Franklin Sports
Franklin Sports Seattle Kraken
A heavy, standard-shape team paddle with a fiberglass face and 13mm polypropylene core. It suits players who want a durable, tournament-approved paddle with a larger sweet spot and extra stability.
Character from the specs · Balanced
Worked out from core thickness, weight, face and shape using general rules of thumb — not from a play test.
Is this paddle right for you?
4 quick questions, scored from the specs
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Overview
The Seattle Kraken uses a 13mm polypropylene core and fiberglass face. Franklin's NHL paddle review connects this construction with durability and a larger sweet spot. That combination should make routine contact more forgiving, while the 9.6-ounce weight adds stability through contact.
The standard shape keeps the design familiar, while the 15.5-inch length and 5.6-inch handle offer a balanced reach and two-handed grip option. The 4.25-inch circumference suits players who prefer a moderate handle size. The paddle is USA Pickleball approved for regulation and tournament play. Reviewers also note that some players may find this model heavier than expected.
Play style
This paddle fits players who want a steady, stable feel for drives, volleys, and firm returns. Its 9.6-ounce weight can help against hard shots, but it may feel slower during quick hand battles than a lighter paddle. The fiberglass face and MaxGrit surface are intended to support control and spin.
The larger sweet spot favors consistent contact when your timing is not perfect. It can work for baseline swings and controlled kitchen exchanges, but players with sore elbows or a strong preference for fast hands should consider the weight carefully.
Best for
- Players who want a heavier, stable paddle for drives and volleys
- Seattle Kraken fans who want official team branding
- Players who value a larger sweet spot for more forgiving contact
- Players entering regulation or tournament play
- Players comfortable with a 4.25-inch grip circumference
Look elsewhere if
- Players who need a light paddle for fast hand exchanges
- Players with elbow discomfort who prefer less weight
- Players who want maximum reach from an elongated shape
- Players who strongly dislike team branding
Strengths
- 9.6-ounce weight provides a stable platform through contact
- 13mm polypropylene core is described as durable in the NHL paddle review
- Fiberglass face is intended to create a larger sweet spot and support control
- MaxGrit surface is designed to improve traction and spin
- USA Pickleball approval allows regulation and tournament use
Things to consider
- The 9.6-ounce build may feel heavy during long sessions or quick exchanges
- The standard shape gives less reach than an elongated paddle
- The team-focused design may not suit players wanting a plain appearance
- Check that the moderate 4.25-inch grip circumference fits your hand comfortably
Specs
| Brand | Franklin Sports |
|---|---|
| Weight | 9.6 oz |
| Core thickness | 13 mm |
| Core material | Polypropylene |
| Face | Fiberglass |
| Face material | Fiberglass |
| Shape | Standard |
| Length | 15.5 in |
| Handle length | 5.6 in |
| Grip circumference | 4.25 in |
| USA Pickleball approved | Yes |
Not listed by the seller: width, handle.
Specs come from the seller's product listing and may be incomplete or change between batches. Double-check before you buy.