Pickleball is more popular than ever, but sometimes it still seems like it’s the new kid on the block. Though the game was invented in 1965, it didn’t reach all 50 states until 1990, according to USA Pickleball. Heck, even USA Pickleball itself is relatively new. It began as the United States Pickleball Association in 2005 and rebranded as USA Pickleball in 2020. It will celebrate its 21st birthday (with a pickleback shot, we assume) in 2026.
In other words, pickleball is just getting started. There’s still a ton of opportunity for companies to innovate in every part of the pickleball space, from equipment to technology. Though it’s early April, some companies have already unveiled new items for 2024, with more expected as the year progresses.
We’ve broken down some of the ways pickleball companies are innovating in 2024, as well as five products from the first quarter of 2024 that are worth checking out.
How Pickleball Companies Continue to Innovate
The tale of pickleball’s invention is well-known among players: Bill Bell and Representative Joel Pritchard used some ping-pong paddles and a plastic ball to cure their boredom. They ended up inventing a game the entire family could enjoy. The rest, as they say, is history. Now, businesses are in the game and constantly finding new ways to help pickleball enthusiasts improve their game.
New Technology
Experienced pickleball players know that their paddle impacts their game in a big way. Now, there are more options for paddles than ever before and equipment companies are constantly rolling out new technology and features to entice players to purchase the latest and greatest paddle.
Some brands, like Selkirk, are developing new proprietary technology such as Raw QuadCarbon Fiber. Others are developing new materials for paddle cores. Many are also adding noise reduction technology to paddles and pickleballs.
And, of course, pickleball companies are also eyeing smart technology. Potenza Pickleball has already opened preorders for a smart paddle that can measure and track the speed of every shot and analyze your spin rate.
New Designs
Pickleball gear is functional but can also be a work of art. Pickleball companies are partnering with artists, influencers, and celebrities to design paddles, bags, and attire that speak to the collaborators’ audience. Whether these fans are already pickleball players or just discovering the game, these fashionable items are helping pickleball continue to grow.
New Connections
Pickleball is more than a game—it’s a community. Apps like PicklePlay are constantly introducing new features, like the ability to sync your DUPR rating to your profile to meet other players on your level.
If you want to meet other players in person, Triple Crown Sports will host the first pickleball convention in August in Kansas City. The event will include open play, panel discussions, and a glow-in-the-dark tournament, among other highlights.
5 Innovative Pickleball Products in 2024
Selkirk Vanguard Control Paddle
Selkirk released the latest paddle in its popular Vanguard series in February. The paddle features Selkirk’s proprietary Raw QuadCarbon Fiber technology, which allows for more control, and a X5+ Polypropylene Honeycomb Core that absorbs vibration. The paddle also has an octagonal grip design, which increases maneuverability and accuracy.
JOOLA BRITTO Tour Elite Pickleball Bag
Pickleball gear doesn’t have to be boring. Brazilian artist Romero Britto partnered with JOOLA to launch an exclusive collection of bold pickleball paddles, gear, and attire. Every piece is bright, daring, and sure to make you stand out on the court.
GAMMA RCF Airbender 16 Paddle
Looking for a pickleball paddle that you can customize? GAMMA has you covered. Its newest paddle includes several customization options, like Shockbuster inserts and end cap weights. The weights allow players to adapt the paddle’s balance to their specific needs. The Shockbuster inserts offer an extra benefit by minimizing the vibrations from the paddle, in addition to the added weight.
Potenza Pickleball SMARTx COREx4
This paddle isn’t on the market yet but is available for preorder. This smart paddle can track the speed of every shot, detect and analyze your spin rate, and measure how much power you generate on each swing. You’ll have all the data you need to improve your game.
GAMMA Chuck Outdoor Pickleballs
The GAMMA Chuck pickleball has 38 holes instead of 40 and is the only pickleball on the market that is completely symmetrical. It can withstand severe temperatures without warping. In 2024, it became the official ball for DUPR.
What Else Can We Expect In 2024?
Pickleball companies have already unveiled numerous innovative types of gear in 2024 – and we aren’t even halfway through the year. Which of these items do you plan to try this year?
