Joola Pro IV Launch Party - Behind the Scenes

TL;DR

The new Joola Perseus Pro IV paddles are a refined iteration of the 3S, focusing on improved durability and consistency through enhanced quality control. They come in 14mm and 16mm versions, with dual USAPA/PPA certifications allowing different grit levels. For USAPA, they pass PB Core 43 testing. The Pros will use a grittier PPA-only version. If proven durable, the Pro IV could be a top seller across tours, offering the beloved 3S power with better build quality. However, sample size makes durability claims uncertain until several months of widespread use.

Chorus Fire Delisting

• Chorus Pickleball submitted new Fire EX and SX paddles for certification in November 2022.
• Due to a miscommunication, USAPA listed them as approved without proper PB Core testing.
• After conducting full testing, both paddles failed to meet PB Core standards.
• As of February 13th, 2023, the Fire EX and SX were removed from the approved list.
• The original Fire HX paddle will also be sunset (disallowed for tournament play) from July 1st, 2025 onwards.
• This situation raises concerns about the credibility of USAPA’s approval process and whether consumers can trust the certified seal.

PPA Updates

• New targeting rule implemented for matches with officials:
  • Deliberately/recklessly hitting powerful shots at opponent’s head/neck area results in technical foul and point penalty.
  • Minimum $2,500 fine for first offense by a player.
  • Increased fines and potential match forfeits for repeated offenses.
• Sam Querrey (former pro tennis player) made his return to pro pickleball.
• Intense semi-final singles match between Ben Johns and Zane Navratil, with multiple arguments and technical warnings.
• Surprise result of Ben Johns/Anna Leigh Waters losing in semi-finals to Anna Bright/Deco Bakhuys.
• First time seeing Ben Johns and Gabe Joseph as a team, losing a tight 5-game final.

Joola Event Recap

• Attendees got to preview the new Joola Pro IV paddles and meet Andre Agassi.
• Agassi was very down-to-earth and approachable, not behaving like a celebrity.
• Many reviewers/content creators were present, making it a fun social event.

Joola Pro IV Details

• Launching March 4th initially with Perseus and Agassi shapes. Other shapes in April.
• Dual certified for USAPA and PPA, with different grit levels allowed.
• Focus on improved durability and consistency through enhanced QC processes.
• Name changed from “Gen 4” to simply “Pro IV”.
• $239.99 for USAPA/PPA dual certified 14mm. $259.99 for PPA-only 16mm.
• Gen 3 price dropping to $239.99 for USAPA/PPA and $259.99 for PPA-only when released.
• Play experience similar to Gen 3 for those who liked it. Not a major change.

Avoid purchasing the Chorus Fire EX and SX paddles due to their delisting from USAPA after failing core performance tests. The original Fire HX will be disallowed from 2025 onwards as well, raising credibility concerns for USAPA’s approval process. Purchase the new Yola Pro IV paddles launching in March for a durable, consistent hitting experience while complying with USAPA and PPA certifications.