Updated August 2025

When two paddles dominate conversation at courts across the country, it’s worth putting them under the microscope. The Selkirk Vanguard Invikta vs JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16 are two of the most talked about elongated paddles of 2025, and for good reason. They both have pro level pedigrees, long reach, and enough on court personality to completely change the way you play.

But here’s the thing, despite looking similar at first glance, they play very differently. One thrives on controlled power, the other on grippy spin and soft hand precision. If you’ve been torn between them, this breakdown will help you figure out exactly which fits your game.

Why This Matchup Matters

Two of the Most Popular Elongated Paddles in 2025

Walk into any competitive pickleball setting and theres a chance you’ll spot at least one of these paddles. The Invikta is Selkirk’s flagship elongated design, trusted by heavy hitters and singles players who love dictating rallies. The Hyperion CFS 16 is JOOLA’s tour level control paddle, and it’s become a favorite for players who work points like Magnus Carlsen during chess matches, using spin and resets to set traps.

What Makes Them Comparable – and Different

Both of these paddles share a long face and extended reach, great for singles coverage and snagging balls that would otherwise be out of range. But the differences are in the details: build style, swingweight, and surface texture. Those subtle variations add up to completely different shot profiles.

Who This Guide Is For

If you’re deciding between these two, you probably already have a solid foundation and a defined playstyle. This guide is for power drivers, spin specialists, and all court players looking for the elongated paddle that will give them the biggest edge.

Quick Spec Comparison

Here’s how they stack up on paper:

Selkirk Vanguard Invikta

• Length: 16.5 in
• Width: 7.375 in
• Core: X5+ Polymer Honeycomb (16 mm)
• Face: QuadCarbon (two layers of carbon fiber)
• Average Weight: 7.8–8.1 oz
• Shape: Elongated, non-thermoformed

JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16

• Length: 16.5 in
• Width: 7.5 in
• Core: Reactive Honeycomb Polymer (16 mm) + Hyperfoam EdgeWall
• Face: Carbon Friction Surface (textured carbon)
• Average Weight: 8.0–8.2 oz
• Shape: Elongated, thermoformed

The big spec differences to notice: JOOLA’s thermoformed construction and higher swingweight give it more stability on off center contact, while Selkirk’s traditional build offers a softer, more familiar feel. The Hyperion’s surface is also grippier, which affects spin potential.

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Selkirk Vanguard Invikta vs Joola Hyperion CFS 16

Selkirk Vanguard Invikta — Overview

The Invikta has a reputation for being a “power paddle,” but it’s not a blunt instrument. The QuadCarbon face adds stiffness for punchy drives and overheads, yet the 16 mm polymer core smooths things out for resets and dinks. It’s the kind of paddle you can take big swings with in singles, then switch gears and drop perfect kitchen shots in doubles.

Play Feel: Crisp and slightly head-light, which makes it easier to whip through the ball. The ball comes off the face quickly on drives, but you can still feather it with good touch.

Best For: Singles players who want that extra reach and power & aggressive doubles players who like to attack first.

Pros:

• Long reach without feeling sluggish
• Excellent put away power on high balls
• Predictable, consistent response
• Comfortable in hand for long sessions

Cons:

• Less spin bite than textured carbon surfaces
• Not as stable on extreme off-center hits as thermoformed builds

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JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16 — Overview

The Hyperion CFS 16 leans hard into spin and control. Its Carbon Friction Surface has a texture you can feel, and it absolutely grips the ball. Combine that with a slightly higher swingweight, and you’ve got a paddle that rewards patience, angles, and manipulation.

Play Feel: Solid and stable on contact, with a bit more heft through the swing. You feel connected to the ball, which is great for resets, but it requires slightly more effort to accelerate for quick counters.

Best For: Spin heavy players who like setting up points. Doubles specialists who thrive in the soft game but still want put-away ability when the chance comes.

Pros:

• Outstanding spin generation
• Extremely stable on blocks and counters
• Durable thermoformed build
• Controlled, plush feel on resets

Cons:

• Slightly slower to maneuver at the net
• Can feel heavy for players used to lighter builds

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Winner by Playstyle

• If you’re a power player: Go with the Selkirk Vanguard Invikta. It’s faster to whip through the ball, offers excellent put away power, and still holds up in control exchanges.
• If you’re a spin/control player: Choose the JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16. It lets you shape shots, dominate the soft game, and wear opponents down.
• If you’re all court: It’s a toss up. The Invikta feels more explosive, the Hyperion more surgical. Pick based on whether you lean slightly toward attacking or crafting points.

Still can’t choose? Try our Paddle Fit Quiz & get personalized picks in under a minute

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