Discover the Power of Ben Johns Paddles: The JOOLA Hyperion Series

So, pickleball is getting pretty serious, huh? It feels like every week there's some new gear that's supposed to change the game. Lately, a lot of buzz has been around the JOOLA Hyperion series, especially the ones designed with Ben Johns. We're talking about some fancy tech and high-end materials here. Let's break down what makes these ben johns paddles stand out and if they're really worth all the talk.

Key Takeaways

• The JOOLA Hyperion series, developed with top player Ben Johns, represents a significant step in pickleball paddle technology.

• The series includes three models: the flagship Hyperion CFS 16, the versatile Hyperion CAS 16, and the thinner Hyperion CAS 13.5, each offering a different feel and performance profile.

• Key technologies like the Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) for spin and grip, and the innovative Reactive and Responsive Honeycomb Cores, aim to provide players with better control, power, and feel.

• The CFS 16 is praised for its performance but can be head-heavy, while the CAS 16 offers a more balanced feel and is more budget-friendly.

• While the Hyperion paddles are advanced, they aren't necessarily for everyone, and choosing the right model depends on individual playing style and preferences.

Introducing the Ben Johns Hyperion Series

A New Era for Pickleball

Pickleball is changing fast, and the equipment is keeping up. We're seeing new tech that really makes a difference on the court. It's not just about hitting the ball anymore; it's about how you hit it, how much spin you can get, and how quickly you can react. This new wave of paddles is designed to give players that edge.

The JOOLA Partnership with Ben Johns

JOOLA, a big name in table tennis, has jumped into pickleball with both feet. And who better to team up with than the best player out there, Ben Johns? This partnership isn't just about slapping a name on a paddle. It's about creating gear that can actually compete at the highest level. The JOOLA Hyperion series is the result of this collaboration, aiming to bring pro-level performance to players.

Beyond the Franklin Paddle

Ben Johns used to play with Franklin paddles, which were great for a while. But as the sport evolved, so did the technology. Thicker paddles with fancy cores started showing up, and older designs just couldn't keep pace. The Hyperion line is JOOLA's answer, bringing advanced materials and design to the forefront. It's a clear step forward from what was available before, offering a new standard for high-performance pickleball equipment. If you're looking for an upgrade, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16mm is definitely worth checking out.

Exploring the Hyperion Lineup

JOOLA didn't just create one paddle for Ben Johns; they launched an entire series. The Hyperion lineup features three distinct paddles, all sharing the same shape but offering unique playing characteristics. While the Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 gets a lot of attention because it's his go-to, the series also includes the versatile Hyperion CAS 16 and the thinner Hyperion CAS 13.5. We've spent time on the court with all three to break down what makes each one special.

The Flagship Hyperion CFS 16

This is the paddle Ben Johns uses, and it's built for top-tier performance. It boasts JOOLA's Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) for incredible spin and a Reactive Honeycomb Core designed for power and a responsive feel. The CFS 16 also features a Carbon Forged Handle and a Hyperfoam edge, adding to its premium build.

Key Features of the CFS 16:

• Facing Material: Carbon Friction Surface (CFS)

• Core: Reactive Honeycomb Core (smaller cells)

• Handle: Carbon Forged Handle

• Edge: Hyperfoam Edge

The CFS 16 is engineered for players who want a blend of control, power, and spin. Its construction aims to provide a lively feel off the paddle face, making it a strong contender for aggressive play.

The Versatile Hyperion CAS 16

Think of the CAS 16 as the balanced option in the Hyperion family. It shares the same 16mm thickness and overall shape as the CFS 16 but uses JOOLA's Carbon Abrasion Surface (CAS) and a Responsive Honeycomb Core. This setup offers a slightly different feel, often described as more forgiving and user-friendly, making it a great choice for a wide range of players.

Feature	Hyperion CFS 16	Hyperion CAS 16
Thickness	16mm	16mm
Facing	Carbon Friction Surface	Carbon Abrasion Surface
Core	Reactive Honeycomb	Responsive Honeycomb
Weight (approx.)	8.4 oz	Lighter than CFS 16

The Thinner Hyperion CAS 13.5

For players who prefer a thinner profile and a more direct connection with the ball, the CAS 13.5 is the way to go. Its reduced thickness offers quicker response and feedback, which many players find crucial for confidence in their shots. While it uses the same CAS face as the CAS 16, the thinner core changes the overall feel, providing a distinct playing experience that emphasizes maneuverability and a crisp feel.

• Thinner Profile: 13.5mm thickness for quicker response.

• Feel: More direct feedback and connection to the ball.

• Spin: Still offers excellent spin potential with the CAS face.

• Maneuverability: Highly agile and easy to handle.

Key Technologies in Ben Johns Paddles

Carbon Friction Surface (CFS)

This is where the magic happens for spin. The CFS surface uses a textured carbon fiber that grips the ball. It's designed to give you that extra bite for wicked spin on serves, drives, and drops. It’s not just about spin, though; this surface is built to last, keeping its texture game after game.

Reactive and Responsive Honeycomb Cores

Forget paddles that feel dead. JOOLA engineered a special honeycomb polymer core. It's tuned to react differently based on how you hit the ball. For soft dinks, it gives you great control and dwell time. But when you want to put some heat on it, the core responds instantly, sending the ball back with power and speed. It’s like the paddle knows what you’re trying to do.

Innovative Handle Designs

It’s not just the hitting surface and core. The handle gets attention too. You'll find features like:

• CX-Forged Handle: This design aims to give you more flex, which can translate to extra power and a more comfortable feel in your hand.

• Sure-Grip Elongated Handle: A perforated, anti-slip grip helps you hold on tight and absorbs some of the shock. It's also long enough to be comfortable for two-handed shots.

The combination of these technologies means the paddle feels connected to your hand, allowing for precise control when you need it and explosive power when you don't.

Here's a quick look at how the core thickness can affect play:

Core Thickness	Primary Benefit
16mm	Balanced control and power, great dwell time
13.5mm	Thinner profile, often leading to quicker feel and potentially more control for some players

This thoughtful design means you get a paddle that not only looks good but is packed with tech to help you play your best. You can find more details on specific models like the Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 13.5mm pickleball paddle to see how these technologies come together.

Performance and Feel Breakdown

Control, Power, and Spin

When you step onto the court with a Ben Johns Hyperion paddle, you're not just holding a piece of equipment; you're holding a tool designed for serious play. These paddles really let you feel the ball. The Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) is no joke – it grabs the ball like crazy, giving you spin that can make your opponents rethink their shots. It's the kind of spin that can change the game. Whether you're trying to drop a ball just over the net or blast a winner, the paddle responds. The core technology plays a big part here, adapting to what you need, whether that's soft touch or aggressive power.

The CFS 16's Reactive Core

The real magic in the CFS 16 has to be its core. It’s a 16mm paddle, which usually means a bit more dwell time for control, but this core is different. It feels responsive, almost like it knows what you're trying to do. You get that nice, soft feel for dinks and volleys, but when you decide to put some heat on the ball, it just goes. It's like the paddle has two personalities: one for finesse, and one for power. This reactive nature means you don't have to sacrifice one for the other.

Feel and Connection with the Ball

How a paddle feels in your hand and how connected you feel to the ball is super important. With the Hyperion line, especially the thinner CAS 13.5, you get a really direct feel. There's less cushion, so you feel every vibration, every bit of feedback from the ball. This connection can boost your confidence, letting you place shots exactly where you want them. While the thicker CFS 16 offers amazing responsiveness for its size, some players might prefer the more immediate feedback from a thinner paddle for that ultimate connection.

Here's a quick look at how the models stack up:

Paddle	Control	Power	Spin	Forgiveness
CFS 16	1	1	1	1
CAS 16	2	3	3	2
CAS 13.5	3	2	2	3

(Note: 1 is best, 3 is good)

Comparing the Hyperion Models

So, you've seen the Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16, the CAS 16, and the CAS 13.5. They all look pretty similar, right? Same shape, same general vibe. But trust me, when you get them in your hands and on the court, the differences really pop. It's not just about thickness; it's about what's going on inside and on the surface.

CFS 16 vs. CAS 16: Core Differences

This is where things get interesting. Both are 16mm thick, but the core technology is the main differentiator. The CFS 16 uses Joola's 'Reactive' core, which has smaller honeycomb cells. This design is built to give you more power and a quicker response when you hit the ball hard. Think of it as a more aggressive core. The CAS 16, on the other hand, uses the 'Responsive' core with larger honeycomb cells. It's still responsive, but it leans more towards control and feel, especially for softer shots.

• CFS 16: Smaller cells, more power, quicker response.

• CAS 16: Larger cells, balanced feel, good for touch shots.

The CFS 16 feels more explosive, while the CAS 16 offers a more predictable feel for dinking and volleys.

CAS 13.5: A Different Feel

The CAS 13.5 is the thin one. At 13.5mm, it's noticeably thinner than its 16mm siblings. This thinner profile means less dwell time on the ball. What does that translate to? More feedback, more vibration, and a feeling of being really connected to your shots. It's got that 'pop' you might be looking for if you like a faster response off the paddle. The spin is comparable to the CAS 16, thanks to the Carbon Abrasion Surface, but the thinner build changes the overall sensation. If you're someone who values that direct connection and feedback from the ball, this one might be your jam. It's a bit lighter too, making it super maneuverable. You can check out other options for advanced players here.

Which Ben Johns Paddle is Right for You?

Choosing between them really comes down to your playing style and what you prioritize.

• For the power player who likes to attack: The Hyperion CFS 16 is likely your best bet. Ben Johns himself uses this one, and it's built for aggressive play with its reactive core and carbon friction surface.

• For the all-around player who wants a balance of control and power: The Hyperion CAS 16 offers a solid middle ground. It's got the 16mm thickness for a good sweet spot but uses the responsive core for a more controlled feel.

• For the player who loves feel and quick hands: The Hyperion CAS 13.5 is your paddle. Its thinner profile gives you that direct connection and feedback, making it great for fast exchanges and players who rely on touch.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to get them in your hands. Each paddle offers a slightly different experience, and what feels amazing to one player might be different for another. Think about your strengths and weaknesses on the court.

Design and Specifications

Paddle Shape and Dimensions

The JOOLA Hyperion series sticks to a classic elongated shape, which is great for reaching those tricky shots. You'll notice the generous 16.5-inch length and 7.5-inch width, giving you a solid surface area to work with. This design is all about maximizing your reach and providing a consistent sweet spot.

Weight and Balance Considerations

Most of the Hyperion paddles come in around 8.2 ounces, though some variations might be slightly different. This weight is a sweet spot for many players – heavy enough for stability and power, but not so heavy that it wears you out after a long match. The balance is generally head-light, which helps with quick volleys at the net.

Grip Comfort and Features

When you grab a Ben Johns Hyperion paddle, you'll feel that Sure-Grip handle. It's designed to be comfortable and prevent slipping, even when things get intense. The elongated handle, measuring 5.5 inches, is perfect for players who like to use two hands on their backhand or just want a bit more leverage. The grip circumference is typically around 4.25 inches, fitting most hands well.

Here's a quick look at the specs:

Feature	Specification
Average Weight	~8.2 oz
Paddle Length	16.5 inches
Paddle Width	7.5 inches
Handle Length	5.5 inches
Grip Circumference	4.25 inches

These dimensions and weights are carefully chosen to offer a blend of control, power, and maneuverability. It's not just about the numbers; it's about how they translate to your game on the court.

Discover the details of our pickleball program. We focus on helping you improve your game with great lessons and the latest news. Want to get better on the court? Visit our website to learn more and join us!

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it. The JOOLA Hyperion series, with Ben Johns' name attached, is definitely making waves. Whether you're leaning towards the power of the CFS 16 or the balanced feel of the CAS 16, JOOLA has put some serious thought into these paddles. They're not just slapping a famous name on a product; they're bringing some real tech to the court that could actually help your game. It's cool to see companies pushing the envelope like this. If you're looking to upgrade your paddle, the Hyperion line is worth checking out. Who knows, maybe it'll be the secret weapon you need to step up your pickleball game.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the JOOLA Hyperion series special?

The JOOLA Hyperion series is special because it was created with help from Ben Johns, who is one of the best pickleball players ever! These paddles use cool new technology like a special carbon surface for lots of spin and a unique core that helps you control the ball and hit it hard.

What's the difference between the CFS 16 and CAS 16 paddles?

The main difference is in the core. The CFS 16 has a 'Reactive' core that's amazing for power and spin, while the CAS 16 has a 'Responsive' core that's still good but might feel a bit different. The CFS 16 is the one Ben Johns uses, but the CAS 16 is a bit lighter and might be easier for some players.

Is the CAS 13.5 paddle good?

The CAS 13.5 is a thinner paddle. Some players really like thinner paddles because they feel more connected to the ball. While it has a good spin surface, the core isn't as revolutionary as the one in the CFS 16. It offers a different feel, which some players might prefer.

What does 'Carbon Friction Surface' (CFS) mean?

CFS stands for Carbon Friction Surface. It's a special textured surface made of carbon fiber on the paddle. This texture helps grab the ball really well, giving you more spin on your shots. It's also designed to last a long time.

Are these paddles good for beginners?

While these are top-tier paddles designed with a pro player, they can be used by players of all levels. The CAS 16, being a bit lighter and more forgiving, might be a good starting point for someone looking to improve. However, the CFS 16 is best suited for players who can handle its power and feel.

What makes the handle design important?

JOOLA developed a 'Carbon Forged Handle' that gives them more control over the paddle's shape. This means the handle can feel really comfortable and natural in your hand, which is important for controlling your shots and playing longer without getting tired.