GOAT Paddle Innovates Next Gen: In Estero, Florida, Zach Higginson and Ryan Reader, founders of G.O.A.T. Paddle, have brought their passion for pickleball to life through innovative equipment tailored for the sport’s evolving elite.
Founders’ Journey
Their journey began at East Naples Community Park, where they logged over 30,000 hours of teaching and coaching before launching Paradise PB, their community-focused coaching business, and introducing their signature paddles.
“Ever since we’ve known each other, we’ve been talking about paddles and technology—finding the best paddle that’s going to help us hit better shots,” Zach explains. “We were consulting at different paddle companies, and at some point, we were like, Let’s just do this on our own.”
Ryan, a former Minto US OPEN Pickleball Champion, brings 15 years of playing experience and is a prominent figure among Southwest Florida’s pickleball community. His perspective on the sport’s development is clear: “It’s so cool to see the athleticism really rise up within even these last six months. When you get to championship-level pickleball, you have to put the work in and really understand it.”
Innovative Design
Their paddles feature a lightweight polypropylene honeycomb core encased in thermoformed carbon fiber, ensuring durability and agility on the court. “The three-layer carbon-fiber weave on our paddles grips the ball like no other,” Ryan adds. “It’s all about precision and spin, crucial for competitive play.”
At the core of their design philosophy is the octagonal bevel grip, a nod to tennis rackets, designed to enhance player control and adaptability mid-game. “A lot of points end up in hands battles, where you’re volleying each other, trying to rip the ball as hard as you can,” Zach notes. “We built the grip for optimal timing of touch on the ball—for your muscle memory to work in the moment.” Beyond catering to elite athletes, G.O.A.T. Paddle embraces casual players with an affordable line featuring playful designs.
Future Focus
Looking ahead, Zach and Ryan are focused on expanding their product line and nurturing talent through their pro team, which includes rising star Alexa Schull. “We like to connect with people. We’re Florida bros playing pickleball, living this lifestyle to the fullest,” Ryan emphasizes. “We are blessed to be in Florida, where it happens to be a religion to play pickleball.”
As pickleball gains momentum, fueled by a new generation of athletes and enthusiasts, G.O.A.T. Paddle remains committed to pushing boundaries through innovation and community engagement. Their journey from court instructors to pioneering paddle designers embodies the spirit of pickleball’s evolution, blending athleticism with Florida’s laid-back charm.
News in Brief: GOAT Paddle Innovates Next Gen
Zach Higginson and Ryan Reader, founders of G.O.A.T. Paddle in Estero, Florida, have transformed their passion for pickleball into innovative equipment tailored for elite players. Their journey began with extensive coaching and teaching at East Naples Community Park, culminating in the launch of Paradise PB and their own signature paddles.
Ryan, a former Minto US OPEN Pickleball Champion, brings 15 years of playing experience and a deep understanding of the sport’s evolution. Their paddles feature a lightweight polypropylene honeycomb core encased in thermoformed carbon fiber, emphasizing durability and agility. The design includes a unique octagonal bevel grip for enhanced control during intense rallies.
Focused on both elite competition and casual play, G.O.A.T. Paddle aims to expand its product line and nurture talent through partnerships with players like Alexa Schull. Embracing Florida’s pickleball culture, Zach and Ryan are committed to innovation and community engagement as they lead the sport into its dynamic future.
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