Moment of inertia is a measure of how mass is distributed in an object relative to its pivot point.
In pickleball, MOI translates directly into a paddle’s swing weight, or how heavy the paddle feels when you swing, and twist weight, how much it resists twisting on off-center hits.
Higher MOI means more stability and a larger sweet spot. This means it takes more effort to twist or rotate the paddle, especially when contact isn’t perfectly centered.
Regulatory testing: Is MOI part of paddle approval?
Pickleball standards organizations like USA Pickleball focus primarily on dimensional and surface criteria, such as paddle length, surface roughness, reflectivity, deformation, bounce (via PBCoR), and coefficient of friction, rather than MOI directly.
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PBCoR testing (Paddle/Ball Coefficient of Restitution) launched in late 2024 sets a limit (currently .43) on how much speed can be returned to the ball. This effort is aimed at curbing "trampoline" effects.
- Swing weight and twist weight USA Pickleball conducts swing weight testing as part of its approval process, but doesn't directly test twist weight.
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While MOI affects how a paddle behaves in play, it’s not explicitly regulated or tested by USAP, PPA, or MLP.
What is Selkirk’s MOI Tuning System?
Selkirk’s MOI Tuning System is a semi‑permanent, perimeter-weighted design integrated into certain paddles like Project Boomstik, engineered to optimize balance and stability right out of the box.
Key features include:
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Precision‑engineered weights are clamped to the edge guard in lieu of internal weights or external lead tape. This shifts mass toward the paddle’s outer edge, maximizing the stability of the paddle by placing mass as far from the center as possible.
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Pre-tuned for maximum sweet spot and optimal balance. Although some high-level players might consider adding additional lead tape, no modification is needed or recommended.
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Semi-permanent integration means removing or adding weight is not recommended and may risk damage to the paddle.
How MOI affects your pickleball performance
Increased MOI in a pickleball paddle offers players a few key advantages on the court, including:
Stability
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The higher MOI dramatically boosts resistance to twist, meaning off-center hits feel more stable, and accuracy is preserved.
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The MOI Tuning System expands the sweet spot, making it easier to consistently land quality shots.
Power with forgiveness
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Players report elite power delivery, with the paddle feeling explosive from the first swing.
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Despite being powerful, it remains forgiving; even off-center contact maintains pace and control.
Playability
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The weighted edges increase swing weight, which helps with powerful drives and putaways.
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Although powerful, the paddle offers greater stability and a feeling of control, which is particularly valuable for drives and quick play at the net.
Is the MOI tuning system right for your game?
Selkirk’s MOI Tuning System represents a thoughtful engineering leap, delivering pro-level balance, pop, and forgiveness without the need for aftermarket tinkering.
By strategically placing semi-permanent weights at the edge, Selkirk amplifies a paddle’s MOI to stabilize off-center contact and broaden the sweet spot.
That means more power, more control, and more confidence right out of the box. Although players may find it slightly heavier (8.0-8.4 oz) than other options, the trade-off is a high-performing paddle that plays consistently and reliably.
