Kyle Goguen is co-founder of CRBN Pickleball, specializing in performance paddles & gear. He’s a seasoned entrepreneur based in California.
As the co-founder of CRBN Pickleball, I’ve had the unique experience of watching pickleball grow at an astonishing rate. In 2023, the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) reported that 48.3 million people in the U.S. played the sport, making it the fastest-growing sport in the country for the past three years. So, what’s fueling this massive surge, and why is pickleball so distinct from a business standpoint? Let’s dive in.
Accessibility: A Sport for Everyone
One of the key reasons behind pickleball’s popularity is its accessibility. The rules are simple, the court is smaller than a tennis court, and it’s easy to pick up, which makes it appealing to people of all ages and athletic backgrounds. You can actually fit four pickleball courts into the space of one tennis court, allowing for more games in limited areas. A unique aspect of pickleball is how it allows couples of all genders and athletic abilities to play together. In many sports, it’s uncommon for couples to share a hobby, but pickleball makes it easy for everyone to compete on an equal footing.
From a business perspective, this accessibility means that the sport draws a wide variety of players, from beginners to seasoned athletes. This creates a diverse customer base for companies offering equipment, apparel, and accessories tailored to different levels of play.
Building Community Through Social Play
Pickleball isn’t just about the game—it’s about the experience. The smaller court and frequent doubles format foster a social environment where players engage with one another, often leading to new friendships and a sense of community. It’s not just competition; it’s a shared social activity.
For businesses, this social aspect presents a unique opportunity. Hosting events, sponsoring local tournaments, and creating engaging content are all ways to foster brand loyalty. At CRBN, we’ve found that connecting with the pickleball community has been instrumental in growing our brand, whether through social media engagement, collaborations, or live events.
Low Barrier to Entry: Affordable and Accessible
Another driver behind pickleball’s growth is the low barrier to entry. You don’t need expensive gear or access to a fancy facility to get started. There are now over 13,969 pickleball courts across the U.S., making it easier than ever for players to find a place to play.
The pickleball paddle market alone was valued at $152.8 million in 2021 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7% through 2028. As more players become serious about the sport, the demand for better equipment rises. Businesses like ours at CRBN are meeting this demand by offering paddles that are not only durable but designed to enhance performance.
Pickleball as a Serious Competitive Sport
While pickleball has a laid-back, social side, it’s also emerging as a serious competitive sport. With more professional tournaments, prize money, and televised matches, the sport is gaining legitimacy. Organizations like the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Association of Pickleball Players (APP) are playing major roles in bringing the sport to a wider audience.
For businesses, this growth in competitive play translates to increasing demand for high-performance gear. As more casual players transition to competitive play, they look for equipment that delivers precision, power, and control. This shift drives innovation, pushing companies like CRBN to develop cutting-edge products designed for top-tier athletes.
Health and Wellness: A Growing Trend
Pickleball’s rise is also connected to broader trends in health and wellness. Many people are looking for enjoyable ways to stay active, and pickleball fits that need perfectly. The sport provides a great workout without the intense physical demands of sports like tennis or basketball, making it an ideal choice for staying fit while having fun.
For businesses, this presents an opportunity to position pickleball products within the broader health and wellness market. Brands that highlight the fitness benefits of pickleball while offering products designed to enhance the experience are well-placed for success.
The Future of Pickleball
Pickleball’s participation has grown an incredible 223.5% over the last three years, and the future looks bright. The sport is evolving rapidly, and businesses have countless opportunities, from creating innovative gear to sponsoring major events and building communities around the sport.
At CRBN, we’re proud to be part of this movement. Pickleball is more than just a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon that’s changing the way people stay active, socialize, and compete. For businesses in the space, the opportunities are endless, and we’re just beginning to scratch the surface of what’s possible.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that pickleball is no passing trend. With millions of players, thousands of courts, and a thriving market for paddles and gear, the sport is here to stay. For those of us in the industry, the future is full of exciting possibilities.