Selkirk LABS FAQ: Everything to know about becoming a Selkirk LABS member
Selkirk LABS pickleball paddles (ie Projects) are not the same as Selkirk Sport pickleball paddles — but they are related. So what is Selkirk LABS? What does it take for a Selkirk LABS paddle to become a Selkirk pickleball paddle? And how do you become a LABS member?
What is Selkirk LABS?
Selkirk LABS is an independent research and development (R&D) division of Selkirk Sport. Through LABS, Selkirk beta tests new technology for next generation pickleball paddles. Selkirk LABS is a membership process to promote player involvement, feedback, and to test new technologies in real-life pickleball situations with real-life pickleball players.
Who are Selkirk LABS members?
Selkirk LABS is not for everyone, it is for pickleball players who want to try out the latest pickleball technology and help shape the future of pickleball. Selkirk Labs members will receive early access to new pickleball paddles. If you are an everyday pickleball player, we recommend look at Selkirk Sport pickleball paddles or SLK by Selkirk pickleball paddles. Many Selkirk LABS pickleball paddles are eventually introduced as Selkirk or SLK paddles.
How to become a Selkirk LABS member
The Selkirk LABS membership process has changed: there is no more application process.
- Step One: Purchase a Selkirk LABS paddle at SelkirkLABS.com or through select retailers.
- Step Two: Take your new Selkirk LABS pickleball paddle to the court and test its performance.
- Step Three: Share your experience and feedback on the paddle's performance, and register it to complete the process.
- Step Four: Once you've submitted your feedback, you’ll officially become a Selkirk LABS member. Enjoy early access to new projects and exclusive access to the LABS store.
What are the benefits of being a Selkirk LABS member?
There are a number of different perks for Selkirk LABS members, including:
- Participating in research and development of the newest pickleball technology.
- Learn about new Selkirk designs, technology, and paddle concepts before anyone else.
- Exclusive access to purchase first release, limited production, and beta paddles.
- Access to purchase Selkirk LABS gear.
Are Selkirk LABS pickleball paddle USAPA-approved?
Yes, all Selkirk LABS pickleball paddles are USA Pickleball-approved (unless otherwise noted) and ready for tournament play.
How to make your first Selkirk LABS purchase
You can make your first LABS purchase as soon as you have been accepted into the Selkirk LABS membership program. After you have been accepted and make your first paddle purchase, you will then be eligible for early access releases.
When am I eligible for Selkirk LABS Member Early Access
You are eligible to for Selkirk LABS Member Early Access after you have completed your first pickleball paddle purchase, submitted your feedback, and been accepted as a Selkirk LABS member.
What Selkirk LABS Projects do members participate in?
LABS members are able to participate in Selkirk LABS Projects, helping provide feedback for research and development at Selkirk Sport and shaping the future of pickleball paddle technology.
How does feedback work on R&D projects?
Selkirk LABS members are encouraged to test LABS Projects beta paddles and provide feedback on the paddle and technology. The feedback will help our team at Selkirk decide which technology to introduce into the main Selkirk and SLK product lines (and which ones we will not move forward with).
What is the availability of Selkirk LABS projects?
Most of the Selkirk LABS Projects will have very limited availability and may also have lead time. Each LABS Project will be offered to members during a specific time frame — depending on feedback, popularity, and supply chain factors. Some of the projects will be available only for a short period of time, and others may stay on sale for longer periods of time. We will not be able to provide estimates on when a Selkirk LABS Project may be discontinued, or if it will be turned into a pickleball paddle in one of Selkirk’s main lines.
When will new colors or shapes be released?
Selkirk LABS Projects allow members to purchase different paddle shapes and colors that may not be available in the main Selkirk pickleball paddle brands. Successful LABS Projects may be turned into pickleball paddles in the Selkirk or SLK paddle lines, while others will remain as Selkirk LABS Projects only, or discontinued altogether.
How long has Selkirk LABS been around?
Selkirk LABS was introduced by Selkirk Sport in early 2022, as a way to research and develop new pickleball paddle technology. Since that time, we have released a number of pickleball paddles, pickleball nets, pickleball shoes, and other pickleball gear. Selkirk Sport launched in 2014.
What is the Selkirk LABS warranty process?
Unless otherwise stated, all Selkirk LABS projects offer a two-year warranty against manufacturer defects. All warranty defects must be verified via photograph or video.
What is included in the Selkirk LABS warranty?
Visible manufacturer defects, including:
- Handle breaks.
- Loose or cracking edge guards.
- Paddle face cracks.
- Loose or damaged end caps.
What is not covered under the 2-year warranty?
- Normal wear and tear, including graphic wear/fading.
- Rattling (because it does not affect performance).
- Damage caused by hits to the ground.
- Abuse/neglect.
- Dead spots.
Because Selkirk LABS projects are designed for research and development, there is not lifetime warranty on concept pickleball paddles.
