of the Friday Fever:

• Gen 3 Construction: Utilizes advanced materials and manufacturing techniques for a lightweight feel, explosive power, and enhanced spin710.
• Balanced Performance: Designed as an all-court, power-leaning paddle that doesn’t sacrifice control or dwell time. It offers a short break-in period, after which performance ramps up even further7.
• Durability: Built to last, withstanding intensive play and high-velocity impacts without the issues that plagued earlier Gen 3 models.
• Affordability: Launch price is just $99-well below most Gen 3 paddles, which typically retail for $170–$2807.

Gen 3 vs. Gen 2: What’s the Difference?

The Friday Difference

Friday’s R&D approach is unique: as a small, bootstrapped brand, they iterate rapidly and work closely with their factory, allowing for weekly prototype testing and fast improvements.

This agility, combined with a commitment to player feedback and rigorous standards, means every Friday paddle is built for real-world play-not just lab results.

Launch Details & How to Get Yours

The Official Launch is Friday, May 16th! Visit here for a discount and to get your new Friday Fever Pickleball Paddle.

Use Coupon Code: HAPPYPEOPLE

Are you ready to experience the Fever?!

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