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Kansas City Startup SLN/CR Tackles Pickleball Noise Issues

The innovative noise mitigation system at an outdoor pickleball court in Kansas City.

News Summary

In Kansas City, the startup SLN/CR is addressing the growing noise complaints surrounding outdoor pickleball courts. With a focus on innovative noise mitigation technology, they’ve developed a lightweight, fabric-based solution designed to absorb the disruptive sounds of the game. Partnering with USA Pickleball, their efforts aim to balance the sport’s popularity with the needs of local residents seeking peace. As pickleball’s presence continues to grow, SLN/CR is on the forefront of creating a quieter play environment for all.

Kansas City Startup SLN/CR Innovates Noise Mitigation for Outdoor Pickleball Courts Amidst Community Complaints

The vibrant city of Kansas City is not just known for its jazz music and delicious barbecue. It’s also becoming a hotbed for a very trendy sport: pickleball. As this fun and engaging game gains more followers, a new startup called SLN/CR is stepping in to tackle a growing concern – the noise!

What’s the Buzz About?

Pickleball, often described as a mix of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton, is popping up in parks and community centers everywhere. But with its rising popularity comes quite a bit of noise, which has led to complaints from nearby residents who find the sounds disturbing. Most of the racket comes from the unmistakable “pop, pop, pop” noises when the ball hits the paddle, and unfortunately, some community members are even calling for a ban on outdoor pickleball due to these noise issues.

This is where SLN/CR enters the scene. Founded by a serial entrepreneur and enthusiastic pickleball player, the company is all about innovative noise mitigation solutions. Set up in 2023, their motto is encapsulated in their clever name, which is pronounced “silencer”. The company has developed a fabric-based system that uses cutting-edge nanotechnology to absorb that annoying noise rather than just blocking it out.

What Makes SLN/CR Different?

Eliot Arnold, the founder of SLN/CR, has looked closely at existing noise reduction systems. He discovered that many of them, like the heavy rubber materials used in other setups, only reflect sound rather than absorb it. This led him to explore lighter, more effective solutions. The team’s product is reported to be an incredible 70% lighter than traditional options, and it aims to be the best value in the market too.

In collaboration with USA Pickleball, SLN/CR is paving a path toward quieter games. As a Premier Quiet Category partner, they’re not just focusing on their own inventions but working with the wider pickleball community to find solutions. This partnership emphasizes the importance of collaborative noise reduction efforts.

The Growth of Pickleball and Its Challenges

The sport’s rapid growth is undeniable, with many tennis courts being converted into dedicated pickleball arenas. While this is great for pickleball fans, it has raised a few eyebrows among local residents who are concerned about the noise levels. Arnold believes that the benefits of pickleball, both for the community’s health and the joy it brings, far outweigh the complaints about noise. He is passionate about finding effective noise mitigation products that can help ease the situation.

In just over a year, SLN/CR has made significant strides, with revenues nearing half a million in 2024 and plans to reach an ambitious goal of $2 million by the end of 2025. The team is eyeing expansion, especially in their sales department, to keep up with the growing interest in their innovative solutions.

Extra Measures for a Sound Solution

To further combat noise issues, USA Pickleball has started showcasing quieter paddles during events. These specially designed paddles aim to reduce noise levels from a whopping 90 decibels to 80 decibels. This is a promising development for both pickleball enthusiasts and the residents living nearby.

Additionally, city officials are joining the conversation, leveraging data from noise mitigation products to bridge the gap between players and the community. This proactive approach aims to create a harmonious environment where players can enjoy the game without infringing on neighbors’ peace.

The Future of Pickleball in Urban Spaces

As urban pickleball courts continue to evolve, the integration of real-time sound monitoring and better equipment options will be crucial in maintaining a balance between sports enthusiasts and nearby residents. With startups like SLN/CR stepping up to address the noise concerns head-on, the future of pickleball in city settings looks promising.

So whether you’re a fan of the sport or just someone who enjoys peaceful evenings, the efforts being made by innovators in Kansas City might just be the answer to creating a happier harmony between players and the community.