What pickleball paddles do the pros use?

What pickleball paddles do the pros use?

Professional pickleball players often use paddles that match their playing style, offering a balance of power, control, and spin. Here are some top paddles favored by pros in 2025:

Ben Johns’ Choice

JOOLA Hyperion CFS 14mm Pickleball Paddle

The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 14mm paddle is well-suited for players seeking a combination of power, spin, and maneuverability. Its design caters to aggressive playstyles and those transitioning from tennis. However, potential buyers should weigh the benefits against the reported durability concerns and higher price point. If control and a larger sweet spot are priorities, the 16mm version might be a better fit.

Pros

• Extended Handle: The 5.5-inch handle accommodates two-handed backhands and provides a comfortable grip for players transitioning from tennis.
• Carbon Friction Surface (CFS): The textured carbon surface enhances spin potential, allowing for more precise and varied shot-making.
• Improved Maneuverability: With a lighter swing weight than the 16mm model, the 14mm version offers quicker hand speed and better maneuverability, beneficial for fast-paced net play.
• Enhanced Power and Spin: The 14mm core provides a firmer feel and more pop compared to the 16mm version, making it ideal for aggressive players seeking added power and spin.

Cons

• Higher Price Point: Priced between $180 and $220, the Hyperion CFS 14mm is on the higher end of the market, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious players.
• Potential Durability Issues: Some users have reported concerns about the paddle’s durability, particularly with the handle connection, leading to potential breakage over time.
• Smaller Sweet Spot: Compared to the 16mm version, the 14mm paddle has a slightly smaller and less forgiving sweet spot, which may affect consistency on off-center hits.

Arm-Friendly Design

ProKennex Kinetic Spin Ovation

The ProKennex Kinetic Ovation Spin paddle is well-suited for players seeking advanced spin capabilities and arm protection. Its innovative design and technology make it a strong contender for those looking to enhance their game, though the higher price point and adjustment period should be considered.

Pros

• Durable Construction: Crafted as a seamless, single-piece paddle with a graphite inlay, making it virtually indestructible and built for long-lasting performance.
• Innovative Shape: The updated “Oval” shape increases surface area and paddle length while reducing corner weight, allowing for quicker paddle rotation and enhanced maneuverability.
• Enhanced Spin Potential: Features a “3-Way Access to Spin” technology, including a textured surface, a non-slip surface coating, and 23 hidden strings beneath the paddle’s surface, providing players with unmatched control over ball rotation.
• Arm-Friendly Design: Incorporates ProKennex’s patented Kinetic System, which reduces shock by 43% and vibration by 23%, helping to prevent common arm injuries and strain.

Cons

• Limited Availability: Depending on the region, it might be challenging to find this specific model in local stores.
• Adjustment Period: Some players may need time to adjust to the paddle’s unique features, such as its shape and spin technology.
• Price Point: With a price around $220, it may be considered expensive compared to other paddles on the market.

Durable Build

Zcebra Pickleball Gorilla Pro Paddle

The Zcebra Gorilla Pro Series pickleball paddle is designed for advanced players seeking a balance of power, control, and spin. Its construction and features cater to competitive play, offering both performance and distinctive aesthetics.

Specifications

• Weight: Approximately 235 grams (8.3 oz)
• Dimensions: Length: 39.9 cm; Width: 20

Pros

• Distinctive Design: The paddle boasts a unique and bold aesthetic, with various color options like orange, rainbow, and black, appealing to players who value style on the court.
• USA Pickleball Approved: Certified for use in official tournaments, making it suitable for competitive play in both Europe and the United States.
• Ergonomic Grip: The hand-stitched, sweat-wicking, and non-slip grip ensures exceptional control and comfort during play, aiding in precise shot execution.
• 16mm Polypropylene Core: A thick honeycomb polymer and polypropylene core delivers a large, homogeneous sweet spot, increasing the hitting surface and offering a blend of power and control.
• Pure Carbon Fiber Surface: The paddle features a textured carbon fiber skin (PCF Technology) that enhances spin and power upon impact, providing consistent striking and balance for both dinking and baseline shots.

Cons

• Minimal User Reviews: There is a scarcity of user reviews, which might make it challenging to gauge long-term durability and performance from a broader player base.
• Limited Availability: Depending on your location, the paddle may not be readily available in local stores, potentially requiring online purchase and international shipping.
• Short Handle Length: With a handle length of 11.25 cm (4.42 inches), players accustomed to longer handles may find it less accommodating, especially for two-handed backhands.

Lightweight Option

Head Extreme 120 2023

The Head Extreme Pro 2023 pickleball paddle is suitable for players seeking a balance of power and control, with a comfortable grip and solid construction. However, those prioritizing lightweight paddles or enhanced spin capabilities might consider other options.

Pros

• Optimized Tubular Construction: This design enhances the paddle’s feel and playability, contributing to better performance on the court.
• Comfortable Grip: Equipped with a Comfort grip system, it provides a comfortable feel during extended play sessions.
• Enhanced Power and Control: The composite hitting surface combined with a diamond shape design offers increased power while maintaining great control on every shot.

Cons

• Limited Spin Potential: While it offers good control and power, it may not provide as much spin as paddles specifically designed for spin enhancement.
• Heavier Weight: Some players might find it slightly heavier than other paddles, which could affect maneuverability for those preferring lighter equipment.

Head Extreme 145 2023

The Head Extreme 145 (2023) squash racquet offers a solid combination of power, control, and stability, making it a suitable option for players looking for a balanced racquet. However, considerations regarding its weight and stock string quality should be taken into account based on individual preferences.

Pros

• Modern Design: Updated with a new metallic, earthy tone design, giving it a contemporary and stylish appearance.
• Generous Head Size: Features a 495 cm² head size, providing a large sweet spot that can be forgiving on off-center hits.
• Innegra™ Technology: Incorporates Innegra™, a hybrid-composite structure that offers advanced shock absorption and enhanced stability, reducing vibrations during play.
• Powerful Performance: The teardrop-shaped frame construction facilitates excellent power transfer, enabling players to deliver powerful strokes with precision.
• Enhanced Stability and Control: With a 145g frame and head-light balance, the racquet provides excellent stability and control, allowing for precise shot placement.

Cons

• Limited Advanced Features: While it offers a good balance of power and control, advanced players seeking specialized features might find it lacking in certain aspects.
• Stock String Quality: The racquet comes pre-strung, and some players might prefer to restring it with higher-quality strings to better suit their playing style.
• Weight Consideration: At 145g, some players might find it heavier compared to other racquets, which could affect maneuverability for those preferring lighter equipment.
  

Top Picks Explained

• JOOLA Hyperion CFS 14mm Pickleball Paddle: Endorsed by world #1 Ben Johns, this paddle offers a carbon fiber surface for enhanced spin and control. It’s designed for players seeking a high-performance paddle that delivers precision and power.
• ProKennex Kinetic Spin Ovation: Known for its arm-friendly design, this paddle incorporates kinetic technology to reduce vibration, making it suitable for players prone to elbow strain.
• Zcebra Pickleball Gorilla Pro Paddle: This paddle is recognized for its durable build and balanced performance, catering to players who value consistency and reliability on the court.
• Head Extreme 120 2023: A lightweight option that offers maneuverability and speed, ideal for players who prefer quick reactions and control.
• Head Extreme 145 2023: This paddle provides a balance between power and control, suitable for players looking to enhance their all-around game.

When selecting a paddle, consider factors like weight, grip size, and material to match your playing style and physical needs. Testing different paddles can help determine which one feels most comfortable and improves your performance on the court.

Famous pickleball players and the paddles they are known to use (as of 2024–2025):

1. Ben Johns

• Paddle: JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16mm / 14mm
• Why: Ben Johns collaborated with JOOLA to develop this paddle, offering top-tier control, spin, and power. It’s one of the most popular paddles in pro play.

2. Anna Leigh Waters

• Paddle: Paddletek Bantam TS-5
• Why: Known for her aggressive playing style, Anna Leigh uses this lightweight paddle for quick hands and powerful shots.

3. Tyson McGuffin

• Paddle: Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta
• Why: A longtime Selkirk athlete, Tyson prefers this paddle for its powerful, elongated shape and great spin performance.

4. Catherine Parenteau

• Paddle: Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta
• Why: Similar to McGuffin, Catherine values the mix of reach, power, and touch this paddle offers.

5. JW Johnson

• Paddle: Franklin Signature Series
• Why: JW uses this paddle for its consistent performance and affordability, which has made it popular among pros and amateurs alike.

6. Jessie Irvine

• Paddle: Engage Pursuit MX 6.0
• Why: Jessie relies on this paddle for its soft feel and precision, ideal for her tactical style of play.

7. Riley Newman

• Paddle: Takeya x Gamma Signature Paddle
• Why: Riley is known for his aggressive net play, and this paddle offers speed and control to match.

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READ ALSO: Where to put lead tape on pickleball paddle?

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HARRY ANDERSON

Founder at Pickleball Lobby

A quirky Hi from Harry Anderson—the Founder and Editor-in-Chief at Pickleball Lobby. He’s a true enthusiast who loves and enjoys trying new sports, his favorite of which is pickleball. He has played various sports throughout his life. He was former table tennis, tennis, and Minton player mainly and made his transition to pickleball in 2008. Upon joining the game, he got this crazy obsession with collecting pickleball gear and accessories.



Harry is a freak who often argues that O in his name may well stand for “Obsessed with Pickleball.”

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