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When you're shopping for a new paddle, you've probably wondered: "Will this paddle give me more power?" or "How do I know if this will help my control game?" These are the exact questions that led us to develop our Paddle Lab exit velocity testing.
Exit velocity is one of the most telling metrics we measure because it directly shows you whether a paddle is built for crushing winners or placing shots with precision. Let's break down what exit velocity really means and how our testing can help you find the perfect paddle for your playing style.
What Is Pickleball Paddle Exit Velocity?
Simply put, exit velocity is the speed at which the ball leaves your paddle after contact.
It is essentially the paddle's power output. When you strike a ball, the paddle transfers energy to it, sending it back toward your opponent. Exit velocity measures exactly how fast that ball is traveling when it leaves the paddle face.
Higher exit velocity numbers = more power potential
Lower exit velocity numbers = more control and precision
This measurement tells you whether a paddle is engineered for power hitting or shot placement.
Why We Test Exit Velocity
Players often ask us whether a specific paddle will give them that extra pop on their drives or help them dial in their control game. Without objective data, these questions often come down to subjective reviews and personal opinions that can vary wildly between players.
Exit velocity testing eliminates the guesswork. Instead of wondering if a paddle "feels powerful," you can see exactly how much speed it generates compared to other options. This allows you to choose paddles based on your desired balance of power versus precision.
Whether you're looking to add more punch to your third shot drives or seeking better touch around the net, exit velocity data gives you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Want to see the Highest Exit Velocity Paddles for Paddle Lab powered by JustPaddles?
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How We Test Exit Velocity
Our exit velocity testing uses controlled, repeatable conditions to ensure accurate and consistent results across all paddles.
The Testing Process
We fire a pickleball from a cannon at 60 MPH toward the paddle. This speed simulates real playing conditions, specifically, an inbound shot traveling at 40 MPH combined with a swing speed of 25 MPH.
The cannon fires at multiple points across the paddle face, not just the center. This gives us a comprehensive picture of how the entire paddle performs, including areas where you might make contact during fast exchanges.
Our equipment measures the ball's exit speed at each impact point with precision. We then calculate the paddle's power rating by averaging the top 25% of these measurements.
Why the top 25%?
This method gives us the paddle's true power potential and what it can deliver when you make solid contact in the optimal zones. It represents the performance you can expect when you're hitting your shots well.
This scientific approach provides an accurate representation of each paddle's power characteristics, allowing for better comparisons between different models and brands.
Understanding Your Playing Style
Exit velocity data becomes most valuable when you understand what it means for your specific game.
Higher Exit Velocity Paddles (Power-Oriented):
These paddles are designed for aggressive players who want maximum power on drives, serves, and put-away shots. If you like to dictate points with pace and end rallies quickly, a higher exit velocity paddle will do exactly that.
Power-oriented paddles work well for players who:
- Prefer attacking from the baseline
- Want to put extra pace on their serves
- Look to finish points with decisive shots
- Have good technique and can handle the extra pace
Lower Exit Velocity Paddles (Control-Oriented):
These paddles favor touch, precision, and consistency over raw power. They're ideal for players who win points through strategic placement and soft game mastery.
Control-oriented paddles suit players who:
- Excel at dinking and kitchen line play
- Prefer to work points methodically
- Value placement over pace
- Want a predictable, consistent response from their paddle
Finding Your Match
The beauty of Paddle Lab data is that it takes the mystery out of paddle selection. Instead of hoping a paddle will match your style, you can see how it actually performs.
Consider your current game and where you want to improve. Are you struggling to put balls away when you get the opportunity? Look for higher exit velocity options. Finding it hard to
control your shots and keep them in play? Lower exit velocity paddles might be the answer.
Remember, there's no "best paddle", only what's best for your game. The most expensive or highest-rated paddle isn't necessarily the right choice if its power characteristics don't match your playing style.
Making Informed Decisions
Exit velocity testing gives players clear insight into whether a paddle plays with power or control. By knowing this number, players can match a paddle to their preferred style of play—whether that means crushing winners or working points with accuracy.
Ready to find your perfect paddle? Shop JustPaddles to see exit velocity ratings for hundreds of paddles, and discover which ones match your playing style.
Want to see more Lab Data? Check it out below! 
Want personalized recommendations? Take our Paddle Coach quiz to get paddle suggestions based on your specific preferences and playing characteristics.
