Pickleball’s 2025 Boom: Top Men's Sportswear for Crushing the Court

Following our recent exploration of 2025’s top fitness trends, we’re diving deeper into pickleball—the sport that’s taking courts by storm. One of the fastest-growing activity, pickleball is a social, accessible, and exhilarating way to stay fit, and it’s no surprise it’s surging in popularity. In this follow-up, we’ll break down what pickleball is, share key facts, highlight what to look for in men’s pickleball apparel, and present our garment choices for this sport.

Pickleball 101: A Quick Rundown

Pickleball is a paddle sport blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, played on a 20x44-foot court with a net and a perforated plastic ball. Invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, it’s easy to learn, low-impact, and ideal for all ages, making it a hit for casual and competitive players alike. You use solid paddles to hit the ball over the net, aiming to outsmart opponents with strategic shots like dinks or smashes. Its small court and social vibe—especially in doubles—makes it a community favourite, with players chatting and laughing between rallies.

Pickleball Facts: Why It’s Booming in 2025

Pickleball’s meteoric rise isn’t just hype—it’s backed by numbers and trends that show its staying power. Here’s the scoop on why everyone’s picking up a paddle:

• Massive Growth: Pickleball is already the fastest growing sport in the US for the fourth year running. In the UK the sport has seen a 65% increase in membership in 2024, continuing its remarkable rise in popularity.

• Diverse Players: The average player age is 34.8, with 2.3 million aged 25-34, but 33% of core players are over 65, proving its appeal across generations. Men make up 60.5% of players.

• Global Spread: It is played by 40 million players in over 70 countries, with the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK leading the way.

• UK Scene: Approximately 35,000 people currently play pickleball in the UK. With continued growth, the country's pickleball market is projected to exceed £100 million in value by the decade's end.

• Health Benefits: Pickleball boosts cardiovascular health, coordination, and mental wellness, with a 2024 study noting improved balance and reduced stress for players.

These stats show pickleball’s not a fad—it’s a lifestyle, blending fitness, fun, and community in a way few sports can match.

What to Look for in Men’s Pickleball Apparel

Pickleball’s quick lateral movements, sweaty rallies, and social scene demand apparel that performs and looks good. Men’s pickleball clothing needs to balance function, comfort, and style to keep players focused and confident. Here’s what to prioritise:

Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics: Pickleball gets intense, especially in warm weather. Moisture-wicking materials like polyester or nylon blends pull sweat away, while mesh panels ensure airflow to keep you cool during long matches.

Flexibility and Durability: The sport’s side-to-side sprints and pivots require stretchy fabrics with four-way stretch. Reinforced stitching prevents tears, especially in shorts or tops enduring constant motion.

Secure, Functional Design: Deep pockets in shorts are a must for holding extra balls without bouncing out. Grippy waistbands prevent slipping, and flat seams reduce chafing during extended play.

Court-Ready Style: Pickleball’s social vibe calls for sharp, modern designs. Bold colours or clean, tailored fits stand out, aligning with the sport’s trendy, community-driven culture.

Sustainability and Ethics: With 73% of activewear buyers valuing eco-friendly brands (Nielsen, 2025), players seek gear made sustainably, with recycled materials and ethical production, to match their values.

UV Protection and Versatility: Outdoor courts dominate, so UPF 50+ fabrics shield against sun damage. Apparel that transitions from court to casual hangouts is a bonus for pickleball’s laid-back ethos.

Comfort and fit are dealbreakers—ill-fitting gear or chafing seams can ruin a session. The right apparel enhances performance, letting you focus on nailing that perfect dink.

Why Stoiqs is the Best Choice for Men’s Pickleball Sportswear

For pickleball players, Stoiqs stands out as the ultimate sportswear choice, crafted with precision in London, UK, to meet the sport’s unique demands. Our commitment to local manufacturing, sustainability, and ethical practices—paired with technical excellence—makes us the go-to for players dominating the court. Here's our top picks:

1. Iron Will T-Shirt: Our classic fit T-Shirt, crafted from a moisture-wicking, ultra-light premium fabric that keeps you cool and dry. Its form-fitting design fits athletes like a second skin, offering unrestricted mobility for pickleball's high-intensity demands. With a soft, breathable texture, this T-Shirt is your go-to for performance and comfort.
2. Iron Will Shorts: The 7" Iron Will Relaxed Fit Shorts redefine comfort and performance for pickleball. Crafted from sustainable, moisture-wicking ECONYL, these shorts keep you cool and dry during intense rallies. Designed for maximum mobility, they feature a deep pockets for secure ball storage and a smooth, lightweight feel to ensure distraction-free focus at peak performance.
3. True Grit Shorts: Our 9" fit,  crafted from lightweight, state-of-the-art moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you cool and comfortable. The streamlined classic fit offers optimal mobility and breathability, with deep pockets for secure ball storage. Designed for all athletes, these shorts provide a smooth, dry feel to enhance your focus on the court. All our garments are UPF 50+ protection to keep you safe from harmful UV rays.

Smash Your Next Pickleball Match with Stoiqs

Pickleball’s explosive growth in 2025 shows no signs of slowing, and with its blend of fitness, fun, and community, it’s easy to see why. To play your best, you need apparel that matches the sport’s intensity and vibe. Stoiqs delivers with men’s sportswear that’s locally crafted, sustainable, and packed with technical features—perfect for acing every shot.

Ready to rule the court? Explore Stoiqs’ latest collections and gear up for your next match with style and purpose.