With pickleball’s soaring popularity, more players than ever before are looking to up their game with advanced gear. And while paddles may seem indistinguishable to a casual player, subtle design differences can significantly impact your performance. Choosing a paddle tailored to your play style and skills is critical for reaching peak potential on the court.
That’s why I wanted to provide an in-depth look at one of the leading U.S. paddle manufacturers, Topp. Overview As one of the leading U.S. brands in pickleball equipment, Topp has earned a reputation for innovation, quality and performance. Their paddle lineup offers a range of technologies and designs to elevate the play of enthusiasts at all skill levels.
In this extensive Topp pickleball review, I closely analyze 10 of Topp’s most popular paddles. For each paddle, I provide in-depth insights into:
- Dimensions and specifications
- Materials and construction
- Weight balance and distribution
- Grip type, shape and size
- Playability, power, control, sweet spot, etc.
- Strengths, ideal playing styles and skill matches
- Comparisons with similar paddle models
No detail is missed in this comprehensive technical and performance evaluation. Read on for the ultimate insider’s guide to finding your perfect match within Topp’s impressive pickleball paddle offerings.
Topp Pickleball Paddle Reacher Graphite Blade
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 16” (4 inches longer than standard length) |
| Width | 7 1⁄2” |
| Weight | 7.6-8.2 oz |
| Grip circumference | 4 1⁄4” |
| Grip length | 4 3⁄4” |
| Grip style | TOPP Cushion (cushioned perforated grip, tacky feel) |
| Core | Polypropylene Honeycomb (Topp’s patented design) |
| Face | High-grade graphite |
Analysis
The radically elongated 16-inch blade instantly sets the Reacher Graphite apart, allowing for unprecedented reach and leverage. It stretches a full 4 inches beyond typical paddle length. However, through lightweight materials and perimeter weighting, Topp has impressively kept the weight within a standard range. The polypropylene honeycomb core concentrates mass in the paddle head and shoulder for stability while the slim neck and grip area remain light. This weight distribution allows the paddle to swing and maneuver with effortless control despite its size.
The high-grade graphite face maximizes touch and finesse with its lively responsiveness and delicate feel. Graphite offers a uniquely crisp, sensitive response when striking the ball. The honeycomb core further dampens vibrations for a soft, comfortable touch. The perforated cushion grip provides a secure, tacky hold during intense play.
Best for: Advanced finesse players seeking maximum control and reach.
Playability and Performance
The Reacher Graphite provides game-changing advantages in reach, leverage and court coverage. The elongated design allows you to easily reach shots several feet from your body with minimal movement required. This enhances your ability to control the net area and dictate play through court positioning. The paddle seems to anticipate shots rather than responding.
In addition to range, the extended blade provides added mechanical leverage to impart spin and pace on shots. The lightweight paddle is easy to whip through lobs, drives and swing volleys. The graphite touch and massive surface area provide unmatched finesse for placing delicate touch shots or changing pace. Overall the paddle provides a uniquely effortless and intuitive feel. The expanded sweet spot inspires confidence even on off-center hits.
- Unmatched reach and leverage from 16″ blade
- Extreme finesse and control from graphite face
- Lightweight and maneuverable despite size
- Expanded sweet spot inspires confidence
- Reduces need to take extra steps during play
- Requires advanced skill to handle long face
- Not as powerful as composite builds
- Grip can feel small for players with large hands
Recommended Playing Style
The Reacher Graphite most rewards advanced, competitive players with the skill to fully utilize its reach and finesse-enhancing capabilities. The radical design requires flawless technique and footwork to maximize its advantages. For intermediate players still developing form, the elongated blade may feel unwieldy at first. But with practice, the Reacher becomes an extension of your arm allowing you to dictate rallies.
Comparison
The Reacher Graphite resembles the OG BlackBerry phone – a radical, game-changing innovation that diehard fans swear by. Much like the BlackBerry reinvented mobile communication for business users through its focus on messaging and email, the Reacher Graphite redefines court coverage and control for serious pickleball competitors. If maximizing finesse, control and court coverage are your priority, then the Reacher Graphite delivers revolutionary advantages.
Topp Viper Composite Pickleball Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75” |
| Width | 8” (maximum legal width) |
| Weight | 7.6 – 8 oz |
| Grip Circumference | 4 1⁄4” |
| Grip Length | 5” |
| Grip Style | Cushion perforated (TOPP CushGrip) |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Fiberglass composite |
Analysis
The Viper Composite Pickleball Paddle maxes out paddle dimensions to deliver an oversized oval sweet spot and confident stability. By extending the length and utilizing the full 8-inch width, it provides a generously forgiving hitting surface. Perimeter weighting places mass along the paddle’s “shoulders” to enhance stability on off-center hits. The fiberglass composite face contributes touch and pop while the honeycomb core softens impact. The grip area concentrates weight low on the handle to retain maneuverability.
Best for: Aggressive intermediate players needing stability and power.
Playability and Performance
The Viper’s outstanding blend of stability, power and control make it extremely versatile and well-suited to aggressive play. The oversized head provides unmatched sweet spot forgiveness and makes the paddle play slightly head-heavy. This extra mass imparts momentum into shots for penetrating power and depth. The fiberglass face provides nice pop and sensitivity for touch shots. Drives, serves and put-away shots have impressive pace and consistency thanks to the mass and surface area. The polymer core gives a uniquely muted, comfortable feel on contact.
- Massive sweet spot provides forgiveness
- Powerful pop from composite face
- Maneuverable and well-balanced
- Versatile for both drives and finesse
- Perforated grip allows airflow to hands
- Less touch than graphite paddles
- Not as suitable for dedicated finesse play
- Grip wears out more quickly than other styles
Recommended Playing Style
With its emphasis on power, stability and forgiveness, the Viper Composite most rewards intermediate to advanced players looking to maximize their drive game and develop dependable shot consistency. The ample sweet spot builds confidence in attacking shots while the touch composite face retains feel for finesse play. It’s ideal for well-rounded players seeking an authoritative do-it-all weapon.
Comparison
The Viper Composite resembles a jacked-up pickup truck – brawny, capable and built for power. If your game style prioritizes driving intensity, punishing opponents with deep balls and putting away opportunities, then the Viper is your beast of burden to get the job done.
Topp Pickleball Paddle XJ 900 Graphite
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.5” |
| Width | 8.38” |
| Thickness | 1.57” |
| Weight | 7.6 – 8.2 oz |
| Grip Circumference | 4 1⁄4” |
| Grip Length | 5” |
| Grip Style | Cushion perforated (TOPP CushGrip) |
| Core | Polymer |
| Face | Graphite |
Analysis
The XJ 900 Graphite balances a comfortable mid-weight design with an oversized paddle face for extra stability and pop. The broad face provides unmatched forgiveness while the graphite face and polymer core maximize control and feel. Though wide, the paddle still remains compact in length and thickness to retain a slim, nimble overall profile. This makes it maneuverable for quick reflex exchanges and blocks. The perforated cushion grip provides a sure, comfortable hold.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced players wanting optimal finesse and feel.
Playability and Performance
The XJ 900 excels at providing luxurious touch, feel and control for graceful finesse play. The graphite face feels uniquely crisp and responsive, allowing you to cleanly carve balls with a delicate touch. Meanwhile, the polymer core softens impact for unmatched comfort while muting vibrations for buttery smooth handling. Drives and serves have penetrating precision thanks to the balanced weight distribution and broad face. The extra surface area enhances pop and provides reassuring stability.
- Unmatched finesse and feel from graphite face
- Lightweight and excellent maneuverability
- Polymer core softens impact for comfort
- Broad face provides stability and power
- Ideal for intermediate to advanced finesse players
- Graphite face lacks power of composites
- Expensive compared to other graphite options
- Grip can be too slim for players with large hands
Recommended Playing Style
With its emphasis on finesse, control and nimble handling, the XJ 900 Graphite rewards intermediate to advanced players with an affinity for artful touch and placement. The lively graphite touch enhances graceful play, while the wide head provides versatility for drives. Finesse-oriented players will fully utilize the paddle’s nuanced precision.
Comparison
The XJ 900 Graphite resembles a vintage Porsche 911 – lightweight, nimble, sophisticated and engineered for aficionados. If you have the skill to handle a lively, responsive paddle, the XJ 900 will elevate your artistry and court craft.
Topp Revive Graphite Teardrop Pickleball Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.5” |
| Width | 7.75” (slimmer width) |
| Weight | 7.3 – 7.5 oz |
| Grip Circumference | 4 1⁄4” – 4 1⁄2” |
| Grip Length | 5 1⁄2” |
| Grip Style | Cushion perforated (TOPP CushGrip) |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Graphite |
Analysis
Weighing under 7.5 oz, the Revive Graphite Teardrop Pickleball Paddle is one of the lightest performance paddles on the market. The minimalist weight reduces fatigue and makes the paddle play exceptionally maneuverable and whippy. The slimmer width enhances wrist flick control while the elongated teardrop top shape increases reach and court coverage. Perimeter weighting places mass in the handle and upper paddle head to retain stability on shots. The graphite face maximizes finesse while the polypropylene core controls vibration.
Best for: Beginner to intermediate players seeking lightweight finesse.
Playability and Performance
The Revive Graphite provides unmatched touch and delicate control thanks to its featherlight build and lively graphite face. The paddle excels at finesse shots like drops, blocks, pushes and dinks which require only a supple wrist flick to execute. Drives and serves have deceptive pace and penetration given the minimal heft. The responsive face provides intuitive feedback for expert placement. The effortless feel significantly reduces arm and shoulder strain.
- Extremely lightweight reduces fatigue
- Delicate graphite touch and finesse
- Teardrop shape increases reach
- Easy on elbow and shoulder joints
- Encourages proper technique
- Lightweight can reduce power and stability
- Teardrop shape takes adjusting if unused to it
Recommended Playing Style
The lightweight finesse design most benefits beginner to intermediate players focused on control and placement. The Revive encourages proper technique with its nimble feel. Finesse players will truly excel controlling the net thanks to its delicate graphite touch and quick handling.
Comparison
The Revive Graphite resembles a fine handcrafted carbon fiber road racing bike – incredibly light, nimble and engineered purely for speed and finesse rather than brute power. If your game relies on refined technique rather than strength, the Revive helps you gracefully outmaneuver opponents.
Topp Graphite Pickleball Paddle – Viper
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75” |
| Width | 8” |
| Weight | 7.65 – 8 oz |
| Grip Circumference | 4 1⁄4” |
| Grip Length | 5” |
| Grip Style | Cushion perforated (TOPP CushGrip) |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Perforated graphite |
Analysis
The Graphite Viper maximizes control and finesse in a lightweight, well-balanced design. It retains the same “V” shaped perimeter as the Viper Composite to reduce weight along the edges. This allows the paddle to play extremely maneuverable and head-light. The perforated graphite face provides unmatched touch and feel with its sensitive responsiveness. The polypropylene core enhances stability and dampens vibrations for comfort.
Best for: Intermediate players wanting lightweight precision and control.
Playability and Performance
The lively graphite face makes the Viper a scalpel-like paddle able to carve and place shots with surgical precision. Attack shots like drives and serves have deceptive velocity despite the featherlight build. Finesse shots receive enhanced topspin and control. Touch shots land with a satisfyingly soft “thud” thanks to the muting core. The paddle delivers excellent power transfer and stability despite its minimalist design. The perforated face dampens noise for unobtrusive play.
- Unmatched finesse and control from graphite
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- “V” shape reduces torque and weight
- Excellent blend of power and touch
- Reduces arm fatigue for long games
- Requires strong technique to handle responsiveness
- Not as stable or powerful as composite
- Grip comfort decreases over time
Recommended Playing Style
The Graphite Viper’s lightweight touch and control most benefit intermediate players with refined technique looking to enhance finesse. The paddle rewards players with flawless form able to fully utilize its whippy maneuverability and crisp graphite responsiveness.
Comparison
The Graphite Viper resembles a Japanese katana sword – lightweight yet capable of surgical precision and skill in the right hands. For intermediate players seeking the ultimate finesse weapon, the Graphite Viper provides a razor-like extension of your hand.
Topp Pickleball Paddle Reacher Composite Blade
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 16” |
| Width | 7 1⁄2” |
| Weight | 7.7 – 8.2 oz |
| Grip Circumference | 4 1⁄4” |
| Grip Length | 4 3⁄4” |
| Grip Style | Cushion perforated (TOPP CushGrip) |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Fiberglass composite |
Analysis
The Reacher Composite combines a rugged composite build with the radically elongated 16-inch face found in the Reacher graphite. The oversized blade provides extreme reach and leverage while the heftier weight adds more plowing power. Perimeter weighting balances the weight while retaining a nimble, head-light feel. Though elongated, the paddle still provides nice touch thanks to the fiberglass face. The polymer core controls vibration and softens impact.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced players needing extreme reach and leverage.
Playability and Performance
Thanks to its composite “punch”, the Reacher delivers penetrating pop and driving power without compromising control. The elongated face allows you to attack shots well wide of your shoulder. The paddle provides unmatched coverage, reaching shots other paddles couldn’t. Serves and drives have impressive velocity thanks to the leverage from the lengthy blade and brawny weight. The large surface area increases spin potential.
- Extreme reach from elongated design
- Powerful plowing momentum from weight
- Composite “pop” on drives and serves
- Forgiving and confidence-inspiring
- Ideal for countering angled shots
- Requires skill to handle long blade
- Heavy weight can be tiring
- Less finesse than graphite paddle
Recommended Playing Style
The Reacher Composite’s blend of power and range most benefits intermediate to advanced players with refined technique able to apply its advantages. The paddle excels when facing opponents using court positioning and angles. Players must have the footwork to manage the long blade.
Comparison
The Reacher Composite resembles a medieval claymore sword – oversized yet still nimble and designed purely for reach and power. If you have the skill to use it, this paddle becomes an extension of your arm to dominate the court.
Topp Revive Composite Teardrop Pickleball Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75” |
| Width | 8” |
| Weight | 7.6 – 7.9 oz |
| Grip Circumference | 4 1⁄4” – 4 1⁄2” |
| Grip Length | 5 1⁄2” |
| Grip Style | Cushion perforated (TOPP CushGrip) |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Fiberglass composite |
Analysis
The Revive Composite balances easy handling with enhanced power by pairing a featherlight build with a brawny composite face. Perimeter weighting reduces weight along the edge while concentrating mass along the teardrop shaped upper paddle face for stability and a head-light feel. The slim elongated neck allows for easy wrist flicks and handling. The fiberglass face provides exciting pop while the polymer core controls vibration.
Best for: Intermediate players seeking effortless power and maneuverability.
Playability and Performance
The Revive excels at controlled, pace-changing power thanks to the hefty composite punch of its wide face combined with the lightweight, flickable handling. The paddle feels uniquely responsive and maneuverable. Drives, blocks and serves have lively pop while the polymer core ensures comfort and maintains finesse on touch shots. The teardrop shape increases reach and spin potential.
- Lightweight and flickable handling
- Powerful composite “punch” on shots
- Controlled finesse from polymer core
- Slim design easy on joints/arms
- Teardrop shape increases reach
- Less finesse than graphite paddle
- Teardrop unideal for beginners
- Grip comfort decreases over time
Recommended Playing Style
The Revive Composite will help intermediate players confidently add pace and power to drives and serves without sacrificing touch thanks to its versatile design. The effortless feel improves consistency across all strokes. It rewards use of the entire body in shot generation.
Comparison
The Revive Composite resembles a sleek hybrid road bike – engineered for speed with an electrically enhanced power assist to help dominate the course. For intermediate players ready to level up their skills, the Revive provides electrifying power in a nimble package.
Topp Graphite Pickleball Paddle – Viper Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75” |
| Width | 8” |
| Weight | 7.65-8 oz |
| Grip Circumference | 4 1⁄4” |
| Grip Length | 5” |
| Grip Style | Cushion perforated (TOPP CushGrip) |
| Core | Polypropylene Honeycomb |
| Face | Graphite |
Analysis
This Viper Graphite model provides all the finesse and control benefits of a graphite paddle in a lightweight design ideal for intermediate players. The classic Viper shape with its distinctive “shoulders” reduces weight along the edges for excellent maneuverability. The polypropylene honeycomb core concentrates weight towards the paddle center to enhance stability and power transfer. The perforated cushion grip gives a comfortable, secure hold.
Best for: Intermediate players wanting balanced control and stability.
Playability and Performance
The graphite face offers unmatched touch and feel for graceful play. Drives and drop shots land with a satisfyingly soft touch thanks to the muting honeycomb core. The paddle provides impressive finesse and control relative to its mid-weight design. The responsive face gives excellent feedback for shot placement while the honeycomb core maintains comfort. The lightweight build reduces fatigue for long games.
- Lightweight graphite touch and finesse
- Excellent control and responsiveness
- Polymer core softens impact
- Well-balanced and maneuverable
- Reduced fatigue for long matches
- Honeycomb core reduces pop on shots
- Perforated grip less tacky than other styles
- Not as powerful as composite builds
Recommended Playing Style
With its emphasis on lightweight touch and control, the Viper Graphite suits intermediate players looking to develop finesse without sacrificing stability or power. The agile feel helps improve consistency across all strokes.
Comparison
The Viper Graphite is like a well-balanced Olympic fencing sword – lightweight and designed for effortless finesse in the right hands. For intermediate players seeking a precise, maneuverable extension of their arm, the Viper Graphite delivers.
FAQs
A: Topp paddles stand out for their patented perimeter weighting technology, which distributes weight evenly around the paddle head for ideal balance. Many also feature innovative elongated blade designs for increased reach.
A: The Revive Graphite and Revive Composite are excellent lightweight, controlled options for beginners developing proper form. The oversized sweet spot on the Viper Composite also provides added forgiveness.
A: Getting your grip size and playing style matched to a paddle by a coach or pro can greatly improve comfort and performance. But you can also select based on measurements of current gear.
A: Topp uses high-quality materials and construction methods. Their paddles withstand the rigors of daily play while optimized weight distribution protects against wear.
A: The Reacher Composite generates penetrating pop thanks to its hefty weight and composite face. The Viper Composite is also known for its powerful drives.
Conclusion
After closely analyzing topp pickleball Paddles impressively engineered pickleball paddle lineup, some clear takeaways stand out. Topp’s patented perimeter weighting system allows for unparalleled balance and control across the range. Advanced graphite-faced paddles like the XJ 900 and Revive Graphite offer unrivaled finesse and feel for players who prioritize control and placement.
For aggressive hitters seeking more pop and power, Topp’s composite paddles like the Viper and Reacher provide exciting drive potential. And their specialized extended length paddle faces provide a competitive edge in reach unlike any other brand.
No matter your skill level or strengths on the court, Topp has thoughtfully designed options to enhance your play. Their quality construction and smart innovations help unlock peak potential for enthusiasts of all levels. So grab a tailored Topp Pickleball Paddle suited to your style and get ready for your new secret weapon on the courts!
I am a professional physiotherapist and the author of the BallSportsPro. I worked with athletes of all levels, from amateur to professional, and i helped them overcome injuries and improve their performance. I am a certified Pickleball instructor and has been playing the sport for over 10 years.
