The best pickleball paddles for power players

1. JOOLA Perseus Pro IV 16mm

JOOLA's newest offering has already produced great results for those who have switched at the pro level and in high-level amateur play. An added section of high-density foam inside the bottom corners/throat area of the Pro IV models -- which JOOLA is calling Tech Flex Power, or "TFP" technology -- allows the paddle to flex more, which adds forgiveness and enhances feel, power and dwell time.

Check out our in-depth review of the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV.

2. Paddletek Bantam TKO-C 12.7mm

Designed in conjunction with top men’s pro Christian Alshon, the Bantam TKO-C 12.7mm gives players max power from the baseline and great pop in hands battles at the kitchen line. It also gets great spin, so those powerful third-shot drives will have enough dip to stay in the court. 

3. JOOLA Agassi Pro

The new Agassi Pro from JOOLA offers the same Tech Flex Power -- or "TFP" -- technology as the Pro IV line, but in a unique shape that is fittingly geared toward former tennis players. The new shape positions the sweet spot more toward the top 20% of these paddles, which is where players can get maximum power on groundstrokes and overheads. These paddles also have a 5.5-inch handle, which offers plenty of room for two-handed backhands -- a shot former tennis players often carry over to pickleball.

Learn more about the Agassi Pro and Graf Pro paddles.

4. Proton Series Three - Project Flamingo

The updated Series Three model from Proton features a more powerful core and a very gritty hitting surface for maximum pop and spin. The Flamingo, released in January 2025, has already been adopted by several pros on the PPA Tour and the 15mm “Velocity Core” is quickly earning this paddle a reputation as one of the most aggressive on the market.

Check out our in-depth review here.

5. Gearbox Pro Ultimate Power Elongated

This paddle was created after USA Pickleball announced that it would be "sunsetting" the original Pro Power Elongated. It's the same shape and thickness as the Pro Power Elongated but slightly toned town in terms of power. But make no mistake, this is still at the top end of the new allowable power levels and also offers great pop and maneuverability at the kitchen line.