As a passionate pickleball player and blogger, I’m always on the lookout for gear that can enhance my time on the court. Enter the Deluxe Competition Pro Pickleball Backpack by Franklin Sports. I needed a bag that could effectively store my paddles, shoes, and other essentials while also being stylish and comfortable for transport. After testing this backpack in various scenarios, I’m excited to share my experience.
The first thing that struck me was the bag’s design and construction. Made with high-end nylon twill, it feels durable and stylish at the same time, which is often tricky to achieve in sports gear. With its ergonomic shoulder straps, carrying it to and from the court was a breeze. Even with my usual load of multiple paddles, court clothes, and a sizable water bottle, it felt comfortable during my commute.
A major highlight for me is the extra-large main compartment designed to fit several paddles along with gear and accessories. I found it spacious enough to accommodate everything I needed, including court shoes. One reviewer even mentioned fitting men’s size 12 shoes without hassle, and I can confirm I also had no trouble packing my own larger footwear. The separate sneaker compartment is a thoughtful touch, making it easy to keep dirty shoes separate from my clean gear.
However, while the bag generally performs well, it does have some caveats. One user noted that it lacked adequate organizational pockets, making it difficult to keep items separate and easily accessible. I noticed this during games, as I found myself digging through the main compartment for my towel and phone instead of finding a quick-hit pocket. This might not be a dealbreaker for everyone, but it’s something to consider if you prefer a well-organized bag.
On the positive side, many have praised the comfort of the shoulder straps and overall fit. In my experience, these straps were well-padded, preventing discomfort even when loaded. In contrast, another reviewer mentioned an issue with the top hook breaking, which I fortunately did not encounter. Instead, I found it securely held up during use, even when I hung it on the court’s fences, just as yumyum pointed out in their review.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the bag’s tech pocket. It’s perfectly sized for a laptop or tablet, which makes this bag versatile enough for daily use, not just for pickleball. This feature adds a practical touch for those who might want a dual-purpose bag.
Still, one of my only frustrations lies in the side compartments. They seem too small for anything but standard-sized plastic bottles. I usually carry insulated ones, and fitting them in the main compartment makes accessibility a bit cumbersome, as noted by another reviewer. It would be great if there were alternative ways to secure larger drink containers more efficiently.
In terms of fit and finish, I was genuinely impressed. The backpack seems well-built, with quality stitching and materials that suggest longevity. It definitely meets the standards you’d expect from an item at this price point, which many in the community echoed in their ratings.
Overall, I would rate the Deluxe Competition Pro Pickleball Backpack a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. It meets the majority of my needs with some minor drawbacks that could be improved—namely, better organization and side pockets. If you’re looking for a stylish, functional bag that can carry your pickleball gear with ease, this backpack is an excellent choice.
I wholeheartedly recommend it, especially for players of all skill levels who want a reliable way to transport their gear. Whether for tournaments or casual play, it’s a robust option that brings both convenience and style to the court.
Pickleball Perfection on the Go with our Deluxe Competition Pro Backpack! >>
