Generally speaking, the most expensive pickleball paddle is a piece of better equipment. Some people believe that buying something expensive is the best option out there, which leads them to spend an excessive amount of money.
In some cases, this may be true, but does it apply to pickleball paddles? How much does the most expensive pickleball paddle cost, and is it worth it?
A pickleball paddle from JOOLA Ben Johns sells for approximately $240, the most expensive pickleball paddle. There is no complaint about the price tag since it is an excellent paddle with excellent performance. The manufacturing quality is substandard, however, according to some complaints.
The JOOLA Ben Johns signature paddle stands out as the most expensive pickleball paddle since it costs $30 more than its closest competitor. Do you think it’s worth spending such a large amount of money on a paddle? Let’s take a look.
The Most Expensive Pickleball Paddle Yet
The general rule is that you get what you pay for when it comes to pickleball paddles, as with other sports equipment. If you want to save a few dollars on a paddle, don’t settle for an unknown brand.
There’s no need to worry about buying an unknown brand or saving a few dollars with the most expensive pickleball paddle – it’s from a reputable brand, not an unknown brand.
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The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16
At the moment, the most expensive pickleball paddle is the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16, which is available on Amazon for approximately $240. Putting that price into perspective, a kit with two pickleball paddles, protective covers, and four pickleball from Rally (a well-respected brand), costs $10 less.
There is, however, something special about the Ben Johns Signature paddle. A serious pickleball player will find it well worth the price because it has many features and aspects. Where does the high price come from?
Ben Johns Signature Paddle: Why Is It So Expensive?
This paddle was designed and manufactured by JOOLA in collaboration with Ben Johns. Their goal was to make the best pickleball paddle ever, and they mostly succeeded.
As the official paddle sponsor of the PPA tour, JOOLA has become the first thing to mention. Pickleball players in every part of the world use JOOLA paddles in most (if not all) of their professional matches. This product has the makings of a brilliant one, given JOOLA’s 70-year history of manufacturing pickleball and table tennis paddles.
As for Ben Johns, he is another important aspect. With his experience as the world’s top pickleball player, he knows what makes a good paddle. The company is also Ben Johns’ paddle sponsor, so teaming up seemed like a logical next step. The paddle was designed with Johns’ input from the beginning, adding to JOOLA’s expertise.
Only the highest-quality materials were used in the manufacture of the paddle.
There is a honeycomb core made of reactive polypropylene in the middle of the paddle. You can drive the ball exactly the way you intend to drive it with this material because it ensures consistency in the way the ball bounces off the paddle. Keeping your paddle in optimal control is also made easier by reducing vibrations that bounce back into your hand.
The edge wall of the paddle has also been injected with a specialized foam. This foam increases the paddle’s weight, making it a great paddle for players who are aggressive and offensive.
There is no paddle available that has the same combination of materials as this Hyperfoam edge wall.
A carbon friction surface (CFS) was also added to the paddle’s surface by JOOLA. Carbon-Flex5 is a more durable and advanced surface than other types, which prolongs the lifespan of the paddle. With it, you can make your shots more powerful and spinnier.
You can also use this paddle in any professional pickleball tournament or competition since USAPA (the USA Pickleball Association) approved it. In light of the price you paid for a paddle, it’s only fair that you should receive it.
In addition to its nickname: Ben Johns’ signature, this paddle is also very expensive. A paddle with a signed signature of a famous player, such as Ben Johns, is likely to have some value as a collector’s item for many years to come.
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Do You Think The Paddle Is Worth The Price? Players’ Perspectives
This scenario demonstrates that things that are more expensive are better than those that are less expensive. There are many online stores that sell sporting goods that have high ratings for JOOLA Ben Johns pickleball paddles. Specifically, on Amazon, it has received 4.8 stars out of 5 from 241 reviews. Although both good and bad things have been said about it by players.
Pros
Ratings indicate an overwhelmingly positive response. This paddle is rated as excellent by 4.8 out of 5 people. In fact, even those few who gave the paddle one- or two stars concede that it is incredible, though they do have some complaints.
People are impressed with the following aspects:
- It is suitable for a play strategy that is aggressive and offensive. You will be able to escape the defensive position in any match with this type of paddle. Power shots can be made with it easily.
- Adding a spin. Ben Johns Signature paddles provide even more spin than Engage paddles, which are known for their exceptional spin. Players who have previously used Engage paddles have raved about Ben Johns Signature. Playing pickleball with this advantage will give you an edge over your opponents.
- The feeling of solidity. From the moment you pick up this paddle, you will recognize its exceptional craftsmanship. Pickleball paddles should feel like extensions of your arm when handled, which is how they should feel in your hand.
- Weight. There’s no doubt that the paddle is heavy. The paddle’s weight is usually complimented by players because it enables them to deliver power shots with less effort. Paddles are weighted, so you only have to move them.
- Balance. Ben Johns Signature paddles have been described as the best-balanced paddles ever made. With the paddle’s balance and preference for the front for power shots, these players love it.
- The grip. Less often, but still quite often, the paddle is complimented for having an excellent grip that’s easy to grip in your hand without slipping.
The paddle is generally recommended for players whose rating is 3.7 or above and who want to improve their skills. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 paddles have improved the game of even experienced players who have been playing for years. I can’t believe that such a tiny thing can have such a big impact.
Cons
In addition to these complaints, there are also some concerns that need to be addressed before you invest money in such an expensive product.
- The weight. It appears that the comments are slightly inconsistent, as they are both compliments and complaints. The paddle is so heavy, some players complained, that it hurt their wrists or triggered tennis elbow. People who play four times a week are making these comments, not inexperienced players.
It is also important to mention that most of them suggest you become accustomed to the weight over time. As you become accustomed to the paddle’s weight, it will get easier eventually, even if it’s a challenge at first.
- There have been some complaints about the quality of the manufacturing process. Within a few weeks of using the paddle, some players have experienced damage, including chips in the surface material and peeling carbon.
In all likelihood, these complaints are not common at all, so it may simply be a matter of getting unlucky with a few duds. However, it’s important to understand what you’re buying when you buy a paddle.
- Replacement paddles are only allowed for 30 days after purchase under the warranty. JOOLA only allows players to exchange their paddles after 30 days, and by then, some players noticed defects in their paddles after a month.
- The price. Pickleball players complain about the price, but since this is the most expensive paddle, it should not be a surprise. Despite the Ben Johns Signature’s better performance, some say that it’s not worth the extra $180, even though it’s better than the JOOLA Essentials paddle.
- The fact that it’s almost identical to paddles costs much less. As an example, the CRBN1 pickleball paddle is similar in material and shape to the JOOLA Ben Johns Signature but costs about $60 less. Although there is little difference in performance between the two paddles, the price difference is quite significant.
The top 3 runners-up
The most expensive pickleball paddle at the moment is now known to you. Would you still want an excellent and expensive pickleball paddle if you weren’t willing to spend that much money right now? You may find your perfect match among the runners-up.
1. Engage Pursuit MX And EX
Regardless of skill level or caliber, players of all calibers and levels enjoy Engage Pursuit. It is almost impossible to find a more perfect match between the Pursuit MX and EX paddles and the JOOLA Ben Johns Signature paddle. They are much lighter to play with because of their different weights and shapes.
In comparison to the JOOLA paddle, the Engage Pursuit is approximately $30 cheaper, but nearly as good. In addition to being USAPA-approved, Engage’s Pursuit MX and EX paddles are reputable pickleball brands.
2. Gearbox CX14E
Gearbox CX14 and CX14E paddles are considered by some professional players to be better than the JOOLA Ben Johns. In spite of their similar weight, Gearbox paddles have better balance, so they appear lighter and easier to control.
Gearbox CX14E sells for around $200, so you can save $40 if you choose the right model. The CX14E might be a better choice than the JOOLA Ben Johns Signature paddle considering how many professionals use and rate it.
3. Diadem Warrior
Paddles like this are diamonds in the rough. Because Diadem manufactures pickleball paddles privately, the company’s name is relatively unknown. The company does, however, own several proprietary technologies that contribute to an impressive paddle.
In the Diadem Warrior, there is a so-called 3X L-Core. It has a 19mm core made up of three layers – two polypropylene honeycomb layers surrounding an aramid honeycomb layer in the center. The combination of these two ingredients results in exceptional stability and power.
Aside from that, the Warrior also wears a carbon fiber surface similar to the JOOLA Ben Johns. To give the player more control and spin, it has a Grit Paint surface.
In terms of price, it is almost identical to the Gearbox CX14, at about $199. Nevertheless, based on player ratings and reviews, this paddle is even better than the previous one. In spite of the fact that it isn’t as well known as some other paddles, the Diadem Warrior is a great paddle for people who like to support small businesses.
What’s Next?
Currently, the most expensive pickleball paddle on the market is the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16mm. The paddle is widely considered to be the best paddle to up your game, despite its slightly outrageous price. The extra expense is debated, but sometimes it’s best to play with the paddle first, then decide if it’s the right one for you.
Additionally, if you have low budget you can check Best Pickleball Paddle Under $100
