This May, PICKLESTARS shines the spotlight on Craig from Dink Eyewear, a brand redefining how players see and experience the game. With decades of expertise in optics and a passion for performance-driven design, Dink Eyewear has become a standout name in the sport. Craig shared the journey behind their innovation, their partnership with PICKLESTARS, and what’s next on the horizon.
What inspired you to design eyewear specifically for pickleball players?
Craig: We saw pickleball’s explosive growth and, with over 30 years in prescription optics, recognized a clear gap: most sports eyewear protects the eyes, but doesn’t actually enhance vision. We set out to change that. Our Color Boost lens technology, developed using AI, was originally designed to assist men with color deficiencies, but it quickly proved to be a game-changer for pickleball. These lenses are fine-tuned to the unique colors of pickleballs, helping players track the ball faster and minimize “optical noise” in varying light conditions, both indoors and out.
After testing Color Boost lenses on the court, players often describe the effect as flipping a clarity switch, suddenly, the ball becomes easier to follow in any light. It’s a subtle yet powerful advantage that’s quickly earned loyal fans. The technology may have started with color-deficient users in mind, but its impact spans far beyond that.
What sets Dink Eyewear apart in terms of performance and style on the court?
Craig: Dink Eyewear is built specifically for pickleball. Our frames are engineered for stability during fast, lateral movements, while our lenses deliver exceptional clarity and full UV protection. But we didn’t stop at the performance. Our Pro series is hand-painted in Italy using the same finishes found on luxury cars, bringing bold color and style to the court. We also work closely with players of all levels to refine our designs. When we noticed the lack of slim-profile sports frames for women, teens, and smaller men, we created the Daytona Petite, now our best-selling model.
On courts across the country, Dink frames are turning heads, not just for their bold looks, but for how well they move with players. The Daytona Petite, born from real player feedback, shows just how in tune the brand is with the needs of the community. It’s performance, reimagined through the lens of inclusivity and flair.
What sparked the collaboration with PICKLESTARS, and how do you see it benefiting the pickleball community?
Craig: PICKLESTARS shares our commitment to growing the sport and fostering community, from grassroots programs to elite-level play. Teaming up allows us to combine efforts (co-branded gear, shared events, and youth-focused initiatives) to make pickleball more accessible, inclusive, and fun. It’s about supporting the game on and off the court, together.
Q: What have been some of the biggest challenges or surprises in building a pickleball-focused brand, and how did you navigate them?
Craig: One major challenge has been educating players on the importance of sport-specific eyewear. Many rely on casual sunglasses, or no eyewear at all, without realizing what they’re missing. We’ve addressed this through hands-on demos, partnerships with pro players, and simply letting people experience the performance difference for themselves. On the flip side, one of the best surprises has been the passion and support from the pickleball community. It’s a vibrant, tight-knit group that truly rallies behind brands that invest in the sport.
Convincing players to upgrade their gear is never easy, but in this case, the proof is on the court. Once players experienced the difference, the buzz started spreading fast. The community’s response has been more than positive. It’s been a driving force behind Dink’s rapid momentum.
Q: What upcoming launches or collaborations are you most excited about at Dink Eyewear?
Craig: We’re excited about several upcoming limited-edition colorways that celebrate the spirit and personality of the pickleball community. At the US Open in Naples, we introduced our USA-inspired Red White and Blue, Purple Ombre and Metallic Blue frames, born from customer feedback. We’re also expanding into more indoor-specific lenses and new accessories. Collaborations like the one with PICKLESTARS remain a key part of our future: we’re constantly looking for ways to support and grow the sport alongside the community. There’s a lot more to come, and we can’t wait to share it.
New color drops are already generating buzz, especially among players looking to show a little personality on the court. But beyond the bold styles, what stands out is the responsiveness, each product feels like a direct conversation with the community. From accessories to future collabs, this brand is clearly just getting started.
As pickleball continues to evolve, so do the needs of its players, and Craig’s vision for Dink Eyewear is meeting that moment with clarity, innovation, and heart. From cutting-edge lenses to player-driven designs and meaningful collaborations, Dink isn’t just making eyewear, it’s shaping how the sport is seen and experienced. With community at the core and exciting new launches on the way, this is one brand proving that when players see better, they play better, and the game gets even more fun.
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