Senior Pickleball Report
Q&A with Keith Shelton, Skechers’ Senior Director of Product Development
USA Pickleball recently sat down with Keith Shelton, Senior Director of Product Development at Skechers, to talk all things footwear! Take a look at the Q&A below to learn more about the Skechers Viper Court Pro sneaker and what sets it apart from other products on the market:
Q: Can you talk about the different types of Skechers Viper Court Pro footwear, what sets it apart, and why it is best for playing on pickleball courts?
A: I wouldn’t say there’s necessarily one shoe that is best for every player on the court. The Viper Court Pro is for a more aggressive mover on the court. It’s a much lighter shoe for that player looking at footwear as an extension of their equipment. We created it for higher level players who want to feel and be faster on the court.
However, we also offer footwear and products intended for more beginner level and senior age players that may need more sure footing on the court and more support. We’ve also been designing shoes for players who need more stability and a higher level of durability.
Q: What are some of the main differences between Skechers performance footwear vs. lifestyle sneakers?
A: I think the biggest difference is the emphasis on safety for players. People who are new to the sport of pickleball might not understand why a court shoe is so important compared to a running shoe or lifestyle shoe. Some of the other differences are increased traction and durability. Additionally, you’re going to need a higher level of lateral stability, which is really important for pickleball. You’re on your toes often during pickleball and moving left and right, also forward and back. We’ve really focused on making sure that the foot’s not sliding or moving around inside of the shoe. A lot of these performance features you just don’t find in the traditional lifestyle sneaker.
Skechers athlete and professional pickleball player, Tyson McGuffin
Q: Are there specific materials utilized in Skechers pickleball shoes that offer durability and proper foot support while playing?
A: Since Skechers doesn’t have a tennis heritage like most brands in this space, it allows us to take a fresh approach to pickleball footwear. Being that Skechers is The Comfort Technology Company, we felt there was an opportunity to look at the sport of pickleball through a performance comfort lens, mixing our world-famous comfort features with our industry-leading performance innovations. It’s proved to be a winning formula. We pride ourselves on really providing a great amount of value at every price point throughout the footwear line.
Q: Can you describe the extent of Skechers athletes, Catherine Parenteau and Tyson McGuffin’s involvement in the design process of Skechers pickleball shoes?
A: When we work with Catherine and Tyson, it’s a very high level of engagement. We prioritize listening to the athlete, thus gaining valuable feedback from them about our product by regularly having them test out the shoes. Catherine and Tyson provide critical feedback, that allows us to produce the best footwear out in the marketplace for our customers.
When we’re working with amateur level players, we understand they are spending their hard-earned money on pickleball shoes and really want to make sure that the product they’re investing in lives up to their needs. Having a nice mix of feedback from athletes of all types of skill sets, rankings and ratings has been critical in helping us make the best product we can.
Skechers athlete and professional pickleball player, Catherine Parenteau
Q: When it comes to Skechers pickleball footwear, what do you hope to achieve as a result of partnering with USA Pickleball?
A: Through our multi-year partnership with USA Pickleball, we really want to focus on the advancement of the sport. Our work with the national governing body of pickleball allows us to get involved in promoting the game and making pickleball more accessible. The interests that USA Pickleball have are the same interests that we have with Skechers, so the relationship works out really nicely. In addition to the tours and some of the bigger tournaments we sponsor, all of that is part of our goal to help show our commitment to the continued growth of the sport.
Q: What are some of the key pieces of information that you’d like pickleball fans and lovers to know about pickleball footwear?
A: When talking about top priorities in picking a shoe for a pickleball player, what’s most important is safety. We want to make sure we get the message out, that pickleball shoes actually exist. Additionally, we want to really make sure customers understand why it’s important to have that lateral support, stability, and traction. Proper footwear is essential to really enjoy the game.
Skechers’ Viper Court Pro sneaker
Skechers is a partner of USA Pickleball. Learn more here. Find more information on Skechers pickleball shoes and products on the Skechers website.
ONTARIO, Canada, April 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Pickleball Kingdom, the largest indoor pickleball franchise in the world continues its massive global expansion by coming to Canada. The United States based company confirmed its commitment to opening clubs in Canada, starting immediately with multiple clubs in Ontario.
Founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom, Ace Rodrigues, stated, “Canada gave us hockey and what a blessing that’s been. We’re excited to return the favor and export the fastest growing sport in the world, pickleball, to our neighbors in the north.”
Currently, Pickleball Kingdom has 140+ clubs built or being built out in the United States. Additionally, early this week, the company announced its agreement with Franchise India Group to open clubs in Dubai, India, and Abu Dhabi, with the rest of the UAE to follow.
The Pickleball Kingdom experience extends beyond just courts. Members and visitors can participate in a variety of activities, including lessons, leagues, tournaments, and open play sessions. On-site refreshments fuel friendly competition, while a dedicated mobile app allows for easy court reservations and even captures video highlights for players to relive their favorite on-court moments.
COO of Pickleball Kingdom, Rob Streett, added, “Canada is such a beautiful country, but its weather is not ideal to play pickleball outdoors. We’re looking forward to offering Canadians a chance to learn and play the fastest growing sport in the world all year round. Especially with their families.”
Pickleball Kingdom is now accepting inquiries from interested parties to get involved with the movement. They are seeking seasoned businesspeople who value the advantage that comes with being a first market mover. Those who desire to have a conversation with Pickleball Kingdom should submit their request through their website: www.pickleballkingdom.com/franchise.
Pickleball has seen a growth rate of over 224% over the last three years, resulting in an estimated 36.5M pickleball players in the United States alone. And remarkably, 45% of them say they plan on playing more pickleball over the next year, according to YouGov.
David Haynie, CPO of Pickleball Kingdom, commented, “Universally, the biggest complaint against pickleball is that there aren’t enough courts to meet the demand to play. Once our clubs are built throughout Canada, we will not only meet the existing needs but create an introductory path into this great sport for people who don’t currently play.”
CEO Ace Rodrigues concluded, “We’ve had people from Canada visit Pickleball Kingdom ever since we’ve opened. And we have more than a few ‘snowbirds’ as members who are Canadian residents. This overwhelming demand expedited the decision to open up the country. Soon there will be Pickleball Kingdoms all over Canada!”
SOURCE Pickleball Kingdom
pickleball and sports exclusive
PickleRage Expands Reach, Bringing the Thrill of Indoor Pickleball to Jacksonville
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. /PRNewswire/ — PickleRage, a premier indoor pickleball club franchisor, announced its plans to open another corporate-operated club location in Jacksonville, Florida. The 30,209-square-foot club will give the community access to a state-of-the-art indoor facility where they can play pickleball year-round. PickleRage’s expansion into Jacksonville signifies another milestone in its ongoing mission to bring the joy of playing the game of pickleball to communities nationwide.
Located at Avenues Walk near I-95, I-295, and Philips Highway, PickleRage at Avenues Walk is set to redefine the local pickleball scene with its cutting-edge smart courts and premium amenities. With its plan to feature 9 joint-friendly CushionX courts, superior visibility and lighting, and perfect year-round temperature and humidity, the club promises unparalleled playing conditions for pickleball players of all ages and skill levels.
“We’re thrilled to expand our footprint in Jacksonville and introduce PickleRage to this vibrant community,” said Chris Daiss, vp of real estate and construction. “With our advanced facilities and commitment to excellence, we aim to become the go-to destination for pickleball enthusiasts of all levels.”
More than just a pickleball club, PickleRage at Avenues Walk aims to foster a lively community hub. The club will give players of all skill levels the opportunity to connect while improving their gameplay through lessons, tournaments, and leagues. Alongside its top-tier programming, PickleRage at Avenues Walk will feature a court-side lounge where players can unwind and socialize post-game.
Strategically situated alongside prominent retailers including Walmart, Dollar Tree, and Haverty’s at Philips Highway & Southside Blvd, the club benefits from high visibility and accessibility. It is adjacent to the 372-unit Bainbridge Avenues Walk multifamily project and lies in close proximity to the Avenues Mall.
PickleRage is one of America’s fastest growing indoor pickleball franchisors that gives novice & advanced players alike a place to play and connect. With world-class social, tournament, and instructional programing, you can see why pickleball players across the US are calling PickleRage clubs “Pickle-rageous!” With more than 500 locations planned over the next 5 years, PickleRage is set to take the pickleball-world by storm. For more information, visit: www.picklerage.com.
SOURCE PickleRage
pickleball and sports exclusive
Boston Pickle Club Opens First Facility in Hyde Park
Local residents gain access to a new category of pickleball facility centered on inclusiveness and community
BOSTON /PRNewswire/ — The city of Boston welcomes a game-changing addition to its sports and recreation landscape with the grand opening of indoor pickleball facility, Boston Pickle Club. As pickleball surges in popularity, the state-of-the-art facility will cater to the growing demand in the Greater Boston area.
Located at 91 Sprague St in Hyde Park, the 20,000 square foot facility boasts cutting-edge amenities for players including seven indoor courts, state-of-the-art lighting and premium court surfaces. Co-founded by esteemed platform tennis professionals Johan du Randt and Stephen Mitchell, and entrepreneur Steven Hauck, the trio brought Boston Pickle Club to life with the goal of creating an inclusive environment that is the ultimate destination for pickleball aficionados.
“We are thrilled to announce the opening of our inaugural indoor pickleball facility in Boston,” said Steven Hauck. “Pickleball is a sport that brings people together and fosters a sense of community. With the Boston Pickle Club, we introduce a new category: a membership-based club with diverse programming for all levels and ages and the best pros in the region.”
The facility opened its doors at the end of February and the activity is growing daily. There will be a ribbon cutting event held on Saturday, April 27 at 5 p.m. ET. The event will feature local Boston and Hyde Park officials and will be followed by a professional exhibition, where attendees can enjoy impressive matches with top-ranked professional players in Boston. Sponsors Skechers and Joola will be in attendance and all proceeds from the sale of Boston Pickle Club merchandise will be donated to Good Sports, a Massachusetts nonprofit that drives equitable access to youth sports and healthy physical activity.
Whether you’re a seasoned player looking for competitive play or a beginner looking to make friends and get a sweat, there is programming for you at the Boston Pickle Club.
Players enjoy:
- Two membership tiers for individuals and families featuring benefits that include advanced court booking, league play, club championships, contract court time and members only events.
- Private lessons with top professionals.
- Level-based DUPR Open Play.
- After-school junior classes for age groups ranging from 5-14+.
- Clinics for varying experience levels designed to develop your skills.
- League play for those eager to take on some serious competition.
- Additional programming includes round robins, tournaments, camps, special events and more!
For more information about Boston Pickle Club and its opening, visit www.bostonpickleclub.com.
About Boston Pickle Club:
Boston Pickle Club is the premier indoor pickleball facility in Boston, located at 91 Sprague Street in Hyde Park. Outfitted with seven premium indoor courts featuring state of the art lighting and court surfaces, we provide our members an unrivaled pickleball environment. Open daily from 6 AM – 10 PM ET. Learn more at www.bostonpickleclub.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
SOURCE Boston Pickle Club
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