If you’re a pickleball enthusiast, you’ve likely heard of the Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pickleball Paddle. Co-designed with the world-renowned pro player Ben Johns, this paddle has generated quite a buzz in the pickleball community—and for good reason!
But does the Perseus live up to the hype? This detailed Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pickleball Paddle Review dives into the features, court performance, and how it stacks up against its competitors to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your kit.
Top 10 Best Seller Pickleball Paddle
Image | Name | Key Feature | Ratings | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
| (5418 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (1072 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (9819 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (1913 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (889 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (1716 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (433 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (101 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (4074 Reviews) | ||
 |
| (362 Reviews) |
What makes the Perseus stand out in the crowded world of pickleball paddles? It’s not just another paddle—it’s a thoughtfully engineered tool designed to elevate your game. Here’s an in-depth look at the features that promise unmatched performance and a premium playing experience:
1. Carbon-Flex5 Face
The Perseus paddle features a Carbon-Flex5 textured face, a cutting-edge material that enhances both spin control and power. This allows players to dominate delicate dinks or add extra zip to their drives with ease. The advanced surface technology offers a noticeable boost in shot-making capabilities, even for beginners who are just starting to refine their skills. For seasoned players, the Carbon-Flex5 face delivers the precision and control needed to execute complex shots with confidence and finesse. It’s a true game-changer for players looking to unlock their full potential.
2. Reactive Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
At the heart of the Perseus paddle is a high-performance polypropylene honeycomb core. This core is designed to provide superior stability and consistency with every shot, making it ideal for players of all levels. The reactive core also ensures that the paddle is forgiving on off-center hits, which can make all the difference during fast-paced matches. Additionally, the material contributes to the paddle’s durability, allowing it to withstand countless games without compromising on performance. Whether you’re going for a soft touch at the net or a power-packed smash, the honeycomb core helps you maintain control and confidence.
3. Hybrid Paddle Shape
The hybrid shape of the Perseus paddle combines a sleek, aerodynamic profile with an extended sweet spot, giving players the best of both worlds. This design enhances maneuverability, making it easy to respond quickly to fast exchanges at the net while still providing the power and reach needed for deeper shots. Whether you’re in the kitchen executing precise dinks or smashing overheads from the baseline, the paddle’s versatile shape ensures reliable performance. It’s a perfect balance of finesse and power, catering to a wide range of playing styles.
4. Performance Grip
A paddle is only as good as the grip it offers, and the Perseus doesn’t disappoint. Its proprietary Comfort Grip is designed to provide a secure, slip-free hold, even during the most intense matches. The grip’s ergonomic design not only enhances comfort but also reduces fatigue, allowing you to play longer without compromising control. Plus, it’s durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of frequent use, making it a reliable choice for players who spend hours on the court. Whether you’re sweating it out in a heated match or practicing for hours on end, the grip ensures your focus stays on the game.
5. USAPA Approved
The Perseus paddle isn’t just designed for casual play—it’s built for competition. With its USAPA (USA Pickleball Association) approval, it’s tournament-ready and meets the highest standards of quality and performance. You can take the Perseus onto the biggest stages of pickleball with confidence, knowing it’s been engineered to give you a competitive edge. Whether you’re a seasoned tournament player or simply aspiring to compete at a higher level, this paddle is a tool you can rely on.
Why Choose the Joola Ben Johns Perseus?
The combination of these advanced features makes the Joola Ben Johns Perseus paddle an exceptional choice for players of all levels. For beginners, it provides the support needed to build confidence and improve skills. For intermediate and advanced players, it offers the precision, power, and control required to excel in competitive matches. The Perseus is more than just a paddle—it’s an investment in your game, designed to help you perform at your best and enjoy every moment on the court. From its innovative materials to its thoughtful design, this paddle is built to deliver results.
Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pickleball Paddle - Performance on the Court
Now, here’s the big question—how does the Perseus paddle actually perform on the court? We put it through its paces across various play styles to see how it holds up.
1. Spin Control
The textured Carbon-Flex5 face truly makes a difference in spin generation. Whether you’re slicing through the ball or adding topspin to push your opponent to the baseline, the paddle responds beautifully. Players who enjoy crafting strategic spin shots will love the extra edge it provides.
2. Power Generation
When it comes to power, the Perseus doesn’t disappoint. Thanks to its unique core and hybrid shape, drives and smashes feel explosive without sacrificing accuracy. Intermediate and advanced players will especially notice the controllable power on full swings.
3. Precision and Touch
Short game finesse shines with this paddle. Dinks and soft drop shots off the non-volley line are predictable and consistent, making it a trustworthy companion for players who rely on tactical placement. The oversized sweet spot adds stability, even if you miss the dead center of the paddle.
4. Maneuverability
The hybrid shape strikes a great balance between control and weight. The paddle provides enough heft to generate power but remains light enough for quick reactions at the net. During intense volleys, the Perseus feels perfectly nimble.
5. Durability
After extended gameplay, the paddle showed minimal signs of wear. The grip stayed intact, and the Carbon-Flex5 face resisted scratches and chips, proving it can withstand high-level play over time.
Overall, the Perseus delivers where it matters most—offering a blend of power, spin, control, and durability.
Pros and Cons of the Joola Ben Johns Perseus Paddle
Like any paddle, the Perseus has its strengths and limitations. Here’s a breakdown:
Pros:
- Exceptional spin control thanks to Carbon-Flex5 technology.
- Hybrid shape ensures both versatility and consistency in play.
- Comfortable performance grip allows for extended sessions.
- Large sweet spot reduces mis-hits.
- Highly durable materials for long-lasting use.
Cons:
- Premium price may deter budget-conscious players.
- Beginners may find it slightly overwhelming if they’re not yet comfortable with advanced paddles.
Bottom Line:
If performance and quality are your top priorities, the Perseus paddle does not disappoint.
How Does It Compare to Similar Paddles?
1. Joola Hyperion CFS 16
The Hyperion CFS 16 is another popular offering from Joola. While it emphasizes spin and control, the Perseus takes power generation and versatility a step further.
2. Selkirk Vanguard Power Air
The Vanguard Power Air paddle is known for its emphasis on power. However, it sacrifices some control and touch when compared to the Perseus, making the latter more balanced overall.
3. Engage Pursuit MX
The Pursuit MX is loved for precision and control. However, the Perseus stands out with its all-around performance, offering a better blend of spin, power, and touch.
For players torn between options, the Perseus finds itself as a versatile choice in the middle ground.
Joola Ben Johns Perseus Review - FAQs
1. Is the Joola Ben Johns Perseus suitable for beginners?
While this paddle offers excellent features designed for advanced and intermediate players, beginners might find its premium performance elements a bit challenging to fully utilize. It's a paddle that emphasizes precision, spin, and power, which can be difficult for new players to control without some experience. That said, if you’re serious about learning and committed to improving quickly, investing in the Perseus could be worth it, as it’s a paddle that you can grow into as your skills develop.
2. What kind of grip size does the Perseus offer?
The Joola Ben Johns Perseus comes with a standard 4.25-inch grip size, which is a comfortable fit for most players. This size provides a balance of control and maneuverability, making it a versatile option for different hand sizes. However, if you prefer a smaller or larger grip, you can easily adjust it using additional overgrips or custom wraps to suit your specific needs. For players who prioritize comfort, modifying the grip can make a significant difference during longer matches.
3. Can the Perseus handle outdoor play?
Yes, the Perseus is built with durability in mind, featuring high-quality materials like its polypropylene core, which is well-suited for outdoor conditions. Whether you're playing in the heat, cold, or humidity, the paddle is designed to maintain its performance and integrity. However, to ensure its longevity, it’s essential to store the paddle properly after use—avoiding extreme temperatures and cleaning off any dirt or debris. With proper care, the Perseus can handle outdoor play with ease.
4. How does the Perseus generate spin compared to other paddles?
The Perseus features Joola’s Carbon-Flex5 surface, which is engineered to deliver superior spin. The textured face allows players to grip the ball better during contact, producing a high level of spin that gives you an edge over opponents. Compared to other paddles in Joola’s lineup, as well as popular competitors like Engage or Selkirk, the Perseus stands out with its consistency in spin generation. Whether you’re slicing, dinking, or going for powerful topspin shots, the paddle helps elevate your overall gameplay.
5. Is the Perseus worth the price?
If you’re looking for a high-performing paddle that excels in multiple areas—spin, power, and control—the Perseus is a strong investment. Its durable build and premium materials ensure that it can withstand frequent use, making it a reliable choice for serious players. While its price might feel steep for casual players or beginners, competitive players and enthusiasts will likely find it worth every dollar. The Perseus is not just a paddle—it’s a tool to take your game to the next level, offering performance that justifies its premium cost.
Why Pickleball Enthusiasts Should Consider the Perseus Paddle
The Joola Ben Johns Perseus Pickleball Paddle is more than just a paddle; it’s a tool designed to elevate your game. From its advanced materials to impressive on-court performance, it caters to the needs of players who demand the best. If you’re ready to invest in a paddle that delivers power, spin, and precision consistently, the Perseus is a fantastic choice. Why settle for less when you could win more with every game?