Heard that "pop, pop" sound on the courts lately?

If you've walked past a sports centre in Hong Kong on a weekend, or maybe some rooftop space above a mall, you've probably spotted a group of people swinging what look like oversized ping-pong paddles, hitting a plastic ball full of holes, with plenty of laughter coming from the sidelines. That's pickleball — a sport that more and more people around the world have picked up over the past few years, with fans ranging from Bill Gates to Leonardo DiCaprio. It's far easier to get into than tennis, yet involves more movement and strategy than table tennis. No wonder even city folk who don't usually bother with sport are willing to give it a go.

Here's where it came from, why Hong Kongers have taken to it so enthusiastically, and what to look for when picking your first paddle.

A ball with holes, and the DNA of three sports

Pickleball isn't some high-tech invention. Back in 1965, in Washington State, a few dads were looking for something to keep their kids busy over the summer holidays, so they grabbed some ping-pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball and started knocking it around on the badminton court in their backyard. That's how the whole thing started.

What makes it clever is the way it borrows the best bits of three different sports. The rules and footwork lean towards tennis, keeping that back-and-forth of baseline drives and net volleys. The court size is close to a badminton court, so a single standard tennis court can be split into three or four pickleball courts, with far less ground to cover. And the feel? A solid paddle gives you almost exactly the same feedback as a table tennis bat.

Why are Hong Kongers getting hooked?

Space is always tight in Hong Kong, and finding somewhere to play sport has never been easy — but pickleball almost seems tailor-made for this city.

The most practical point is the court. A pickleball court only needs about the same space as a badminton court, so community centres, sports halls, even certain industrial units can be converted with minimal fuss. No more waiting forever to book a slot, which is already half the battle won for most Hong Kongers.

Then there's how quick it is to learn. Tennis might take you months before you can hold a decent rally, but a pickleball beginner can be trading shots with friends after about thirty minutes. The plastic ball has drag built in, so it travels slowly and gives you enough time to react — meaning you won't walk off the court questioning your life choices after your first game.

It's also genuinely social. Pickleball is most often played as doubles, and because the court is small, the two of you stand close together. Between shots there's room to talk tactics or take the mickey out of your opponent, which naturally makes it a great excuse for a weekend catch-up or even meeting new people. Getting a workout and a good chat at the same time is a pretty good deal for busy Hong Kongers.

Choosing your first paddle: which two things matter?

Once you're properly into it, you'll want a paddle of your own. The mainstream options come down to two paddle-face materials, and they pull in almost opposite directions.

Fiberglass faces are springier and pack more power on impact — often called the "power" type. They're friendlier to beginners and anyone without much arm strength, since you don't need to swing hard to send the ball deep.

Carbon fiber faces are light but stiff, and the surface usually has a fine texture that "grips" the ball, giving you far better control and spin. That's why they're the go-to for more advanced players.

Put simply: if you want power and a satisfying thwack, go fiberglass; if you want precision and the ability to work in some spin, go carbon fiber.

A paddle that's truly yours — or your whole team's

If you're ready to get on court — whether you just want to work up a sweat with family and friends on weekends, or you're sorting out a bulk order for a club or company — BESTGIFT can custom-make pickleball paddles for you.

We've got beginner-friendly fiberglass models and pro-grade carbon fiber ones, and more importantly, full customisation — company logos, your own name, or whatever design you fancy, all printed on. We've worked with plenty of large companies, so quality and lead times are covered. The goal is simple: every swing should feel like yours.

Phone: (+852) 9568 4618

Email: hello@bestgift.com.hk

Website: https://bestgift.com.hk/

Address: Flat B, 15/F, Houston Industrial Building, 32-40 Wang Lung Street, Tsuen Wan, N.T., Hong Kong