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Franklin vs Selkirk Pickleball Paddles: Which Brand to Buy?
- Best Selkirk value: Selkirk SLK Geo 路 Check price on Amazon
- Best Franklin value: Franklin Signature (MaxGrit) 路 Check price on Amazon
- Best budget pick: Franklin Signature Series Pro 13mm 路 Check price on Amazon
Franklin is a mass-market sports brand with paddles sold almost everywhere, mostly at value prices. Selkirk is a pickleball specialist with a broader premium range. In February 2026 Selkirk reset its SLK line to four paddles: Valkyrie (entry), Geo (all-around, raw carbon), Dauntless (control, foam core) and ERA Power (flagship power). Warranties differ: Selkirk says its main Selkirk Sport paddles carry a limited lifetime warranty after activation, SLK paddles one year, LABS two years and Project Boomstik limited lifetime. Check Franklin's current warranty terms for the model you buy. Short version: Franklin for value and easy availability, Selkirk for more choice, raw carbon options and longer warranty on its main line.
1. Selkirk SLK Valkyrie
Pros- Widebody, control-oriented entry paddle
- Replaced the SLK Atlas and Latitude
- Aimed at newer players; may be outgrown
2. Selkirk SLK Geo
Pros- Raw carbon face and a large sweet spot
- Selkirk's all-around mid-tier paddle
- One-year SLK warranty, not the lifetime warranty of Selkirk Sport models
3. Selkirk SLK Dauntless
Pros- One-piece foam core with MOI tuning, control-leaning
- Replaced the Halo, Amped Control and Vanguard Control
- Muted foam feel is different from older honeycomb SLK paddles
4. Franklin Signature (MaxGrit)
Pros- Textured MaxGrit fiberglass face
- 13mm or 16mm cores; widely sold in stores
- Fiberglass face, less crisp than raw carbon
5. Franklin Signature Series Pro 13mm
Pros- Budget-friendly, power-oriented thin core
- Thin core is less forgiving at the kitchen
Buying tips
- Under $100? Compare with our paddles under $100.
- Not sure what core or shape you need? Start with how to choose a paddle.
- Register your paddle after purchase; Selkirk requires activation for its lifetime warranty.
Frequently asked questions
Is Franklin a good pickleball paddle brand?
Yes for value. Franklin paddles such as the Signature (MaxGrit) series are widely sold and budget friendly, though mostly fiberglass faced.
Is Selkirk worth the money?
If you want raw carbon options and a broader lineup, often yes. Selkirk says its main Selkirk Sport paddles carry a limited lifetime warranty after activation; SLK paddles carry one year.
What is the SLK by Selkirk lineup in 2026?
Selkirk reset SLK in February 2026 to four paddles: Valkyrie (entry), Geo (all-around, raw carbon), Dauntless (control, foam core) and ERA Power (flagship power).