Today, we're diving deep into the much-anticipated Joola Perseus Pro IV, and we've got both the 16mm and 14mm versions in hand. Joola's had its share of ups and downs, but they're coming back strong with this new paddle, aiming to address past concerns and deliver a top-tier playing experience.
Addressing the Past, Embracing the Future
So, what's the buzz about the Perseus Pro IV? Joola has been actively listening to player feedback, and they've made significant changes to tackle the durability issues that plagued previous models. They've moved away from the compressed cores found in the Gen 3 series and the Mod TA-15, opting for a more solid and reliable build.
But it's not just about the core. Joola has also introduced Tech Flex Propulsion (TFP), a clever innovation that adds foam to the throat of the paddle. This enhances durability and provides extra forgiveness on those off-center hits, a welcome feature for any player.
Performance Breakdown: Power, Control, Spin, and Feel
How does the Perseus Pro IV actually perform on the court? Let's break it down:
- Power and Control: The Pro IV feels like a refined evolution of the popular Perseus 3S. It delivers a more authoritative feel on drives, allowing for greater pace and depth. The sweet spot feels expanded, contributing to increased control and consistency, even on mishits. This improvement is likely due to the non-compressed core and TFP technology.
- Spin: Spin generation is where we see a noticeable difference compared to the 3S. The grit, now compliant with USAP regulations, provides a reduction in spin. The surface feel is similar to the Mod TA-15, which was noted for its smoother carbon fiber surface compared to the original Gen 3 series. While still capable of generating spin, the Pro IV doesn't quite match the 3S, though it comes very close. It is interesting to note that the “new” version of the 3S has a PPA and Dual certified version, and that the PPA version has more grit.
- 14mm vs. 16mm: The 14mm variant delivers a satisfying "pop" on contact, providing a lively and responsive feel, perfect for quick punches at the net. The 16mm, with its thicker core, offers a more plush feel and excels in "plow-through" power on drives and put-aways. The 16mm also has a slightly larger handle circumference at 4.25 inches, while the 14mm sits at 4.125 inches.
- Feel: The 14mm provides a more direct connection to the ball, offering greater feel and feedback. The 16mm, while still offering good feel, has a slightly dampened sensation, typical of thicker core paddles with foam enhancements. Some Mod TA-15 16mm users reported difficulty feeling the ball on impact, a point Joola seems to have addressed.
- Design: Joola has introduced a new retro-inspired design for the Pro IV series, with both the 14mm and 16mm versions now featuring a red color scheme. The Ben Johns signature is subtly placed, and both USAP and UPA approved stamps are present. A pearlescent detail on the throat adds a unique touch, potentially serving as a deterrent to counterfeiters.
Overall Impression
The Joola Perseus Pro IV delivers a compelling combination of power, control, and feel. While spin potential is slightly reduced due to regulations, the overall performance is impressive. The 14mm and 16mm variants cater to different playing styles, offering players a choice based on their preferences. The Perseus Pro IV feels like a fully polished version of the Perseus 3S.
1 comment
Katherine M
I do like the new style these 4 series paddles have. It kind of reminds me of racing.
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