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Buying Guide
Buying Guide
Franklin ALW Paddle Guide: 12.7mm vs 14mm vs 16mm
Anna Leigh Waters’ signature Franklin paddle comes in three core thicknesses — here’s how they compare.
The Franklin C45 Aurelius (the ALW signature model) is built with a 45-degree T700 carbon face and double-thermoformed unibody construction, offered across three core thicknesses with genuinely different feel.
| Version | Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 12.7mm | Firmer and more reactive — fastest pop of the three | Players wanting maximum responsiveness |
| 14mm | A middle ground — enough pop to stay aggressive, more manageable than 12.7mm | Players wanting aggression without sacrificing all control |
| 16mm | The thickest core, most control-focused of the three | Players prioritizing consistency and touch |
Shared Specs Across the Lineup
All three versions share the same overall footprint — roughly 15.7in length x 7.9in width, a 5.1in handle, and a weight range of about 7.2-8.1oz — so the choice really comes down to core thickness and how firm or forgiving you want the response.
WHICH TO CHOOSE
If you’re not sure, 14mm is the safest middle ground of the three — it doesn’t push you fully toward either extreme while you figure out your preference.