Introduction:
Pickleball is an emerging sport that encompasses elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It has quickly gained popularity among both professional and amateur sportsmen because of its broad appeal and the excitement it provides to players of any age. As interest in the game grows, so does the interest in the various equipment used, especially the most expensive pickleball paddle.
In this article, we review the most expensive pickleball paddles with their top-notch features related to enhanced control and bigger sweet spots. We also learn whether these pricier paddles were really worth an experienced player's or future champion's money. I am doing this total review after testing paddles one by one.
Paddle Weight: Finding Your Comfort Zone
Personal preference also decides what is considered perfect weight for a player. Lightweight paddles are preferred for beginners or those having finesse in play. With these, it would be easier to maneuver the paddle around quickly. The heavier paddles will now have the capability of hitting with strong shots, but then longer sessions with such paddles would tire the player out.
Core Materials: Durability and Performance
The other contributing factor involves the type of core material from which high-end paddles are made. Most of the high-priced paddles offer a polymer honeycomb core or a foam core structure. With such materials, durability increases and so does performance; thus, your paddle can withstand extreme use while giving consistent ball response.
Grip Size: Comfort and Control
A player's association with their paddle is dictated by the comfort and the size of the grip. The circumference of the grip does come into play because if it is too large or too small, it will eventually produce poor form and discomfort over a period of time. Most high-performance paddles are designed with sweat-wicking grips that afford players an even better level of control during intense matches.
You need to also focus on the grip material and comfortable, sweat-wicking grip.
Surface Material: Strength and Weight
Materials of the surface of the paddle are another paramount concern, and carbon fiber seems to be one widely considered for its light yet strong properties. Perhaps a very good example of how surface materials matter in an overall performance the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion is, made of carbon fiber, one innovative design and craft.
Make informed choices in selecting your pickleball paddle so that you can be appropriately prepared on the court, therefore making it more enjoyable while being able to improve in this fast-growing sport.
What Makes a Pickle Ball Paddle So Expensive?
Pickleball paddles can be pretty expensive, with some models selling for impressive figures. But what exactly dictates these costs upwards? The answer shall be drawn from how advanced technology and complicated materials are used in constructing these high-end paddles.
Advanced Technology & Design Features
First Feature
Advanced Technology: Sophisticated design features and technology make the playing experience much superior for advanced players. More expensive paddles feature a vibration control system, precision cutting, and aerodynamic shapes.
Second Feature
Lightweight Paddles: Lighter versions for experienced players who need agility with no extra grams use the benefits of advanced processing to retain strength.
Third Feature
Heavier for Power: Some players would use heavier paddles to generate powerful serves. These are paddles designed with caution, giving power yet not compromising on control.
Premium Materials
Fiberglass: Players often keep fiber glass as their first choice for Expensive pickleball paddle. Generally combined with carbon fiber in mid-range paddles, it yields a good touch while the price for it remains a little more reasonable than pure carbon paddles.
Second Choice
Carbon Fiber: The second material is the carbon fiber that players generally want to have. This is one of the most favored in pickleball, especially for those who desire a lightweight but durable feel. It is ideal to have in a paddle if balance between power and finesse is desired. Its strong surface will provide the level of performance that even professionals are willing to adopt.
Material of Grip: The grip is one of the most important aspects as it concerns comfort and a feel for handling. Special grips are fitted in most high-end paddles that reduce slipping, resulting in maximum play control. So, this can be one of the excellent options.
The Most Expensive Pickleball Paddles in 2024
The Most Expensive Pickleball Paddles of 2024
- Ben Johns Gold Perseus ($1,750)
- Third Shot Drop Special Edition ($375)
- Selkirk Labs Project 003 ($333)
- ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro ($280)
- JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion ($279.95)
- Gearbox Pro Power Elongated ($275)
- AMA Sport Future Alliance Future 001 ($269)
- Engage Pursuit Pro1 ($259.99)
- Adidas Metalbone Carbon Fiber Paddle ($259.99)
- Vulcan V1100 Carbon Fiber Paddle ($259.99)
Gearbox Pro Control Elongated: This particular model stands apart because of the innovative feature usage in it, which is targeted at control-oriented play. It especially depicts the amalgamation of advanced materials with design.
Top Picks: Models like the Ben Johns Gold Perseus epitomize how premium materials are responsible for the high price of a paddle, which in turn gives outstanding results on the court. Whether you're a sophisticated player or just someone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, this understanding will take you through the process of choosing your favorite paddle that best fits your style and needs. So, after reading this blog, I think you will never go back to cheaper paddles.
Ben Johns Gold Perseus ($1,750)
Ben Johns Gold Perseus is the most expensive pickleball paddle in the year 2024, with an enormous price of $1,750. This is not a paddle but a status symbol for lovers of pickleball.
Ben Johns Gold Perseus ($750)
Key Features:
- Core Thickness & Material: The advanced honeycomb core gives a perfect blend of power and control. The thicker core gives enhanced control of the ball for precision shots like drop shots.
- Surface Texture: This paddle features a textured surface for maximum spin and a player's ease in pulling out backhand shots without much effort. Additionally, improving grip size and comfort, this intelligently designed handle offers a firm grip while allowing wide motion for easily performing a two-handed shot.
Performance Benefits
Ben Johns Gold Perseus has an excellent swing weight considering the larger surface area to limit the dead spots and make every shot more accurate. The players feel that there is tremendous control combined with power in this paddle, which enhances the overall game performance to professional levels.
Customer Feedback:
Countless users have complimented its performance, saying it only elevates their playing style from simple to more professional moves. How the power and precision remain constant in heavy rallies is something commented on by pickleball players with this paddle: "This isn't just any paddle; it's an extension of your skill," one said. "The transition in my game was immediate." The Ben Johns Gold Perseus is the epitome of class for those who look for ultra-luxury in their pickleball gear. It offers prestige and unmatched performance, and quite simply, it's one of the most expensive pickleball paddles on the market today, making it a highly desirable item for serious players wanting the best.
Third Shot Drop Special Edition ($375)
Are you ready to go big in the world of pickleball with a paddle that screams prestige and performance? The Third Shot Drop Special Edition proudly stands among the most expensive pickup paddles available to buy in 2024. This is definitely more than just a piece of equipment; this is a status symbol for pickleball enthusiasts who want only the very best.
Third Shot Drop Special Edition ($375)
Key Features:
- Core Composition: A perfect blend of polypropylene honeycomb and foam core provides excellent balance and swing weight, hence power and control. So a lower-level or beginner-level player can also enjoy the game using it.
- Surface Texture: It is felt-covered and textured, so it enhances the ability to control the ball well, hence shot and backhand shots-precise, in the language of pickleball players.
- Grip & Handling: With a secure grip and optimal grip size, it will allow for wide ranges of motion, hence ideal for two-handed backhands. The grip length is also so much quality.
This can be a ideal choice for accurate shots and precises shots
Key Features:
- Core Composition: A perfect blend of polypropylene honeycomb and foam core provides excellent balance and swing weight, hence power and control. So a lower-level or beginner-level player can also enjoy the game using it.
- Surface Texture: It is felt-covered and textured, so it enhances the ability to control the ball well, hence shot and backhand shots-precise, in the language of pickleball players.
- Grip & Handling: With a secure grip and optimal grip size, it will allow for wide ranges of motion, hence ideal for two-handed backhands. The grip length is also so much quality.
Performance Benefits:
Engineered for precision, the large surface area of the Third Shot Drop Special Edition reduces dead spots, allowing confident execution of drop shots. Combining an exceptional degree of control and power, this paddle is at the top even among luxury pickleball paddles.
Customer Feedback:
Players brag about the fact that it can do well with strong shots while still keeping control for those tricky drop shots. Whether you're an entry-level player or a seasoned pro about to hold prestige like Tyson McGuffin, this paddle will take your game to the next level.
Selkirk Labs Project 003 ($333)
The Selkirk Labs Project 003 is one of the best high-end pickup paddles. It is also one of the pricier paddles in 2024. The paddle has been custom-made for players who desire both power and control. From the ground up, this paddle has been engineered to improve your game of pickleball.
Selkirk Labs Project 003 ($333)
Key Features:
- Honeycomb Core: Advanced honeycomb technology core supplies the perfect blend of strength and ball control in the Selkirk Labs Project 003. It will let you deliver precise drop shots with ease, besides being comfortable dealing with backhand shots.
- Surface Texture: The paddle boasts an extended surface to reduce dead spots. It offers higher spin tech capabilities, hence becoming suitable for a wide array of playing styles.
- Edge Guard: An integrated edge guard boosts durability for longevity, even at the most extreme conditions of gameplay.
- Grip Size & Perforated Grip: The secure grip allows for an excellent range of motion and swing weight, fitting entry-level paddle enthusiasts all the way up to highly seasoned players like Tyson McGuffin.
According to customer reviews, it is a prestige product in the high-end category of pickleball paddles. The users say that it has a perfect balance between power shots and control, hence making it the reason for their improved performance. Some have praised its light weight as an added advantage while quickly moving their hand around for two-handed backhand shots.
For those who would think, 'What in the world would make this one of the priciest paddles on the market?' -the Selkirk Labs Project 003 certainly holds its own as a status symbol in the world of high-end pickleball paddles.
Well, as great as the Selkirk Labs Project 003 is, it is far from being the only brilliant option on the market. If looking elsewhere, perhaps for comparison or an alternative, one of the most interesting options out there is the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 13.5 Pickleball Paddle. This paddle is also at the pinnacle of finesse. Another great option could be the Joola Solaire CFS 14mm Swift, which has great features and a unique design.
ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro: $280
The 2024 ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro is actually the powerhouse among the most expensive pickleball paddles for those players who want nothing but the highest level of performance. This time it's not about price; it's really about technology and design to substantiate it.
ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro: $280
Key Features:
- Kinetic Technology: Unique to reduce shock and vibration; this is ideal for those hard-hitting serves and consistent shots.
- Honeycomb Core: Provides a balance between control and power, ensuring that even low-rated players are able to make very accurate backhand shots.
- Surface texture: The ball control becomes easier, especially during drop shots or two-handed backhand plays.
The ProKennex Kinetic Black Ace Pro is that classic paddle with a mix of modern innovations oriented towards those considering their equipment as a status attribute.
This paddle was popular among professional players like Tyson McGuffin, featuring an ideal balance of swing weight and core thickness.
Customer Feedback: Laurel Heilman, during her testing period, complimented its comfortable grip and secure handling. Eventually, Wayne Dollard mentioned that the paddle does provide consistent bounce and proportions similar to other paddles, making it easier to transition from an entry-level paddle. For prestige alone, this paddle deserves to be part of your pickleball fleet, but it's more about the capability of performance. This is not just another addition; this is an upgrade to your play.
JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion ($279.95)
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion is, if not the best, then certainly among the best premium pickleballs in the market right now. These are likely the most impressive combination of power and control a player will find suitable for any level of performance.
JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion ($279.95)
Key Features:
- Surface Texture: The texture on this paddle adds more spin to your ball, thus enabling them to perform backhands that leave the ball flying.
- Honeycomb Core: Equipped with a polymer core, it strikes a perfect balance between durability and performance, minimizing those awful dead spots.
- Core Thickness & Swing Weight: A perfect blend of power and control, from dinks to corner shots.
Performance Benefits:
- Adjustable Weight: You can adjust the weight, which allows extending your range of motion for a variety of shots.
- Non-Slip Grip: A secure grip size ensures accurate handling with each swing in playing drop shots or using two-handed backhand techniques.
This paddle, as if taking game stakes to the next level, is sort of a status symbol among pickleball enthusiasts. Of course, this is not the most expensive pickleball paddle out there, unlike, for example, the Ben Johns Gold Perseus or Selkirk Labs Project 003. Still, its time durability places it into the echelons of the most expensive pickleball paddles of 2024.
Customer Feedback: Players rave about it increasing ball control without sacrificing comfort during play. "The Hyperion is my go-to for casual games and competitive matches," said one enthusiastic reviewer. If you're looking for not just performance but prestige in your equipment, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion is money well spent.
Gearbox Pro Power Elongated ($275)
The Gearbox Pro Power Elongated paddle is one of the most expensive picks for the year 2024. It is designed for those players who need a mix of power and precision during their games. Its length provides more surface area; hence, the reachability increases, and it's ideal for executing strategic backhand shots.
Gearbox Pro Power Elongated ($275)
Key Features:
- Elongated Shape: Provides unparalleled power and flexibility, thus making it ideal for players who use two-handed backhand techniques.
- Surface texture: It is designed to give the perfect combination of control and spin for the placement of the ball with precision.
- Honeycomb Core: Provides strength and reduces dead spots, hence allowing consistency in the control of the ball.
Performance Benefits: What makes this paddle great is its perfect balance between power and control. It's actually designed to combine power with a soft, cushioned feel that will suit both aggressive players and those who love dropping their shots delicately. Many players love it in pickleball because it can maintain swing weight with a secure grip for complete control over every stroke.
Customer Feedback: Players often mention how the Gearbox Pro Power Elongated helps them improve their game, praising its ability to enhance performance without sacrificing comfort. It's not just seen as a tool but also as a status symbol among premium pickleball paddles, similar to the well-known Ben Johns Gold Perseus. It is the ideal combination for anyone after prestige in pickleball equipment; most of its features are appealing to both starting paddle enthusiasts and experienced players.
AMA Sport Future Alliance Future 001: $269
The AMA Sport Futursit Alliance Future 001 is among the most expensive pickleballs in the year 2024. This paddle boasts almost every available feature, ideal for pros and enthusiasts alike. From new tech to master craftsmanship, this paddle represents highly excellent gear for investment by those who wish to play with nothing but the best.
AMA Sport Future Alliance Future 001: $269
Key Features:
- Advanced Polymers & Carbon Fiber Core: This paddle is made of advanced polymers with a core of carbon fiber; it ensures performances that will last for a long period in the courts.
- Full Surface Texture: The surface texture will help players reach those perfect drop shots and backhand shots with more flexibility.
- Honeycomb Core: The honeycomb core has better ball control and fewer dead spots, with higher swing weight, thus suitable for both learners and prestige-seeking experienced players.
Performance Benefits: A well-balanced design with secure grip inspires confidence during heavy rallies. Its ability to accommodate two-hand backhands aligns it with professional players' preferences, like Tyson McGuffin.
Customer Feedback: This paddle is one of the favorites because of its control and power; users consistently say that it outperforms competitors like the Selkirk Labs Project 003. This paddle is as much a part of gameplay as it is a status symbol within the community. If you are one of those thinking, 'what is the most worth-it expensive pickleball paddle?', AMA Sport Futursit Alliance Future 001 is definitely one of the best choices. Combining style and substance, it's certainly one of the top picks among elite paddles.These reviews make this one of the excellent options.
Engage Pursuit Pro1 ($259.99)
The Engage Pursuit Pro1 is one of the most expensive pickleball paddles in 2024, offering the ultimate in innovation and performance for the most select players. This paddle features a honeycomb polymer core that creates an exceptional balance between lightness and durability, making it perfect for both beginners and pros alike.
Engage Pursuit Pro1 ($259.99)
Key Features:
- Standard-Shaped Paddle: Significant surface area reduces dead spots, creating ultimate control on backhand shots.
- Surface: Optimized for spin control and drop shots, thereby allowing players to boss their opponents at the net and in all-court plays.
- Core Thickness: It assures ideal thickness for perfect stability and ball control for those players migrating into premium paddles from entry-level paddles.
The design of the Engage Pursuit Pro1 focuses on comfort with its secure grip, essential for playing two-handed backhands in comfort. Its swing weight allows for broad motion-the ultimate paddle in balancing power and delicacy.
Customer Feedback & Performance: The size of the grip is non-slip in the Engage Pursuit Pro1, which allows players to hold confidently during the intensity of matches. Described as an all-court paddle, it has been compared repeatedly for performance against high-end models such as the Selkirk Labs Project 003 and even the vaunted Ben Johns Gold Perseus, but at a considerably lower price. Whether you're doing research on the most expensive paddle pickleball options or it's time to upgrade to your next paddle, the Engage Pursuit Pro1 is a testimony to value-conscious paddle design that doesn't make sacrifices in quality or prestige.
Adidas Metal bone Carbon Fiber Paddle ($259.99)
Adidas Metalbone Carbon Fiber Paddle is one of the most expensive pickleball paddles launched in 2024. This is a classic paddle that features a perfect blend of control and power. The high-end carbon fiber-made paddle will ensure players benefit from an impressive set of features to improve gameplay for players who are novices or professionals in playing pickleball.
Adidas Metal bone Carbon Fiber Paddle ($259.99)
Key Features:
- Surface Texture: The surface texture is designed for superior spin to execute backhand shots and drop shots accurately.
- Reactive Honeycomb Core: Excellent ball control from the honeycomb core reduces the incidences of dead spots so that performance is predictable for most shots.
- Composite Materials: High-tech composite materials go into the making of this paddle to provide a judicious balance between durability and light handling.
- Secure Grip: The grip is sweat-wicking, providing a firm hold during the most intense matches for accurate swings and two-handed backhands.
- Length & Weight of Paddle: The square design in this increases the weight of the swing and range of motion; it may feel much heavier in comparison to entry-level paddles.
Performance Benefits: Many players praise this ball because it can give power without totally compromising the issue of control. The combination of its reactive core with a textured surface makes it a go-for among those who want to step up their game.
Customer Feedback: The Adidas Metalbone is more than just a tool to many professional pickleball players; it's a status symbol in the higher echelons of paddles. Some would say that it ranks in league with the fabled Selkirk Labs Project 003 or even the mythical Ben Johns Gold Perseus. Many users repeatedly mention the exceptional balance of its craftsmanship and that it is well worth the money they spend on adding to their arsenal of sporting equipment. This is more than a paddle for fun; it's a statement to the commitment of Adidas to innovation in sports equipment, hence solidifying its position as one of the most expensive paddles for pickleball on the market today. So, this can ensure you the maximum power.
Vulcan V1100 Carbon Fiber Paddle: $259.99
The Vulcan V1100 Carbon Fiber Paddle is amongst the most expensive pickleballs that will be in the market in 2024, fusing the latest technology with classic design. Strong and durable, this paddle is intended for players who have confidence in their game or those players who desire to make a statement on the court.
Vulcan V1100 Carbon Fiber Paddle: $259.99
Key Features
- The polymer honeycomb core provides a perfect mix of control over the ball with reduced dead spots to give players an edge over their opponents.
- With the large surface texture, backhand shots and drop shots are delivered with ease.
- The shape and width of the paddle facilitate range of motion without sacrificing swing weight.
Performance Benefits: Featuring a technological leap in paddle technologies, the V1100 is made with a comfortable grip that excels for two-handed backhand styles. The weight is delicately balanced, so, by design, it is a control paddle but has great power when required. Players like Tyson McGuffin inspire its design to keep it at high standards that competitive players would expect.
Customer Reviews: The grip size has been praised by users for being comfortable to handle during intensive matches. Its combination of soft paddle feel with durability makes it a favorite among entry-level and seasoned players in pickleball. In the world of super-premium pickleball paddles, this offering is a statement of prestige, bound at the same time by virtue of functionality with the capability of elevating your game. If looking to upgrade performance or maybe take pride in the prestige that comes along with owning such a high-end piece of equipment, the Vulcan V1100 is indeed worth investing in.And I think that these are not suitable for the absolute beginners, or this is not a beginner paddle, and also for the intermediate player.
Advantages of Investing in a High-End Pickleball Paddle
With a high-end pickleball paddle, you certainly will see various advantages that pertain to gameplay and longevity. For the serious player, durability over time certainly justifies cost in expensive pickleball paddles. These top-of-the-line paddles are built with nothing but the finest materials, including carbon fiber and fiberglass, which guarantee that they will hold up well under intense play.
Key Benefits:
- Performance Enhancement: Top-of-the-line paddles like the Selkirk Project 003 assure ultimate control and power for players wishing to compete at higher levels. Designed with precision in both paddle shape and handle length, they will serve players who are in need of control or who have aggressive playing styles.
- Professional Endorsements: Most professional pickleball players endorse such high-quality paddles for their unrivaled performance. Their testimonials feature how such investments result in an enhanced playing experience and success on courts.
- Exclusivity & Style: High-end paddles give you more performance boosts in your game; playing with them means playing on courts with style. These paddles offer some highly sought-after mixes of performance-exclusivity by enthusiasts in pickleball. Choosing high-end equipment is often about far-reaching satisfaction with continued performance at top levels—not just an immediate impact.
Innovations Shaping The Future Of Pickleball Paddles
As technology develops in the ever-changing world of Pickleball, this sport introduces new dimensions when designing and working with paddles. Indeed, innovative features like reactive honeycomb cores and Atomic 13 Edge Technology set higher standards in performance power and control, making even more expensive pickleball paddles rise while letting players do things they could never have imagined doing.
- Lightweight Paddles for Agility: Lighter-weight paddles like Swift Pickleball Paddle allow smooth front-hand and backhand swings for great manoeuvrability.
- Dominance of Composite and Graphite Paddles: Composite and graphite paddles remain dominant because they offer durability while enhancing various skill levels.
- Importance of Comfortable Handle & Non-Slip Grip: The Selkirk LUXX series exemplifies how important it is to have comfortable handles combined with non-slip grips to provide accuracy for each shot.
- Unique Features of Carbon Fiber Paddles: Attention to minute detail sees carbon fiber paddles noted for lightweight yet strong constructions promising elevated gameplay experiences whether you're learning or competing professionally.
So, after all, you need to look at the paddle width, the fantastic spin feature, and some time for the customizable weight feature. I am thinking of reviewing some budget plans for you, so keep calm and stay with me online. I hope that this blog will be helpful to grow your pickleball skill.
Most Expensive Pickleball Paddles FAQs
What are the most expensive pickleball paddles in 2024?
The three pickleball paddles that are most expensive available to buy are: Ben Johns Gold Perseus priced at $1,750; Third Shot Drop Special Edition costing $375; and Selkirk Labs Project 003 priced at $333. Each has unique features intended towards satisfying specific playing styles.Selkirk LUXX Control Air is also an expensive option.
What then makes a pickleball paddle expensive?
Several influences drive pricing—the state-of-the-art technologies utilized alongside superior materials such as carbon fiber and fiberglass—alongside innovative designs that promote both game performance as well as durability within these products, leading towards enjoyable games whether beginner or accomplished alike.
How does paddle shape play itself out on court?
Paddle shapes significantly affect gameplay; standard shapes balance well, while longer designs usually allow greater reach alongside enhanced power delivery—all relating directly toward personal preferences/styles within play contexts!
Why is grip size important in choosing a pickleball paddle?
Grip size is important since it helps in allowing one to effectively handle the paddle. A comfortable grip allows better control and inflicts less chance of injury during play. It is essential, thus, to choose a grip size that is comfortable in your hands for better performance. Some of the features present in the Ben Johns Gold Perseus paddle include: The Ben Johns Gold Perseus perfectly balances ball control with swing weight, and you might just find this to be the ideal paddle for two-handed backhand shots. It features a secure grip size and an extensive surface area that minimizes dead spots for great performance by advanced players.
How do materials like polymer honeycomb and foam core affect paddle performance?
Materials include polymer honeycomb and foam core in higher-end paddles, which add a great deal to the durability and performance of the paddle. These materials give better shock absorption, improved power transfer, and overall better playability, thus preferred by competitive players.
The Most Expensive Pickleball Paddle: A Comprehensive Guide