USA Pickleball Introduces “Quiet Category” for Low-Noise Equipment
One of the most frequent complaints about pickleball—especially from those living near courts—is the distinctive, loud "pop" sound created when the plastic ball is struck. In response, communities have implemented various noise-reduction strategies, from installing sound barriers to restricting court placement near residential areas.
To further address this issue, USA Pickleball has announced the creation of a new “Quiet Category” for equipment, aimed at encouraging quieter play without sacrificing performance.
“We’re excited to introduce the Quiet Category as a key step in the evolution of pickleball,” said Mike Nealy, CEO of USA Pickleball, during the September 2023 announcement. “Minimizing noise is critical to maintaining positive relationships between communities and facility operators. By partnering with manufacturers and the broader industry, we can offer quieter options that benefit everyone.”
What Is the Quiet Category?
The Quiet Category promotes pickleball gear—primarily paddles and balls—that produce 50% or less acoustic output compared to standard equipment typically used in community parks. Manufacturers are encouraged to use innovative materials and designs that reduce noise while maintaining the feel and fun of the game.
Why Are These Paddles Quieter?
As pickleball rapidly expands across the U.S., demand for new courts has surged. Many of these courts are being built near neighborhoods—where the characteristic "pickleball pop" isn't always welcome. In response, manufacturers are developing quieter gear to minimize noise impact.
Here’s what makes these paddles quieter:
Core Material
Polypropylene honeycomb is the go-to material for quieter paddles. Older cores made from Nomex or aluminum created a louder, higher-pitched sound and have largely been phased out. The shift began in 2013 when Paddletek introduced polypropylene cores, now a standard across most brands for their quieter performance and excellent playability.
Core Thickness
Thicker cores = quieter play. Paddles with at least a 16mm (0.63") core tend to dampen noise more effectively, resulting in a softer "thud" rather than a sharp "pop." Thicker cores also offer better control, especially for dinks and drops.
Face Material
Paddles with graphite or carbon fiber faces tend to be quieter. These materials increase "dwell time"—the fraction of a second the ball stays on the paddle—allowing more energy to be absorbed and dispersed across the surface. The result? Less vibration and reduced noise on impact.
For those looking to play with courtesy and consideration for nearby residents, choosing a paddle from the Quiet Category is a great place to start. Whether you're an avid player or a facility operator, quieter gear helps keep the game accessible and community-friendly.
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