The Franklin C45 Aurelius 12.7mm is Anna Leigh Waters' signature ultra-light pickleball paddle. It moves blazingly fast through the air, but the low static weight and 5.6 twist weight create stability issues against heavy hitters that limit who this paddle is right for.
The Verdict
Anna Leigh Waters' ultra-light signature paddle.
It plays like a feather — great until you face a heavy hitter.
See where it lands against the rest in our foam core paddle rankings.
Specs
| Price (with code) | $229.99 |
| Stock Price | $229.99 |
| Shape | Standard |
| Thickness | 12.7mm |
| Core | PowerFlex polymer with foam channel |
| Face | T700 carbon fiber (45° peel-ply) |
| Weight | 7.45 oz |
| Grip Length | 5.1" |
| Swing Weight | 92-104 |
How It Plays
Maneuverability leads this one.
Against our database
Compared with the 126 paddles we have scored.
- Top 1% for maneuverability
On-Court Feel
Drives require more physical effort because the paddle has minimal mass to do the work for you. Swinging it feels like a feather — perfect for rapid-fire volleys, but heavier hitters can bully you. The soft game is reasonable because the paddle is so easy to maneuver into position. When a ball catches the edge of the 12.7mm frame, the paddle twists noticeably in your hand. It's a specialty tool — great for what it is, frustrating when you ask it to do everything.
Performance & Testing
The Franklin C45 Aurelius went through our standard on-court protocol - drills, rec play, and at least one tournament match. How it plays reflects consensus feedback from the group, not a single reviewer's opinion.
Grit & Durability
The 45-degree peel-ply T700 carbon provides decent spin, though grit retention is average for the price point. The double-thermoformed unibody construction feels structurally sound and Franklin's build quality is generally solid. UPA-A certification is a plus for tournament players.
Who It's For
Players with elbow or shoulder pain who need the lightest paddle possible, and players who win through pure hand speed at the kitchen. Skip if you face heavy hitters, need a forgiving sweet spot, or want a paddle that does both offense and defense well.
- maneuverability matters most to you (top 1% of the paddles we have scored)
- you want quick hands: a 92-104 swing weight against our 113 average
- Forgiveness or spin comes first for you. The Engage Axiom Widebody 16mm is stronger there ($179.99 with PRH).
- Power comes first for you. The RPM Jade Widebody 14mm is stronger there ($229.49 with PRH).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Blazing fast swing weight (92-104)
- Excellent on the elbow and shoulder
- Anna Leigh Waters' signature paddle
- UPA-A tournament approved
- Available in three thicknesses
Cons
- Low twist weight (5.6) creates stability issues
- Short 5.1" handle limits two-handed backhands
- 12.7mm is the most demanding thickness
- No promo code available
- Generic feel at $229.99 vs foam alternatives
Bottom Line
A specialty paddle for hand-speed-first players.
Great at one thing — fast hands — but not the right pick for most players in 2026.
Buyer guides for this paddle
How it compares
The closest paddles in the same shape, with the price after each brand's code.
| Paddle | Price with code | Stands out for | Swing weight | Twist weight | Spin (RPM) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franklin C45 Aurelius This paddle | $229.99 | Maneuverability | 92-104 | 5.6 | 2,000 |
| Engage Axiom Widebody 16mm | $179.99 with PRH | Spin, Control | — | — | ~2,150–2,300 |
| RPM Jade Widebody 14mm | $229.49 with PRH | Spin, Power | 104 | 6.8 | — |
| Pickle Poppers POP N Pink Widebody EverGrit 16mm | $152.99 with PRH | Maneuverability | 97 | 6.3 | 2,250 |
| Vatic Pro V-Sol Tour Bloom 16mm | $99.99 with PRH | Spin | — | — | 2,360 |
Common questions
Is the Franklin C45 Aurelius a good paddle?
A specialty paddle for hand-speed-first players. Best for: Players who prioritize hand speed and minimal arm fatigue over stability.
What shape is the Franklin C45 Aurelius?
Standard shape, 12.7mm thick, with a PowerFlex polymer with foam channel core.
How much does the Franklin C45 Aurelius cost with a discount?
You pay $229.99 when the code applies.
Is the Franklin C45 Aurelius tournament legal?
It is listed as USAP + UPA-A. Approved-paddle lists change, so check the current one before a sanctioned event.
Who is the Franklin C45 Aurelius for?
Players who prioritize hand speed and minimal arm fatigue over stability.
How much spin does the Franklin C45 Aurelius generate?
About 2,000 RPM in our spin data. Your swing and the ball you use will move that number.
Reviewed by Sebastian B · Released March 2026.