When Nick Wunder first picked up a pickleball paddle in 2023, he had no idea it would spark a business. A lifelong tennis player from Maryland, Wunder quickly fell in love with the sport’s accessibility and social nature.
What he didn’t love, however, was the lack of apparel he actually wanted to wear. That frustration turned into Everdink — a lifestyle brand now supplying clubs and players with gear that celebrates pickleball while driving real business benefits for operators.
Apparel as Advertising
For Wunder, the value of a pro shop goes beyond profit margins. Selling branded shirts, hats and bags generates incremental revenue, but the bigger upside is marketing.
“When you see members wearing a shirt with your logo out in public, it sparks conversations,” said Wunder. “People ask, ‘Where do you play?’ or ‘How can I get involved?’ — and suddenly your members are promoting your facility without even trying. Apparel helps grow awareness and brings new people through the doors.”
With over 37 million players nationwide, pickleball now spans generations. Wunder cautions operators not to get stuck offering one style or color that only appeals to a narrow slice of members.
“Pickleball isn’t just for retirees anymore,” said Wunder. “It’s kids, college students, parents — everyone. Your retail needs to reflect that with fun, modern designs that resonate across age groups.”
That means staying attuned to trends. Wunder advises researching what colors and styles are popular before placing large orders to avoid being stuck with unsold product — something Everdink consults with its customers on.
In fact, consultation is a point of pride for Everdink. The company sets itself apart by acting as a partner rather than just a vendor. The company offers co-branded apparel, private labels and custom design work tailored to each facility.
“We’ll work with you to create an exclusive design that speaks directly to your community,” Wunder explained. “From shirt design to tagless custom labels with your club’s name, we handle the legwork so operators can focus on members.”
This hands-on approach gives facilities flexibility while ensuring the merchandise reflects their culture and brand identity.
Beyond the Pro Shop
Looking ahead, Wunder sees opportunity for operators to expand retail beyond the pro shop. Everdink itself is working on an online storefront model that facilities can implement, giving members a seamless way to shop outside of the club. Online stores, integrated with facility branding, allow members and fans to purchase gear anytime, anywhere.
“Most people prefer to buy online these days,” said Wunder. “Giving them that option not only adds convenience but also expands your reach far beyond your four walls.”
For pickleball business owners, retail is more than a sideline — it’s a tool for revenue, marketing, community-building and long-term growth. By offering well-designed apparel, partnering with vendors for customization and exploring online extensions, operators can turn their pro shop into a profit center that strengthens their brand and their community.
“Apparel connects players,” said Wunder. “It’s a conversation starter, a way to represent your facility and a chance to grow the game we all love.”
To learn more about Everdink and get 20% off your first order, click here.
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With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
