sportstyle

S kechers is serious about pickleball. We spoke with Ben Stewart, VP of Product Development and Merchandising, Skechers Performance, to learn about the brand's pickleball footwear and more. Sportstyle: Tell us about the "Speed, Control, and Versatility" categories of pickleball footwear from Skechers—and what type of player each category targets? Ben Stewart: At Skechers, we've designed our pickleball footwear to cater to the diverse needs of players by introducing three distinct categories: Speed, Control, and Versatility. Each category is tailored to specific playing styles and preferences, ensuring that every athlete finds the perfect fit for their game. With these categories, Skechers ensures that every pickleball player, from the competitive athlete to the casual enthusiast, has the right footwear to elevate their game and enjoy the sport to the fullest. The Speed Category is crafted for quicker players who compete at higher levels and demand agility and performance on the court. Our pickleball pros, Tyson McGuffin and Catherine Parenteau, rely on the Skechers Viper Court Pro 2.0, a standout in this category, to support their elite-level play. The Control Category is designed for athletes who prioritize stability and durability. They're the ideal shoe for those who play pickleball consistently, whether recreationally or competitively. Styles like the Viper Court Reload and Viper Court Elite offer the comfort, support, and resilience needed for regular play. The Versatility Category is perfect for more casual players as each style is all about blending functionality with style. Shoes like the Viper Court Luxe are great for leisurely matches with friends and seamlessly transition from the court to social outings. What are elite pickleball players looking for in their pickleball shoes? What's most important to more casual/recreational players? Elite pickleball players demand footwear that can keep up with the rigorous demands of their sport. They look for shoes that are lightweight, durable, and supportive, as tournaments often span an entire week, requiring them to be on their feet for extended periods, both during matches and in training sessions. Skechers pickleball shoes are designed with these needs in mind, featuring our dynamic Arch Fit removable insoles technology for exceptional support and Goodyear Rubber Outsoles for durability and traction. These technologies ensure that high-level athletes can perform at their best while staying comfortable throughout long days of competition. For more casual or recreational players, comfort remains a top priority, but they also value reliability, longevity, and versatility. They want shoes that not only perform well on the court but also transition seamlessly to off-court activities. Skechers' Versatility category pickleball shoes, such as the Viper Court Luxe, combine comfort with style, offering a reliable option that meets the needs of players who may not change their shoes as frequently but still expect durability and performance. How have you seen the pickleball category and the pickleball consumer evolve over the past 3-5 years? Where do you see the category headed in the next 3-5 years? Over the past 3-5 years, the pickleball category has experienced remarkable growth, both in participation and cultural significance. We've seen a surge in the number of people taking up the sport, driven by its accessibility and appeal as a A PERFECT FIT Q&A with Ben Stewart, VP of Product Development and Merchandising, Skechers Performance. Catherine Parenteau and Tyson McGuffin PICKLEBALL

• Cover