Anna Leigh Waters' Signature Franklin Paddle, the Aurelius, Is Approved for Pro Play

Packed with tech, it's part of the C45 line and available for pre-order now

Almost a month to the day after news broke of her landmark deal with Franklin Pickleball, Anna Leigh Waters' signature new paddle has been granted UPA-A approval, meaning it's now ready for pro action.

The Aurelius is currently available on pre-order and should start shipping out on March 1. It's available in three core thicknesses – 16mm, 14mm, and 12.7mm, which is the model ALW will be using going forward.

The paddle received UPA-A certification on Friday, February 6.

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The Dink PickleballAlex E. Weaver

The Aurelius is part of Franklin's popular C45 paddle line, which includes Dynasty (elongated), Hybrid, and Tempo (widebody) models.

Top pros using C45 paddles include Parris Todd, Hayden Patriquin, Will Howells, Megan Fudge, and more. Until recently, JW and Jorja Johnson were also sponsored by Franklin.

The Aurelius, according to Franklin, features:

• Aurelius™ Shape
  The official shape chosen by Anna Leigh Waters, designed to support high-level competitive play.
• Unrivaled Strength
  Constructed using a double thermoforming process that reinforces the unibody design, enhances durability, and reduces vibration.
• 45 Degree Carbon Surface
  T700 carbon fiber peel ply texture applied at a 45-degree angle to deliver consistent grit, increased spin potential, and improved shot precision.
• PowerFlex™ Core
  Available in 12.7mm, 14mm, and 16mm thicknesses, featuring an inner foam layer that enhances pop while adding structural stability.
• Superior Grip
  Premium wrap grip with excellent absorption and tackiness to reduce vibration and maintain confident hand feel during extended play.

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The Dink PickleballAlex E. Weaver

Specifications:

• 12.7mm
  • 15.7 inches length x 7.9 inches width
  • 5.1 inch handle length
  • 3.9 inch handle circumference
  • Weight: 7.2oz – 7.7oz
• 14mm
  • 15.7 inches length x 7.9 inches width
  • 5.1 inch handle length
  • 3.9 inch handle circumference
  • Weight: 7.5oz – 8.0oz
• 16mm
  • 15.7 inches length x 7.9 inches width
  • 5.1 inch handle length
  • 3.9 inch handle circumference
  • Weight: 7.6oz – 8.0oz

The Aurelius is currently available for pre-order, with the first wave set to ship on March 1.

It has not yet received USA Pickleball certification.