Joola started as a table tennis brand and is a relative newcomer to the pickleball game. I’ve been testing six paddles from among the gear made by this Maryland-based company over the past two seasons. These include a unique round-frame paddle modeled more closely on a tennis racket, as well as some in a series made for professional pickle bowler Ben Johns. Current number one singles player in the world.
This paddle is thermoformed and heat crimped, making it virtually unbreakable. It’s a bit heavy on the head and has the most power of any paddle I’ve tested. Everyone who tried this paddle found it to be less forgiving, which is to be expected considering it was designed for advanced players. The sweet spot is at the top of the paddle face and isn’t particularly large. If you aim for the money and hit one to the right, the ball will fly out. For players who don’t have great control, it’s easy to hit hard. But this paddle was especially appreciated by my friend Daniel. Danielle tore her rotator cuff a few months ago and has changed the way she plays as a result. “Coming back from my shoulder injury, it was nice because I didn’t have to do much work, and I felt like I had a lot of pop,” she says.
★ More control and style: If you’re looking for serious power, the Ben Johns paddle is the best choice, but personally mach 1 forzaa similar thermoformed paddle that doesn’t have quite the same vertigo, but with slightly better control and understated style. The Mach 1 Forza comes in the slickest packaging of any pickleball paddle I’ve ever come across (Is this box my new iPad?), I really liked the black and light blue design. It’s not as precise as a non-thermoformed paddle, or as powerful as John’s, but it’s a solid all-around option.
★ Refine your budget: If you want to mash balls but are on a limited budget, phantom eternal. At $85, the carbon fiber face is a great value, and the Phantom Eternal is a very solid paddle overall. I didn’t find it to be very accurate compared to competitors costing more than twice the price (there’s a dead spot at the top of the paddle, around the eyes). However, I loved the thick, slightly tacky grip and appreciated the unique graphics. But most of the time I found myself swinging for the fences with this paddle. With this paddle, you’ll feel like you can suck the return right next to your opponent’s foot.
