DALTON GARDENS — Selkirk Sport got its start as a family-owned business in Coeur d’Alene in 2014.

Though the brand is now nationally recognized as one of the largest manufacturers of pickleball products in the U.S., the company, at its core, has remained much the same.

“This is where they’re from,” said Dalton Foss, an associate at the newly opened Selkirk Sport Pro Shop on Government Way. “This is where everything started.”

In addition to pickleball paddles, gear and apparel, Selkirk’s first large retail store also has two indoor demo courts for customers to “try before they buy.”

Every employee at the Pro Shop started out as a customer service representative for Selkirk, Foss said.

“We have more knowledge of not only pickleball as a sport, but Selkirk as a company,” Foss said. “We understand not only the product but also the customer base and how to support them.”

Pro Shop employees are also Pickleball Certified Instructors.

“We have all the answers for you,” Foss said.

Selkirk has continued to expand as a company as pickleball has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years.

Over 36 million Americans play the sport and it's seen a growth rate of 311% over the past three years, according to data from the Sports and Fitness Industry Association.

In addition to opening the Pro Shop, Selkirk has expanded their office staff, and their shipping and receiving department has moved to a larger warehouse.

“The sport keeps growing and our company is growing with it,” Foss said.

Another Pro Shop has also opened in Boise.

Foss said that pickleball’s popularity can be attributed to its “low barrier for entry,” as it can be played by people of all ages, is easy to learn, and does not require a lot of equipment.

“The sport can be played by everyone,” Foss said.

What keeps people returning to the courts, Foss said, is the players’ drive to hone their skills and advance beyond beginner play.

“Becoming a talented player is very tough, so I think people want to keep coming back for more,” Foss said.

Selkirk Sport Pro Shop is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will be closed on Memorial Day. It’s located at 7878 N. Government Way, Dalton Gardens. 

    Selkirk Sport Pro Shop allows customers to try out different pickleball rackets at the indoor demo courts before they buy.
  

    One of Selkirk Sport Pro Shop's two demo courts.
  

    Selkirk Sport Pro Shop is located at 7878 N. Government Way, Dalton Gardens.