Joola Pro 4 Pickleball Paddles
Joola Pro 4: Pioneering Pickleball Performance for Every Player
I always look forward to the latest Joola paddles hitting the courts. Among the most anticipated launches is the Joola Pro 4 lineup. My dad and I regularly test new paddles, and I keep returning to the Joola brand for my personal favorite. I even competed, and earned gold, at the 2024 Joola Pickleball Celebration. Despite past de-listings and controversies with Gen 3 models, I was eager to see what this new release could offer. *Joola is referring to these paddles as Joola Pro IV – not Gen 4.
Joola’s Road to the Pro 4 Series
If you have followed the controversy surrounding Joola Gen 3 pickleball paddles, you know the brand’s 2024 run was anything but smooth. Early design choices involving compressed cores sparked durability concerns. Gen 3 paddles were eventually delisted, leading some pickleball players to question Joola’s trajectory. Yet the company remained motivated to regain trust.
Their solution? An entirely rethought line. That line is called the Pro 4. It introduces Tech Flex Propulsion (often labeled TFP) in the paddle’s key areas. Several shapes familiar from the Gen 3 days, Perseus, Scorpius, Hyperion, and Magnus, are back, but now with advanced construction aimed at boosting consistency, forgiveness, and spin.
Manufacturer Claims vs. My Personal Court Tests
What Joola Promises
- Non-Compressed Polypropylene Core: Moves away from previous design, which caused core instability.
- Tech Flex Propulsion (TFP): Layered reinforcement near critical throat spots, aiming to improve durability and ball feel.
- Diverse Shapes: Retains the same four shapes from Gen 3, Perseus, Scorpius, Hyperion, Magnus, in both 14mm and 16mm thicknesses.
- Two Certification Paths: Dual-certified models (USAP & UPA) and UPA-only models that allow higher grit levels.
Joola Pro 4 On Court Impressions
I had the chance to try the Joola Pro 4 paddles at a special invite only event. The weather was quite windy, which can reveal a paddle’s control limits. Right away, the Pro 4 delivered a crisp yet balanced pop. The main difference I noticed compared to older Joola models was a more stable sweet spot, especially on off center hits. By the end of the session, I was placing my drives with reliable spin, even in swirling wind. I often rely on lead tape for better stability, but I found the new TFP construction delivered enough forgiveness straight out of the box.
In my personal experience, the 14mm version provided a lively feel, ideal for those who want extra power behind their shots. The 16mm option felt plusher and gave me more dwell time on slow dinks. That small dwell advantage was notable on third-shot drops. Anyone seeking maximum control and consistent resets might lean toward 16mm.
Collaborating with a Tennis Legend
Alongside the familiar shapes, there is an additional release developed with a famous tennis star, Andre Agassi. This special shape has a thicker neck taper and a unique head curve, resulting in extra forgiveness near the paddle’s throat. The design itself may catch you by surprise, but the performance is the true talking point. According to other players who tested the new shape, its sweet spot is noticeably generous, granting stable volleys and well controlled blocks.
Dual Certification and UPA-Only Options
Several Pro 4 paddles carry both USAP and UPA certification, meaning they are sanctioned for use in most pickleball tournaments. However, Joola will also offer a UPA-only version with increased surface grit. This extra grit aims for better spin capability, leveraging UPA’s spin test rules. Players who compete exclusively under UPA rules may appreciate that added advantage.
Meanwhile, the Joola Mod alternatives remains a hot topic among fans that can’t wait until March 4th for the release of the Joola Pro 4 paddles.
Why Compressed Cores Became a Problem
One major complaint about older Joola models was repeated breakage or delamination after heavy use. Joola pinpointed compressed polypropylene as a contributor. This manufacturing method can weaken structural integrity when combined with high tension thermoforming. As a response, Joola’s Pro 4 line avoids compressed cores altogether, aiming for a stronger, more uniform internal build.
Early testers who used the new paddles consistently mentioned improved longevity compared to older lines. I haven’t played with these paddles enough to weigh in on the matter. This shift could help restore faith in a brand that faced intense scrutiny for paddle legality and durability issues. Based on my sessions, the updated approach shows promise.
Upgraded Paddle Presentation
While performance matters most, presentation can shape first impressions. Reviewers reported that the Pro 4 paddles arrive in more premium packaging than previous versions. The older bubble wrap approach has been swapped for a sleeker package that matches the paddle’s higher price tag. It’s a minor touch, but it underscores Joola’s intention to address even the smallest criticisms.
Pro 4 at a Glance
| Feature | Older Joola Gen 3 | New Joola Pro 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Core Type | Compressed Polypropylene | Non-Compressed Poly + TFP |
| Shapes | Perseus, Scorpius, Hyperion, Magnus | Same Shapes + Tennis Collab Model |
| Surface Grit | USP-limited friction | Dual & UPA-Only (Higher Grit) |
| Durability | Frequent Delistings | Reinforced TFP Tech |
| Packaging | Basic Wrap | Upgraded Box & Finish |
Joola Pro 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Pro 4 series builds on Gen 3 shapes but uses TFP and new core methods. It addresses concerns that led to Gen 3’s delisting.
The 16mm paddles typically provide better dwell time and control, while 14mm options offer extra pop.
Absolutely. There are dual-certified models for USAP events. The UPA-only paddles simply push grit levels even higher.
Andre Agassi’s input created a thicker neck taper and curved head for added forgiveness and sweet spot stability.
Yes. The Pro 4 paddles feature foam channels that help reduce vibration and widen the sweet spot.
The Joola Pro IV release time is 12 PM EST on March 4th 2025.
The Joola Pro 4 paddle collection showcases how a brand can learn from setbacks and evolve for the better. With TFP construction, refined core technology, and multiple certifications, these paddles stand ready to reclaim Joola’s spot among the best on the market. If you want to explore more articles about new releases, visit the Pickleball Paddle Reviews section for our exclusive views.
For further information on tournament regulations, visit the USA Pickleball Official Site.
These were supposed to release Today, March 4th and Word on the street is that they’re like the 3s but with slightly less firepower and slightly better feel, control, and sweet spot.