when we would finally open , our highest priority was to ensure the health and safety of our employees and our customers . We have been monitoring the situation closely and we are keeping with Governor Northam ’ s guidelines . We are happy to provide a large , open-spaced facility with equipment that we keep sanitized and clean , so our pickleball players feel comfortable playing indoors .”
As a family-owned company that has been handed down through three generations , Franklin Sports prides itself on manufacturing the # 1 ball in the world , the patented X-40 . The company will be rolling out digital voting campaigns soon as new colors for the industry-leading ball are unveiled . Also , in its stable of sponsored competitors , the company has the world ’ s top-ranked male player in Ben Johns .
“ We work with Ben on a weekly basis to research and dissect the market to determine what ’ s missing as well as what can be done better ,” says Aaron Stahl , Associate Specialist , Brand Partnerships for Franklin Sports . “ We understand the importance of providing the best products possible across all demographics . What works for one player does not necessarily work for the next . We work hard to keep a wide range of products that can cater to all demographics within the pickleball industry . Our patented X-40 ball , however , is perfect for all ages and skill levels in the sport .”
Franklin Sports , based in Stoughton , Massachusetts , got its start in 1946 as a regional brand of sporting goods products and continues today to grow with the sport of pickleball . It is currently developing new paddle materials , shapes , and designs that are scheduled to be launched in 2021 . In addition , Franklin will be expanding into the grip and apparel side of the business .
“ Franklin is engineering our patented Max Grit technology . This is a finishing process that allows the maximum allowable amount of texture on the surface of the paddle . It enables the player to get a better handle on each shot ,” Stahl explains . “ Also , we have a carbon fiber surface layer in our newest player series paddle , the Centre . We are continuously working to find new innovations to provide players at every level with the best products available .”
He echoes the sentiments of so many on the manufacturing side of the sport who believe that pickleball is a game that is fun for all ages and skill levels : “ The competitiveness of the game can be catered to each individual player , allowing for everyone to fit in the bracket where they feel most comfortable . In the world of sports , this is unique , yet extremely attractive .”
Raelson agrees , noting that “ the New York Times recently published an article that acknowledged pickleball as the ‘ perfect pandemic pastime ’ for many reasons , one of which is that players are naturally socialdistanced from their partners and their opponents .”
Paddletek is known for its innovation , customer service and standing behind its products . This formula has put the brand at the top of the sport . As the largest U . S . manufacturer of pickleball paddles , Paddletek continues to innovate and provide a diverse line of paddles designed to help any player improve their game .
“ The pandemic caused a shutdown for 10 weeks , which of course was bad for sales . But since the economy reopened , sales have been at a record high ,” says Curtis Smith , Paddletek CEO . “ Manufacturing supply chains are currently strained , causing shortages in raw materials , but we continue to run at full capacity . We are looking to add 25 percent to production capacity over the next quarter .”
Wave Pro is Paddletek ’ s # 1 selling paddle and soon to be to be released will be a new Tempest model . “ It is an extended reach paddle that adds a bit more power than the Tempest Wave Pro but still providing the touch and control that has made the Wave Pro our top seller ,” adds Smith . Originally slated to introduce new paddles in the Spring of 2020 , Paddletek changed their launch strategy due to the coronavirus and will now be releasing individual paddles over the next few months , first one coming on January 5 .
Smith feels the major health crisis has been a driving force behind the sport ’ s exponential growth . “ COVID has turbo-charged this already fast-growing sport ,” he says . “ The shutdown caused many people , yet to try pickleball , to pick up the sport because it is relatively safe to play , can be played in a driveway , and fun for the entire family . Once introduced to this addictive sport , these new players are now experiencing the fun and excitement we have been enjoying for years and introducing it to their friends and family . I believe the supercharged increase in demand for paddles and equipment will continue throughout 2021 and move pickleball to mass market .”
Despite the uncertainty in health and wellness that continues to plague the country , there remains one constant — pickleball is an ever-evolving sport that resonates with players of all ages and abilities . And coinciding with this continual evolution is the manufacturing of equipment that strives to keep pace with the game that can be played for a lifetime . •
GEAR GUIDE 2021
DECEMBER 2020 | MAGAZINE 35