The CRBN TruFoam Waves is a $280 foam-core pickleball paddle that attempts to deliver dwell-based power but falls short. Despite the hype around CRBN's premium foam line, our testing found a muted feel and noticeably small sweet spot for the price tier.
The Verdict
A premium-priced paddle that misses on premium performance.
The first drive didn't feel premium — it felt muted.
See where it lands against the rest in our foam core paddle rankings.
Specs
| Price (with code) | $280 |
| Stock Price | $280 |
| Shape | Hybrid |
| Thickness | 16mm |
| Core | TruFoam Wave Core |
| Face | T700 raw carbon fiber |
| Weight | 8.1 oz |
| Grip Length | 5.5" |
| Swing Weight | 116 |
How It Plays
Spin and control lead this one.
Against our database
Compared with the 126 paddles we have scored.
On-Court Feel
Drives feel disconnected. There's a flat energy transfer that makes hitting deep from the baseline feel like work. Initiating offense feels slow. The soft game is technically predictable because the paddle has limited pop, but the lower twist weight means blocks at the net don't feel stable. Compared to other Gen 4 paddles at this price, the Waves feels like an iteration that didn't quite land — which is presumably why CRBN released the Barrage so soon after.
Performance & Testing
The CRBN TruFoam Waves went through our standard on-court protocol - drills, rec play, and at least one tournament match. How it plays reflects consensus feedback from the group, not a single reviewer's opinion.
Grit & Durability
The carbon fiber face provides average spin that holds up reasonably well. CRBN's build quality is generally good and the paddle structure feels intact. The 1-year warranty is standard but doesn't compensate for the underwhelming on-court performance.
Who It's For
Honestly, this is hard to recommend at this price point. Players who specifically want a soft, dwell-heavy CRBN experience may find something here. Skip if you care about value, power, or competitive performance — the JOOLA Pro V, Honolulu J2CR, and Bread & Butter Loco all outperform it for similar or less money.
- you want plow-through on drives and serves: a 116 swing weight
- Spin or power comes first for you. The Six Zero Coral is stronger there ($180 with PRH10).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Soft, controlled feel for resets
- Solid build quality and design
- Quiet on contact for indoor play
Cons
- Severe lack of power and pop for the price
- Below-average stability for $280
- No promo code available
- Already overshadowed by CRBN's own Barrage
Bottom Line
Premium price, sub-premium performance.
Better options exist at every price point, including CRBN's own Barrage.
Buyer guides for this paddle
More CRBN listings
How it compares
The closest paddles in the same shape, with the price after each brand's code.
| Paddle | Price with code | Stands out for | Swing weight | Twist weight | Spin (RPM) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CRBN TruFoam Waves This paddle | $280 | Spin, Control | 116 | 6.0 | 1,950 |
| Six Zero Coral | $180 with PRH10 | Control, Spin | 114 | 6.7 | 2,050 |
| RPM Friction Pro V2 Hybrid Flat Top 14mm | $212.49 with PRH | Spin, Pop | — | — | ~2,250–2,300 |
| Spartus P1 Hybrid | $197.99 with PRH | Spin | 116–119 | ~6.9 | ~2,350 |
| 11SIX24 Ultre Power 2 | $199.99 with PRH | Spin | 115.15 | 6.7 | ~2,381 |
Common questions
Is the CRBN TruFoam Waves a good paddle?
Premium price, sub-premium performance. Best for: CRBN brand loyalists who like a soft, dwell-heavy response.
What shape is the CRBN TruFoam Waves?
Hybrid shape, 16mm thick, with a TruFoam Wave Core core.
How much does the CRBN TruFoam Waves cost with a discount?
You pay $280 when the code applies.
Is the CRBN TruFoam Waves tournament legal?
It is listed as USAP Approved. Approved-paddle lists change, so check the current one before a sanctioned event.
Who is the CRBN TruFoam Waves for?
CRBN brand loyalists who like a soft, dwell-heavy response.
How much spin does the CRBN TruFoam Waves generate?
About 1,950 RPM in our spin data. Your swing and the ball you use will move that number.
Reviewed by Sebastian B · Released September 2025.