The Meteoric Rise of Paddletek
Nanette and Curtis Smith at the US Open. Credit: Bruce Yeung, Instagram @yeungphotography
Paddletek has earned its reputation as a versatile, cutting-edge, reliable brand of pickleball paddle for all ages and abilities.
Now, with the announcement that Paddletek is combining forces with ProXR and Boundless to create United Pickleball Paddles, the sky’s the limit.
"Becoming part of United Pickleball Paddles significantly augments our efforts to expand globally," Paddletek President Curtis Smith said "Not only do they have a considerable amount of experience in manufacturing and logistics, but their help supporting our growth and innovation will ensure we remain at the forefront of the pickleball industry well into the future. My wife Nanette and I are thrilled to be part of this dynamic team."
World No. 1 and Paddletek athlete Anna Leigh Waters praised the move.
“I’m so excited that Paddletek is joining forces with UPP,” Waters said. “Paddletek has been making excellent paddles for me and my family for years, and I am eager to see them add the firepower to build on this tradition.”
We caught up with Curtis Smith.
How much has Paddletek grown since its inception? What changes are coming?
A lot. We do not divulge sales numbers, but let’s just say it’s been a crazy ride so far with no end in sight. Paddletek has recently merged with ProXR and Boundless to create a larger, more dynamic company. Our focus will remain on quality performance pickleball paddles while creating manufacturing jobs in the United States.
Our new merger has opened the door to many more possibilities and fresh ideas for new products. Stay tuned.
How did you get into the business?
In a nutshell, Cody Smith, my brother, developed the first polymer honeycomb paddle. I partnered with him 6 months later and away we went. That was 2011.
How's your game right now?
I am a better designer than player but try to play as much as I can. Mostly I play for fun with family and friends and leave the competitive play to Anna Leigh Waters and the rest of Team Paddletek.
World No. 1 and Paddletek player Anna Leigh Waters
What are some of the biggest things pickleball players should consider when choosing a new paddle?
This really depends on their skill level and why they play. If they are just playing for the social aspect of the game, or simply put, for fun, then thicker, control paddles may be the best option. If a player is playing competitively, then developing their game to include more power should be considered. A player that can control a power paddle has a distinct advantage over players who cannot. The new Bantam ALW-C, designed in conjunction with #1 rated Anna Leigh Waters, comes in a very powerful 12.7mm and a 14.3mm version for more controllable power.
What are some of the most interesting places pickleball has taken you?
I remember the days when major tournaments were played in venues like RV parks next to cotton fields. Those experiences were interesting and very genuine and I am fortunate to have been in the sport long enough to experience those events. During my first visit to Michael Lynne’s Tennis Shop I stopped to see the Mall of America. That was very interesting.
How long have you known Michael and Mimzy Lynne?
I had the good fortune to meet Michael and Mimzy during a business trip to Target headquarters. Michael Lynne’s was a reseller at the time and I just stopped in to say hello. I was blown away at their genuineness, their commitment to the sport, and their customer service. This was maybe 7 to 8 years ago. Since then they have always been good partners for Paddletek and great friends.
