Introduction
When you reach the 4.5 skill level in pickleball, you have surpassed the basics and now thrive on strategy, consistency, and execution under pressure. Players at this level possess the ability to generate their own pace, craft shots with spin, and transition smoothly between delicate touches at the kitchen and forceful baseline plays. Consequently, choosing the right paddle becomes an art of fine-tuning your performance rather than just seeking forgiveness.
What to Look for in a Paddle
The optimal paddles for 4.5 players masterfully balance power, spin potential, stability, and control.
Key Features
- Power vs Control: A paddle should provide a balance, catering to players who can develop their own pace.
- Spin Potential: High spin potential is crucial for molding shots and managing rallies.
- Stability: Ensures unwavering play under pressure.
Here we present five exemplary paddles that consistently captivate advanced players eager to dominate points while maintaining precision and assurance across all court areas.
Comparison Table of Top Paddles for 4.5 Players
| Paddle | Core Type | Shape | Spin Potential | Power vs Control | Best For | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV (16mm) | Polypropylene / TechFlex Carbon | Elongated | 🔥 High | Balanced toward Power | Aggressive all-court players | $280 |
| Honolulu J2NF | Foam | Standard | Medium | Balanced toward Control | Consistent doubles & defensive play | $195 |
| Bread & Butter Loco 16mm Elongated | Foam | Elongated | 🔥 High | Balanced | Modern all-court singles & doubles | $199 |
| CRBN 3X Power Series | Raw Carbon Fiber | Hybrid | 🔥🔥 Very High | Balanced toward Power | Spin-driven aggressive baseline & serve | $230 |
| Selkirk ERA Power Elongated | Polypropylene Honeycomb + Perimeter Foam | Elongated | Medium | Balanced | Reliable doubles play & versatile all-court | $200 |
Detailed Paddle Reviews
JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV
The JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV stands as one of the most sophisticated high-performance paddles available to advanced players. Crafted in collaboration with Ben Johns, the most formidable player in professional pickleball, this paddle is engineered to fulfill the demands of elite competition while remaining accessible to strong amateur players.
A notable feature of the Perseus Pro IV is its TechFlex Power construction, which optimizes weight distribution throughout the paddle.
This design amplifies power generation without making the paddle feel excessively rigid or unpredictable. The 16mm core version favors control and dwell time, enabling players to mold shots, execute resets, and manage the soft game with confidence.
The elongated shape enhances reach and leverage, which benefits aggressive baseline drives, overheads, and sharp-angle shots. Advanced players often appreciate how stable the paddle feels during rapid exchanges, especially when countering pace or blocking hard volleys at the net. The textured carbon fiber face contributes to robust spin generation, particularly on topspin drives and serves.
I found this paddle to be versatile. I could play aggressively when opportunities arose, while it still offered enough touch to win points through patience and placement. The large sweet spot also adds a margin of error during high-speed rallies.
The primary drawback is the premium price, and it is seldom, if ever, on sale. (Trust me, I waited and looked before purchasing at full price.) Additionally, players accustomed to shorter or wider paddles may need an adjustment period due to the elongated profile. Nevertheless, for 4.5 players seeking a polished, tournament-ready paddle with elite-level performance, the Perseus Pro IV remains an exemplary option.
Honolulu J2NF Pickleball Paddle
The Honolulu J2NF paddle represents a formidable entry in the burgeoning category of foam-core pickleball paddles, offering a seamless blend of power, control, and forgiveness. It notably appeals to advanced players who aspire for a paddle that performs consistently across extended rallies without necessitating perfect contact on every shot.
The foam-core construction provides the J2NF with a slightly longer dwell time than traditional honeycomb cores. This allows players to feel the ball on the paddle face, facilitating shot shaping, spin creation, and touch shots near the kitchen. At the same time, the paddle still delivers enough pop to drive the ball deep and exert pressure from the baseline.
One of the most enticing characteristics of the J2NF is its expansive and forgiving sweet spot. This makes it particularly effective during rapid-hand battles and defensive exchanges, where reaction time is limited, and contact is not always perfectly centered. Advanced doubles players often appreciate this added forgiveness during high-speed net play.
Spin potential is another strength. The textured surface grips the ball well, making it easier to generate topspin on drives and roll volleys. While it does not deliver the explosive power of some premium carbon paddles, many players find the tradeoff worthwhile for the added consistency and control.
For 4.5 players who prioritize stability, touch, and confidence under pressure, the Honolulu J2NF offers exceptional value. It may not be the most aggressive paddle on the market, but it excels as a reliable, all-court option that supports imaginative, controlled play.
Bread & Butter Loco 16mm Elongated
The Bread & Butter Loco 16mm Elongated paddle has swiftly gained traction among advanced players seeking modern performance without an ultra-premium price tag. It combines a foam-core design with an elongated shape, resulting in a paddle that delivers power, spin, and comfort in equal measure.
The 16mm foam core provides a controlled yet lively response. Players can generate pace on full swings while still maintaining touch on drops, resets, and dinks. This balance makes the Loco especially appealing to players who like to mix aggressive drives with patient point construction.
Its elongated shape increases reach and leverage, which benefits baseline players and those who favor two-handed backhands. The extra length also adds power to serves and overheads without making the paddle feel unwieldy at the net. Despite its offensive capabilities, the paddle remains stable and predictable during quick exchanges.
Advanced players often highlight the paddle’s spin capabilities. The textured face allows for effective topspin and slice, helping players open angles and keep opponents on the defensive. The overall feel is lively but controlled, offering enough feedback to inspire confidence across different shot types.
Some players transitioning from traditional honeycomb paddles may need time to adapt to the foam-core feel. Additionally, those seeking maximum raw power might prefer a stiffer paddle. However, for a 4.5 player seeking a versatile, modern paddle that performs well in both singles and doubles, the Loco stands out as an excellent all-around choice.
CRBN 3X Power Series Pickleball Paddle
The CRBN 3X Power Series paddle is designed for players who rely heavily on spin, pace, and aggressive shot-making. Built around a raw carbon fiber face, this paddle delivers a crisp, direct response that rewards clean contact and confident swings.
The carbon fiber surface provides excellent grip on the ball, making it easier to generate topspin, slice, and roll volleys. Players who like to shape shots and dictate rallies from the baseline often gravitate toward the CRBN 3X for its reliable spin and consistent trajectory.
Stability is another key strength. The paddle’s reinforced edges and solid construction reduce twisting on off-center hits, which is especially important during fast-paced exchanges and defensive blocks. The hybrid shape balances reach with maneuverability, offering a good compromise between elongated and wide-body designs.
At the 4.5 level, players appreciate how the CRBN 3X rewards proper technique. When struck cleanly, it produces strong power without feeling uncontrollable. It is particularly effective for aggressive servers, driving third shots, and counter-punching opponents at the net.
The main tradeoff is feel. Compared to foam-core paddles, the CRBN 3X can feel firmer during soft game exchanges. Players who rely heavily on touch shots may need to adjust their technique. Still, for spin-focused power players who want a precise, performance-driven paddle, the CRBN 3X is a formidable option.
SelKirk ERA Power Elongated Pickleball Paddle
The SLK ERA Power Elongated paddle offers a well-rounded blend of power, control, and accessibility. Designed to deliver strong offensive performance without sacrificing playability, it appeals to advanced players who want a reliable paddle that performs consistently across different match situations.
This paddle features a polypropylene honeycomb core enhanced with perimeter foam, creating a stable feel with a noticeable boost in power. The elongated shape adds reach and leverage, which helps on serves, overheads, and full-swing groundstrokes. Despite its power-oriented design, the paddle remains manageable during fast net exchanges.
Players often describe the ERA Power as balanced rather than extreme. It provides enough pop to apply pressure but avoids the overly hot feel that can make soft shots unpredictable. The sweet spot is generous for an elongated paddle, helping maintain consistency during long rallies.
Spin production is solid, though not as aggressive as raw carbon fiber models. For many 4.5 players, this moderate spin profile contributes to predictability and control, especially during defensive resets and placement-focused rallies.
While it may not excel in any single category as much as some specialized paddles, the SLK ERA Power Elongated shines as a dependable, all-court performer. It is particularly well-suited for doubles players who want power when needed but also value consistency and touch.
FAQs: Pickleball Paddles for 4.5 Players
Here are some frequently asked questions for paddle shoppers who play at a 4.5 level – or thereabouts.
- What should a 4.5-level player look for in a pickleball paddle?
A 4.5 player should look for a paddle that balances power, control, and spin rather than emphasizing only one trait. At this level, players can generate their own pace, so stability, consistency, and predictable response are more important than maximum pop.
- Is an elongated paddle better for advanced players?
Elongated paddles are popular with advanced players because they provide extra reach and leverage, which can increase power on drives and serves. However, they may slightly reduce maneuverability at the net, so preference depends on playing style and comfort.
- Are foam-core paddles suitable for high-level play?
Yes, many 4.5 and higher-level players use foam-core paddles because they offer excellent dwell time, a large sweet spot, and a consistent feel. They tend to be more forgiving while still providing enough power and spin for competitive play.
- How important is spin for a 4.5 player?
Spin is essential at the 4.5 level because it helps control pace, create sharper angles, and force opponents into difficult positions. A textured or raw carbon fiber face can significantly improve spin potential and shot variety.
- Should a 4.5 player prioritize power or control?
Most 4.5 players benefit more from control than raw power. Since advanced players already generate pace with good technique, a paddle that offers reliable touch, stability, and shot placement often leads to better results in competitive matches.
Final Thoughts – Best Pickleball Paddles for 4.5 Players
For 4.5-level pickleball players, paddle selection is about refining strengths rather than compensating for weaknesses. Each of the paddles featured here supports high-level play while catering to slightly different priorities:
- The JOOLA Perseus Pro IV delivers elite power and precision for aggressive all-court players.
- The Honolulu J2NF emphasizes control, forgiveness, and consistency.
- The Bread & Butter Loco offers modern foam-core performance with balanced offense.
- The CRBN 3X excels in spin and aggressive shot shaping.
- The SLK ERA Power Elongated provides dependable power with broad versatility.
Ultimately, the best paddle for a 4.5 player depends on personal style, whether that means driving the ball with authority, shaping spin-heavy rallies, or winning points through control and placement. Each of these paddles is fully capable of supporting competitive, tournament-level play. I hope you enjoyed our Best Pickleball Paddles for 4.5 players examination.
By Mike O’Halloran
Founder and Editor, Sports Feel Good Stories
Mike O’Halloran founded Sports Feel Good Stories in 2009. He co-authored four trivia books for kids under the Smart Attack line. Mike coached basketball for 15 seasons, taught tennis, and has written four books on basketball coaching. He has been a contributing writer for USA Football, the youth arm of the NFL. Mike is the founder of the Fantasy Football Team Names Hall of Fame.
