sportstyle

34 • July/August 2024 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com S kechers VP of Product Development and Merchandising, Greg Smith, is the brand's pulse when it comes to pickleball. He's seeing people try it – and stick with it. "Pickleball is a super social game that anyone can play whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned pro, and that's likely why it's gained so much popularity," he explained. Skechers aims for its pickleball shoe offerings to be such that "new and experienced players alike can enjoy the brand's 'Comfort at Performs' and play at their best on the court." We asked Smith what else Skechers is doing to court the pickleball consumer. Sportstyle: For a beginner who wants to give pickleball a spin, what skills, apparel, footwear and gear is required? Greg Smith: "Pickleball is super fun, easy to pick up, and you don't need a lot of gear to play. While you don't need much to get started, having the right stuff can really level up your game. Skechers offers com- fortable and innovative footwear, apparel and accessories that players at all skill levels will appreciate. For example, our pickle- ball-specific footwear utilizes non-marking Goodyear rubber for enhanced traction and stability. Our athletic apparel combines style with function for players to wear on and off the court." What are you offering for more established players? "Skechers Viper Court Pro is built for elite- level players. Skechers pro pickleball athletes Catherine Parenteau and Tyson McGuffin both compete in the Viper Court Pro and will continue to wear this style through the remainder of the year. Another key style for the more advanced athlete is the Viper Court Elite, which features Skechers Hands Free Slip-Ins technology that is convenient and locks the player's foot into place, offering additional stability and comfort during play." What are the features required in a good pickleball shoe and how does it compare to a tennis shoe? "Comfort, stability and lightweight support are essential components in a pickleball shoe – all of which are major selling points in Skechers Pickleball footwear. Skechers challenges conventional court shoes that tend to take on bulkier and super protective de- signs. With our range of pickleball footwear, consumers get to experience lightweight and comfortable shoes that perform well on the pickleball court." SKECHERS SCORES WITH PICKLEBALL FOOTWEAR Pickleball has exploded as an activity that almost anyone can play. Its broad appeal makes it a winner for footwear brands like Skechers. By Suzanne Blecher PICKLEBALL / BRAND Q&A

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