Best Pickleball Paddles 2025: Pickleball Central has released its updated list of the best pickleball paddles as of July 2025. The JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV remains the top pick since its release in March. The list includes paddles tested on court, reviewed by professionals, and chosen for quality, feel, and performance.
The updated ranking includes new models from popular brands like JOOLA, Franklin, CRBN, Engage, and more. These paddles offer a range of features, from high spin and power to excellent control and speed.
Top Paddle Still the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV
The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV holds its top spot thanks to a strong mix of feel, power, and flexibility. It features a carbon friction surface, comes in 14mm or 16mm core thickness, and weighs around 8 ounces. A special foam section in the throat helps the paddle flex more than earlier models, which increases control and power.
“An added section of high-density foam inside the bottom corners/throat area of the Pro IV models allows the paddle to flex more than prior models, which adds forgiveness and enhances feel, power and dwell time.”
The Perseus Pro IV is available for $279.95 at Pickleball Central.
Another Top Performer: JOOLA Hyperion Pro IV
The JOOLA Hyperion Pro IV is another standout paddle. While similar to the Perseus, it has a lower swingweight and a slightly curved edge, giving it faster hand speed. This paddle is designed for players who want both power and control.
“The power is also dialed back ever so slightly, making this a great paddle for players who want good power but also want to prioritize shot placement.”
It’s also priced at $279.95 and available in 14mm or 16mm thickness.
JOOLA Perseus 3S: Great for Control and Power
The JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 3S was the first paddle ever to get UPA-A approval. It has less power than the JOOLA Mod TA-15 but offers better control. Many top pros, including Ben Johns and Dekel Bar, used this paddle in 2024.
“The 3S series paddles were the first to ever be UPA-A certified in the summer of 2024.”
This paddle costs $259.95 and comes in 14mm or 16mm core thickness. It is not USAP certified as of July 2025, but JOOLA plans to release a dual-certified version later this year.
Proton Series Three – Project Flamingo
The Proton Series Three: Project Flamingo is a popular choice for aggressive players. It features a 15mm Velocity Core and aerospace-grade carbon fiber face for extra spin and pop. Released in January 2025, this paddle gained popularity quickly on the PPA Tour.
“The Flamingo… was quickly adopted by several pros on the PPA Tour and the 15mm ‘Velocity Core’… has earned this paddle a reputation as one of the most aggressive on the market.”
It is priced at $280.00.
Franklin C45 Dynasty: JW Johnson’s Paddle
The Franklin C45 Dynasty (16mm) is now used by JW Johnson, who won gold in men’s doubles at the PPA Tour Atlanta Pickleball Championships after switching to this paddle.
“I don’t think that’s a coincidence, as the C45 series has gotten great reviews and been a popular choice among pros and high-level amateurs.”
Hayden Patriquin also switched to the 14mm version. This paddle is known for power and spin, especially for singles play. It costs $229.99.
Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX
The Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX has a long handle, perfect for two-handed backhands. This paddle was part of Paddletek’s major 2024 comeback, offering strong power and spin with good speed through the hitting zone.
“The long handle also lets players whip through the hitting zone faster, generating more power and more spin.”
It is priced at $249.99.
Franklin C45 Hybrid: Lightweight and Fast
The Franklin C45 Hybrid is one of the lightest and fastest paddles on the market. With a swingweight of 104 and static weight of 7.75 ounces, it is ideal for quick hand exchanges near the net.
“This paddle is extremely lightweight… which is lower than almost anything on the market right now.”
Price: $229.99.
JOOLA Anna Bright Scorpeus Pro IV
The JOOLA Anna Bright Scorpeus Pro IV is updated with better forgiveness and still maintains solid power. With a swingweight of 110, it’s great for fast hand battles at the net.
“The updated Pro IV version… gives this popular paddle even more forgiveness while maintaining good power and pop at the kitchen line.”
It sells for $279.95.
CRBN 4 TruFoam Genesis
The CRBN 4 TruFoam Genesis is part of the “gen 4” paddle line and has a full foam core, giving a unique feel and balance. This paddle offers a strong mix of power, control, and maneuverability.
“The TruFoam technology creates a unique feel that is crisp, poppy and offers significant dwell time.”
It’s available for $279.99.
Holbrook Arma T: Built for Power
The Holbrook Arma T is designed for players who want big power and pop. It uses dual-density foam to boost performance even on off-center hits. However, it may take time to adjust to the soft game.
“The 14mm Dual Density Polypropylene core creates unique performance… increasing energy return on off-center strikes.”
Price: $259.99.
Engage Pursuit Pro1: Top Power and Spin
The Engage Pursuit Pro1 Elongated has a thin frame and long handle, helping players generate strong spin and power. It remains consistent even after long use.
“According to Engage, this paddle tests at the top end of the maximum allowable power limits set by USA Pickleball and the United Pickleball Association of America.”
It costs $259.99.
What This Means for Players
The latest rankings show how much paddle tech has improved. From foam cores to new carbon fiber materials, each paddle offers something different. Whether a player wants more control, speed, or power, there is now a paddle designed for that need.
Pickleball Central plans to keep this list updated monthly as new models come out. For players looking to improve their game, this guide makes choosing the right paddle easier than ever.
News in Brief: Best Pickleball Paddles 2025
Pickleball Central released its updated paddle rankings. The JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV remains the top choice. Other top paddles include models from Franklin, CRBN, Paddletek, and Engage. These paddles were tested for power, control, and feel. The list will be updated monthly.