Our 2025 FitFab50.com Pickleball Survey revealed what active women over 50 truly value in their pickleball apparel and gear. With over 2,500 respondents from across the country, the results provide clear insights into the priorities and preferences that drive purchasing decisions in this growing demographic.
Key Findings: Comfort and Coverage Lead the Way
83% of female players over 50 rank comfort and coverage as their top priorities when selecting pickleball apparel, followed by pocket functionality (76%) and modest styling (68%). These statistics highlight the importance of practical features over trendy designs for this active demographic.
Why Appropriate Length Matters
When asked specifically about skorts and shorts, 78% of respondents indicated that finding an appropriate length was their biggest challenge. Many reported that standard athletic brands cater to younger players with shorter inseams, leaving them frustrated with limited options.
| Skort/Short Feature | Importance Rating (1-10) | % Ranking as “Essential” |
| Length (14″+ inseam) | 8.7 | 83% |
| Built-in compression shorts | 8.4 | 79% |
| Deep pockets | 7.9 | 76% |
| Moisture-wicking fabric | 7.6 | 72% |
| UPF protection | 7.3 | 68% |
| Hidden drawstring | 6.2 | 41% |
| Trendy patterns | 3.8 | 12% |
Performance Features That Matter
Beyond basic comfort, our survey respondents emphasized the importance of functional features that enhance their playing experience. 71% reported that pockets that can securely hold balls during play were a must-have feature, while 65% prioritized fabrics that offer sun protection.
Age-Specific Pain Points
The survey also revealed some interesting insights about physical comfort during play:
- 62% reported concerns about arm and shoulder fatigue
- 58% mentioned knee discomfort during lateral movements
- 47% indicated grip strength as a developing issue
These physical considerations directly impact gear preferences, with 69% of respondents stating they would pay more for paddles designed to reduce joint strain.
Equipment Preferences Show Clear Trends
When it comes to paddle selection, weight and grip size emerged as the most important factors:
- 72% prefer midweight paddles (7.5-8.2 oz)
- 65% look for paddles with vibration dampening technology
- 58% prioritize a slightly larger grip size than standard
What This Means for Manufacturers
The data clearly shows that brands targeting the 50+ female pickleball player should focus on:
- Longer length bottoms with modest coverage
- Strategic pocket placement that doesn’t interfere with movement
- Performance fabrics that provide both comfort and sun protection
- Equipment designed with joint health in mind
The Bottom Line
Our 2025 survey confirms what we’ve been hearing from our FitFab50 community: women over 50 are serious about their pickleball and want gear that addresses their specific needs without sacrificing style. Brands that understand and cater to these preferences have a significant opportunity to serve this growing and dedicated athletic demographic.
Survey methodology: Online survey conducted January-February 2025 with 2,547 female pickleball players aged 50-75. Respondents represented all 50 states and had been playing pickleball for an average of 3.2 years.