Ben Johns Reveals Pro Paddle Secrets: Professional pickleball player Ben Johns recently shared how he prepares his new paddle for matches. In a YouTube video, he explained how he sets up the Joola Perseus Pro IV paddle with a Joola overgrip and tungsten tape. He made the video to show fans the exact steps he follows to get his paddle ready for play.
The video was filmed at an unnamed location. Ben Johns took viewers step-by-step through his paddle setup. His goal is to get the right feel, comfort, and balance on the court.
Setting the Grip for Comfort
Ben Johns began the video by showing a new Joola Perseus Pro IV paddle. He said he uses a Joola overgrip because he likes how it feels in his hand.
“We got a uh Yola overgrip here Um this is what I use now I mean some people use Yonx or Wilson overgrips but I prefer the uh the Yola one now.” – (johns)
He used to put an extra layer under the grip to make it thicker. But now, he feels that one layer is enough.
“So now I’m good with one overgrip.” – (johns)
He wraps the grip slightly higher than normal. This gives him a better feel when hitting backhands.
“I wrap the grip a little bit high It’s just how I like the look and the feel of it Like uh when I hit a 200 back end for instance.” – (johns)
He showed where to stop wrapping the grip. It should end just below the word “Pro” printed on the paddle.
“There we have the uh overgrip is done So it should end right beneath basically the name approximately right there.” – (johns)
Using Tape for Better Balance
Next, Ben Johns showed how he adds weight to the paddle. He used to place tape on the top corners of older paddles. But now, he puts tape only on the throat of the paddle.
“On the previous version of this paddle the 3S I uh I used to add a little bit of top corner weight I’ve since uh on this version got rid of that.” – (johns)
He uses tungsten tape with a clear size and weight.
“I have um some tungsten tape here. You can use lead tape Really just want to make sure the density is the same So I use the 1/2 inch width and the density is half a gram per inch.” – (johns)
He cut two strips, each five and a half inches long. He showed where to place them on both sides of the throat.
“Where I start the uh 5 and 1/2 piece uh strip of lead is uh there’s a little reflected guy right here I started at the top of that.” – (johns)
He showed how to match both sides using the paddle’s lettering as a guide.
“If you measure out the five and a half inches correctly and um started it in the right place, then it’s it’s going to end up right around where the pro is.” – (johns)
The tape ends near different letters depending on the side.
“Again, start it near the uh reflective part and then on the other side where it has different lettering should end what right where it’s uh the Perseus name is ending in E US So we got EU on one side uh PR on the other.” – (johns)
Finishing Touches Before Play
After setting the grip and tape, Ben Johns said the paddle feels just right. He confirmed it is now ready for use in competition.
“That is the entire paddle. So we got a nice fresh guy fresh overgrip lead tape test for god tier. Feels perfect. This thing’s good to go.” – (johns)
His setup is simple but effective. It shows how small changes can make a big difference for performance. The paddle is now adjusted to match his style and comfort on the court.
News in Brief: Ben Johns Reveals Pro Paddle Secrets
Ben Johns posted a video showing how he sets up his new Joola Perseus Pro IV paddle. He uses a Joola overgrip and tungsten tape on the throat. The setup gives him the control and balance he prefers. His simple, clear guide helps players customize their paddles like the pros.
ALSO READ: 4 Game-Changing Tips to Instantly Boost the Pickleball Drive