Highest Balance Point Paddles - Paddle Lab

Looking to add a little extra punch to your game? Head-heavy paddles are built to help you drive the ball deeper, swing harder, and add effortless power to your game. They’re a favorite among players who like to stay aggressive and let the paddle’s momentum do most of the work.

At Paddle Lab, we put pickleball paddles to the test to see exactly where their weight sits. Our Balance Point Testing shows which paddles carry more mass toward the top of the frame, giving them their extra swing momentum and that solid, powerful feel through contact.

So whether you’re a seasoned player looking to add more drive to your shots or a rising competitor chasing extra pop, this list covers five of the most head-heavy paddles we’ve tested.

What Is Balance Point and Why Does It Matter?

Every pickleball paddle has a balance point, the exact spot where the paddle naturally balances when supported. Think of it as the dividing line between handle weight and head weight.

When that balance point sits closer to the handle, you’ve got a head-light paddle. This means it’ll feel quicker in your hands and easier to maneuver, which is great for players who rely on fast reflexes and quick reactions at the net.

But when the balance point shifts toward the head, more of the paddle’s weight moves forward. That extra mass adds momentum through your swing, helping you drive the ball deeper and hit with more power.

Remember:
Head-heavy paddles = more pop and depth on your drives
Head-light paddles = faster hands and easier movement up close

If you’re someone who thrives on driving serves, attacking from the baseline, or putting away overheads with force, you’ll feel right at home with a head-heavy setup.

Want more information on Balance Point? Check out our Explaination Below! 

How Paddle Lab Tests Balance Point

At Paddle Lab, we test every paddle in-house to measure its true balance point. Using precision equipment, our team measures the exact distance (in inches) from the base of the handle to the spot where the paddle balances perfectly.

That number shows us how the paddle’s weight is distributed, whether more of it sits up toward the head or down near the handle. The higher the balance point, the more head-heavy the paddle feels in your hands.

Why does that matter? Because it helps take the mystery out of choosing the right paddle. You can instantly see which models will give you more natural swing momentum and which ones are designed for faster, lighter handling.

Pair this data with other Paddle Lab metrics like Swing Weight, Twist Weight, and Exit Velocity and you’ll have everything you need to find a paddle that feels perfectly matched to your game from the very first swing.

Why Head-Heavy Paddles Deliver More Power

When more of a paddle’s weight sits up in the head, it works a bit like a lever, storing and releasing extra energy with each swing. That shift in mass gives you more natural power, deeper shots, and an overall heavier presence on the court.

That added momentum helps the ball stay on the paddle just a touch longer, adding force without you having to swing any harder. For players who like to hit through the ball, this means easier depth and cleaner drives.

Of course, there is a small trade-off. Head-heavy paddles can feel a little slower during quick kitchen exchanges where hand speed is key. But if your game leans more toward power than finesse, the payoff is absolutely worth it.

Top 5 Head-Heavy Pickleball Paddles

1. Gearbox Pro Ultimate Elongated Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

If power and stability are what you’re after, the Gearbox Pro Ultimate delivers both in spades. The elongated 16½″ frame naturally places more mass toward the paddle’s head, while SSTCore Solid Span Technology ensures every ounce of that weight works efficiently through contact. The result? Effortless power with impressive consistency.

Why players love it: The TXR Surface Grip Technology creates serious spin potential, while the overall design offers control and pop without extra vibration. The best of both worlds!

2. Engage Pursuit Pro MX 6.0 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

The Engage Pursuit Pro MX 6.0 is built for players who like to take control of the point. Its Toray T700 raw carbon fiber face paired with a 16½″ elongated shape and long handle gives you more reach, leverage, and that signature head-heavy swing feel. Variable Release Technology lets the paddle flex more as your swing speed increases, turning effort into easy power.

Why players love it: It’s got that “just right” balance. Powerful when you need it, smooth when you don’t! Perfect for all-court players who move between touch and drive without missing a beat.

3. Engage ProFoam Elongated Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

The Engage ProFoam Elongated brings a different kind of power. Its 100% high-density foam core keeps its pop and structure game after game, while the raw carbon fiber face grips the ball just long enough to add spin and precision. The elongated 16.5″ build gives you extra reach and naturally pushes the balance point higher for more swing momentum.

Why players love it: It’s strong, stable, and built to last. A reliable option for players who want consistency without losing punch. The elongated build is also great for those regularly experiencing arm fatigue!

4. JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 14mm Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

5. Vulcan V940 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

Who Should Use a Head-Heavy Paddle

Head-heavy paddles are built for players who like to swing through the ball and generate their own pace.

You’ll probably enjoy a head-heavy paddle if you:

• Spend most of your time at the baseline and like to drive through your shots
• Want more pop and follow-through on serves, drives and overheads
• Prefer a solid and stable feel over a light quick paddle

Final Thoughts from Paddle Lab

Every Paddle Lab test is designed to give players real, objective data to help you choose a paddle that truly matches your game. We are constantly testing new releases, so this list evolves as new paddles hit the market. 

Head-heavy paddles bring undeniable power and presence to the court, but they’re only one part of the performance equation. To get the full picture, check out our Paddle Lab metrics for Swing Weight, Twist Weight, Consistency, and Exit Velocity to see how these paddles stack up in every category.

The right balance point can completely change how your paddle feels and how you play. If you’re ready to find your perfect fit, we’re here to help you narrow it down based on your playing style.

Explore Paddle Lab Results & Find Your Perfect Paddle

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