If you’ve spent even five minutes in a competitive pickleball environment, you’ve probably seen someone swinging a Joola pickleball paddle. Whether it’s Ben Johns dominating tournaments or local league players leveling up their gear, Joola has quickly become one of the most recognized names in the sport.
But are Joola paddles really worth the hype? And how can you take yours to the next level?
In this article, we’ll break down the best Joola paddles of 2025, who they’re designed for, and how to customize them with performance upgrades like lead tape, new grips, and of course — custom pickleball paddle bands.
🏆 Why Is Joola So Popular in Pickleball?
Originally known for table tennis gear, Joola (pronounced “Yo-la”) entered the pickleball scene with a bang — thanks to their collaboration with world #1 player Ben Johns and the launch of the Joola Hyperion CFS 16.
Joola paddles are known for:
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Carbon surface technology for spin
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High swing weight for powerful drives
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Premium build quality
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A growing lineup for beginners, intermediates, and pros
Whether you want max control or booming power, Joola has something in their lineup that fits.
🔥 Top Joola Pickleball Paddles in 2025
Let’s look at a few of their most popular models:
1. Joola Hyperion CFS 16
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Used by Ben Johns
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16mm core for control + stability
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Textured carbon surface for spin
✅ Best for: Competitive players who want touch + power.
2. Joola Vision CGS 14
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Lightweight design with a 14mm core
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Long handle for two-handed backhands
✅ Best for: Players transitioning from tennis or wanting faster hands.
3. Joola Essentials
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Affordable paddle with durable fiberglass face
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Great for rec players or those just starting out
✅ Best for: Beginners or casual weekend warriors.
🛠️ How to Customize a Joola Paddle (And Why You Should)
Even though Joola paddles are elite out of the box, there are three simple, low-cost upgrades that can personalize your paddle, boost your performance, and protect your investment:
🎯 1. Add Lead Tape for Power + Balance
One of the easiest ways to custom-tune a Joola paddle is by applying lead tape to the edges.
Benefits of lead tape:
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Adds power to your drives and smashes
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Improves stability on volleys and blocks
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Allows you to customize swing weight and feel
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Helps balance lightweight paddles (like the Vision series)
Just peel and stick — no special tools needed.
👉 Shop Lead Tape for Pickleball Paddles
🖐 2. Upgrade the Grip for Comfort and Performance
Joola paddles come with decent stock grips, but many players eventually switch to something tackier, softer, or sweat-resistant.
Why replace your grip?
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Reduce hand fatigue during long sessions
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Improve control and shot consistency
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Get a grip size that fits your hand better
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Add a splash of color or texture
You can even combine a new overgrip with an undergrip for custom thickness. And yes — it pairs beautifully with the next upgrade…
💥 3. Customize with a Paddle Band
Want your Joola paddle to stand out at the courts? Add a custom pickleball paddle band — the ultimate mix of style, identity, and function.
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Display your name, nickname, or team name
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Help distinguish your paddle at tournaments or rec play
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Match your band color with your grip or outfit
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Great for gifts, league play, or junior players
These silicone bands wrap securely around the throat of any paddle — including Joola models — and look great doing it.
👉 Design Your Custom Paddle Band
🎁 Bundle Your Joola Paddle Upgrades
Want to completely transform your paddle setup in 5 minutes?
Here’s a bundle combo we recommend for any Joola user:
👀 Joola vs. Other Paddle Brands
Joola is often compared to brands like Selkirk, CRBN, and Engage. While personal preference plays a big role, here’s how Joola stands out:
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Spin tech: Joola’s carbon surface paddles offer elite-level spin
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Build quality: Feels more “solid” than many competitors
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Pro presence: With Ben Johns on board, Joola has massive visibility
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Custom options: Easy to personalize with accessories like bands and grips
If you're debating between Joola and Selkirk, the choice often comes down to swing feel — but in either case, a custom setup will make the biggest difference.
💬 What Players Are Saying
“I switched to the Hyperion and added lead tape + a grip from CustomPickleballBands.com. It’s the best my paddle has ever felt.”
– Taylor G., 4.0 Player
“Everyone kept grabbing my paddle at rec play until I added a band with my name. Problem solved — and it looks awesome.”
– Casey R., 3.5 League Player
“Joola paddles are great, but the grip was too thin. The new grip and tape gave me the control I was missing.”
– Josh K., Intermediate Doubles
🎯 Final Verdict: Is a Joola Pickleball Paddle Worth It?
Absolutely — if you’re serious about your game, a Joola pickleball paddle is a great investment. From beginner models like the Essentials to high-end options like the Hyperion, Joola offers elite performance across the board.
But don’t stop at the base paddle. With a few simple upgrades — like lead tape, a custom grip, and a personalized paddle band — you can fine-tune your paddle to match your style and stand out every time you step onto the court.