I recently had the privilege of testing two paddles from Body Helix: the F1 Terracore™ and the FLIK Terracore™. These paddles are part of a groundbreaking innovation in pickleball technology, featuring the company’s patent-pending Terracore™ core.
The F1 Terracore™: Power Meets Precision
The F1 Terracore™, which has been submitted for USAP approval, is a powerhouse paddle, rivaling the Gearbox Pro in raw power while offering superior forgiveness and control. The the FLIK Terracore™ is also a powerhouse paddle, but has not been submitted for USAP approval.Body Helix achieved this remarkable balance of power and control by leveraging its Terracore™ core.
So, what is Terracore™?
Terracore™ is a solid, patent-pending material that combines durability, control, and finesse, elevating pickleball to a precision-based game. Unlike traditional honeycomb cores or paddles with foam tubes, rubber bands, or added components, the Terracore™ is a solid piece of material. This design is engineered to withstand core crushing and maintain consistent performance—even during the most intense rallies. I have an X-Ray image of the core, but I am not sure if I can share it.
Paddle Specs
Here are the key specifications for the Terracore™ paddles:
- Core Thickness: 16mm
- Core Material: TerraCore
- Shapes: Elongated or Standard
- Handle Length: 5.5”
- Handle Circumference: 4.25”
- Weight: 8.0 oz
- Surface Material: T700 Raw Toray Carbon
- Price: $220 (subject to availability)
Sounds impressive, doesn’t it?
The Downside: PBCoR Compliance
Unfortunately, there’s a catch. The F1 Terracore™ failed the new PBCoR test introduced by USA Pickleball, which evaluates a paddle’s power based on ball rebound speed relative to impact speed. This test, effective July 1, 2025, aims to regulate paddle power for fairer competition.
Due to this, the F1 Terracore™ paddle is currently banned from sanctioned tournaments. Other paddles failing the test include:
- Yola Perseus (14mm and 16mm Mod TA15)
- Gearbox Pro Power Elongated
- Pro Kennex Black Ace (Pro, LG, and XF variations)
- Joola Gen 3s
- Paddletek’s Bantam and Tempest RCF paddles
Availability Issues
Here’s the real kicker: just as I received these incredible paddles for testing, I was informed they were no longer for sale because of the USAP test failure. While the initial retail price was set at $220, Body Helix may offer them in the future in a special “testing” environment at a reduced price. If this happens, I’ll make sure to keep you updated!
Also, the paddles were submitted for approval BEFORE the new tests went into effect. Does not seem right.
Final Thoughts
The Body Helix Terracore™ paddles are an exciting step forward in pickleball innovation, offering unparalleled power and control. However, their future hinges on their ability to adapt to the new PBCoR standards. For now, their potential remains untapped for the majority of competitive players.
Stay tuned for updates on availability and pricing!
PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE ARE “EXPERIMENTAL” PADDLES AND NOT SUBJECT TO DISCOUNTS BECAUSE THEY ARE DEEPLY DISCOUNTED ALREADY.
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