After buying almost fifty pickleball paddles, many of which were created for more experienced players, I thought it was time to discuss the best pickleball paddles for advanced players.

USAPA states that pro and expert players start with a rating of 5.0, while advanced players start at 4.0. 5.0+ players who want to improve their performance are the main target market for the paddles on this list.

I used two important thoughts to make this guide:

1. My research on what the top pro pickleball players use, including their preferences for 14mm vs. 16mm paddles.
2. My personal experience playing with advanced paddles.

Given that these paddles are typically more expensive, I’ve also included the best inexpensive pickleball paddle for experienced players who want to reduce prices without sacrificing performance. 

Recommended Pickleball Paddles for Advanced Players

1.  JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 3S UPA Pickleball Paddle

I realized right away that the Joola Ben Johns Perseus 3S paddle is a totally different when I tried it. Although this paddle is made for spin and control, it isn’t afraid to use powerful force when necessary. The Perseus 3S stands out from the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16mm due to its distinct pop and response.

I believe this paddle was created to give gamers a legal alternative with improved technology when Joola Gen 3 paddles are banned.

Here’s what sets it apart:

• 3S Technology ensures consistency across shots, making it reliable for advanced players.
• The Propulsion Core balances power and finesse, giving you excellent stability and precision.
• The Charged Carbon Surface optimizes energy return and accuracy, making spin and control effortless.
• The paddle’s optimized sweet spot ensures you can perform at your best during high-pressure moments.

Given that world champion Ben Johns uses the Joola Perseus 3S as his go-to paddle, it should come as no surprise that it is UPA-A approved and designed to dominate the court.

While the price tag is a little high, you can get it on Amazon and take advantage of free returns and quick shipping. It’s worth taking a close look at this paddle if you want to improve your skills.

2. JOOLA Perseus MOD TA 15 on Amazon

With good cause, one of the world’s best pickleball players, Federico Staksrud, has started using this paddle. For experienced gamers that require performance and modern shape, it’s a fantastic choice.

This paddle has a remarkable number of designs, such as:

• GEN 3 Propulsion Core: Delivers the perfect blend of power and control, catering to aggressive and finesse players alike.
• Charged Carbon Surface: Enhances precision and energy return, making it easier to execute spin-heavy or perfectly placed shots.

The integrated NFC chip is one feature that truly caught me off guard. It offers special content by connecting to the JOOLA app. Even though this seems a little futuristic, it does pave the way for future possibilities, such as paddles that track your performance or even offer game-related data.

Although it’s not easy to find, I was able to find a model of this paddle on Amazon, but with slightly different colors. This is definitely worth looking at if you’re serious about your game and want a paddle that professionals like Staksrud trust.

3. Selkirk Project 007 Pickleball Paddle

The newest model in Selkirk high-end collection, the Project 007 pickleball paddle, is unique for players looking for more power. This paddle, in my opinion, has the potential to surpass Dylan Frazier’s Selkirk Project 02 and the Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta.

I just viewed a video of Quang Duong, a top-10 player, utilizing Project 007, and I was shocked by the enormous power of his shots. This paddle is obviously designed for aggressive players who use strength and speed to dominate the court.

Here’s what makes the Selkirk LABS Project 007 so exceptional:

• 10mm Core: Designed for explosive power and speed.
• Patent-Pending Titanium Mesh Layer System: Enhances energy transfer and sweet spot size.
• Florek Carbon Fiber Face: Offers improved durability and precision.
• InfiniGrit Surface: Delivers up to 2000 RPMs of spin, perfect for aggressive topspin shots.
• DuraEdge Technology and Air Dynamic Throat: Improves aerodynamics for faster hand speed and controlled swings.

This paddle is designed with accuracy and technology to give players an advantage in high-stakes games; it’s not just about power.

Although many people expected the paddle to cost $444, it was just $333 when it was released, making it one of the priciest paddles available. However, for those looking for the best power paddle, it may be well worth the money.

4. Volair Mach 2 Forza Pickleball Paddle

Julian Arnold (DUPR: 6.7), who co-founded Volair, co-designed the Volair Mach 2 (or Mach 1), a masterwork paddle. It will come as no surprise that this paddle is designed for advanced players looking for top-tier performance given his aggressive and dynamic playstyle.

Modern technology is a feature of the Volair Mach 2 Forza:

• Raw TORAY T700 Carbon Fiber: Provides unmatched durability and heat-compressed texturing for superior spin and control.
• Unibody Foam-Injected Walls: Expands the sweet spot and adds stability for more consistent shots.
• Optimized C7 Polymers and High-Grade Performance Honeycomb: Offer a perfect balance of power and finesse, enhancing overall gameplay.

This paddle has incredibly high spin potential. Actually, I am convinced that this is the best spin paddle available on the market at the moment. It is perfect for properly slicing, spinning, and providing heavy topspin because of its surface texture and material design.

This paddle is designed for players who wish to dominate the court with skill and spin expertise, as seen by the package, which highlights its spin-centric design.

5. Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16mm Pickleball Paddle

Due to its cutting-edge technology, the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16mm is without a doubt one of the best pickleball paddles for experienced players. Let’s explore this paddle’s unique features:

• Perforated Anti-Slip Ridge Grip: The elongated handle provides better shock absorption, making it perfect for players who prefer two-handed shots.
• Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) Technology: The advanced Carbon-Flex5 textured surface offers exceptional spin potential, making it a great choice for players who rely on spin-heavy shots.
• Aero-Curve Design: This feature helps reduce drag and enhances swing speed, allowing for quicker reactions on the court.
• Carbon Forged Handle: Provides extra power and comfort, ensuring optimal control with every hit.
• Hyperform Edge Wall: This technology increases the paddle’s stability and enlarges the sweet spot, which I fully agree improves overall performance.
• Specially Tuned Reactive Honeycomb Core: Maximizes the consistency of the ball bounce, offering a more reliable and controlled experience.

The Hyperion CFS 16mm was used by international player Ben Johns before he switched to the Joola Perseus 3S. The Hyperion CFS 16mm is currently $120 less expensive than the Perseus 3S. The Hyperion CFS 16mm offers exceptional performance and excellent value, even though the Perseus 3S may have a little more advanced technology.

Given that the Hyperion CFS 16mm has amazing features for the price, I’ve used both paddles and amn’t sure whether the $120 difference is worth it.

One thing to keep in mind is that there are a number of models that seem similar if you search for this paddle on Amazon. To assist you in making the best decision, I’ve provided a specific link to the one I bought below.

6. Top Budget Advanced Paddle: Vatic Pro Prism Flash 14mm

Advanced players, especially those with a skill level of 4.0, will love the Vatic Pro Prism Flash 14mm. Even at $90, it provides a great balance of strength and control, which is why I still consider it to be a great option. But as your skills improve and you go into the 5.0+ area, you might discover that you outgrow this paddle.

Despite this, the 14mm is still a fantastic choice for anyone wishing to better their game without going over budget.

What Advanced Paddles Didn’t Make The Cut

When a highly regarded paddle falls short of your expectations, it’s never easy, particularly when it’s linked to top players like Jaume Martinez Vich. I absolutely understand your unhappiness, even in the presence of the Six Zero Double Black Diamond’s popularity worldwide. It sounds like this paddle didn’t fit your style or your gaming requirements, and an expert player requires a paddle that consistently offers power, control, and spin.

Paddles that are technically or practically effective for some pros don’t always change into improved performance for everyone. To discover what really suits your playing style, it’s crucial, in my opinion, to experiment with a few alternative options. I hope you discover a paddle that provides you with the required force and control.

Conclusion

As you can see, the top pickleball paddles for skilled players are frequently made by reputable companies with a solid reputation in the market and packed with cutting-edge technology. Choosing the ideal paddle is very specific, and the correct fit can help you reach new levels of performance.

In your quest for the ideal advanced paddle, I hope this list has been useful. Please feel free to contact me directly by email if you have any recommendations for any paddles that you would want me to review. I always enjoy hearing from other players and exchanging ideas to help everyone get better at what they do.