JOOLA has introduced something very different with its new POWER FX pickleball paddle. The POWER FX is JOOLA's first full-foam paddle, built around its Propulsion Core technology and designed to give players what JOOLA calls "effortless power." The paddle has already generated plenty of interest, and Canadian players will have to wait a little longer before it becomes available here. So what exactly is different about the POWER FX, and how does it compare with paddles like the JOOLA Pro IV and Pro V? Let's take a look.
What Is the JOOLA POWER FX?
The POWER FX is a new 16mm pickleball paddle from JOOLA built around a full-foam construction. JOOLA has combined its Propulsion Core technology with EPP foam and an optimized surface layup. The goal is to create a paddle that delivers more accessible power while also providing a larger sweet spot and plenty of dwell. The paddle uses the Perseus shape and measures 16.5 inches long and 7.5 inches wide, with a weight of approximately 8 ounces. The POWER FX is a pretty significant change in direction for JOOLA. Instead of simply taking an existing paddle and making small adjustments, JOOLA is experimenting with a different approach to paddle construction. And that's what makes it interesting.
Why Is Foam Interesting in a Pickleball Paddle?
Foam isn't completely new to pickleball, but the way JOOLA is using it in the POWER FX is what makes this paddle worth paying attention to. The full-foam construction is designed to work with the paddle's core and surface to create a different type of response. JOOLA is positioning the POWER FX around effortless power, meaning the paddle is designed to help players generate pace without having to work quite as hard to do it. That could be particularly interesting for players who want more power without simply swinging harder. And let's be honest, most recreational players don't need another paddle telling them to swing harder. Their opponents are already asking them to stop.
POWER FX vs Pro V
The Pro V uses JOOLA's KineticFrame technology, which is designed to create a more precise and controlled flex and response. The POWER FX takes a different approach with its full-foam construction and focus on effortless power. The Pro V is aimed more toward players who generate their own power and want control and precision, while the POWER FX is designed to make power more accessible. These paddles are built around different characteristics, so what makes sense for you will depend on what you want from your paddle.
POWER FX vs Pro IV
The Pro IV is still a very capable high-performance paddle. I've talked about this in my previous article comparing the Pro IV and Pro V, and the arrival of a new generation doesn't suddenly make the previous paddle obsolete. The POWER FX is simply another option for players who want something different. The Pro IV already has a responsive feel and flex characteristics that many players enjoy, while the POWER FX takes a completely different approach with its foam construction. If you already play with a Pro IV and love it, there is no reason to change simply because something new has arrived. Your paddle didn't suddenly become bad overnight.
What About the 16mm Thickness?
The POWER FX comes in a 16mm construction. Thickness is one of the first things players look at when comparing paddles, but it doesn't tell the whole story. Two 16mm paddles can feel completely different because the core construction, materials, surface, shape, weight and balance all influence how a paddle plays. That's why I don't like telling players that 16mm automatically means control or that 14mm automatically means power. It isn't that simple. I've talked about this in my 14mm vs 16mm pickleball paddle article, and the POWER FX is another good example of why paddle thickness is only one piece of the puzzle.
Who Might Like the POWER FX?
Based on the construction and what JOOLA is trying to accomplish with the POWER FX, I think it will be particularly interesting for players who want more accessible power. That could include recreational and intermediate players, as well as players who don't want to work quite as hard to generate pace. The larger sweet spot and foam construction may also appeal to players looking for a more forgiving response. But there is one important thing I want to make clear. I haven't tried the POWER FX yet, so I'm not going to pretend I can tell you exactly how it feels on a reset, dink, counter or drive. Once I get the chance to actually play with it, I'll give you my honest opinion based on my own experience with the paddle. I think that's much more useful than pretending every new paddle is amazing before actually playing with it.
Is POWER FX More Powerful Than the Pro V?
JOOLA is clearly positioning the POWER FX around effortless power, so power is going to be one of the main reasons players consider it. But more power isn't automatically better. If you already generate plenty of power, you may care more about control, touch and how easily you can manage that power. A player who struggles to generate pace may really enjoy what the POWER FX is designed to provide, while a player who already hits hard and wants maximum precision may prefer something like the Pro V. And then there are players like me who like to customize the paddle until it feels exactly right. My current paddle is a JOOLA Hyperion Pro V 14mm with a customized grip and customized weight setup. That doesn't mean it's the right paddle for everyone. It means I've found a setup that works for my game.
Should You Consider the POWER FX?
If you're in Canada, you don't have to make that decision immediately. The POWER FX is expected to become available here later, giving Canadian players a little more time to learn about the paddle and eventually try it for themselves. One thing that could make the POWER FX especially interesting is its expected price point, which should be in the $250 range. That puts it at a noticeably different price point from some of JOOLA's higher-end paddles and could make the POWER FX an interesting option for players who want JOOLA technology without moving into the $400-plus price range.
Once it becomes available, you will also be able to try the POWER FX through the HISPORTS Demo Program, so you can actually get it on the court before deciding if it's right for you. We also expect to receive limited stock when the POWER FX is released in Canada. If you already know you want one, you can email or call HISPORTS to reserve your paddle for purchase before the Canadian release. Stay tuned for the Canadian release, and if you want to know when we expect to have the POWER FX available, check with HISPORTS for the latest Canadian release information.
That's what I would recommend when possible. Don't buy a paddle simply because it is the newest thing. Think about what you actually want your paddle to do. Do you want more power? More control? More touch? A larger sweet spot? A different feel? A different shape? And of course, what is your budget? Those questions are much more important than simply asking which paddle is newest.
My Take So Far
I think the POWER FX is a very interesting addition to the JOOLA lineup. The full-foam construction makes it different from the Pro IV and Pro V, and JOOLA is clearly targeting players who want power to come more easily. I haven't tried the POWER FX yet, so I'll save my full opinion until I actually get it on the court. Once I do, I'll update this article and let you know what I think after playing with it.
You can read about paddle technology all day, but eventually you have to hit the ball. That's when you really find out whether you like a paddle. Until then, if you're deciding between the POWER FX, Pro V or Pro IV, I'd be happy to help you figure out what makes the most sense for your game. And remember, the newest paddle isn't automatically the right paddle. Sometimes the right paddle is the one that makes you forget you're even holding one.
See you on the court.
Coach Alex