The JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16mm is one of the most explosive power pickleball paddles of 2026. JOOLA.com listed $249.95 MSRP on the 16mm SKU as of June 2026 (no standing sale on that listing); Pro V is the newer flagship at $299.95.
The Verdict
The Ben Johns paddle — $249.95 MSRP at JOOLA.
Loud, explosive, and still a serious premium power pick at full price. After thorough on-court evaluation, the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV is a strong fit for aggressive players who want elite power and don't mind a learning curve — see category scores below for power, control, spin, and feel.
If you're comparing it against other foam-core paddles, it's one of several great foam core paddles we've played this year.
Specs
| Price (with code) | $249.95 |
| Stock Price | $249.95 |
| Shape | Elongated |
| Thickness | 16mm |
| Core | Polypropylene Propulsion Core + TFP Foam |
| Face | Carbon Friction Surface |
| Weight | 8.1 oz |
| Grip Length | 5.5" |
| Swing Weight | 118 |
Performance Scores
On-Court Feel
The Pro IV hits. Drives come off with authority that you don't have to earn — the Propulsion Core does the heavy lifting and you just swing with intent. At the kitchen the story gets more honest — this paddle is built for attacking, and if your soft game isn't locked in you'll occasionally pop balls up. The elongated shape gives you genuine reach that shorter paddles can't match.
Performance & Testing
The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV went through our standard on-court protocol - drills, rec play, and at least one tournament match. Scores reflect consensus feedback, not a single reviewer's opinion.
Grit & Durability
Carbon Friction Surface provides good initial bite. The bigger durability question is core crush — a real issue with Gen 3 models. JOOLA has added quality control with the Pro IV, but the 1-year warranty is short for the price.
Who It's For
Attacking players who love an elongated shape and want to build points through pace and pressure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Among the most powerful legal paddles
- Explosive instant pop
- Improved sweet spot vs Gen 3
- Dual certified (USAP + UPA-A)
- JOOLA.com MSRP $249.95 on 16mm SKU (June 2026 check)
Cons
- Demands clean technique
- Lower twist weight
- 1-year warranty short for the price
- Core durability history
Bottom Line
Premium power — strong paddle, but Honolulu J2CR at ~$175 gives it real competition.
At $249.95 this is still a top-tier power paddle — but the Honolulu J2CR at ~$175 is the value answer if you are not locked into the Ben Johns Perseus shape.
Related guides: JOOLA Pro IV vs Pro V · The JOOLA Patent Lawsuit — What It Means for Your Paddle · Best Pickleball Paddles 2026 (July Update) · all promo codes
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Common questions
Is the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV a good paddle?
Premium power — strong paddle, but Honolulu J2CR at ~$175 gives it real competition. Our overall score is 8.8/10. Best for: Aggressive players who want elite power and don't mind a learning curve. Read the full review for category scores, cons, and who should skip it.
What shape is the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV?
It is listed as Elongated at 16mm with a Polypropylene Propulsion Core + TFP Foam core. Shape drives reach, hand speed, and sweet-spot size more than brand marketing claims.
How much does the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV cost with a discount?
You pay $249.95 when the code applies. Prices can change on the brand site — we update reviews when we catch a shift.
Is the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV tournament legal?
Our notes from testing: USAP + UPA-A. If you play sanctioned events, double-check the current list on USA Pickleball or your tour before you buy.
Who is the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV for?
Aggressive players who want elite power and don't mind a learning curve
How much spin does the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV generate?
In our testing and measurement passes, this shape lands around 2,048 RPM; your swing and ball matter too.