The Evolution of RPM: From Friction Pro to the New Jade
From the original Friction Pro to the full-foam Q2 and upcoming Jade Series, RPM has quickly built a paddle lineup with distinct options for power, spin, control, and feel.
Here is how the RPM collection has evolved, what separates each generation, and what players should know about the new RPM Jade before choosing their next paddle.
| 2025 |
RPM Friction Pro: The Original
The paddle that helped put RPM on the map. Built with RPM's CarbonBite carbon fiber surface, DwellZone sweet-spot technology, and a tri-density core, the Friction Pro established RPM's focus on spin, feel, and high-level performance.
The original Friction Pro laid the foundation for what would become an expanding family of RPM pickleball paddles, with each generation taking a different approach to power, control, spin, and feel.
Available in: 14mm and 16mm, Elongated and Widebody.
| Early 2026 |
RPM Friction Pro V2: The Signature Era Begins
The RPM Friction Pro V2 refined the original platform with RPM's Axial Carbon Layup and an enhanced EVA foam ring designed to expand the sweet spot while maintaining the spin, dwell, and connected feel that made the Friction Pro popular.
James Ignatowich Signature – 16mm Elongated and Hybrid. Developed with input from professional James Ignatowich on materials, construction, and feel.
Ryan Fu Signature – 14mm Elongated and Hybrid. Developed alongside Ryan Fu for players looking for a lighter, quicker setup while maintaining plenty of offensive capability.
| Spring 2026 |
RPM Q2: A New Series Launches
RPM introduced an entirely new platform with the Q2, developed in collaboration with paddle engineer and reviewer John Kew. Rather than simply updating the Friction Pro formula, the RPM Q2 moved into full-foam construction with strategic foam tuning designed to create a more consistent and predictable response across the paddle face.
The result gave RPM players another distinct option within the lineup, particularly for those looking for a firmer, more connected response and easy access to power.
Available in: 14mm and 16mm, Elongated and Widebody, plus the RPM Q2 Hybrid in Curve Top and Flat Top configurations.
| July 10, 2026 |
RPM Friction Pro V2: Ella Oh Signature Edition
One of RPM's most talked-about launches of 2026 brought rising junior standout Ella Oh to the Friction Pro V2 family. Her signature edition launched July 10 in an unmistakable pink colorway and sold out within 48 hours of release.
Built on the RPM Friction Pro V2 platform, the Ella Oh Signature Edition combines the V2 construction with a distinctive design created around one of pickleball's most exciting young players.
Available in: 14mm and 16mm, Elongated and Widebody. No Hybrid option is offered for this edition.
| NOW AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER |
Up Next: The RPM Jade Series
The next chapter of RPM is almost here.
The RPM Jade introduces another full-foam performance platform built around RPM's MPP Floating Core surrounded by soft EVA foam. The construction is designed to deliver predictable power while preserving the touch and feel players need in the soft game.
One of the biggest stories with the RPM Jade is its surface.
RPM pairs the Jade with its SICmatrix silicon carbide surface, engineered around durable surface roughness and long-lasting spin performance. For players who rely heavily on topspin, slices, rolls, and aggressive serves, maintaining that surface performance over time could be one of Jade's most important advantages.
Combined with RPM's Axial Carbon Layup and full-foam construction, the Jade is positioned for players who want power and spin without sacrificing touch, control, and feel.
RPM Jade Pre-Order Demand Is Already Strong
Our first allocation of the RPM Jade 16mm Elongated is nearly sold out. Additional Jade inventory is already on order, but availability will vary by shape and thickness as the first shipments approach.
RPM Jade 14mm & 16mm Configurations
The RPM Jade lineup includes 14mm and 16mm versions in both Elongated and Widebody shapes, giving players the ability to choose between additional reach and leverage or a wider, more maneuverable hitting surface.
| RPM Jade Spec | 14mm Elongated | 16mm Elongated | 14mm Widebody | 16mm Widebody |
| Avg. Weight | 7.7 oz | 7.8 oz | 7.7 oz | 7.8 oz |
| Swing Weight | 112 | 114 | 104 | 107 |
| Paddle Length | 16.5" | 16.5" | 16" | 16" |
| Paddle Width | 7.5" | 7.5" | 8" | 8" |
Tournament Approved: The RPM Jade lineup is USAP approved under the PBCoR .43 standard for tournament play.
Expected Shipping: RPM currently expects Jade pre-orders to begin shipping around the first week of October. Timing may vary as the first production inventory is distributed.
Reserve Your RPM Jade
Pre-order your RPM Jade now and use code RPMJADE20 to save 20%.
With the first allocation already filling quickly, pre-ordering is the best way to secure your preferred shape and thickness before incoming inventory is spoken for.
| Pre-Order the RPM Jade Shop All RPM Collections |
RPM Jade vs Q2 vs Friction Pro V2
Each of RPM's current platforms has a different personality. The best fit comes down to the type of response you prefer from your paddle.
RPM Jade: The newest RPM full-foam platform, combining the MPP Floating Core, soft EVA foam, Axial Carbon Layup, and SICmatrix silicon carbide surface. Jade is designed to combine accessible power and spin with touch and control.
RPM Q2: A firmer full-foam platform for players who like a connected response, predictable power, and consistent performance across the paddle face.
RPM Friction Pro V2: A more dwell-oriented option built around a honeycomb core, enhanced EVA foam ring, and Axial Carbon Layup. It remains an excellent choice for players who prioritize spin, feel, and control.
The RPM Jade adds another level of customization with 14mm and 16mm Elongated and Widebody configurations, allowing players to tune their setup toward speed, reach, stability, power, or control.
Need help choosing between RPM models, shapes, or thicknesses? Reach out to Pickleball Parents and we can help match the right setup to your game.
Shop the RPM Collection