If you’ve played competitive pickleball anytime in the last couple of years, you’ve definitely heard of the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16. This paddle didn’t just hit the scene — it exploded onto it, thanks to JOOLA teaming up with world no. 1 Ben Johns and packing serious tech into a paddle that changed how players approach power and spin.
As someone who’s constantly reviewing paddles, I was eager (and a little skeptical, to be honest) to see if it really lived up to the hype. After playing over 20 hours with the CFS 16 — both in rec games and competitive settings — I’ve got some thoughts. Spoiler: it’s a beast, but not without quirks.
First Impressions of the Pickleball Paddle
From the moment you pick it up, the paddle feels premium. The Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) has a gritty, almost sandpaper-like texture — the kind you know is going to grab the ball. The elongated shape and thicker throat area give it a distinctive, almost tennis-racket feel. And the grip? One of the most comfortable stock grips I’ve used.
This is a paddle that screams tour-level play, and it delivers on first contact.
What I Like About the Pickleball Paddle
1. Tour-Level Spin — The Real Deal
The spin potential on this paddle is unmatched. That gritty CFS face bites into the ball like a woodpecker on espresso. Whether I’m hitting topspin drives, third-shot rolls, or sneaky little slice serves, the spin is there, and it’s nasty. My crosscourt dinks stayed lower, and roll volleys jumped more than with any non-carbon paddle I’ve used.
2. Explosive Yet Controllable Power
The 16mm version (which I tested) strikes a nice balance. It’s got pop when you need it, especially on counterattacks and speed-ups, but it doesn’t feel out of control. The Reactive Polymer Honeycomb Core gives it a soft, plush touch on resets and drops — which surprised me for such a powerful paddle.
If you’re looking for a blend of offense and defense, this is where it shines.
3. Extended Reach That Pays Off
The Hyperion’s longer shape (with a 5.5″ handle and 16.5″ total length) gives you great court coverage, especially at the net. I found it easier to reach wide volleys, poach aggressively in doubles, and track down lobs in singles. The extended handle is also perfect for two-handed backhands.
4. Super Solid Feel and Stability
Thanks to the Hyperfoam Edge Wall and carbon-forged handle, this paddle feels incredibly solid. There’s minimal vibration, even on off-center hits, and the sweet spot is generous. That stability makes it forgiving, even when you’re scrambling or reaching.
What I Don’t Like About the Pickleball Paddle
1. It’s Not Light — And That Matters
The paddle weighs in around 8.4–8.5 oz unmodified. Once I added an overgrip and a little lead for balance, it felt heavier in prolonged sessions. My arm definitely noticed it after a few back-to-back games. If you’re sensitive to paddle weight or prone to tennis elbow, this one could wear on you.
2. Slightly Head-Heavy
Because of the elongated shape and edge weighting, the paddle is slightly head-heavy, which helps with power — but it can be a drawback in fast hands battles or quick resets. You can get used to it, but coming from a more neutral or widebody paddle, there’s an adjustment period.
3. Price Tag
Let’s be real: at around $220, this is not a budget paddle. You’re paying for pro-level tech and a big-name brand. For players just starting or on a budget, there are other paddles that give 80% of the performance at half the cost.
My Play Style with the Hyperion CFS 16
I play an aggressive doubles game with a lot of counterattacks, spin dinks, and sneaky speed-ups. The Hyperion lets me do all of that — and then some. I trusted it on every shot: deep drives, topspin lobs, inside-out forehands — the paddle just felt locked in.
It gave me the confidence to dictate pace, not just respond to it. And that’s a big deal at higher levels.
In singles, it really shines. The reach, spin, and power gave me a big edge from the baseline and in passing shot scenarios.
Who Plays With It?
Ben Johns himself, the most decorated pickleball player in the world, helped design this paddle and used it on tour. Plenty of other top pros and 5.0+ players have used the Hyperion as well — it became a flagship paddle for JOOLA’s rise in the sport.
It’s designed for competitive players — and it plays like it.
Final Verdict
Who It’s For:
- Competitive 4.0+ players who want power and control
- Singles players who need reach and spin
- Doubles players who like to initiate fast hands battles
- Two-handed backhand players
- Players upgrading from traditional paddles to high-performance carbon
Who It’s Not For:
- New players still developing control
- Players with arm issues or sensitive joints
- Anyone on a tight budget
Rating: 9.5/10
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 is the paddle that changed the game — literally. It set a new standard for power, spin, and stability, and while it’s not perfect for everyone, it’s undeniably elite. If you’ve got the mechanics and the mindset to handle it, this paddle can elevate every aspect of your game.
