JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion 3 Pickleball Paddle Review

The relentless evolution of pickleball equipment continues, and one of the stars Joola's Gen 3 lineup, the Ben Johns Hyperion 3, stands as a testament to this constant push for innovation. Building upon the success of the previous Hyperion model, this upgraded paddle offers a playing experience truly unrivaled by other paddles on the market.. This review delves deeper into the Hyperion 3's defining features, analyzing how they translate to on-court dominance and smoother play.

 

The All-Rounder

For aggressive players seeking to dictate the pace of the game with overpowering smashes, the Ben Johns Hyperion 3 is a fantastic weapon of choice. This paddle pushes the boundaries of what players thought possible, potentially exceeding the raw power output of the ever-popular Gearbox Pro Power series. However, the beauty of the Hyperion 3 lies in its ability to strike a balance. While it carries the potential for explosive power, it doesn't compromise on control. Compared to the popular Gearbox Pro Series power paddles, the Hyperion 3 boasts a larger sweet spot and increased forgiveness, resulting in fewer mishits and improved accuracy. This allows players to take aggressive swings with confidence, knowing they can place the ball precisely where they intend.

The Hyperion 3 empowers aggressive play on multiple fronts. Powerful serves and returns allow you to seize control of the net, dictate rallies, and push your opponent on the back foot. Groundstrokes benefit from the explosive power, making drives more difficult to return and forcing your opponent into a defensive scramble. The paddle's stability translates into a defensive advantage as well. Blocking hard-hitting baseline drives becomes more manageable, potentially turning a weakness into a defensive strength.

Comparison to the Ben Johns Perseus 3

Interestingly, the Hyperion 3 offers a slightly softer feel compared to the Ben Johns Perseus 3. This translates to slightly smoother dinks and drop shots, making it a great choice for players who value a well-rounded game that incorporates both aggressive power and finesse. However, the Hyperion 3 will not have as much aggressive power on drives and put aways. Though either of these paddles have more than enough power when necessary.

The Hyperion 3's design goes beyond just aesthetics. Its hybrid shape contributes to a feeling of greater aerodynamic control compared to the Perseus 3. This can be particularly noticeable during quick volleys and fast-paced rallies, where a slightly lighter swingweight can translate to faster shot placement.

Green and Mean

While the core design and signature Joola look remain familiar, the Hyperion 3 boasts a futuristic aesthetic update that complements its innovative features. The edge guard, previously gray, now features a captivating gradient design. It transitions from a neon green at the bottom to a subtle gray in the middle, before finishing with green again at the top.

 

The Final Verdict: A Compelling Choice for the Discerning Player

The Joola Ben Johns Hyperion 3 represents a significant advancement in the popular paddle series. The slightly softer feel and the hybrid shape, contributing to a more aerodynamic experience, make it a well-rounded option for players who value both power and touch. Ultimately, the Hyperion 3 is a compelling choice for the discerning pickleball player seeking the latest and greatest that delivers explosive power with the ability to execute delicate shots. This paddle empowers players to dominate the court with a combination of raw power and exceptional control, allowing them to adapt to any situation and emerge victorious.

 

Disclaimer: Disclaimer: The Hyperion 3 is no longer available for sale due to delisting by USA Pickleball.