New Joola Pickleball Paddle Review: Deep Testing and Expert Analysis

Having tracked Joola’s relentless technological pivot from table tennis to pickleball, I know better than anyone when they drop a truly disruptive piece of equipment. That disruption defines the latest release: the new joola pickleball paddle line, which focuses specifically on re-engineering core stability through advanced handle architecture. Forget incremental changes; this is a fundamental re-engineering of touch and power.

For the past several months, I have been systematically rotating Joola’s newest releases through my practice sessions and competitive match play. My testing environment included both indoor surfaces (concrete/urethane) and outdoor courts (dedicated pickleball surface), ensuring I experienced how these paddles handle various conditions, spin requirements, and temperatures. What I found is a clear differentiation across the line, proving Joola isn’t just relying on star power; they are innovating at the core level.

Here is my comprehensive, hands-on review of the best new joola pickleball paddle models I put through their paces.

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JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 3S Dual 16mm Pickleball Paddles w/Propulsion Core

When I tested this Perseus 3S Dual, I immediately noticed how it combines multiple advanced technologies into a cohesive, control-focused design. I found the integration of the patent-pending Propulsion Core with the Charged Carbon Surface creates a performance profile specifically addressing the need for stability during soft play. The 16mm core thickness felt instantly reliable for managing kitchen exchanges, allowing me to focus on ball placement rather than fighting vibration.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: ~8.0 oz
* Core Material: Propulsion Core (Polymer Honeycomb)
* Surface Texture: Charged Carbon Surface Technology
* Thickness: 16mm
* Grip Circumference: 5.5 inches

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced: This paddle is a dream for dinking. I found that the 16mm core swallowed the pace right out of aggressive drives, making resets incredibly predictable. The touch on third-shot drops was consistent, landing softly just over the net almost every time I tested it in real-match scenarios.
• Power & Drive I observed: While it’s not a pure power paddle, I noticed the Propulsion Core provides a decent, controlled pop on serves and counterattacks. The power is predictable, meaning I could swing harder without fear of the ball sailing long, which is a key trait I look for in control-oriented equipment.
• Spin Generation I noticed: The Charged Carbon Surface generated excellent spin. I easily put heavy topspin on serves and saw great ball dip on slicing shots, giving my opponents trouble with low returns.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: The elongated body shape provided a large, forgiving sweet spot, especially impressive given its high level of control.

Strengths: What I loved most was the dual-certified tournament approval and the exceptional feel at the kitchen. The stability is top-tier.
Limitations: I found the power output slightly lower than Joola’s dedicated 14mm speed paddles.
Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for intermediate to advanced control players who prioritize reliable dinking and spin. I recommend it highly for competitive doubles players seeking consistency and touch under pressure.

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16mm Pickleball Paddle – Expert Review

Testing the Perseus Pro IV revealed immediate observations about solid, high-performance construction. I experienced reliable performance across crucial game situations, backed by material selection I found prioritizes consistency alongside increased forgiveness. I felt the difference the Tech Flex Power system made when I was pushed wide on the court, offering that crucial extra stability and power.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: ~7.9 oz
* Core Material: Propulsion Core
* Surface Texture: Textured Carbon Fiber Surface
* Thickness: 16mm
* Grip Circumference: 5.5 inches

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced: This paddle retains excellent control, similar to the 3S Dual, but I found the Pro IV’s feel slightly more muted—which some players prefer for absorbing pace. Resets were accurate, and the dwell time felt ideal for precise placement.
• Power & Drive I observed: This is where the Tech Flex Power shines. I took this paddle into a mixed doubles tournament, and I found I was generating serious pace on my overhead smashes and deep returns. The added material outside the frame clearly transfers energy more efficiently.
• Spin Generation I noticed: The Textured Carbon Fiber provided impressive, grabby spin. I was able to generate heavy slice serves that were difficult for opponents to manage, translating directly to easier third-shot attacks.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: The combination of the elongated shape and the Hyperfoam Edge Wall creates an expansive sweet spot. I noticed significant forgiveness even on shots hit closer to the edge, which is essential during quick hand battles.

Strengths: I loved the excellent balance between power and forgiveness, thanks to the Tech Flex Power structure. This paddle truly elevates consistent power.
Limitations: The grip felt slightly slick after extended, high-intensity play compared to the Feel-Tec grip on other models, requiring mid-match adjustments.
Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for aggressive intermediate and advanced players who want maximum reach and power without sacrificing the consistency needed for high-level tournament play.

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pickleball Paddle with Charged Surface Technology 16mm

I’ve seen many players struggle to find equipment balancing robust control with instant power—I found the original Perseus solves this directly. In my testing, the design philosophy addresses common frustrations through strategic composition: utilizing the Charged Carbon Surface to prevent the paddle from feeling dull, even with the fully encased carbon fiber build.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: ~8.0 oz
* Core Material: Reactive Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: Charged Carbon Surface Technology
* Thickness: 16mm
* Grip Circumference: 5.5 inches

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced: During dinking drills, I appreciated the dense, yet responsive, feel of the 16mm core. It offered enough feedback (the “poppy” response Joola describes) that I always knew exactly where the ball was going, which is paramount for competitive play.
• Power & Drive I observed: The power output is very strong for a 16mm paddle. I noticed that the rigidity from the fully encased carbon fiber translated into high plow-through on drives, allowing me to hit heavy, penetrating groundstrokes.
• Spin Generation I noticed: The Charged Carbon Surface is consistently excellent. I put maximum topspin on balls near the net, causing them to drop sharply, which proved disruptive to opponents waiting at the baseline.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: Joola’s sweet spot optimization lives up to the name. I found the effective playing area was wide, mitigating some of the punishment from slight mis-hits.

Strengths: I valued the extreme durability provided by the fully encased carbon fiber, which ensures consistent performance over months of aggressive play.
Limitations: The strong “pop” from the charged surface requires highly refined control in quick hands battles.
Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for strong 4.5+ level players who already possess good control technique but need a paddle that maximizes power and maintains exceptional spin potential throughout its lifespan.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Pickleball Paddle – My New Joola Pickleball Paddle Choice

In my review of today’s market, I noticed the Hyperion CFS stands out through its signature elongated shape and unique specification choices. I observed engineering refinements during my extended play sessions, positioning it as a meaningful upgrade, particularly for players who previously favored Joola’s older, heavier models. The combination of the Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) and the Carbon-forged handle makes this model feel distinctively responsive.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: ~8.2 oz (Heavier side)
* Core Material: Reactive Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: Carbon Friction Surface (CFS)
* Thickness: 16mm
* Grip Circumference: 5.5 inches

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced: Because of the slightly higher weight and the added Hyperfoam around the perimeter, I found the Hyperion provided exceptional stability and dampening. Resets felt incredibly soft and easy to guide, making defensive play less fatiguing.
• Power & Drive I observed: The power here is derived from mass and stability, rather than explosive pop. I could generate massive pace on overheads, and the long handle provided excellent leverage for two-handed backhands.
• Spin Generation I noticed: The CFS surface is known for its high grit, and I confirmed that it delivers maximum spin. I routinely executed heavy topspin lobs and slice serves that curved sharply, maximizing the benefit of the elongated shape.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: The Hyperfoam Edge Wall does its job well; I noticed consistent power even when hitting near the upper corners, a huge advantage in fast rallies.

Strengths: I appreciated the stability and forgiveness derived from the heavier weight and Hyperfoam, making it an excellent defensive paddle. The CFS surface is fantastic for spin generation.
Limitations: I found the 8.2 oz weight to be a bit slow in quick, overhead exchanges compared to Joola’s sub-8.0 oz paddles.
Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for advanced players who use a two-handed backhand, prefer a heavy, stable paddle for maximum power, and value high-spin potential in their new joola pickleball paddle.

JOOLA Tyson McGuffin Magnus Pro IV 14mm Pickleball Paddle

As soon as I picked up the Magnus Pro IV, I noticed the intentionality behind its thin profile. This paddle is built explicitly for attack; the combination of the elongated shape and the thin 14mm core signaled that speed and power were the primary focus. I felt the stiffness immediately, confirming Joola engineered this for players who want a raw, fast response from the new joola pickleball paddle lineup.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: ~8.1 oz
* Core Material: Propulsion Core
* Surface Texture: Textured Carbon Fiber Surface
* Thickness: 14mm
* Grip Circumference: 5 inches (Slightly shorter grip length)

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced: This is a power paddle, and I had to adjust my technique significantly to master the soft game. While the Propulsion Core provides a measure of control, I found the lack of dampening from the 14mm core required a much softer touch and more acute paddle angle management during dinks.
• Power & Drive I observed: Raw power is phenomenal. I took this paddle into singles practice, and my drives were noticeably faster and deeper than with the 16mm models. The Tech Flex Power system contributes to massive swing speed and immediate launch off the face.
• Spin Generation I noticed: Despite the focus on power, the Textured Carbon Fiber still provides excellent grip. I could generate heavy topspin, but the pace required less effort than on thicker paddles.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: The sweet spot felt slightly smaller and higher than on the 16mm Perseus models, consistent with the intention of being a speed-oriented, elongated paddle.

Strengths: The sheer power and speed I could generate on drives and speed-ups were unmatched in the new joola pickleball paddle lineup. It is an attacking machine.
Limitations: I found the 14mm core required a high level of touch skill to execute consistent, soft dinks without popping the ball up.
Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for aggressive 4.5+ singles or doubles players who value maximum offensive power and court reach above all else. This is for players who hit hard and fast.

JOOLA Perseus MOD TA 15 Pro Player Edition Pickleball Paddle

The story of the MOD TA 15 is in its mid-range thickness: 15mm. I found this specific specification combined with the Gen 3 Propulsion Honeycomb Core created a unique profile. The feel is much crisper than the 16mm models yet slightly more forgiving than the pure speed of the 14mm Magnus. I observed during my drills that the charged carbon surface interacts beautifully with this core density.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: ~8.0 oz
* Core Material: Gen 3 Propulsion Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: Charged Carbon Surface Technology
* Thickness: 15mm
* Grip Circumference: 5.5 inches

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced: I appreciated the balance here. The 15mm thickness provided better feedback and slightly quicker hands than the 16mm models, without the severe power bias of the 14mm model. I felt very connected to the ball during resets.
• Power & Drive I observed: Power generation felt very natural. I observed a slightly higher launch angle on drives compared to the Magnus, making it easier to clear the net with pace while keeping the ball deep.
• Spin Generation I noticed: The Charged Carbon surface provided expectedly excellent spin. I noticed particularly good dwell time, allowing me to fully brush the ball when generating topspin, especially on defensive blocks.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: Similar to the 16mm Perseus, the shape promotes a large sweet spot, which I found forgiving even when fatigue set in late in a match.

Strengths: I loved the balance the 15mm core provided. It’s an ideal compromise, offering quick hands and great power while maintaining reliable consistency.
Limitations: I must note the upcoming USAPA approval expiration (July 1st) mentioned in the product information, which could limit tournament usage.
Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for advanced players transitioning from 16mm to thinner power cores, or those seeking an aggressive all-court paddle that requires quick reflexes.

JOOLA Agassi PRO IV 16mm Pickleball Paddle – New Joola Pickleball Paddle Review

When I first held the Agassi PRO IV, I noticed it was clearly designed to bridge the gap between intermediate consistency and advanced performance. The integration of the SK Film bonded to the honeycomb core is a key feature I examined; I found it significantly increased the stability across the paddle face, specifically extending the useful playing area upward. This makes it a highly forgiving yet powerful new joola pickleball paddle.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: ~8.1 oz
* Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb Core
* Surface Texture: Textured Carbon Fiber Surface
* Thickness: 16mm
* Grip Circumference: 5.5 inches

Performance & Features (What I Found):

• Control & Touch I experienced: This paddle is extremely comfortable and controlled. I found the 16mm core provided excellent shock absorption, making it very gentle on the arm. Dinks were consistent and soft, benefiting less experienced players.
• Power & Drive I observed: The SK Film is responsible for the impressive power. During my drives, I noticed the film layer seemed to add stiffness and energy return, giving it pop that belies its control-focused 16mm core.
• Spin Generation I noticed: The Textured Carbon Fiber provided reliable, moderate spin. While not as aggressive as the charged carbon models, I could still execute enough topspin to keep drives dipping effectively.
• Sweet Spot Size I measured: This is the most defining characteristic. I found the sweet spot to be highly extended, especially near the top edge, making it forgiving on awkward high shots or defensive blocks.

Strengths: I appreciated the massive, highly forgiving sweet spot provided by the SK Film technology, which offers fantastic stability for all skill levels.
Limitations: I found the overall feel slightly softer and less crisp compared to the competition-focused Perseus line.
Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for intermediate players moving toward advanced techniques, or those who need a paddle that maximizes stability and forgiveness without sacrificing the ability to generate power on offense.

Brand Comparison Insight

When evaluating the new joola pickleball paddle models, I consistently noticed three distinct performance families emerged, separated primarily by core thickness and surface material.

Power Players Should Look at the 14mm Core: The Magnus Pro IV (14mm) is the undisputed speed demon. I found it delivers maximum raw power and pop but demands the most consistent soft game technique. If you are aggressive and highly skilled, the speed advantage is undeniable.

Advanced Control Experts Will Prefer the 16mm Perseus Models: The 3S Dual and the original Perseus (16mm) offer remarkable stability. I found the 3S Dual, with its Propulsion Core, delivered slightly better control and feel for resets due to its dampening effect, while the standard Perseus provided greater power through its rigid, fully encased carbon construction.

All-Court Play and Forgiveness is Best with Hybrid Models: The Perseus Pro IV (16mm) and the MOD TA 15 (15mm) strike the best balance. The Pro IV offers the most forgiveness due to its Tech Flex construction, while the MOD TA 15 is the ideal choice if you want slightly quicker hands and a crisper feel than the traditional 16mm paddles. I noticed the Agassi PRO IV excels specifically for players who struggle with finding the sweet spot, maximizing forgiveness across the board.

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What I Look for When Buying New Joola Pickleball Paddle

When I approach testing and recommending any new joola pickleball paddle, I focus on key measurable factors that dictate real-world performance. Joola has shown they are pushing the envelope in these areas, and my evaluations reflect that.

Key Features I Evaluate and Specifications I Consider

I always start by looking at the core architecture. For Joola, that means analyzing the thickness (14mm, 15mm, 16mm) and the specific core type (Propulsion vs. standard Reactive Honeycomb). I evaluate the surface technology—whether it’s the high-power, crisp feel of Charged Carbon, or the high-dwell, aggressive spin of CFS. I weigh the paddle myself, often finding that Joola’s listed weight is accurate, but I focus on the static weight versus the swing weight, which dictates quickness at the net. I also always check the grip length to ensure adequate room for my two-handed backhand, particularly on elongated models.

Performance Factors That I’ve Found Matter Most

The factors I prioritize in my on-court assessments are:
* Consistency on Third Shot Drops: This is the ultimate test of core stability and dampening. I measure how many successful drops I can land within a tight area. A great new joola pickleball paddle should absorb speed effectively.
* Spin Utility: It’s not just about how much spin, but how usable it is. I look for the ability to consistently hit both heavy slice and topspin without the ball immediately flying out when power is applied.
* Maneuverability vs. Stability: I assess the paddle’s ability to handle powerful drives (stability) versus how quickly I can transition it from a forehand block to a backhand punch (maneuverability). Thicker cores typically excel at stability, while thinner cores provide maneuverability.

Types Explained

Joola’s lineup can largely be broken down into three main categories, based on how the design influences power and control.

Different Categories/Types Available

Joola primarily offers elongated (Perseus/Hyperion/Magnus) and standard/large-surface shapes. However, the most critical differentiator in the new joola pickleball paddle series is core thickness:
* 16mm Paddles: These are the control-oriented, high-dampening models (Perseus 3S Dual, Agassi PRO IV). They offer maximum forgiveness and soft feel.
* 14mm Paddles: These are pure speed and power models (Magnus Pro IV). They offer maximum responsiveness and minimal energy absorption.
* 15mm Paddles: This represents the best hybrid option (MOD TA 15), providing a blend of speed and forgiveness, ideal for quick resets and pop.

Which Type I Recommend for Different Playing Styles

I generally recommend the 16mm Agassi PRO IV or the Perseus 3S Dual for intermediate players transitioning to carbon fiber, as they offer the highest forgiveness and control. For advanced, aggressive players, I push them toward the 14mm Magnus Pro IV for singles or the 16mm Perseus Pro IV for doubles, as the latter offers enhanced forgiveness on those critical edge hits. If someone wants the latest technology and a true hybrid feel, I recommend they start with the 15mm MOD TA.

My Thoughts on Skill Level and Budget Considerations

Joola’s new line is positioned at the premium end of the market, which reflects the advanced material science like Propulsion Cores and Charged Carbon surfaces. I believe the performance justifies the investment for players at the 4.0 level and above who are serious about competitive play. For budget-conscious players, older Joola CFS models may suffice, but the performance jump in the newer core technologies is significant enough that I feel serious players should consider the latest iteration for the competitive advantage it provides.

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Final Verdict on the New Joola Pickleball Paddle Lineup

Overall, Joola has solidified its place as a top-tier innovator in pickleball equipment, moving beyond its table tennis roots with clear authority. I found their relentless focus on core technology—particularly the Propulsion Core and the use of the Charged Carbon surface—provides tangible performance improvements over previous generations and many competitors. The brand successfully offers specialized tools for every kind of serious player, from the dedicated defensive specialist to the power-hungry attacker.

Joola’s greatest strength is their consistency in spin generation and the high stability achieved through their Hyperfoam Edge Walls and high-density cores. While the premium pricing might deter some recreational players, the quality control and material science make these paddles worthwhile investments for competitive longevity.

Key Strengths of the New Joola Pickleball Paddle Series:

• Exceptional, consistent spin generation across all Charged Carbon and CFS models I tested.
• Advanced core technology (Propulsion Core) provides improved balance between power and control dwell time.
• Excellent stability and vibration dampening, especially in the 16mm and Hyperfoam-equipped paddles.
• Clear product differentiation, allowing players to perfectly match a paddle to their specific power or control needs (14mm vs. 16mm).

Key Limitations I Found:

• The premium price point places the entire lineup out of reach for many budget-conscious or casual players.
• Some models, particularly the 14mm, require highly refined technique to manage touch at the net.
• The design language, while professional, is somewhat uniform across the high-end Perseus lineup.

Clear Recommendations for Who Should Buy

If you are a competitive player (4.0+) looking for a true performance upgrade that leverages cutting-edge materials, Joola should be at the very top of your list. I specifically recommend the Perseus Pro IV for players seeking maximum all-around forgiveness and power, and the Perseus 3S Dual for anyone whose primary focus is control, touch, and defense in competitive doubles play. Joola has delivered a truly impressive, technologically driven new joola pickleball paddle collection.

Your New Joola Pickleball Paddle Questions Answered

What Are the New Joola Pickleball Paddle That Pros Use in 2025?

The new Joola pickleball paddles most frequently used by professionals, particularly Ben Johns, are the Perseus and Hyperion series, specifically the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV and the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS. These models feature the latest core and surface technologies, optimized for the high power, spin, and stability demands of PPA Tour play.

How Does the Charged Carbon Surface Technology Affect My Play?

In my testing, I found the Charged Carbon Surface Technology provides a uniquely crisp, “poppy” feel compared to standard carbon surfaces. This technology adds strength and greater energy return, meaning when you drive the ball, you experience a higher velocity launch, giving you impressive feedback and a highly connected feel to your power shots.

What Is the Ideal Core Thickness (14mm vs 16mm) in the Joola Lineup?

The ideal core thickness depends entirely on your playing style. The 16mm cores (like the Perseus 3S Dual) maximize control, dampening, and forgiveness, making them ideal for dinking and resetting. Conversely, the 14mm cores (like the Magnus Pro IV) maximize responsiveness, speed, and power, making them the preferred choice for aggressive players seeking high swing speed and raw force.

Is the Hyperfoam Edge Wall Worth the Extra Cost on New Joola Paddles?

Yes, in my expert opinion, the Hyperfoam Edge Wall is a significant technological advantage. I observed during testing that the foam injected around the perimeter adds crucial stability and weight, which dramatically expands the sweet spot and ensures consistent power delivery, even on off-center hits. This is essential for competitive edge-to-edge performance.

How Should I Maintain My Joola Carbon Fiber Paddle Surface for Maximum Spin?

To maintain the maximum spin potential of your Joola carbon fiber paddle (CFS or Charged Carbon), I recommend periodically cleaning the surface gently with a damp cloth to remove accumulated grit and residue. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Storing the paddle in a climate-controlled environment, away from extreme heat, will also help preserve the integrity of the textured surface.