💥 We just crowned a new #1 power paddle—guess who took the top spot?

Hey Pickleheads readers,

I'm constantly trying out new pickleball gear and trying to figure out the best of the best. I'd like to share some of what I'm learning with you.

If you're not looking right now, feel free to skip - we'll be back Tuesday with more tips and epic points to watch.

But if you're curious to see what's new, keep reading…

In this issue:

• 💥 A new king of power paddles

• 📊 Court-Tested

  • Biodegradable balls, mixed results

  • This new brand came to play

  • A bag that means business

• 💭 Dream Court of the Week

💥 A new king of power paddles

A lot of paddles claim to have 10/10 power. Few actually deliver. After just a few sessions with the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV, however, we knew we had our new #1 power paddle.

This paddle hits harder than anything right now, without turning every third shot into a sailboat. It’s fast and aggressive, and somehow still feels dialed-in at the kitchen.

If you're a banger who wants to lean all the way in (without giving away free points), this one’s for you.

We just updated our best power paddles guide for 2025 to crown it. We also included the JOOLA Scorpeus Pro IV – a rare standard-shaped (widebody) paddle with a ton of drive.

See why the Perseus Pro IV took the top spot →

📊 Court-Tested

We’re always testing new gear to bring you the good stuff. Here are a few quick hits from this week’s sessions:

Biodegradable balls, mixed results: Yep, compostable pickleballs. The rec version? Too brittle, weird bounce, hard to track. But the pro version in classic yellow played just like a Franklin. At $4 a ball, it’s pricey—but worth a shot if you burn through plastic.

This new brand came to play: Vorzani is new on the scene, and they’re making a strong first impression. The Triton Tee ($65) is very fitted (show-off alert), but the hidden glasses wiper is genius. The Hybrid Shorts ($98) are breathable and lightweight with zippered pockets I loved, but fair warning: You’ll be showing off some serious thigh. Use code PICKLEHEADS25 for 25% off.

💭 The Crossing at East Cut, San Francisco, CA

Concrete jungle? Not here. At this week’s dream court, The Crossing at East Cut, you’ll find bright blue pickleball courts tucked right into the heart of downtown San Francisco.

Surrounded by skyscrapers, palm trees, and mirrored glass, this setup feels part city park, part pro venue. They’re perfectly situated for sneaking in games on your lunch break or playing under the lights after work, it’s hard to beat the convenience—or the vibe.

And with a steady crowd of local players and curious passersby, there’s no shortage of energy.

Thanks for reading.

You can reach the Pickleheads team at [email protected].

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