What’s the Score?
With the US pickleball population swelling to nearly 20 million, the holiday shopping season has become a critical time for gear manufacturers. To help shoppers navigate the saturated market, The Kitchen has released its 2025 Holiday Gift Guide. The list curates top-tier recommendations for paddles, shoes, and training aids, highlighting products like the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV and the DAPS Desi Low shoes as must-haves for the dedicated player.
Hit it deeper!
The guide is categorised by player needs, with a heavy focus on paddle technology. For advanced players, the JOOLA Perseus Pro IV ($279.95) is the headline recommendation, praised for its high-density foam construction that enhances dwell time. For spin enthusiasts, the RPM Friction Pro ($249.99), designed by pro James Ignatowich, takes the top spot. However, the guide also acknowledges the budget-conscious consumer, recommending the Friday Fever 101 ($99) as a high-performing “Gen 3” paddle that doesn’t break the bank.
Footwear gets special attention with the endorsement of DAPS Desi Low shoes ($159.99). The guide cites lab data suggesting these shoes offer faster starts and stops compared to major competitors, making them a performance-enhancing gift. For those looking to turn their driveway into a training centre, the ERNE ball machine and its smaller counterpart, the Dink + Drop Pro, are listed as the ultimate luxury gifts for skill development.
The World Pickleball Verdict
This gift guide reflects the rapid specialisation of the pickleball market. A few years ago, a paddle was just a paddle; now, consumers are choosing between specific foam densities, spin rates, and swing weights.
The inclusion of high-tech training aids like ball machines and data-backed footwear demonstrates that the “recreational” player is becoming increasingly professional in their approach to gear. The market is maturing, and the price points for top-tier equipment—pushing $280 for a paddle—show that players are willing to pay a premium for perceived performance edges.
Chris Beaumont
Founder and Editor-in-ChiefChris Beaumont is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of World Pickleball Magazine. Chris follows the global game closely, reporting on the latest news, developments, stories and tournaments from all five continents. He also hosts the World Pickleball Podcast, interviewing people at…
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