Best 3 JOOLA Pro 5 Paddles for Smaller Hands
Three JOOLA Pro 5 (Pro V) pickleball paddles with a 4 1/8-inch grip, for players with smaller hands who still want a pro-level paddle.
By chanlongpickleball
Updated October 3, 2026
The JOOLA Pro 5 pickleball paddle, officially the Pro V, comes with two grip sizes. Most 16 mm versions use a 4 1/4-inch grip, while the Graf and the 14 mm versions use 4 1/8 inches. A grip that fits your hand makes the paddle easier to control and reduces the urge to squeeze, so this guide picks the three Pro 5 paddles we would start with for smaller hands.
For every shape and core, see all six JOOLA Pro V pickleball paddles.
| Award | Product | Chan Long Score About LAT ScoreThe LAT Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
JOOLA Graf Pro V (16 mm)
|
Buy | |
| Best Elongated Option |
JOOLA Perseus Pro V (14 mm)
|
Buy | |
| Best Wide Face |
JOOLA Scorpeus Pro V (14 mm)
|
Buy |
JOOLA Graf Pro V (16 mm)
Steffi Graf's Pro V paddle, sharing the Agassi-style tapered throat, with a 16 mm core and a 4.125 in grip that JOOLA sizes for smaller hands.
Pros
- 4.125 in grip with a 16 mm core
- Sweet spot toward the top of the face, per JOOLA
Cons
- Only one core option
JOOLA Perseus Pro V (14 mm)
The Perseus Pro V with a 14 mm core, which JOOLA says reduces dwell time for faster rebound, and a smaller 4 1/8 in grip.
Pros
- Thinner core for a livelier response, per JOOLA
- Smaller grip for smaller hands
Cons
- Less dwell time than the 16 mm version for resets
JOOLA Scorpeus Pro V (14 mm)
The wide Scorpeus Pro V with a 14 mm core and a 4 1/8 in grip.
Pros
- Wide 8 in face
- Smaller grip for smaller hands
Cons
- Shorter handle limits two-handed backhands
Our Picks
Best Overall: JOOLA Graf Pro V (16 mm)
The Graf is the one Pro 5 paddle that pairs a 4.125-inch grip with a 16 mm core, so you do not have to give up the softer core to get a smaller handle. It has an elongated 16.5 x 7.5-inch face with an Agassi-style tapered throat and an 8.1 oz average. JOOLA Graf Pro V (16 mm) (paid link). Skip it if you prefer a centered sweet spot.
Best Elongated Option: JOOLA Perseus Pro V (14 mm)
The 14 mm Perseus comes with a 4 1/8-inch grip and a 7.9 oz average, with the centered sweet spot and reach of Ben Johns’ shape, per JOOLA. It is the lighter, livelier choice of the three. JOOLA Perseus Pro V (14 mm) (paid link). Skip it if you want the dwell time of a 16 mm core.
Best Wide Face: JOOLA Scorpeus Pro V (14 mm)
The Scorpeus in 14 mm combines a 4.125-inch grip with the widest Pro 5 face at 16 x 8 inches, and JOOLA lists it as USA Pickleball approved. Its 5.25-inch handle is a little shorter, which some players with smaller hands find easier to manage. JOOLA Scorpeus Pro V (14 mm) (paid link). Skip it if you play two-handed backhands.
How to Size a Pickleball Grip
Measure Your Hand
A common method is to measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. Shorter measurements usually point to a smaller grip.
Build Up, Not Down
You can add size to a small grip with an overgrip, but you cannot easily make a large grip smaller. If you are between sizes, start smaller; see our pickleball overgrip picks.
Core Choice
If you want a 16 mm core with a small grip, the Graf is the option. Otherwise the 14 mm Pro 5 versions all use a 4 1/8-inch grip; compare them in our 14 mm JOOLA Pro V pickleball paddles.
How We Picked
We reviewed JOOLA’s published specifications for each Pro V shape and core option, the shape guides on JOOLA’s blog, and spec listings from specialty pickleball retailers. We then checked which shape and core combinations are currently sold on Amazon and in stock. We did not run physical trials, and we did not assign scores. For our full process, see How We Review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the JOOLA Pro 5 the same as the Pro V?
Yes. Pro V is the fifth generation of JOOLA’s pro paddle line, and many players search for it as “Pro 5.” It follows the Pro IV.
What grip size do JOOLA Pro 5 paddles use?
Most 16 mm versions use a 4 1/4-inch grip. The 14 mm versions use 4 1/8 inches, and the Graf uses 4.125 inches with a 16 mm core.
How do I pick the right version on Amazon?
Amazon sells the Pro V shapes and core options on one listing. Before you buy, check that the selected shape, core thickness, and grip match the version you want.
Are JOOLA Pro V paddles approved for tournaments?
JOOLA lists the Scorpeus and Kosmos Pro V as USA Pickleball approved. Check the USA Pickleball approved paddle list for the exact shape and core you plan to use in sanctioned play.
About the author
Chan Long covers pickleball strategy, equipment, and practical tips for players looking to improve their game. His writing focuses on clear, useful information that helps players understand equipment choices and develop a more confident approach to the sport.