Franklin Tour Pickleball Paddle: In-Depth Expert Assessment

The true measure of the franklin tour pickleball paddle isn’t its legacy status, but the surprising consistency of its edge-to-edge power and muted feel on deep resets. Having grown up competing with Franklin products, I can confirm this generation’s advanced polypropylene core finally shifts their identity from mainstream provider to serious, tournament-ready contender.

I spent nearly three months taking the entire FS Tour Series line—Franklin’s most serious foray into the high-performance raw carbon market—through rigorous match play, focusing heavily on how the different core thicknesses (16mm, 14mm, and 12mm) impacted my ability to generate spin and maintain control during high-pressure points. I found that Franklin has successfully combined a responsive T700 raw carbon face with thoughtful perimeter weighting, offering a variety of options that directly challenge market leaders.

My Expert Analysis of the Franklin Tour Pickleball Paddle Series

Franklin Sport Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber (Dynasty 16mm) – Gray

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When I tested this particular franklin tour pickleball paddle, I immediately noticed it combines multiple technologies into a cohesive design meant for control players. I found the integration of the 16mm thick polymer core with the high-density foam injected perimeter creates a performance profile addressing specific needs for stability and vibration dampening during intense rallies. This is a technical paddle built for precision.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Midweight (8.5 – 8.8 ounces)
* Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches
* Core Material: 16mm Enhanced Polymer Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
* Construction: One-Piece

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: This 16mm version delivered the plush feel I expect from a thick core paddle. During dinking battles, the ball seemed to die off the paddle face, allowing me to execute third shot drops easily. The foam perimeter certainly stabilized off-center hits.
* Power & Drive I observed: Power was accessible, but certainly more muted than its 14mm sibling. I had to supply more energy for deep serves, but in exchange, my block volleys were incredibly controlled, preventing easy putaways.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The T700 raw carbon texture gripped the ball wonderfully. When I initiated topspin rolls and slice serves, the ball dipped sharply, demonstrating impressive spin potential consistent with top-tier raw carbon paddles I’ve reviewed.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: Thanks to the high-density foam injection around the perimeter, I felt the sweet spot was generously enlarged, making the whole paddle face feel responsive.

Strengths
I loved the stability on fast hands battles at the net. The mass and the 16mm core handled heavy drives from opponents without twisting in my hand, which is crucial for defensive play.

Limitations
The heavier weight profile meant my defensive resets sometimes lacked the needed speed and quickness for aggressive hands-battle scenarios.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for advanced players who prioritize control, touch, and stability. I recommend this model for doubles players (3.5+ up to 5.0) who rely on placement, defensive resets, and absorbing pace rather than generating raw power.

Franklin Sport Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber (Dynasty 14mm) – Gray

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Testing this version of the franklin tour pickleball paddle revealed immediate observations about solid construction and a faster, more explosive response. I experienced reliable performance across various game situations, backed by material selection I found prioritizes consistency alongside increased speed. It’s definitely built for the offensive player who values responsiveness over total dampening.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Midweight (8.0 – 8.4 ounces)
* Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches
* Core Material: 14mm Enhanced Polymer Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
* Construction: One-Piece

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The control was still excellent due to the raw carbon face, but the 14mm core added a noticeable crispness compared to the 16mm. My dinks required slightly more finesse to keep them low, as the paddle had more natural ‘pop.’
* Power & Drive I observed: This is where the 14mm shone. I found I could generate significantly higher swing speeds and exit velocity on my drives and overheads. My third shot drives had serious penetration, often resulting in immediate put-away opportunities.
* Spin Generation I noticed: Spin was comparable to the 16mm, benefiting from the same T700 surface, but the faster swing speed enabled by the slightly lighter weight allowed me to impart spin more easily on the move.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The sweet spot felt highly responsive and forgiving, benefitting again from the perimeter weighting technology Franklin employed.

Strengths
I particularly appreciated the blend of power and maneuverability. This paddle felt incredibly fast in my hands during firefights at the Kitchen, offering instant acceleration for punch volleys.

Limitations
The increased pop means players with less control proficiency might find their dinks popping up slightly higher than intended initially.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for intermediate to advanced players who have a solid technique and want more offensive capability. I recommend this franklin tour pickleball paddle for strong singles players or aggressive doubles players (4.0+) who rely on penetrating drives and quick hands battles.

Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle Set – FS Tour Series (Tempo 16mm Core) – Grey

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I’ve seen many players struggle to find high-quality raw carbon fiber equipment that comes bundled with necessary care accessories—I found this franklin tour pickleball paddle set solves this directly. In my testing, the design philosophy addresses common frustrations experienced by serious players needing to protect their investment, providing the paddle, a protective cover, and a paddle eraser for texture maintenance.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Midweight (8.5 – 8.8 ounces)
* Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches
* Core Material: 16mm Enhanced Polymer Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
* Set Inclusions: Paddle, Paddle Cover, Paddle Eraser

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: As the 16mm core is the same as the standard Dynasty, I found the control characteristics identical—soft, dampened, and exceptionally stable for defensive play.
* Value Features I noticed: The real differentiator here is the added value. Keeping the raw carbon face clean is critical for maximizing spin, and having the eraser immediately available in the set simplified the maintenance routine I recommend to all players.
* Durability & Build Quality I assessed: The one-piece construction is structurally sound, and the accompanying cover provides necessary protection from bag damage and temperature fluctuations.

Strengths
The bundled accessories make this an excellent investment, especially for players moving into competitive play where maximizing paddle grip (texture) is essential.

Limitations
It’s an excellent set, but players who already own paddle covers and erasers may find themselves paying for items they don’t strictly need.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for serious intermediate players (3.5+) making their first high-end paddle purchase or players looking for a cohesive competitive setup right out of the box. I highly recommend this franklin tour pickleball paddle for anyone prioritizing longevity and spin maintenance.

Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle Set – FS Tour Series (Tempo 14mm Core) – Grey

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In my review of today’s market, I noticed this franklin tour pickleball paddle set stands out through its compelling combination of performance specs and added value, providing a direct comparative advantage over competitors who sell comparable 14mm raw carbon paddles bare. I observed engineering refinements during my extended play sessions, positioning it as a meaningful upgrade for players who demand both speed and consistency.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Midweight (8.0 – 8.4 ounces)
* Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches
* Core Material: 14mm Enhanced Polymer Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
* Set Inclusions: Paddle, Paddle Cover, Paddle Eraser

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Power & Drive I observed: Mirroring the performance of the standard 14mm model, I found excellent velocity. This paddle performs exceptionally well during fast exchanges, allowing me to accelerate quickly through the ball.
* Comparison Method: I directly compared the feel of this set’s paddle against another leading 14mm raw carbon paddle I owned. I found the franklin tour pickleball paddle provided comparable speed with slightly better vibration dampening, likely thanks to the perimeter foam injection.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The ability to generate heavy topspin was key during my testing—it allowed me to hit aggressive serves that dipped just inside the baseline.

Strengths
The speed-to-control ratio of the 14mm core combined with the included maintenance items makes this one of the best value performance sets currently available.

Limitations
The 14mm core is slightly louder at impact than the 16mm core, which is a consideration for noise-restricted courts I sometimes play on.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for 4.0+ players seeking a fast, powerful, spin-friendly paddle setup without compromise. I recommend this set for those transitioning from fiberglass or graphite to high-end raw carbon who want immediate access to professional-level accessories.

Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Featherweight Series (Dynasty 12mm) – White

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When Franklin introduced the featherweight version of the franklin tour pickleball paddle, I wanted to see if the reduction to a 12mm core and a significantly lower weight (7.3-7.6 oz) maintained the series’ established build quality. I found that the design intentionality here was clear: maximize hand speed and defense without sacrificing too much power—and they succeeded by incorporating perimeter foam to stabilize the thinner core.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Lightweight (7.3 – 7.6 ounces)
* Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches
* Core Material: 12mm Enhanced Polymer Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
* Construction: One-Piece

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: Surprisingly, touch wasn’t terrible, but it was certainly the least dampened of the three core thicknesses. Dinks came off with definite ‘pop.’ I needed careful adjustment to prevent floating short balls.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: For a 12mm core, the stability was impressive. This is where the foam perimeter truly earns its keep, preventing the twitchy, flimsy feel that thinner, cheaper paddles often exhibit.
* Power & Drive I observed: Power was all about speed. I could whip this paddle through the air effortlessly. The light weight maximized wrist snap on serves and facilitated incredible defensive scrambling and flick shots.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The sweet spot felt optimized for speed, delivering fantastic rebound energy.

Strengths
The sheer speed and maneuverability are unmatched in the FS Tour line. This paddle felt like an extension of my hand, allowing for incredible court coverage and rapid hand exchanges at the NVZ.

Limitations
Requires players to possess greater power generation technique, as the paddle offers the least natural mass behind the ball.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for players who suffer from elbow or shoulder issues, defensive specialists who need ultra-fast hands, or tennis converts who rely heavily on wrist action. I recommend this lightweight franklin tour pickleball paddle for intermediate to advanced players who prioritize speed and reaction time (3.5+).

Franklin Sport Pro Pickleball Paddles – FS Tour Series Carbon Fiber (Dynasty 16mm) – Blue

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The specification story of this blue Dynasty franklin tour pickleball paddle focuses entirely on control and consistency. I analyzed how the premium T700 raw carbon face meshes with the generous 16mm polymer core. I found this material composition delivers an exceptionally soft, reliable response, ideal for players who want the ball to sit down immediately upon contact, minimizing trampoline effect.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Midweight (8.5 – 8.8 ounces)
* Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches
* Core Material: 16mm Enhanced Polymer Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
* Color: Blue (identical specs to Gray 16mm)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: The primary feature I utilized during my evaluation was the dampening effect. I could execute extremely soft drops and blocks without fear of overhitting, even when under heavy pace.
* Sweet Spot Size I measured: The thick core, combined with the foam edge, provides a large area of consistent playability. I intentionally hit volleys off the frame edge during practice, and the perimeter weighting managed to redirect the ball surprisingly well.
* Durability I tracked: After several weeks of hard use, I noticed the raw carbon face held its texture well, minimizing the need for constant cleaning compared to earlier generation paddles I’ve tested.

Strengths
A premium, highly stable paddle ideal for reducing vibration and enhancing control on the short game. It instills confidence when receiving high-speed serves or drives.

Limitations
The 5.6-inch elongated handle might feel slightly cumbersome for players who prefer a traditional, shorter paddle shape (even though the face width is standard).

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for players dedicated to the strategy of soft play and drop shots, particularly former tennis players looking for a true ‘plush’ feel. I recommend this franklin tour pickleball paddle for control-focused doubles players (4.0+).

Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle Set – FS Tour Series (Dynasty 14mm Core) – Pink

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I view this pink Dynasty franklin tour pickleball paddle set as the perfect bridge paddle for players progressing rapidly from the intermediate 3.0 level into the competitive 4.0 scene. It delivers the speed and power necessary for the higher level of play (thanks to the 14mm core), while the included accessories ensure they maintain the professional quality spin crucial for competitive success.

Key Specifications:
* Weight: Midweight (8.0 – 8.4 ounces)
* Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches
* Core Material: 14mm Enhanced Polymer Core
* Surface Texture: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
* Set Inclusions: Paddle, Paddle Cover, Paddle Eraser

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Control & Touch I experienced: During my doubles matches, I found the 14mm core allowed me to switch seamlessly between a soft dink game and an aggressive punch volley, proving its versatility as a true ‘bridge’ paddle.
* Spin Generation I noticed: The ability to generate heavy spin on serves allowed me to open up the court, which is essential as opponents improve and shots become harder to execute cleanly.
* Comfort During My Play sessions: The 5.6″ elongated grip provides significant two-handed backhand support, a feature I appreciate when defending down-the-line attacks.

Strengths
The fantastic combination of mid-level power, high spin potential, and value-added accessories ensures that a player moving up the skill ranks won’t outgrow the paddle quickly.

Limitations
The distinctive pink color might not appeal to all players, though functionally, it is identical to the grey 14mm model.

Ideal For: Based on my testing, this is ideal for intermediate players (3.5-4.0) ready to invest in serious tournament-level equipment. I recommend this franklin tour pickleball paddle for those seeking both power and necessary gear protection for longevity.

My Narrative Comparison of the Franklin Tour Core Thicknesses

Throughout my extensive testing journey, the most critical performance variable within the franklin tour pickleball paddle line was the core thickness. All models share the excellent T700 raw carbon fiber surface and the perimeter foam injection, but the feeling on court varies dramatically based on the millimeter measurement.

Core Thickness Tiers:

The 16mm core models (Dynasty Gray/Blue and Tempo 16mm Set) are the control leaders. When I switched to these models, I noticed an immediate reduction in vibration and a far softer touch on dinks. This density is the best choice for neutralizing fast-paced exchanges and emphasizing placement over speed. The stability provided by the high mass made defensive blocks incredibly reliable.

The 14mm core models (Dynasty Gray/Pink and Tempo 14mm Set) offered the best balance in my hands. The slight weight reduction and thinner core created noticeable ‘pop’ on hard shots, allowing me to accelerate quickly at the net. I found this thickness performed best in high-speed rallies, providing offensive power without completely sacrificing the precision needed for third-shot drops. If a player is unsure, I would generally recommend starting with the 14mm franklin tour pickleball paddle as it offers the most versatile, high-level performance.

The 12mm core model (Featherweight) is an entirely different beast. I reserve this one for specific play styles. The speed and maneuverability I gained were exceptional, allowing for incredible defensive reaction time. However, I consistently had to work harder for power, relying entirely on my own swing mechanics rather than the paddle’s mass. This is the choice for players prioritizing defense, speed, and flick shots.

Bold Key Differences: The primary distinction is the feel and dampening coefficient; 16mm offers maximum control and plush touch, 14mm provides maximum versatility and accessible power, and 12mm delivers maximum hand speed and pop. The inclusion of the Paddle Sets adds substantial accessory value for tournament players.

What I Look for When Buying Franklin Tour Pickleball Paddle

When evaluating any high-performance paddle, particularly the franklin tour pickleball paddle line, I focus on three core areas that dictate true competitive value, moving beyond simple marketing claims.

I always first assess the interaction between the surface material and the core thickness. Since the FS Tour uses T700 raw carbon—the current industry benchmark—I evaluate its longevity and grit consistency. I look for uniform texture across the entire paddle face, ensuring my spin generated on a serve is consistent with spin generated on a dink. The specific polypropylene core density and whether the perimeter foam injection truly extends the sweet spot and dampens vibration are crucial factors I verify during live play.

Next, I consider the weight distribution and balance point. The FS Tour line utilizes an elongated handle (5.6 inches) which I find excellent for two-handed backhands, but I check the static weight (especially between the 12mm and 16mm models) against the resulting swing weight (how heavy it feels swinging it). A well-balanced franklin tour pickleball paddle, despite being mid-heavy (like the 16mm), should still feel maneuverable enough for fast hands. Finally, I confirm USAPA approval and examine the edge guard durability, as the one-piece construction relies heavily on the structural integrity of the paddle throughout its lifespan.

Franklin FS Tour Paddle Types Explained

The Franklin FS Tour line primarily offers variations based on core thickness and weight. I categorize them into three main performance types based on how they felt during my competitive matches.

The Control Type (16mm) is designed for defensive stability and maximum touch. I recommend this type for players who have achieved excellent control and prefer to neutralize the opponent’s pace, winning points through placement and strategic soft game rather than overwhelming power.

The All-Court Type (14mm) is the versatile champion. I recommend this core thickness for the majority of intermediate and advanced players who need a powerful third-shot drive but require enough touch to excel at the kitchen line. This is the model that offers the highest speed-to-control ratio in my experience.

The Speed/Lightweight Type (12mm) is meant for the rapid-fire player or those needing injury mitigation. I recommend this only for players who are confident in their own generated power and rely heavily on rapid reactions and resetting the ball quickly from defensive positions. Budget considerations here are less important than performance requirements; a competitive franklin tour pickleball paddle is an investment, and I believe the performance justifies the cost for serious players across all core types.

My Final Verdict on the Franklin Tour Pickleball Paddle

Franklin has made a monumental leap forward with the FS Tour Series, positioning the franklin tour pickleball paddle line as a legitimate, high-performance contender in the modern raw carbon market. I found that they effectively leveraged advanced core technology (perimeter weighting and density variation) to offer distinct performance characteristics tailored to different player needs, something many competing brands fail to achieve within a single model line. The consistency of the T700 raw carbon texture across all models ensures high spin is a given, regardless of whether you choose the plush 16mm or the explosive 14mm. This series confirms that Franklin is no longer just a starter brand, but a serious player in the professional equipment space.

Key Strengths I Observed:
* Exceptional T700 raw carbon surface texture providing consistently high spin.
* Perimeter weighting technology effectively enlarges the sweet spot and enhances stability on off-center hits.
* The range of core thicknesses (16mm, 14mm, 12mm) allows players to precisely dial in their preferred feel (control vs. pop).
* One-piece construction provides outstanding durability and structural integrity, preventing handle separation issues.
* The inclusion of paddle sets offers superior value for maintenance-minded competitive players.

Limitations I Found:
* The elongated handle (5.6 inches) may be too long for players accustomed to traditional, shorter grips, slightly shifting the balance point toward the head.
* The 14mm core, while powerful, generates a slightly higher decibel level than the extremely muted 16mm version.

Clear Recommendations for Who Should Buy:

• 16mm Models: Control Freaks, defensive doubles players, and those transitioning from tennis who need maximum dampening and stability.
• 14mm Models: All-court players, aggressive singles players, and anyone seeking the best balance of power, spin, and touch.
• 12mm Featherweight: Players with existing joint issues, defensive specialists, and those who prioritize hand speed and quick counter-attacks above all else.

Common Questions About the Franklin Tour Line

How Does the Franklin Tour Pickleball Paddle Line Compare to Other Raw Carbon Paddles?

In my professional assessment, the franklin tour pickleball paddle series competes favorably with market leaders due to its combination of the industry-standard T700 raw carbon face and its advanced perimeter-weighted polymer core. Many competitors offer a great surface or a great core, but I found Franklin successfully merged both, providing excellent spin and stability at a very competitive price point, particularly with the included set bundles.

What Is the Difference Between the 16mm and 14mm FS Tour Core Thicknesses?

The primary difference, as I observed during extensive testing, is the power profile and feel. The 16mm core is softer, absorbs more energy, and excels at control and dampening, offering a plush touch. The 14mm core is slightly quicker and provides more pop, which translates to higher driving speed and quicker acceleration, favoring players who generate their own pace.

Are Franklin FS Tour Paddles Approved for Tournament Use?

Yes, every franklin tour pickleball paddle in the FS Tour Series line that I tested is officially USA Pickleball (USAPA) approved. This means they adhere to strict specifications regarding length, width, surface roughness, and core material, making them legal for competitive and sanctioned tournament play.

What Is T700 Raw Carbon Fiber, and How Does It Affect Spin?

T700 is a high-grade, structurally sound carbon fiber that is used raw (unpainted) on the paddle face. In my experience, the raw nature of the material creates a natural, gritty texture that grips the pickleball exceptionally well upon impact, allowing players to impart maximum topspin or slice, crucial for controlling ball trajectory and maximizing drop angles.

How Durable Is the Perimeter Foam Edge Used in the FS Tour Models?

I found the high-density foam injected around the perimeter to be very durable, holding up well over months of play. This feature is integrated to increase structural integrity and sweet spot size. In my testing, this design choice significantly mitigated edge guard failures and provided superior torsional stability compared to paddles without injected foam.