Franklin Sports Unveils the Carbon 45 Paddle

Franklin Sports has long been a leader in the world of sports equipment, bringing innovation and quality to athletes across multiple disciplines. With the launch of the Carbon 45 paddle, Franklin is once again raising the bar. In this exclusive Q&A, we dive into the brand’s journey in pickleball, the technology behind their latest paddle, and what’s next for Franklin Pickleball.

1. Franklin has been a household name in sports for years—how did the brand first get into pickleball, and what sets Franklin Pickleball apart from other brands?

Franklin Sports first ventured into pickleball when we recognized the rapid growth of the sport and its increasing popularity among all age groups. Having a long history of getting kids involved in sports, we were eager to introduce pickleball to the youth. With our extensive expertise in sports equipment, we brought that same commitment to quality and innovation into the pickleball market. What sets Franklin Pickleball apart is our focus on continuous innovation and our close collaborations with top players. We offer a comprehensive range of products—from paddles to balls—ensuring we meet the diverse needs of pickleball players. Additionally, our use of cutting-edge materials and advanced design technologies in paddles gives us a unique edge in the market.

2. The new Carbon 45 paddle has a very unique build can you break down the technology in the paddle and how it enhances a players performance?

The Carbon 45 paddle features a triple-layer carbon fiber face, providing exceptional power and durability. The “45” refers to the unique 45-degree angle of the inner and outer carbon fiber filaments, offering an ideal balance of power, control, and feel. This design improves the paddle's responsiveness, allowing players to generate more spin and control while still delivering a powerful hit. The paddle’s core is double thermoformed, which not only extends the paddle’s lifespan but also ensures a solid, unibody construction. The double foam channels are CNC cut, allowing us to maintain the highest quality standards for each paddle. These features minimize the risks of surface delamination and core compression, ensuring superior accuracy, control, and overall performance.

3. Franklin sponsors some top pros—who’s currently playing with the Carbon 45, and what feedback have they given on the paddle?

Top pros, including JW Johnson, Jorja Johnson, Hayden Patriquin, Parris Todd, Megan Fudge, Will Howells and others from the Franklin Pickleball team, are currently using the Carbon 45° paddle. Feedback from these athletes has been overwhelmingly positive. They appreciate the paddle's perfect balance of power and control, along with the soft feel it provides on the ball. The triple-layer carbon fiber face offers outstanding spin, while the paddle’s responsive nature enables aggressive play without sacrificing precision. These pros have highlighted how the Carbon 45° performs exceptionally well in both fast-paced exchanges and softer, more tactical shots, making it a versatile tool for all types of gameplay.

4. What’s been the driving force behind your paddle development, and how do you approach R&D?

The driving force behind Franklin’s paddle development is our dedication to providing players with the best possible equipment to elevate their game. We approach R&D with a player-first mindset, working closely with top-tier athletes to understand their needs and preferences. Our focus is on pushing the boundaries of paddle materials, construction techniques, and design features to enhance both performance and comfort. Player feedback, from beginners to professionals, is essential to our process, allowing us to refine and tailor each product for a wide range of playing styles and skill levels.

5. What can we expect next from Franklin Pickleball? Are there any exciting new paddles, balls, gear, or partnerships on the horizon?

Expect exciting new developments in both paddles and gear from Franklin Pickleball. We’re constantly exploring new materials and technologies to enhance player performance. You can look forward to more partnerships with top pickleball pros, as well as potential collaborations within the broader pickleball community. As the sport continues to grow, Franklin is committed to expanding our product line to meet the evolving needs of players. In the coming months, we plan to release new paddles, balls, and accessories, offering even more options for players of all skill levels.

With the Carbon 45 paddle, Franklin Sports continues to push the boundaries of performance, delivering a paddle that blends power, control, and durability for players of all levels. Backed by some of the top pros in the game, this latest innovation is a testament to Franklin’s dedication to elevating the sport of pickleball. Stay tuned for even more exciting gear and partnerships from Franklin Pickleball—because this is just the beginning. Ready to experience the Carbon 45 for yourself? Shop the Franklin C45 Raw Carbon Pickleball Paddle now!