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Which paddle stood out the most this week? In the first episode of Paddle of the Week, I tested a range of paddles—from stiff and muted to fast and explosive—and one completely caught me off guard. I break down how each paddle felt, what worked, what didn’t, and crown one as the Paddle of the Week 🏆. The winner wasn’t the paddle I expected.

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How did I acquire this pickleball paddle?
This paddle was purchased by me for the purpose of this review. All opinions expressed are my own and are based on my personal experience with the product.
How did I acquire this pickleball paddle?
This paddle was provided to me at no cost, with no conditions or obligations attached. While I did not purchase this paddle, all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and represent my honest assessment of its performance and quality.
How did I acquire this pickleball paddle?
I was initially given a paddle at no cost, without any conditions or obligations. After my experience with it, I decided to purchase an additional one on my own. All opinions expressed here are based on my thorough testing of both paddles and reflect my honest assessment of their performance and quality.

Mozi Pickleball Stinger 16mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Rev Pickleball Zeus 14mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Honolulu Pickleball Co. J2K+ 16mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Thrive Smoke 14.5mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Standout Pickleball CF4 Power Nxt Gen 16mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Franklin C45 14mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Pickleball Apes Pulse X 16mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Mozi Pickleball Stinger 16mm Performance Ratings

Company
Mozi Pickleball
Model
Stinger 16mm
Category
Price
$
199
Purchase Info
Warranty

Rev Pickleball Zeus 14mm Performance Ratings

Company
Rev Pickleball
Model
Zeus 14mm
Category
Price
$
149
Purchase Info
Warranty

Honolulu Pickleball Co. J2K+ 16mm Performance Ratings

Company
Honolulu Pickleball Co.
Model
J2K+ 16mm
Category
Power
Price
$
Purchase Info
Warranty

Thrive Smoke 14.5mm Performance Ratings

Company
Thrive
Model
Smoke 14.5mm
Category
Power
Price
$
Purchase Info
Warranty

Standout Pickleball CF4 Power Nxt Gen 16mm Performance Ratings

Company
Standout Pickleball
Model
CF4 Power Nxt Gen 16mm
Category
Price
$
220
Warranty

Franklin C45 14mm Performance Ratings

Company
Franklin
Model
C45 14mm
Category
Power
Price
$
229
Purchase Info
Warranty

Pickleball Apes Pulse X 16mm Performance Ratings

Company
Pickleball Apes
Model
Pulse X 16mm
Category
All-Court
Price
$
199.99
Purchase Info
Warranty
Check out the latest videos from Matt's Pickleball on YouTube!

Mozi Pickleball Stinger 16mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
16
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.25
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.375
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.98
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
112.45
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
23.8
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.5
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Fine)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Rev Pickleball Zeus 14mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
14
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.25
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.75
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.87
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
111.55
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6.45
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
24.1
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
55.8
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
37.9
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.5
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Honolulu Pickleball Co. J2K+ 16mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
16
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2120
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.125
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.75
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
8.26
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
115
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
7.3
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
21.8
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
55.8
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
35.9
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.5
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.125
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Gen-3 Foam Enhanced
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
8
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Thrive Smoke 14.5mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
14.5
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2193
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.5
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.5
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.94
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
119.26
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6.14
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
24.6
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
56.7
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
40.5
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.75
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Standout Pickleball CF4 Power Nxt Gen 16mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
16
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2227
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.5
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.5
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
8.27
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
115.65
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6.25
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
23.5
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
56.5
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
40
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.5
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Franklin C45 14mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
14
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2252
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.25
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.5
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.52
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
106.25
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
5.65
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
23.7
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
56.3
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
37.7
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.75
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Pickleball Apes Pulse X 16mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
16
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2167
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.5
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.375
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.9
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
121.05
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6.3
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
55.6
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
36.2
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.75
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Discount Code

Get 10% off your Standout Pickleball purchase with this discount code.
Promo Code: 
MPB
Find more discount codes here!

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About 
Standout Pickleball
Company Information
Standout Pickleball is dedicated to revolutionizing the sport with innovative paddle designs and advanced player performance. Founded by passionate individuals, the company focuses on cutting-edge technology and extensive research, resulting in high-performance paddles like the CF3, made with premium Japanese T700 Toray Carbon Fiber. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, Standout Pickleball aims to redefine your experience on the court.
Read more
Warranty Information
All paddles have a Limited 6-month structural warranty against manufacturer defects and workmanship of the paddle.
Learn more about the warranty
Posted 
February 19, 2025
 in 
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Updated 
March 9, 2025

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