The Franklin Sports Signature Paddle is an excellent all-around pickleball paddle for beginners, offering a balanced combination of control, power, comfort, and durability. With its fiberglass face, polymer honeycomb core, and mid-weight design, this paddle is versatile enough to help new players develop all aspects of their game. If you're a beginner looking for a well-rounded paddle that enhances both control and power, the Franklin Sports Signature Paddle is a great option.
Why It’s Great for Beginners
For beginners, having a paddle that provides a mix of control, power, and comfort is essential. The Franklin Sports Signature Paddle delivers these key benefits:
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Fiberglass face – Provides excellent touch and shot control.
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Polypropylene honeycomb core – Softens impact and improves accuracy.
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Mid-weight balance (7.9 oz) – Offers both power and maneuverability.
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Comfortable grip – Reduces hand fatigue for extended play.
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Medium-large sweet spot – Enhances shot consistency.
These features make the Franklin Sports Signature Paddle one of the best beginner paddles for players looking to develop their skills across all areas of the game.
Specs and Their Benefits for Beginners
| Feature | Specification | Benefit for Beginners |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.9 oz | Light enough for maneuverability but stable for controlled shots. |
| Length | 16.5 inches | Extra length provides extended reach. |
| Width | 7.5 inches | Balanced size for control and power. |
| Grip Circumference | 4.3 inches | Comfortable grip size for most players, ensuring a firm hold. |
| Paddle Face | Fiberglass | Provides touch and control while maintaining durability. |
| Core Material | Polypropylene Honeycomb | Reduces vibration, improving shot consistency. |
| Core Thickness | 14 mm | Helps with power and control balance. |
| Sweet Spot | Medium-Large | More forgiving for off-center hits. |
These specs make the Franklin Sports Signature Paddle a great beginner-friendly choice for players looking to build confidence and consistency in their game.
Features
1. Fiberglass Paddle Face for Control & Power
The fiberglass face ensures a smooth, responsive feel, allowing beginners to develop both control and shot placement.
2. Polypropylene Honeycomb Core for Stability
The honeycomb core absorbs impact, reducing vibration and making it easier to keep shots consistent and accurate.
3. Extended Length for Extra Reach
At 16.5 inches, this paddle offers slightly more reach, making it easier for beginners to return difficult shots.
4. Ergonomic Comfort Grip
The 4.3-inch grip circumference ensures a secure and comfortable hold, reducing hand fatigue and improving playability.
5. Mid-Weight Design for Versatility
At 7.9 oz, this paddle provides a good mix of power and control, making it easy for beginners to adapt their playing style.
Design & Feel
The Franklin Sports Signature Paddle has a modern, high-quality design that appeals to players of all levels. It feels balanced, lightweight, and easy to handle, making it ideal for beginners learning different techniques.
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Textured surface – Enhances ball control and grip for better shot accuracy.
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Soft, cushioned grip – Provides comfort for extended play sessions.
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Durable construction – Ensures long-lasting use without performance loss.
From the moment you use it, this paddle feels comfortable, easy to control, and forgiving, making it an excellent choice for beginner players.
Performance
The Franklin Sports Signature Paddle is designed for all-around performance, making it one of the best beginner paddles for learning various aspects of pickleball.
Control & Accuracy
The fiberglass face and polymer core provide great control, allowing players to place their shots with accuracy and finesse.
Power
The mid-weight build and fiberglass surface ensure enough power for controlled, well-placed shots.
Spin
The textured surface allows for some spin potential, helping beginners experiment with different shot techniques.
Maneuverability
The lightweight design and ergonomic grip make it easy to react quickly at the net and return shots smoothly.
Value for Money
Priced at $60-$80, the Franklin Sports Signature Paddle is an affordable mid-range paddle that delivers excellent performance for beginners. While budget paddles like the JOOLA Essentials ($50-$60) are cheaper, the Franklin Sports Signature Paddle offers better durability, control, and overall versatility.
Compared to the Onix Z5 Graphite ($90-$100), which is more control-focused, the Franklin Sports Signature Paddle provides a well-balanced mix of power and maneuverability, making it a great choice for beginners who want an all-around paddle.
Verdict: Why the Franklin Sports Signature Paddle is the Best All-Around Pickleball Paddle for Beginners
The Franklin Sports Signature Paddle is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a well-rounded, versatile paddle. With its fiberglass face, polymer honeycomb core, and mid-weight balance, this paddle helps new players develop their control, power, and shot placement with ease.
Pros:
✅ Large sweet spot for more consistent shots. ✅ Fiberglass face enhances control and durability. ✅ Polypropylene honeycomb core reduces vibration. ✅ Mid-weight design provides a balance of power and touch. ✅ Comfortable grip ensures extended play without fatigue.
Cons:
❌ Lacks extreme power compared to heavier paddles. ❌ Less spin capability than textured graphite paddles.
Final Thoughts:
For beginners who want a paddle that does it all, the Franklin Sports Signature Paddle is one of the best all-around options available. It provides great control, stability, and power, making it a fantastic investment for new players looking to develop their skills in every aspect of pickleball.
Recommended For: Beginners who want a well-balanced, versatile paddle that helps them improve power, control, and consistency without compromising comfort or durability.
