As a passionate pickleball enthusiast and blogger, I’m always on the lookout for gear that enhances my game, especially for beginners who are just stepping onto the court. Recently, I got my hands on Franklin’s 2 Player Pickleball Set, designed with newcomers in mind. Being someone who appreciates well-balanced equipment with solid construction, I was eager to see how this budget-friendly option would perform.
Right out of the box, this set includes two USA Pickleball-approved wooden paddles and two X-40 pickleballs. Initially, the paddles caught my eye, primarily due to their 7-ply wood construction, which the product description claims allows for a great bounce. The EVA foam handles felt comfortable and were designed for a secure grip, catering to those who might experience fatigue during longer games.
During my first play session, it quickly became apparent that these paddles are indeed on the heavier side, weighing in at around 11-11.2 oz. This was notable in contrast to some of the lighter models I’ve used before. While many beginners, as noted by fellow players, may appreciate this sturdiness, others might find it a bit cumbersome, especially if they are just getting accustomed to the sport.
In terms of performance, I was generally pleased with how the paddles handled. The ball had a nice bounce, which complemented my developing skills effectively. However, this set does come with some concerns. I noticed that the wooden paddles can feel wobbly; a sentiment echoed in other customer feedback. Specifically, I experienced some instability in one paddle during play, which affected my confidence when making quick shots.
Durability seems to be a recurring theme among reviewers. I couldn’t help but notice parallels between my experience and others who mentioned issues like the wood breaking at the handle connection. One reviewer expressed disappointment when their paddle fell apart, even after just a few uses. While I haven’t faced a massive failure yet, I will be cautious moving forward since these concerns loom.
On the positive side, I appreciated the protective casing surrounding the paddles, which is designed to prevent nicks and dents. This feature suggests that, with careful handling, these paddles can last a fair amount of casual playtime. I found the grips quite comfortable, even over longer sessions, and can understand why others find value in this set, especially considering the affordability.
That said, there were times when I felt the paddles made an odd noise upon hitting the ball, a complaint that other players echoed as well. This didn’t impact playability too much, but it’s worth noting if you are playing in a more competitive setting where sound and consistency matter.
Conclusively, Franklin’s 2 player pickleball set is not without its flaws, but it certainly has its merits for beginners looking to dip their toes into the sport. The heavier paddles and durability issues might be drawbacks for some, yet, as reflected in customer reviews, many find it a solid starter kit for learning. If you are looking for an affordable way to try out pickleball with a partner or friend, I would say this set is worth considering, while keeping in mind that it may not hold up under rigorous use.
Overall, I’d rate it a sturdy 4 out of 5 stars, mainly for its suitability for newcomers and the fact that it does provide a comfortable experience. Just approach your play sessions with care and be mindful of the paddle design, and you should enjoy your journey into the exciting world of pickleball!
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