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This week, I took 8 paddles back onto the court — drilling, battling in games, and really pushing them to their limits. From fresh releases to some returning favorites, I dialed in the feel, power, control, and quirks of each paddle. Some surprised me, some disappointed... and one absolutely earned the top spot.

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How did I acquire this pickleball paddle?
This paddle was purchased by me for the purpose of this review. All opinions expressed are my own and are based on my personal experience with the product.
How did I acquire this pickleball paddle?
This paddle was provided to me at no cost, with no conditions or obligations attached. While I did not purchase this paddle, all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and represent my honest assessment of its performance and quality.
How did I acquire this pickleball paddle?
I was initially given a paddle at no cost, without any conditions or obligations. After my experience with it, I decided to purchase an additional one on my own. All opinions expressed here are based on my thorough testing of both paddles and reflect my honest assessment of their performance and quality.

Standout Pickleball CF4 Power Nxt Gen 16mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Franklin C45 14mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Neonic Flare Prime X 14mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

JOOLA Hyperion 3S 16mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Selkirk Selkirk LABS Project 008 Tour 13mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Thrive Smoke 14.5mm Paddle Type

CONTROL
ALL-COURT
POWER
  • Control
    Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation.
  • All-Court
    Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles.
  • Power
    Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.

Standout Pickleball CF4 Power Nxt Gen 16mm Performance Ratings

Company
Standout Pickleball
Model
CF4 Power Nxt Gen 16mm
Category
Price
$
220
Warranty

Franklin C45 14mm Performance Ratings

Company
Franklin
Model
C45 14mm
Category
Power
Price
$
229
Purchase Info
Warranty

Neonic Flare Prime X 14mm Performance Ratings

Company
Neonic
Model
Flare Prime X 14mm
Category
Power
Price
$
139.99
Warranty

JOOLA Hyperion 3S 16mm Performance Ratings

Company
JOOLA
Model
Hyperion 3S 16mm
Category
Power
Price
$
279.95
Purchase Info
Warranty

Selkirk Selkirk LABS Project 008 Tour 13mm Performance Ratings

Company
Selkirk
Model
Selkirk LABS Project 008 Tour 13mm
Category
Price
$
288
Purchase Info

Thrive Smoke 14.5mm Performance Ratings

Company
Thrive
Model
Smoke 14.5mm
Category
Power
Price
$
Purchase Info
Warranty
Check out the latest videos from Matt's Pickleball on YouTube!

Standout Pickleball CF4 Power Nxt Gen 16mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
16
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2227
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.5
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.5
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
8.27
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
115.65
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6.25
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
23.5
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
56.5
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
40
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.5
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Franklin C45 14mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
14
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2252
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.25
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.5
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.52
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
106.25
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
5.65
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
23.7
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
56.3
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
37.7
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.75
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Neonic Flare Prime X 14mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
14
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2276
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
15.875
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
8
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.71
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
105.9
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6.65
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
23.6
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
56.8
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
36.2
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.75
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
6
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

JOOLA Hyperion 3S 16mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
16
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2188
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.5
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.375
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
8
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
115.4
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6.2
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
24.3
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
56.6
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
36.7
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.5
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Gen-3 Foam Enhanced
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Selkirk Selkirk LABS Project 008 Tour 13mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
13
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.5
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.5
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.79
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
110.4
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
5.4
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
23.5
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
6
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Thrive Smoke 14.5mm Performance Metrics

Core Thickness (mm)
14.5
Thicker cores (16mm) offer more control and a softer feel. Typical paddles range from 13mm (more power) to 16mm (more control).
Spin RPM
2193
Standard paddles range from 1800 to 2500 RPM, with higher numbers enhancing control and shot variability.
Length (in)
16.5
Standard lengths range from 15.5 to 16.5 inches, with longer paddles offering better reach.
Width (in)
7.5
Widths typically range from 7.5 to 8 inches, balancing forgiveness and maneuverability.
Static Weight (oz)
7.94
Heavier paddles (8+ oz) provide more power and stability, while lighter ones offer better control and quicker handling.
Swing Weight
119.26
Higher swing weight means more power and stability. Lower values offer better control and quicker handling.
Twist Weight
6.14
Higher twist weight provides stability and forgiveness. Lower values allow quicker wrist movements.
Balance Point (cm)
24.6
A higher balance point (head-heavy) offers more power. Lower points (handle-heavy) provide better maneuverability.
Serve Speed Power (MPH)
56.7
Higher serve speeds indicate more power potential. Useful for aggressive play styles.
Punch Volley Speed Pop (MPH)
40.5
Higher speeds indicate quick, powerful volleys with minimal effort.
Surface Hardness (Shore D)
Harder surfaces offer more power and precision, while softer surfaces provide more control and a softer feel.
Handle Length (in)
5.75
Longer handles offer more reach and leverage, beneficial for two-handed shots. Standard lengths range from 4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Handle Circumference (in)
4.25
Larger circumference offers a secure grip for bigger hands. Smaller circumferences suit players with smaller hands, allowing quicker wrist movements.
Manufacturing Process
Thermoformed
Impacts durability, performance, and feel.
Surface Texture
Peel Ply (Coarse)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.
Core Cell Size (mm)
Rough surfaces enhance spin and control, while smoother surfaces offer cleaner, faster shots.

Discount Code

Get 10% off Franklin Sports gear with this discount code.
Promo Code: 
MPB
Find more discount codes here!

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About 
Franklin
Company Information
Franklin Sports was founded in Brockton, MA in 1946 by brothers Sydney and Irving Franklin on a singular principle: Sports make life better. Using discarded scrap leather from local shoe factories, the brothers developed a line of footballs, boxing gloves, basketballs, baseball gloves, and more to provide athletes of all ages with quality athletic equipment.
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Warranty Information
LIMITED WARRANTY: This Franklin Sports Inc. (The Company) product is warranted only to the original purchaser to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for a period of ninety (90) days from the original purchase date. During the warranty period, repairs or replacement will be made at no charge to the customer for parts or labor, provided that the customer can provide proof of purchase.
Learn more about the warranty
Posted 
February 26, 2025
 in 
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Updated 
March 9, 2025

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