Pickleball Investment Alert: In an important development for the pickleball fans, Thirty-5 Capital, LLC, a family office and private equity firm, has announced its first strategic investment in pickleball apparel through a partnership with Muev, a new fashion performance brand. This collaboration is more than just a business venture; it shows the growing popularity of pickleball and the expanding market for related products, particularly apparel designed for both performance and style.
Muev Investment in Pickleball Apparel
Thirty-5 Capital has been actively building its pickleball portfolio, which includes various investments aimed at enhancing the sport. The company is a majority owner of the Chicago Slice, a Major League Pickleball franchise, and has invested in leading paddle brands such as Paddletek, ProXR Pickleball, and Boundless Pickleball.
This recent partnership with Muev is a natural progression in their strategy, allowing them to diversify their holdings and tap into the profitable pickleball apparel market.
Ron Saslow, founder and managing partner of Thirty-5 Capital, shows the importance of this investment.
“Apparel has been on our radar ever since we began investing in the pickleball space, and Muev has both the design and operational chops we were looking for in an athletic wear partner.”
“As a veteran of the apparel industry and as a pickleball player himself, Chris has assembled a superlative design team as well as a formidable supply chain that we believe will establish Muev as a top brand in the sport. They know how to get players ‘Mueving’ comfortably and stylishly, whether they’re diving for a shot or grabbing a cup of coffee after a game.”-(Ron Saslow)
With this investment, Thirty-5 Capital aims to elevate the overall experience for players, making sure they have access to stylish and functional apparel that meets their needs on and off the court.
Muev: A New Player in the Market
Founded by Chris Rork, a seasoned apparel industry veteran with over 30 years of experience, Muev is poised to make a significant impact in the pickleball apparel sector. Rork has previously held leadership roles at prominent companies like Levi’s, Ralph Lauren, and Carter’s.
His wealth of experience in supply chain operations and manufacturing equips Muev with the resources to deliver high-quality products that resonate with pickleball enthusiasts.
Muev’s product line is designed for both men and women, offering thermoregulated apparel that enhances comfort during play.
The range includes shirts, socks, hoodies, dresses, skirts, and hats, all crafted by designers with backgrounds at renowned brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Lululemon. This commitment to quality and performance ensures that players can focus on their game while looking their best.
Elevating the Sport and Player Experience
The collaboration between Thirty-5 Capital and Muev signifies a major milestone not only for the companies involved but also for the pickleball industry as a whole. Rork expresses his shows about the partnership.
“This partnership represents a significant milestone for our company and the pickleball industry as a whole. With their support, we are well-positioned to offer pickleball apparel that leads in performance and style.”
“This investment from Thirty-5 Capital showcases our shared vision and underscores the immense potential of this collaboration.”-(Rork)
This collaboration aims to empower players and improve the sport’s appeal, ultimately driving global adoption.
As Muev prepares to launch as a direct-to-consumer brand, it has plans to enter the wholesale channel in 2025. This approach will allow them to reach a wider audience, making their innovative apparel accessible to more players. The investment from Thirty-5 Capital not only shows the potential of Muev but also supports the importance of quality apparel in promoting an active lifestyle and supporting the growing pickleball community.
News in Brief: Pickleball Investment Alert
The partnership between Thirty-5 Capital and Muev marks an exciting new chapter for pickleball apparel. As the sport continues to gain traction, investments like this will help shape its future and provide players with the resources they need to excel. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, having access to high-quality, stylish apparel can enhance your experience on the court. What are your thoughts on the growing pickleball apparel market? Share your experience in the comments.
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