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I’ve purchased some expensive pickleball paddles but have been curious to find the most expensive ones. The #1 paddle may surprise you, and the cost of $1750 – $10,000 is eye-boggling, but the picture and the story behind the world’s most expensive paddle are fascinating. That said, is the most expensive pickleball paddle worth it? I am not sure as I lost 3 games in a row today with a $200+ paddle against a 4.0-4.5 DUPR friend, but then beat him with this $32.99 random brand pickleball paddle off Amazon with a score of 11-3.
Anyhow, thankfully, many top brands provide pickleball paddle discount codes for the most expensive paddles to reduce the overall cost.
If you find a more expensive paddle, please email me at ben@bepickleballer.com. I want to make sure this list is updated often.
Click on the link to learn more about each paddle.
Let’s first look at the clear most expensive paddle.
1. Ben Johns 100 Gold Perseus (Limited to 100)
The Ben Johns 100 Gold Perseus is the most expensive pickleball paddle in the world. I couldn’t even find where you could purchase this retail, but I believe I saw something that retailed this paddle at $999 before it was on the secondary market. I saw one of these paddles on eBay selling for $10,000, but it appeared not taken for the most expensive paddle in the world right now.
Check out this picture (source: ebay and ebay):
What I like about this paddle is that it’s autographed by Ben Johns himself (the current #1 pickleball player in the world). In addition, it shows Ben John potentially holding your paddle in addition to most of the paddles lined up because these are seriously limited to only 100 paddles ever.
Talk about cool, but talk about expensive, but what’s the story behind the paddle
Story Behind World’s Most Expensive Paddle
Joola released the world’s most expensive paddle in 2023 after Ben John successfully secured his 100th gold medal on the PPA tour, which is insane given that he was only 24 then.
Since the PPA tour’s inception in 2019, Ben Johns has achieved the triple crown (winning all 3 events in a single tournament) an incredible 17 times. This is crazy given that only 1 other male player has ever achieved this feat.
The world’s most expensive pickleball paddle originally retailed at $999.95, but unfortunately, if you visit the page to purchase that paddle, you will be met with a 404 page.
Let’s look at #2.
2. Third Drop Shop Kevlar Weave Surface
There’s not much information I could find online about the Third Drop Shop Kevlar Weave Surface. One Amazon review mentioned that this paddle helped them control the ball immediately, but the paddle only has a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews.
Here’s some specification information for this expensive paddle.
New Kratos 2 Model H K Special Edition features:
- All-new Kevlar Weave Surface
- Specially developed 16mm Polymer core
Kevlar surface provides:
- Exceptional control for spin
- Precise placement shots
- Ability to halt hard drives while maintaining power
Octagonal (tennis) shaped handle4 3/8” grip size with striking orange stitched gripCustomizable with larger handle sizes and different grip material choices/colors100% US MADE AND USAPA TESTED & APPROVED:
- Components sourced directly from the US aeronautic industry
- Every part made in the US
- Handmade in the US
The New Kevlar surface offers unparalleled responsiveness, making it a game changer.
3. Selkirk Labs Project 003
The Selkirk Labs Project 003 paddle is the author at Pickleball Studio’s favorite pickleball paddle since 2022.
He said that Selkirk has a separate branch that does R&D for these paddles and then they release them during development for feedback. So, you’re essentially getting access to a paddle in the testing period before a mass launch. That’s quite cool.
Here’s a quick summary of the review, but you may want to check out the entire thing at Pickleball studio:
The standout feature of the 003 is its 20mm thickness, making it incredibly soft and ideal for resets, dinking, and net blocks, though it sacrifices power. Adding lead tape enhances its power, making it more balanced without becoming too heavy. The 003’s improved sweet spot and soft game play make it suitable for defense and setup play, though not ideal for power hitters. While it offers excellent quality and customization, its value may not be the best unless price isn’t a concern. For those preferring soft paddles, alternatives like the Electrum Model E and Joola Hyperion may be worth considering.
4. Proton Series One – Type B – ALL POP
The Proton Series One – Type B popped up in my Facebook paddle review feed. I checked it out online and found that the paddle is $280 making it the 4th most expensive in the world. Here’s a summary of the user’s review of this paddle:
Recently, I had the pleasure of trying out the Proton Series 1 Type B paddle, specifically the 15MM version, and let me tell you, it’s like finding a unicorn. This paddle packs a serious punch, delivering powerful hits that make it feel like a cannon on the court. What’s more, the spin it generates surpasses anything I’ve experienced before, even compared to my trusty Ruby paddle.
Despite being accustomed to the Ruby and DBD paddles, transitioning to the Proton Series 1 Type B was a bit of a challenge, but in the best way possible. I was so impressed by its performance that I didn’t hesitate to part ways with my Ruby paddle the moment I stepped out of the gym. Sure, it’s a tad bulkier and has one of the highest swing weights out there, but the payoff is worth it. It’s like playing with a giant ping pong paddle, and I couldn’t be happier with my discovery. Finding this gem tucked away in a thrift shop bag felt like winning the pickleball jackpot!
Let’s look at the next paddle that has come with it’s own set of drama
5. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion 3 14mm Pickleball Paddle
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion 3 14mm Pickleball Paddle is the generation 3 paddle that is currently banned. It’s still unclear whether it’s going to resolve, but the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion 2 16mm CFS is currently one of the best intermediately pickleball paddles you can buy.
It has a great touch and is in the series of what Ben Johns plays with himself.
6. Gearbox Pro Power Elongated
The Gearbox Pro Power Elongate currently has a 4.5 rating based on 184 reviews on Gearbox. Here’s a quick summary:
Experience unmatched power and precision with the Pro Power Elongated paddle, a revolutionary choice for pickleball enthusiasts. Featuring patent-pending technologies and an elongated design, it extends your reach and enhances spin potential.
The core ensures efficient energy transfer, while the Power Matrix delivers explosive power. The Intelligent Sweet Spot offers a perfect blend of strength and excitement, making it ideal for competitive players. Plus, its quiet operation keeps your opponents guessing. Elevate your game with the Pro Power Elongated paddle, engineered for champions.
7. AMA Sport Futursit Alliance Pickleball Paddle Future 001
The AMA Sport Futursit Alliance Pickleball Paddle Future 001 has only a 3.9 rating currently on Amazon, but there are only 3 reviews available.
8. Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0 Pickleball Paddle
The Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0 Pickleball Paddle is currently $259.99 on JustPaddles before a 10% discount code (bepickleballer) and a 5.0 rating on Engage Pursuit’s website with 67 reviews.
Experience the Pursuit Pro paddle, a groundbreaking innovation in pickleball. Crafted with precision, it features a unique design that sets it apart from other raw T700 paddles. The outer Raw T700 skin, combined with next-generation inner layers, is meticulously bonded to Engage’s proprietary Control Pro ‘Black’ polymer core.
This integration allows the surface and core to act as one, enhancing ball control and consistency. Players benefit from superior spin, precise power, and a softer impact, elevating gameplay to new heights. Unleash your potential with the Pursuit Pro paddle’s advanced technology and unmatched playability.
9. Adidas Metalbone Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The Adidas Metalbone Middleweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle has a 3.9 rating based on 6 reviews on Amazon. This pickleball paddle is $259.99 on JustPaddles before the 10% discount with code: bepickleballer.
One reviewer mentioned that the paddle’s edge chipped and cracked after the player’s 4th match.
Another reviewer mentioned that this paddle is a great paddle, and it’s grippy and easy to spin. That said, the reviewer mentioned that this was their first “high-end” pickleball paddle.
10. Vulcan V1100 16mm Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The Vulcan V1100 is one of the paddles for which I could not find many reviews. JustPaddles listed this paddle at $259.99 before the 10% discount code.
Here’s the summary I could find:
Experience precision and control with the Toray T700 raw carbon fiber surface of the Vulcan pickleball paddle. This innovative surface ensures the ball stays on the paddle longer, enhancing spin, control, and accuracy, while providing a soft touch on resets.
The unibody construction with foam-injected sealed edges ensures consistent energy transfer and effortless play. An extended 5 1/2″ handle offers greater reach and room for powerful two-handed backhands.
The cushioned Vulcan Max Control Pickleball Grip ensures comfort during long rallies. Paddle specifications: 8.4 oz., 16 1/2″ tall x 7 1/2″ wide, color: black. Elevate your game with the Vulcan paddle.
Conclusion
Many people wonder, “Why are pickleball paddles so expensive?” I would have to agree that marketing may play a role, especially for the world’s most expensive paddle.
The most expensive pickleball paddles have some all star paddles in the line up, but I wouldn’t guarantee that these are the best pickleball paddles for your buck.
For example, I find my favorite budget pickleball paddles to play similarly to my Joola Ben Johns Hyperion.
That said, I hope this article was helpful for you.