Third, JOOLA is introducing Tech Flex - Power (TFP) in addition to the already popular Propulsion Core. TFP is a filler material located in the core at the throat. It increases the flexibility of the paddle face, resulting in more dwell time, forgiveness, and enhanced ball feel. TFP is the key difference between the Pro IV and 3S.
Now, what was odd is that the twist weights weren't better on the Pro IVs when compared to our 3S models. The TFP filler material did not increase the twist weight as expected. Instead, only the static weight was bumped up.
In summary, the Tech Flex - Power tech only affects how the ball feels off the face rather than being a specific performance enhancement. While this difference is typically a personal preference, I thought the bottom areas of the paddle felt better than a 3S.
Durability & Quality Control
Throughout JOOLA’s history, there has ALWAYS been some controversy—whether it was grit consistency, handles snapping on the OG Hyperion, or the core crushing from the initial Gen 3s. They said they've heard the complaints and are ensuring things are consistent and issue-free.
Now, does that mean there will never be an issue? No. That's just manufacturing—any product is bound to have something slip through the cracks. Either way, this is very promising. JOOLA is on the right track to earn public trust by focusing on quality control.
That said, I’m writing this review with only two weeks of play on these new paddles. So, finding an issue is not likely, and I can’t promise with any certainty that these are actually more durable.
And even if they are, it’s unrealistic to expect zero core crushing. Maybe one day, a company will prove me wrong, but I’ve been told many times that the issue was solved only for it to rear its ugly head once again. With really heavy-hitting players, paddles are bound to break, which is the nature of things.
Now, we did cut open our Pro IV 16mm Perseus to see if there was any core compression, and I was impressed. This is a very healthy-looking core for a thermoformed paddle.
Hoặc