Pickleball courts have slowly but surely taken over every inch of the outdoors from backyards to community spaces. According to Google Trends, queries related to and including the term "pickleball" have increased nearly 5,000% in the past year. It's a hobby that everyone young and old has come to enjoy and doesn't seem to be going anywhere anytime soon — especially now that the warm weather has arrived.
Do you have an avid pickleball player in your life? Or do you want to play, but are unsure of how to start? Stephanie Mehmen, general manager of Pickle Palace — a combination restaurant and entertainment center with pickleball courts located inside — gave tips and advice on the best gear for every pickleball player, no matter your skill level.
From basic paddles to custom duffels, these picks are sure to help them (or you!) perfect their game.
Meet the experts
- Sara Brady and Ashley Cornil are co-founders of Le Pickle Club, a pickleball-inspired athleisure brand that aims to create products that can be worn both on and off the court.
- Stephanie Mehmen is the general manager of Pickle Palace, an indoor/outdoor restaurant with recreational pickleball courts in downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa.