The Rise of Stylish Pickleball Gear: Five Entrepreneurs Making Waves in the Sport
Pickleball’s Rise Sparks Entrepreneurial Spirit: Five Brands Redefining Gear
By [Your Name]
Published May 07, 2025
In the past five years, pickleball has transformed from a niche pastime into a nationwide phenomenon, with participation skyrocketing by an astonishing 223.5% since 2022. This surge, fueled by the pandemic’s push for social yet distanced activities, has opened the door for innovative entrepreneurs eager to capitalize on the sport’s growing popularity. Here are five standout brands that are not only providing gear but also infusing style and personality into the game.
LUXE: Where Performance Meets Aesthetic
Kiana Lake, a passionate pickleball player, launched LUXE in 2022, aiming to create paddles that blend high performance with a feminine touch. Collaborating with her brother Colby Stoker and his wife Rylee, the trio designed paddles that cater to all skill levels—Leisure, Ace, and Luxury—each with vibrant and playful designs. “Instead of sending PR packages to influencers, we prefer to support our customers directly,” Lake explains, emphasizing their community-driven approach.
Recess: Nostalgia Meets Modern Design
Childhood friends Grace Moore and Maggie Brown founded Recess in 2021 after discovering a lack of stylish gear that matched their vibe. Drawing inspiration from their playground days, they created custom paddles that reflect personal interests and current trends. Their Austin-based company also offers athletic sets and branded clothing, with a unique "design your own" option that allows customers to express their individuality.
Helios: The Tech-Savvy Brand
Ivy Sun, a former data scientist, turned her love for pickleball into a thriving business with Helios, launched in 2023. Named after the Greek sun god, Helios aims to produce premium paddles through collaborations with industry experts. The brand is making waves with innovative designs, including a high-tech paddle featuring an integrated chip for easy contact sharing. Sun’s partnership with Equinox further solidifies her commitment to the sport and community.
Tangerine Paddle: Fun and Functional
Taylor and Carly Llewellyn started Tangerine Paddle to capture the joyful essence of pickleball. Their stylish bags and paddles, inspired by beloved travel destinations, have resonated with players looking for both functionality and flair. The Llewellyns have expanded their offerings through partnerships with brands like Rothy’s and Criquet, and even created custom paddles for luxury hotels.
Bread & Butter Pickleball Co.: A Family Affair
After a career in the Marines and street fighting, Doug Sapusek found solace in pickleball, leading to the creation of Bread & Butter Pickleball Co. in Vero Beach, Florida. With a humorous branding approach, the company offers paddles named The Filth, The Fat Boy, and The Shogun, each designed for different play styles. Doug’s children, Aurora and Devin, have joined the family business, helping streamline operations while he focuses on paddle design and community engagement.
Conclusion
As pickleball continues to capture the hearts of players across the United States, these five entrepreneurs exemplify how passion and creativity can lead to thriving businesses. Their innovative gear not only enhances the game but also reflects the vibrant culture surrounding this rapidly growing sport. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, there’s no shortage of stylish options to elevate your pickleball experience.
