Tesla launches its first high-end pickleball paddle

Tesla, the iconic electric car manufacturer, is once again expanding its lifestyle product catalog with an unexpected foray into the world of pickleball : a premium racket developed in collaboration with Selkirk Sport .

After surprising the public with mugs, electric quad bikes for children and lifestyle accessories, Elon Musk's brand is now launching a product for pickleball enthusiasts. 

A racket designed as an engineering object

This is not just a simple branding operation: Tesla has used its expertise in aerodynamic modeling to optimize the design of the new paddle, the name given to pickleball paddles.

In collaboration with engineers from Selkirk Sport , a renowned manufacturer in the world of pickleball notably for the excellent Boomstik Elongated paddle, Tesla used tools usually applied to vehicle aerodynamics to study airflow and reduce resistance during the swing. 

The result is a sleek silhouette, an edgeless structure and a design incorporating a two-layer carbon fiber face , which aims to offer a balance between control, power and the feel of play specific to demanding players. 

A project born from a meeting and genuine engineering work

The idea for this collaboration dates back to 2023, during the US National Pickleball Championships, where Selkirk executives and Tesla designers discussed the possibilities of applying aeronautical knowledge to a sports paddle. The two teams then spent over a year developing and testing prototypes, both in the lab and on the court, to arrive at this final model. 

Selkirk Sport has also introduced a new “power ring” for this racquet, an internal component designed to improve stability and energy return, while reducing vibrations during shots. This innovation complements the high-performance foam core already featured on other top-of-the-range models from the brand. 

A premium product… just like Tesla

Priced at around $350 (approximately €320) , this premium pickleball paddle is clearly positioned in the upper segment of the market, well above the average price of a standard pickleball paddle. This positioning reflects Tesla's "premium" approach and aligns with its other high-end lifestyle products. 

Despite its high price, the racket is already available for sale on Tesla's website and, according to some feedback, it sold out quickly — which testifies to the interest generated by the association between Tesla's brand image and the growing enthusiasm around pickleball. 

Technical analysis of the Tesla racket

The Tesla Plaid Paddle is not just a branded gadget: it incorporates several advanced technologies, drawn from both sports engineering and optimization methods used in the automotive and aerospace industries.

Materials & structure

• Two-layer carbon face: this configuration combines rigidity and lightness, which helps to achieve both power and precision in shots.
• PureFoam™ core: a highly bouncy foam core that allows for excellent energy return and good control.
• TPU Power Ring: a lightweight and reinforced peripheral structure that dampens vibrations , improves face stability and extends the durability of the paddle.
• InfiniGrit™ surface: this slightly rough texture promotes better spin while maintaining its performance over time. 

Aerodynamic shape and design

Tesla brought its aerodynamic expertise to bear in shaping a sleek silhouette with an "open throat" and an edgeless perimeter. This design translates into:

• Less air drag during the swing, which can help increase racket speed.
• Better attack range thanks to a slightly longer shape than the average paddle.
• Improved handling , especially during quick exchanges. 

Key specifications (typical of this model)

• Weight: ~ 7.8 to 8.1 oz (220–230 g) , which places it in the range of all-purpose rackets.
• Dimensions: ~ 16.4″ x 7.5″ (extended), slightly longer than some classic paddles.
• Core thickness: approximately 16 mm — a compromise between power and comfort.
• USAP-approved design for competition.

Pickleball: a rapidly growing sport

Tesla's decision to invest in a pickleball paddle is not entirely random: the sport has experienced spectacular growth in recent years, attracting millions of new players worldwide. Originating in the United States in the 1960s, it has become a rapidly growing phenomenon today, thanks in particular to its combination of accessibility, tactics, and dynamic gameplay.

Conclusion

This Tesla paddle represents an ambitious experiment , pushing the boundaries of traditional pickleball paddle design. It combines cutting-edge technology with proven sporting expertise, making it a very attractive option for experienced players or tech enthusiasts . 

However, its price and specific design may make it less suitable for beginners or casual players who prioritize comfort and versatility. In any case, this collaboration marks a turning point in how pickleball rackets can be designed in the future, proving that innovation isn't limited to automobiles.