You know the saying, “It’s all about the details”? Well, it really should be “It’s ALWAYS about the details.” As a product reviewer and self-proclaimed perfectionist, I stand by that—especially when it comes to everyday gear like athletic bags and backpacks.
When I needed a court bag to carry my pickleball essentials, I wanted something functional, stylish, and packed with smart features. Enter the Franklin Pickleball Sling Bag—the official bag of the US Open—and it checked every box.
If I could rate it higher than 5 balls, I absolutely would! With quality, design, and function all wrapped into a sleek package (and just $35!), it’s now my go-to court bag.
Official US Open Bag – Trusted by the pros.
Roomy Design – Fits 6 paddles, balls, and more.
Smart Storage – Pockets for keys, phone, and a fence hook.
Easy to Carry – Comfy, adjustable shoulder strap.
By The Numbers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 19 inches |
| Width | 14 inches |
| Depth | 8 inches |
| Pockets | 3 zippered pockets |
| Colors | 6 varieties available |
| Price | $34.99 |
Nuts And Bolts
- Cordura and nylon
- Adjustable, cushioned snap strap
- Cushioned back pads
- Hanger hook
- Water bottle holder
- Quick carry handle
- Easy grab zipper cords
- Three different storage areas
- Reflective striping
First Impressions
The moment I picked up this bag, I knew it was a winner. It instantly felt high-quality, functional, and packed with value—and it looked fantastic too!
Honestly, the description on Franklin Sports’ website didn’t do it justice. I went with the black design featuring bright optic yellow trim, and it’s even sharper in person.
The Details, Capacity, and How It Holds Up
Let me share my thoughts on this bag—from its design and materials to its storage and functionality. Spoiler alert: it’s packed with smart features.
Built to Last
Cordura and Nylon – The combo makes this bag super durable and easy to clean. It’s sturdy enough to hold its shape and even stands upright when you set it down. No more floppy bags falling over!
Comfort First
Adjustable, Cushioned Strap – The padded, breathable strap feels great, even when the bag’s fully loaded. The adjustable nylon strap and compression snap make it easy to get the perfect fit.
Cushioned Back Pads – The breathable back pads keep things comfortable and cool, especially on those warmer days when you’re sweating it out on the court.
Smart, Functional Features
Hideaway Hanger Hook – A sturdy plastic hook is tucked into its own zippered pocket. It’s perfect for hanging the bag on a fence or locker hook and zips away neatly when you don’t need it.
Water Bottle Holder – The mesh, elastic-rimmed pocket easily fits water bottles of all sizes, so you’ll always have hydration close at hand.
Quick Carry Handle – The nylon handle makes it super easy to grab your bag out of the car or locker and sling it over your shoulder in seconds.
Easy-Grab Zippers – These self-repairing zippers are built to last and won’t jam easily. Plus, the poly cords attached to them make opening and closing the bag smooth and fumble-free.
Reflective Striping – Four reflective trim strips add extra visibility for those early morning or evening games. It’s a small detail, but a smart one—you can never be too safe, right?
Capacity and Storage—What Fits Inside?
Let’s talk space. This bag is comfortable to carry over either shoulder, and the strap adjusts to fit just about anyone. The 3/8” thick integrated pad on the back adds a layer of cushion between you and the bag’s contents.
- Main Compartment – Easily holds up to 4 paddles (I carry 3 paddles, an extra shirt, and a small towel). Franklin claims it fits 6 paddles, but unless you’re packing ultra-thin paddles, I’d say 4 is more realistic—and that’s still plenty of space.
- Large Outside Pocket – Great for 6 balls, a spare shirt, towel, hat, or even snacks. It’s roomy enough to stash all the extras you need for a day on the court.
- Fleece-Lined Pocket – This small zippered pocket near the bottom is perfect for phones, keys, and glasses. I use it for my phone and key fob, and the fleece lining keeps everything scratch-free and protected.
But What About Shoes?
No dedicated shoe compartment here, but honestly, that wasn’t a dealbreaker for me since I don’t usually bring an extra pair of shoes.
That said, I did test it—and my size 12 court shoes fit comfortably along with one paddle if I ever needed to bring them. So, if carrying shoes is a priority, it’s still an option.
Thoughtful Features That Deliver
The hanger hook deserves another mention. It’s large, sturdy, and has a curved design that makes hanging it on fences or locker hooks a breeze. Plus, it zips away neatly when not in use.
From its durability and smart design to its comfortable fit and spacious storage, this bag has just about everything I was looking for—and then some. Whether you’re heading to practice, tournaments, or just a casual game, it’s built to handle it all.
The Final Score
| Category | Rating (out of 5 balls) |
|---|---|
| Design/Build | 5 |
| Capacity | 5 |
| Functionality | 5 |
| Aesthetics | 5 |
| Price Point/Value | 5 |
| Overall | 5 |
At under $40, this bag is a total steal. As I mentioned earlier, Franklin really thought of everything—reflective strips, a stowed hanger hook, and a fleece-lined pocket for your phone or glasses. I’m confident its durability will match its smart design and Franklin’s solid reputation.
Unless you need extra space for clothes and shoes, this bag has everything you need for pickleball. And let’s not forget the color options—there’s something for everyone!
Official US Open Bag – Trusted by the pros.
Roomy Design – Fits 6 paddles, balls, and more.
Smart Storage – Pockets for keys, phone, and a fence hook.
Easy to Carry – Comfy, adjustable shoulder strap.
Pickle on my friends, pickle on…
