Ronbus Ripple Review: Is This Paddle Worth the Hype?

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The Ronbus Ripple has everyone talking, but is it all hype? This Ronbus Ripple review gives you the honest truth about this buzzy paddle. We’ll cover everything from its innovative FIRE core technology to how it actually performs on the court. Thinking about adding a Ronbus Ripple paddle to your bag? This review will help you decide if the Ronbus Ripple is right for your game.

Official Ronbus Statement on Ripple
byu/MembershipCurrent272 inPickleball

Meet the Ronbus Ripple Paddle

  • Users divided on new paddle regulations
  • Ronbus praised for proactive stance
  • Debate over transparency of regulations

Ronbus Ripple R1 vs. R2: Which Paddle is Right for You?

Choosing the right pickleball paddle can significantly impact your game. The Ronbus Ripple series offers two distinct models, the R1 and the R2. Understanding their differences is key to making an informed decision. Both paddles utilize the innovative FIRE (Fiber-Infused-Rebounding-Elastomer) core technology, but their shapes and target player levels vary.

Ronbus Ripple R1: In-Depth Review

The Ronbus Ripple R1 caters to advanced players. Its elongated shape enhances reach and shot power, providing a competitive advantage at the net. The FIRE core delivers a noticeable “trampoline-like” effect, maximizing power for aggressive shots like devastating put-aways and forceful drives. This power comes with a trade-off. The R1 demands advanced skill for effective control. Beginners might find its responsiveness and precision challenging to manage. If you’re a seasoned player looking to dominate with powerful shots, the R1 might be your perfect match. Matt’s Pickleball offers a detailed review of the Ronbus Ripple paddles, including the R1.

Ronbus Ripple R2: In-Depth Review

The Ronbus Ripple R2 takes a different approach. Its wider body creates a larger sweet spot, making it more forgiving for players developing their accuracy. While it may not offer the same raw power as the R1, the R2 excels in control and consistency. This makes it a great option for players who prioritize placement and strategic shots over sheer force. Both the R1 and R2 generate impressive serve speeds (around 59 mph) and significant spin (over 2300 RPM). This proves you don’t have to sacrifice performance for control. Matt’s Pickleball provides a comprehensive breakdown of both paddles. If you’re a developing player or value consistent performance, the R2 could be your ideal paddle. It allows you to focus on improving your technique without feeling overwhelmed.

Key Takeaways

  • Power and spin come with a control trade-off: The Ronbus Ripple paddles deliver impressive power and spin, but require a skilled hand to manage. Consider your playing style and experience before jumping in.
  • Community feedback reveals potential durability issues: Early reports from players suggest potential problems with overheating and “core crushing,” raising valid concerns about the paddles’ long-term performance. Keep an eye on community forums for updates.
  • The Ripple comes with an exclusive price and access: The $250 price point and Ronbus Connect program requirement make these paddles a significant investment, best suited for players already loyal to the Ronbus brand.

Understanding Ronbus Ripple Technology

Does the FIRE Core Deliver Power and Spin?

The Ronbus Ripple paddles, specifically the R1 and R2, are engineered for players who prioritize power and spin. These paddles generate impressive serve speeds, reaching around 59.2 mph, and substantial spin (R1: 2368 RPM, R2: 2402 RPM). This performance boost comes from Ronbus’s proprietary FIRE (Fiber-Infused-Rebounding-Elastomer) core technology. You can find a more detailed analysis of this technology and its impact on gameplay at Matt’s Pickleball.

Deep Dive into the FIRE Core Technology

Patents and Innovation

Ronbus’s FIRE (Fiber-Infused-Rebounding-Elastomer) core technology is the secret sauce of the Ripple paddles. This proprietary innovation makes these paddles unique, promising a noticeable difference in how the ball reacts on contact. Designed for a “trampoline-like” effect, the FIRE core aims to maximize power without sacrificing control. While details about the patent itself are limited, the technology’s impact on performance is clear, as discussed in this review of the Ronbus Ripple R1 and R2 by Matt’s Pickleball.

Impact on Performance

Does the FIRE core live up to the hype? Yes, but with a caveat. The Ripple paddles generate impressive power and spin, with serves reaching speeds around 59.2 mph and spin rates over 2300 RPM (2368 for the R1, 2402 for the R2). This means more aggressive serves and the ability to put some serious English on the ball. However, this power and spin require control. Matt’s Pickleball notes that these paddles need a skilled hand. Beginners or intermediate players might find the Ripple’s responsiveness a bit much. Advanced players, though, will likely appreciate the extra juice and the ability to shape shots with precision. It’s something to consider when choosing your next paddle.

R1.14 vs. R2.14: Choosing the Right Ronbus Ripple for You

While both the R1 and R2 utilize the FIRE core, they offer distinct shapes to cater to different playing styles. The R1 features an elongated shape, providing extended reach for volleys at the net. The R2 boasts a wider body, creating a larger sweet spot and offering more forgiveness on off-center hits. Both models maintain a consistent 14mm thickness. For a closer look at the differences between these two models, check out this review.

R1.14: Specs and On-Court Performance

The R1.14 is designed for players who prioritize power. The elongated shape gives you extra reach at the net, perfect for quick volleys and decisive put-aways. It also boasts a larger sweet spot compared to the R2.14, meaning solid power even if your contact isn’t perfect. This power comes with a trade-off, though. The R1.14 demands more control and precision, which might be challenging for newer players. Experienced players looking to dominate at the net will find this paddle a game-changer. For a deeper dive into the R1.14’s reach and power, check out this review from Pickle Madness.

R2.14: Specs and On-Court Performance

The R2.14 offers a different feel with its wider body. This shape provides exceptional stability and a larger sweet spot than the R1.14, making it more forgiving. This design helps you accurately place shots, even if you don’t hit the sweet spot perfectly. The R2.14 balances power and control with its forgiving sweet spot and the FIRE core. Matt’s Pickleball offers a detailed analysis of the R2.14’s performance, highlighting its accuracy and forgiveness. While it might not have the raw power of the R1.14, the R2.14 offers a more controlled playing experience suitable for various skill levels.

How the Ronbus Ripple Feels in Your Hand

The dimensional variations between the R1.14 and R2.14 contribute significantly to their on-court feel. The R1.14 offers greater reach and a larger sweet spot, ideal for players who cover more ground. The R2.14, with its wider face, prioritizes a larger sweet spot and increased stability. Pickle Madness provides a breakdown of the specific dimensions. Both paddles weigh 7.8oz. However, differences in their swingweights and twistweights influence maneuverability and stability. These nuances impact how the paddle feels and performs during quick exchanges.

Ronbus R1 Nova: A Closer Look

While the Ronbus Ripple paddles have generated buzz, it’s worth checking out another Ronbus offering: the R1 Nova. This paddle takes a different approach, emphasizing control and precision. Let’s explore what makes the R1 Nova unique.

Tech and Construction: What’s Inside the R1 Nova?

The Ronbus R1 Nova features a high-performance polypropylene honeycomb core, giving it a responsive feel. Its raw Toray T700 carbon fiber textured face adds to its durability and on-court performance. At 16mm thick and weighing approximately 7.7 oz, the R1 Nova balances power and control. A key feature is the edge grid technology, designed to prevent delamination and core corruption—common problems in thermoformed paddles. DinknDrop’s R1 Nova review offers a closer look at these construction details.

R1 Nova Performance: How Does it Play?

The R1 Nova’s on-court performance is impressive. It receives high marks for control (89%), spin (92%), and forgiveness (82%), making it an excellent option for players who prioritize precision. The paddle’s balanced feel builds confidence, allowing for accurate shots. While offering substantial power (80%), the R1 Nova’s focus on control enhances gameplay for strategic players. Pickleball Effect includes the R1 Nova on its list of best control paddles, highlighting its balance and precision.

Detailed Comparison: Ronbus Ripple vs. R1 Nova vs. Competitors

Performance Metrics Comparison

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. How do the Ronbus Ripple (R1 and R2) and the R1 Nova stack up against each other and their competitors performance-wise? The Ripple paddles pack a punch, prioritizing spin and speed. Tests reveal serve speeds around 59.2 mph and impressive spin rates (R1: 2368 RPM, R2: 2402 RPM), all thanks to that FIRE core. Matt’s Pickleball provides a comprehensive analysis of these metrics. The R1 Nova, conversely, excels in control, spin, and forgiveness. It’s not as focused on raw power as the Ripple, but still delivers solid performance with an emphasis on precision. Think strategic placement over brute force. Pickleball Effect highlights the R1 Nova’s control capabilities.

Directly comparing them to competitors requires specific models, but generally, the Ripple goes head-to-head with power-focused paddles, while the Nova fits among control-oriented options. Many power paddles might offer similar speeds, but the Ripple’s unique spin sets it apart. In the control category, the Nova’s balance of power, spin, and forgiveness makes it a strong competitor. For more insights on pickleball paddle comparisons, check out SirShanksAlot’s article on mixing cut shots and topspins.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Paddle

Each paddle has its own set of pros and cons. The Ripple R1, with its elongated shape, offers superior reach at the net, perfect for aggressive volleyers. The R2, with its wider body, provides a larger sweet spot and more forgiveness—a plus for players prioritizing consistency. However, the FIRE core’s power comes at a price: control. These paddles can be challenging for less experienced players. Plus, as mentioned, there are ongoing discussions regarding potential durability issues. Matt’s Pickleball offers a detailed comparison of the R1 and R2.

The R1 Nova’s strength lies in its balance. It offers a solid mix of control, spin, power, and forgiveness, making it versatile for various playing styles. The edge grid technology also aims to prevent delamination. The potential downside? It might not deliver the raw power of the Ripple or other power paddles. DinknDrop provides a helpful review of the R1 Nova’s construction and on-court performance.

R1 Nova vs. Ripple: What’s the Difference?

The R1 Nova and Ripple series, both from Ronbus, target different playing styles. The R1 Nova prioritizes control and precision, perfect for strategic play. The Ripple paddles, especially the R1 and R2, emphasize power and spin, requiring more skill to wield effectively. Both lines use advanced core technologies, but the R1 Nova’s construction aims to address the durability issues some players have reported with the Ripple series, particularly overheating and core integrity. Pickleheads provides a helpful comparison of the R1 Nova and other paddles.

Why Choose a Ronbus Ripple Paddle?

AaayMan commended Ronbus for taking action on the hot paddles issue, highlighting the importance of addressing customer concerns. He recognized the efforts put into R&D and marketing and supported the move as a step in the right direction.

Ronbus Ripple Pros: Power, Spin, and More

The Ronbus Ripple paddles come in two styles: the elongated R1.14 and the widebody R2.14. They’re designed for players who prioritize power and spin. Matt’s Pickleball clocked impressive serve speeds around 59.2 mph and substantial spin (R1: 2368 RPM, R2: 2402 RPM). This extra oomph comes from Ronbus’s FIRE (Fiber-Infused-Rebounding-Elastomer) core technology. Pickle Madness also highlighted this innovative core design in their review, praising its responsiveness and ability to generate both pace and spin.

Ronbus Ripple Cons: Areas for Improvement

While the Ronbus Ripple shines in power and spin, there are some downsides. Several players on Reddit reported the paddle overheating after the break-in period, which seems to affect performance and lead to more errors. Durability is another concern. The same Reddit thread includes comments about potential “core crushing” with frequent use. This structural damage could shorten the paddle’s lifespan, especially for those playing daily.

Is the Ronbus Ripple Right for You?

The Ripple’s strengths and weaknesses mean it’s not the right paddle for everyone. Think about your playing style and skill level before you buy.

Recommended Player Level: Who Should Use the Ronbus Ripple?

The Ripple’s power requires solid control, as Matt’s Pickleball explains. It’s not very forgiving on touch shots or resets, so it’s probably not the best choice for beginners or players who focus on finesse. Intermediate and advanced players with good control and an aggressive style will likely get the most out of the Ripple.

Alternatives to the Ronbus Ripple: Options for Control and Beginners

If you’re new to pickleball or prefer a paddle with more control, check out other options. The Joola Scorpeus 3S and the Mod TA-15 are two paddles Matt’s Pickleball suggests as alternatives. They may not pack the same power as the Ripple, but they offer better control and are more forgiving, which is great for developing players or those who value precision. For more paddle reviews and tips, head over to SirShanksAlot. We cover all things pickleball, from equipment reviews to technique breakdowns.

Ronbus Ripple Paddle Review: Performance on the Court

Spin and Control: How Does the Ripple Perform?

The Ronbus Ripple paddles are known for their impressive power and spin. However, this power comes with a trade-off: control. As Matt’s Pickleball notes in their review, these paddles require a skilled hand to manage effectively. Beginners might find themselves overwhelmed, while experienced players who can harness the paddle’s power will likely appreciate the extra spin and speed. Consider your playing style and current skill level before buying a Ripple. If you’re looking to add more spin to your game, check out our tips on mixing cut shots and topspins at SirShanksAlot.

Power and Sweet Spot: Unleashing Your Potential

The two Ripple models, the R1 and R2, offer slightly different playing experiences because of their shapes. The R1 features an elongated design, giving players extended reach at the net for volleys. This design can be advantageous for covering more court space and reaching for those challenging shots. The R2 has a wider body, creating a larger sweet spot and making it more forgiving on off-center hits. Pickle Madness highlights these differences, noting the R2’s increased forgiveness as a key benefit for players who want more consistency.

Volleying and Dinking: Finesse at the Net

While the Ronbus Ripple excels at power and spin, some players have reported issues with volleys and dinks. The same power that makes the Ripple effective for drives can make it challenging to control softer shots at the net. Additionally, several players on Reddit have mentioned the paddle overheating after the break-in period, potentially affecting performance and leading to more errors during volleys and dinks. It’s worth checking these community forums for updates and further feedback on this issue. If you prioritize touch and finesse at the net, you might want to consider a paddle designed specifically for control. You can find reviews of control-oriented paddles on SirShanksAlot.

Addressing Common Concerns about the Ronbus Ripple

The Ronbus Ripple has generated considerable excitement, but also some valid concerns. Let’s address two key issues head-on: the “getting hot” phenomenon and overall durability.

The “Getting Hot” Issue: Fact or Fiction?

Several players have reported their Ronbus Ripple paddles overheating, especially after the break-in period. This anecdotal feedback suggests the paddle’s temperature increase might affect performance and potentially lead to more errors. While we need more data to understand the cause and impact of this “getting hot” issue, it’s something to consider. This is especially true if you live in a warmer climate or play long, intense matches. For ongoing discussions and updates from other players, check out online forums like Reddit.

Durability and Longevity: User Experiences

Early reports from players mention potential problems with “core crushing”—damage to the paddle’s internal structure. This could significantly impact the paddle’s performance and lifespan. Some comments on Reddit suggest this might happen within a few months of regular, especially daily, play.

We need more long-term data to fully assess the Ripple’s durability, but these initial reports warrant attention. If you’re considering a Ripple, stay informed about these potential issues. Sites like Matt’s Pickleball offer additional insights and reviews.

What Other Players Think About the Ronbus Ripple

uravg expressed empathy towards the affected companies but admired Ronbus for the strong statement they released. The user acknowledged the difficult position the companies were in while acknowledging the positive aspects of Ronbus’ response.

First Impressions: Reddit Reacts to the Ronbus Ripple

The Ronbus Ripple paddle’s release has sparked lively discussions on Reddit, with players sharing a mix of excitement and apprehension. Some praise its innovative design and performance—often mentioning the impressive power—while others voice concerns about potential durability issues and its unique playing characteristics. It seems the Ripple is making waves both on and off the court.

One Redditor highlighted a potential issue called “core crushing,” which wasn’t mentioned in the generally positive Rackets and Runners review. This raises questions about the paddle’s long-term performance, especially with some users reporting the paddle heating up significantly after the break-in period, potentially affecting control and leading to more errors during play (source).

This “core crushing” concern is a recurring theme. Some players worry the paddle’s internal structure might degrade with heavy use, possibly within just a few months for those playing daily. One commenter estimated, “this is expected to happen within 2-3 months for daily players, depending on playing style” (source). This potential for a shorter lifespan has definitely given some players pause.

While many appreciate the Ripple’s power, that very strength might be a weakness for some. Several Redditors noted this power could be a drawback for players who prefer more control (source). It seems finding the right balance between power and finesse is key with this paddle. As the pickleball community continues testing the Ripple, more long-term data will be crucial to fully understand its durability and overall effectiveness. It’s a conversation worth following, especially if you’re considering a Ripple.

Your Ronbus Ripple Questions, Answered

parrotlunaire raised questions about the secrecy surrounding the new paddle regulations, expressing confusion and skepticism about the undisclosed details. The user’s comment reflected a desire for more openness and clarity from Ronbus.

Despite the mixed reactions, it’s evident that Ronbus’ statement has sparked a range of emotions within the pickleball community. While some view it as a positive step towards addressing paddle concerns, others are skeptical about the lack of transparency surrounding the new regulations.

Buying the Ronbus Ripple: Price and Where to Buy

Getting your hands on a Ronbus Ripple isn’t as straightforward as walking into your local sporting goods store. There are a few hoops to jump through, so let’s break it down.

Ronbus Ripple Discounts and Current Pricing

The Ripple paddles carry a premium price tag, retailing for $250 each. However, Matt’s Pickleball review mentions a $20 discount with the code “MPB” at checkout. Every little bit helps!

Joining Ronbus Connect: Benefits and Perks

Here’s where things get interesting. Reddit discussions indicate that purchasing a Ripple requires membership in the Ronbus Connect program. This program requires a prior purchase of another Ronbus paddle. It seems Ronbus is prioritizing brand loyalty with this exclusive approach. This could be a barrier for some, but it could also foster a strong sense of community among Ronbus paddle owners.

Ronbus: A Legacy of Innovation

Ronbus is a grassroots pickleball brand that’s quickly gained traction through word-of-mouth and glowing reviews. Known for providing great value and quality, they’ve built a loyal following thanks to their transparent manufacturing process, active involvement in online communities, and excellent customer service. This commitment to their customers is a refreshing change, especially with the rising prices of paddles from larger manufacturers.

From the start, Ronbus has prioritized innovation, consistently pushing paddle technology forward. They’ve released a series of high-performing paddles with unique features at reasonable prices. Their proprietary FIRE (Fiber-Infused-Rebounding-Elastomer) core technology, featured in the Ripple R1 and R2 paddles, exemplifies this commitment. This technology aims to boost power and spin, a major draw for many players. However, it’s also sparked discussions within the pickleball community, with some players expressing concerns about potential overheating and durability. Despite these concerns, Ronbus has earned praise for its responsiveness to customer feedback and willingness to address these issues directly. This reinforces their image as a company that values its players’ opinions. For more on pickleball gear and strategy, visit SirShanksAlot for articles covering everything from equipment reviews to player profiles.

Ronbus Ripple Review: Final Verdict

So, is the Ronbus Ripple the right paddle for you? The answer, like most things in pickleball, depends. Matt’s Pickleball describes the Ripple paddles as “extremely powerful” but requiring “a high level of skill.” This suggests that while the paddle offers significant power, it might not be the easiest to control. Pickle Madness offers a different perspective, suggesting the Ripple is appropriate for all skill levels. This discrepancy highlights the importance of trying a paddle before buying, if possible. Personal preference is key. For more paddle reviews and information, check out SirShanksAlot.com. We cover a variety of sports equipment and news, offering insights for enthusiasts of all levels. The Ronbus Ripple seems geared towards players looking for extra power and who aren’t afraid of a challenge. If you’re a beginner or prioritize control, explore other options. There’s a perfect paddle out there for everyone!

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Where to Buy the Ronbus Ripple

Getting your hands on a Ronbus Ripple isn’t as straightforward as walking into your local sporting goods store. There are a few hoops to jump through, so let’s break it down.

Ronbus Ripple Discounts and Current Pricing

The Ripple paddles carry a premium price tag, retailing for $250 each. However, Matt’s Pickleball review mentions a $20 discount with the code “MPB” at checkout, which might soften the blow a bit.

Joining Ronbus Connect: Benefits and Perks

Here’s where things get interesting. Purchasing a Ripple requires membership in the Ronbus Connect program, and this program has a catch: you need to have previously purchased another Ronbus paddle. It seems Ronbus is prioritizing brand loyalty with this exclusive approach, which could be a barrier for new customers. While this strategy might foster a strong sense of community among Ronbus paddle owners, some potential buyers have expressed frustration with this limited availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy the Ronbus Ripple paddle? The Ronbus Ripple isn’t available in regular stores. You need to join the Ronbus Connect program, which requires a previous Ronbus paddle purchase. This makes it a bit more challenging to acquire than other paddles.

I’m a beginner. Is the Ronbus Ripple a good choice for me? Probably not. The Ripple is known for its power, which can be tough to control for less experienced players. If you’re just starting out, you might want a paddle that emphasizes control over power until your skills develop. There are several other paddles mentioned in the blog post that might be more suitable for beginners.

What’s the deal with the “core crushing” issue I’ve heard about? Some players have reported concerns about the Ripple’s core potentially breaking down with frequent use. This hasn’t been confirmed by all reviewers, but it’s something to consider, especially if you play daily. Keep an eye on Reddit and other pickleball forums for more user experiences as they come out.

What’s so special about the Ronbus Ripple’s technology? The Ripple uses something called FIRE core technology (Fiber-Infused-Rebounding-Elastomer). This tech is designed to give you more power and spin on your shots. It’s what makes the Ripple stand out from other paddles on the market.

Are there different versions of the Ronbus Ripple? Yes, there are two models: the R1.14 and the R2.14. Both have the same FIRE core and thickness, but the R1 has a longer shape for more reach, while the R2 is wider for a larger sweet spot. The shape you choose depends on your playing style and preferences.

Ronbus Ripple Release Date

The highly anticipated Ronbus Ripple paddles were initially set for public release on December 6, 2024. However, recent updates indicate this release has been delayed. According to an official Ronbus statement, “After much deliberation we have decided to delay the Ronbus Ripple public release date that was scheduled for 12/6.”

Despite the delay, both the Ripple.R1.14 and Ripple.R2.14 models have successfully passed all necessary certification tests, including the PBCoR test. This test ensures compliance with the latest regulations set by USA Pickleball. For a deeper understanding of these regulations and the surrounding controversy, visit our article on USA Pickleball’s PBCor Test and the Ronbus Ripple here at SirShanksAlot.com. You can also find more information about the testing process at Zero Pickleball.

The development process for the Ronbus Ripple paddles has been extensive, spanning over 26 months and 66 iterations. This rigorous refinement of design and performance has generated considerable excitement within the pickleball community. Players are eager to experience these innovative paddles firsthand. Matt’s Pickleball offers a detailed look at the journey from beta version to the final production model.

With the release date currently up in the air, stay informed about the Ripple paddles’ availability by checking Ronbus’ official website for updates. For ongoing pickleball news, reviews, and analysis, keep visiting SirShanksAlot.