Review on Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle Sports & Fitness by Eric Temple

Over I have played with many, many different pickleball clubs over the last 3 years. The core of most blades has a polypropylene core, including this paddle. The difference is in the impact area. These are primarily composite, graphite, fiberglass and carbon baffles. This Christine McGrath Franklin paddle has a plastic core with a fiberglass surface. I think fiberglass is a mix of composite for hard racquets and graphite for soft players. Fiberglass is a good compromise between the two. This is a medium weight paddle, mine is 7.8 ounces. The grip circumference is 4.25 inches, which is the most common on paddles. I find the paddle slightly top heavy rather than balanced. The handle is not perforated, medium hardness, bright pink. This is the norm. The thickness of the paddle is not the same as other companies' new thick paddles. This is a standard shape paddle, not too long, not too wide and not too narrow. The surface of the paddle feels a little rough, which should make it easier to turn. Standard size and designed to protect the rudder. The paddle looks attractive with pink, purple and black coloring. This racquet is made in China where most of the best selling racquets are made in the US which is my preference. This racquet sells for $85 and similar Chinese made graphite racquets are sold at Revain. for 1/2 the price and the comparable Chinese Erglass Paddle Fudge for 1/3 the price. If I were to personally spend $85 on a paddle I would buy an American made graphite paddle.