The paddle landscape has changed so much over the past five years that it may be hard to even know what constitutes a control paddle these days, and why the heck you might play one. Truthfully, paddles that were once considered all-court are now control paddles by comparison to the modern game. The meta has shifted without a doubt, but it's not just power that's received the upgrade. The advancements in core technology and surface grit retention have paved the way for the most precise and forgiving paddles that we've ever seen, and they certainly still have a place in slowing down this fast-paced game alongside some of the most tried and tested paddles on the market.

Here's our top 5 favorite control paddles right now.

1. 11Six24 Jelly Bean 2

Who says control paddles don't deserve the latest tech? Not 11six24, that's for sure. The Jelly Bean 2 features a full foam floating core with their best in class durable "Hex Grit" surface treatment, a combo we've only ever seen on power paddles. While it's a little pricier than it's predecessor, the original Jelly Bean, the benefits in surface and core durability are well worth it. Top tier spin, forgiveness, durability, and control in a single paddle, we love to see it. 

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2. Selkirk LUXX Infinigrit

The original LUXX was one of the best control paddles ever made, but its grit wore down quickly, making it harder to consistently land tight-corner topspin shots as the paddle aged. Infinigrit, Selkirk's proprietary long-lasting grit technology, is the upgrade that keeps everything that made the LUXX great while finally solving the spin-durability problem.

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3. Chorus Shapeshifter

Lightweight, effortlessly controlled, with just enough of a power boost on harder swings to stay competitive when a firefight breaks out at the net — plus good spin potential. It comes in three shapes, so there's a fit for most playstyles. 

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4. PIKKL Hurricane Pro 16mm

One of the pioneering long handle/widebody shaped paddles on tour, the Hurricane Pro gives phenomenal ball shaping and forgiveness with plenty of space for a second hand on the paddle Players looking for a little more pop in this zippy shape should try the 14mm that is still a control/all-court paddle just with a little more responsiveness.

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5. JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16mm

The OG. When it launched, the Hyperion CFS 16 played closer to an all-court/power paddle — but the game has moved so much since then that it reads as control now. A huge sweet spot, a fantastic handle, good spin, and a great warranty make it a workhorse pick for players who want something that's proven it can hold up over time.

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