ProLite Pickleball Paddles
Back in 1984, ProLite made waves in the pickleball world by introducing a game-changing innovation: the very first composite pickleball paddle. This breakthrough shifted the trajectory of the sport, marking the start of a new era. Prior to this, pickleball paddles were little more than heavy wooden paddles, adapted from table tennis. But ProLite, under the vision of founder Arlen Paranto, a Boeing industrial engineer, reimagined what paddles could be. Spotting the lightweight, durable panels Boeing used in aircraft construction, Arlen saw an opportunity. He purchased some surplus panels from Boeing's Kent, Washington store, transforming them into paddles that forever changed the sport.
Fast forward 30 years, and ProLite remains a powerhouse in the pickleball industry, continuously pushing the envelope with cutting-edge paddle designs. Today’s paddles, made from high-tech materials like graphite and fiberglass, owe much of their existence to that original idea born in the aerospace world. ProLite's commitment to excellence has kept them at the forefront of innovation, and their paddles are now synonymous with quality, performance, and durability.
Under the leadership of Neil Friedenberg, the family-run company has stayed true to its roots, creating paddles that cater to all playing styles and levels. Elite players trust ProLite paddles for their exceptional blend of touch and power, and it’s no surprise to see ProLite in the hands of numerous tournament champions. With their focus on performance and craftsmanship, ProLite continues to stand out as a trusted name in pickleball.