PADDLE REVIEWS
JOOLA ANDRE AGASSI PRO PADDLE REVIEW
Look / Cosmetics: 3 / 5 This paddle has the same measurements as the Perseus( 16.5 " x 7.5 "), with a 5.5 " grip length, but the“ tennis-inspired” shape is slightly different with rounded corners. Comes in 14mm and 16mm thickness( mine was 16 mm). My playtest paddle came in at 8.1 oz. Eager to see how the Agassi model differs from the Ben Johns Perseus model.
Serves / Returns / Groundstrokes: 4.5 / 5 This Agassi model does not have the raw power of the Johns model, but that doesn’ t mean it’ s not a poweroriented paddle— it is, and I found more control and predictability in my shots with this model. For that reason, I preferred it to the Perseus. I was quickly able to swing away without fear of hitting long, and directional control seemed spot-on. Also, the paddle felt balanced and easy to swing, without any head-heavy feel as some elongated paddles can have. I also noticed some very nice spin on my hard slice returns.
Touch / Feel / Spin: 4.5 / 5 Like with the Perseus, I was surprised at the amount of spin I was getting. Makes sense, since they both have the same textured carbon fiber surface. This model offers a nice feel off the face, with no bad vibes felt at the elbow. The power and spin are the outstanding attributes of this paddle. Spin access is incredible, and when you combine spin with power you have a serious weapon in your hands. For a power paddle, control and feel shots were also outstanding. Because it’ s so light and quick in your hands, it makes reacting to fast speed-ups and net battles a breeze. When that overhead opportunity presents itself, the power makes put-away slams easy.
Sound / Sweet Spot / Playability: 4.5 / 5 Like the Perseus, the tech of the foam edges and throat section really seems to expand the sweet spot to make it vertically longer( like a tennis racket). The only issues I had were with the upper corners. If you hit a ball there, it’ s not going anywhere. But other than that, the sweet spot was plenty sweet. Even though this paddle is very user-friendly, I still think it’ s meant for intermediate through tournament-level players.
Summary: 4.1 / 5 Between this model and the Ben Johns Perseus, Joola has two of the finest paddles available right now. The Agassi model offers a tad more control, with a unique shape, but both are very similar. With each offering either 14 or 16mm, you can pick the one that suits your game. Players who like to bring the heat and drive the ball, without sacrificing any spin potential, should definitely check these out.
Current Price: $ 279.95
by JACK BANDEL
JOOLA BEN JOHNS PERSEUS PRO IV PADDLE REVIEW
Look / Cosmetics: 3 / 5 This paddle measures 16.5 " long and 7.5 " wide, with a 5.5 " grip length. Comes in a 14mm and a 16mm thickness. I playtested the thinner 14mm model, which came in at a hair under 8 oz.
Serves / Returns / Groundstrokes: 4.5 / 5 This paddle really drives the ball! At first I was hitting long on my returns, but after adjusting to the lively feel of the paddle, it was fun to drive the ball deep with some dipping topspin to keep it deep. Definitely a power paddle. More control could probably be had with the 16mm model, but this one packs a wallop! Slice backhands stayed low with a good amount of spin, but again, there was a small adjustment period due to the pop.
Touch / Feel / Spin: 4 / 5 For a power paddle, I was surprised at the amount of spin that was also on tap. Not the“ spinniest” paddle out there, but more than enough. As far as touch and feel, this paddle isn’ t an optimum choice for finesse players but can do a good job with your short game.. On the other hand, quick flick shots and overhead put-aways came easier due to the high power level. This paddle is great for kitchen players who like to speed things up or take balls out of the air. It’ s also very quick and maneuverable in fast hand battles.
Sound / Sweet Spot / Playability: 4.5 / 5 The new tech of the foam edges and in the throat section really seems to expand the sweet spot in those areas. Joola calls this new tech“ TFP” or Tech Flex Power. For an advanced player’ s paddle, it’ s very playable for anyone intermediate level and up. It feels balanced through the air and not head-heavy like some elongated paddles can be. Sweet spot is above average in size, and I didn’ t feel any harsh vibes on mishits.
Summary: 4 / 5 Hard to find anything bad to say about this paddle, and the consensus seems to be that it’ s an improvement over the previous Perseus 3 model. Having Ben Johns’ name on it certainly won’ t hurt sales, but it’ s safe to say it pretty much lives up to the hype. If you like to drive your third shots and play an overall power-leaning game, you’ ll want to check this one out.
Current Price: $ 279.95
For more info, go to the Pickleball Paddle Reviews group page on Facebook. Paddle Manufacturers: Contact Jack Bandel at jackbandel @ gmail. com if you’ d like your products to be reviewed.
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