Joola Raises the Bar (Again) with the Ben Johns Hyperion 3S

First off let's go over the differences between the Perseus and the Hyperion shape. This is one of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to JOOLA paddles. 

The Perseus is an elongated paddle with a flat top, while the Hyperion is a paddle of the exact same dimensions except with a rounded top. What does this mean for differences in performance?

The Hyperion's shape is more aerodynamic and weight distribution allows for a slightly faster swing. However, it is also slightly less powerful than the Perseus shape. The differences are not huge but for someone leaning towards beginner to early intermediate the Hyperion may be a better fit for them.

Feel, Control, and Precision: The Sweet Spot

The Ben Johns Hyperion 3S feels solid from the moment you pick it up. The slightly softer feel than the Gen 3 is all touch and finesse. That sweet spot? It’s big, forgiving of slightly off center hits and reacts to the slightest changes in your grip or wrist. But let’s talk about dinking. The Hyperion 3S is a dinking master. The placement and touch at the net is effortless and precise. The sweet spot on all of the 3S models blows away the previous Gen 2 performance. This is due to JOOLA's patent pending Propulsion Core which features two ring layers of foam that help propel the ball off the paddle more like a tennis racket than a traditional pickleball paddle.

Power and Performance

The 3S Hyperion has a touch less raw power than the Gen 3 but not much. You’ll still get plenty of pop on your serves and drives to unleash your inner beast when you need to. The beauty of the Hyperion 3S is the power delivery is more controlled and predictable which means better accuracy and consistency when it counts.

Drop Shot Mastery

If you’re a player who loves finesse and strategy the Hyperion 3S is about to become your new BFF. The softer feel and more control makes drop shots feel almost instinctive. The paddle responds to the slightest technique adjustments so those drop shots land soft and dead at the net. And don’t forget the Propulsion Core technology which gives you an extra edge on controlling the spin and direction of the ball - a big plus for strategic players.

Gen 3 vs 3S

The Gen 3 Hyperion is a beast, no question and loved by players who like to play aggressive and power focused. The 3S dials back the power and goes for more refinement and control. Think of it as the Gen 3 going back to school and learning to harness its raw power into precision and finesse.

Official Approval: UPA-A Certified

The entire Joola 3S line is UPA-A certified so you know it meets the official standards of the sport. Not USAP approved yet but legal for PPA, MLP and other non-USAP sanctioned tournaments and recreational play.

Verdict: A must have for the serious player

The Joola 3S Ben Johns Hyperion 16mm is Joola at its best. They took a great paddle and made it better, more control, more feel, more precision without losing power. Whether you’re a pro or just play on the weekends with friends this paddle will give you more confidence and more game. If you’re serious about pickleball and want the best equipment out there the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion 3S should be in your bag.

You can purchase the 3S Hyperion here.