ShowNotes for Episode: The Business of Pickleball with Guest Garrett Cypher.

Title: "Stepping Up the Game with Cypher Pickleball Shoes - Insights from Founder Garrett Cypher."

Welcome to another episode of "The Business of Pickleball podcast!



Robert, David Feldman, and guest Garrett Cypher. discuss Cypher Pickleball, a pickleball shoe company founded by Garrett during COVID. He launched the KEY211 shoe successfully after overcoming many challenges. Online marketing is crucial to reach their tech-savvy demographic. They prioritize product perfection before expanding distribution. Retail diversification is key for success,. The brand values authentic promotion over influencer marketing. Plans for new eyewear are in the works. Garrett looks forward to continued growth and success in the industry.

Visit Cypher Pickleball | Men's & Women's Pickleball Shoes for more information.



Join hosts Robert Allen and David Feldman as they delve into a conversation filled with entrepreneurial spirit, innovation in sportswear, and the rise of pickleball.

This week's special guest is none other than Garrett Cypher., founder of Cypher Pickleball – a brand making waves in the world of pickleball footwear.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Introduction to Garrett and his journey into starting Cypher Pickleball during COVID-19.


2. Inspiration behind creating durable pickleball shoes after personal experiences with inadequate footwear.


3. The challenges faced by new brands like trademarking issues and finding product-market fit.


4. An inside look at how social media marketing has been pivotal for reaching an older demographic that's increasingly becoming tech-savvy.


5. The potential shift in ambassador programs influenced by TikTok Shop’s frictionless platform for influencers.


6. Strategies on achieving ideal product-market fit before scaling up, including gathering customer feedback on their first batch release.


7. Importance of having a solid foundation based on quality products prior to expansion efforts such as retail partnerships or wholesale distribution.


8. Insights into partnering with experienced industrial design consultants through platforms like Upwork to ensure top-notch product development.

Noteworthy Quotes:

• “Older players are shopping online…as long as you have transparent returns, reviews that hit right, free shipping – they're receptive.” - Garrett


• “TikTok is changing the ambassador game…it allows anyone to sign up, sell products directly without any back-and-forth communication.” - Garrett


• “Before we scale…we want our shoe foundation secure; we’re relentlessly pursuing ideal product market fit." -Garrett

Join us as we explore how an internet-first approach coupled with targeted advertising can revolutionize go-to-market strategies for sports startups like Cypher.

Stay tuned until the end where our hosts discuss future plans for retail environments within private clubs and franchises—a must-hear segment for those looking to diversify revenue streams beyond just court fees!

Don't forget to subscribe and leave your thoughts about today's insights from the front lines of pickleball business innovation!