Why I Founded Third Shot UK

Pickleball has been growing fast in the UK. Courts are popping up in leisure centres, local parks, and private clubs, and conversations about pickleball versus tennis are becoming more common. I first came across the sport while looking for something new that combined competition, fitness, and community. After a few games, I was hooked.

Like most players, I started by borrowing pickleball paddles and learning the pickleball rules from friends. Soon I was searching for better equipment and clothing that felt professional but also reflected my style. What I found was limited. Most brands came from overseas, with little connection to the British sports culture I grew up with. That gap became the starting point for Third Shot UK.

Building Something Different

The idea behind Third Shot is simple: create sportswear and gear that feels premium, fits well, and is rooted in British identity. I wanted to offer more than just performance fabrics. The brand needed to reflect the pride and history of playing sport here in the UK—whether you’re stepping onto pickleball courts near me, the local golf course, or the gym.

We designed our first pieces to perform across different sports, not just pickleball. A polo that works on court and on the fairway. Hoodies that feel right for training or casual wear. Shoes and accessories designed to handle movement and comfort, whether you’re playing pickleball for beginners or competing in tournaments.

Why the Name “Third Shot”?

In pickleball, the third shot is one of the most important plays. It sets the pace, strategy, and flow of the rally. Get it right, and you stay in control. For me, the third shot represents more than a point on court—it symbolises confidence, preparation, and making your move. That’s exactly what this brand is about.

Looking Ahead

The sport is growing, with questions like will pickleball be an Olympic sport sparking debate. More players are asking whether pickleball shoes are different from tennis shoes, or how pickleball vs padel compares. These are signs of a community expanding, curious, and ready to define its own culture.

Third Shot UK is here to be part of that growth. We want to provide apparel and gear that athletes can rely on, and a brand identity they can be proud to represent. From pickleball courts near me to international competitions, the goal is the same: play hard, look sharp, and keep the rally alive.