Joola Pickleball Paddles: Agassi Pro and Hyperion Vision

Pickleball is growing worldwide – and Joola, a name that has been at home in table tennis for decades, is entering the market. The brand has been in business for over 70 years and systematically added pickleball to its range a few years ago. Joola now stands for a clear focus on the new racket sport with signature rackets such as Agassi Pro and Hyperion Vision. While pickleball has long been a mass phenomenon in the US and parts of Asia, the sport is still in its infancy in Europe. It is precisely this combination of a booming market and development opportunities that makes Joola's involvement so exciting.

Joola combines table tennis experience with pickleball

The sport itself has been around since 1965, but it only really took off in the early 2000s, when older players in particular discovered pickleball for themselves in the USA. During the Covid years, this wave has practically exploded. Today, courts in the USA and Asia are almost indispensable. In Europe, the infrastructure is growing more slowly but steadily. New courts are being built, clubs are trying out pickleball, and event organizers are including the sport in their programs. Joola is using its table tennis expertise to support this process with a complete range of products: court equipment, balls, rackets, clothing, and shoes. The Pro Paddles in particular have established themselves in the scene as high-quality models.

Agassi Pro: Paddle with a prominent signature

A special model in the range is the Agassi Pro. It is based on a partnership with Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, who have contributed their experience from professional tennis. The so-called Agassi Shape is clearly reminiscent of a tennis racket: a slightly teardrop-shaped, round head, overall softer in design than the classic, almost rectangular paddle format. The swing weight is designed so that the ball is hit cleanly in the upper part of the hitting surface. This is where the sweet spot is located, ensuring controlled, powerful shots. Visually, the racket features a striking red and white design. The Agassi Pro has quickly established itself on the professional scene and is considered a paddle that combines power, control, and a familiar tennis feel.

Hyperion Vision and Pro Paddles for beginners

Alongside the signature model, Joola offers the Hyperion Vision, a racket for beginners and intermediate players. It features modern materials, is easy to use, and provides a direct feel without being too nervous. Those coming from other racket sports or just starting out will find this a pragmatic entry point. Technically, the concept remains clear: a grippy surface – usually carbon in the case of pro rackets – provides friction on the ball and slightly more ball contact time. At the core, polypropylene honeycomb constructions are used to accelerate the ball evenly.

The thickness of the paddle determines the ratio of control to power, while the handle length is based on whether a tennis background with a two-handed backhand or a one-handed stroke is required. The price range extends from beginner paddles starting at around $40 to premium paddles in the upper segment.

Feel, rules, and target audience of pickleball

The pickleball itself is a hollow ball with 40 holes. It flies in a controllable manner, reacts quickly, and enables intense rallies. A characteristic feature is the non-volley zone (“kitchen”) at the net: volleys are prohibited in this area, the game is initially slowed down and thrives on flat balls and patience. Only when the ball comes higher does the rally become very fast and intense.