Kitchen Blockers Named Official Retail Partner of CityPickle
Pickleball Company’s Flagship Facility in Times Square Now Open
NEW YORK CITY — Kitchen Blockers, the first-of-its-kind lensless protective eyewear for pickleball, has been named an official retail partner of CityPickle, the urban pickleball company known for bringing the sport to one of the most recognizable public spaces in the world—Times Square.
The partnership places Kitchen Blockers inside CityPickle’s Times Square club, where pickleball has become a visible and unexpected fixture amid the crossroads of global culture, entertainment and tourism. What was once a niche sport is now being played under marquee lights, surrounded by millions of passersby each year.
Under the agreement, Kitchen Blockers products will be available for CityPickle players and visitors as they are introduced to protective eyewear designed specifically for the fast-paced nature of pickleball.
“Seeing pickleball played in Times Square says everything about where this sport is headed,” said Brad Robins, founder of Kitchen Blockers. “CityPickle has helped turn the game into a true urban experience, and we’re proud to be part of that moment. Bringing Kitchen Blockers into this setting reinforces that safety belongs alongside growth, visibility and fun.”
CityPickle has gained attention for transforming underused and iconic city spaces into vibrant pickleball destinations, including Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge. Its Times Square location has drawn players, curious spectators, tourists and New Yorkers encountering the sport for the first time.
Kitchen Blockers is known for its lens-free eyewear, designed to eliminate fog, glare and sweat while protecting players’ eyes and faces. The brand has positioned safety as a core part of pickleball’s growth, working as an official partner of DUPR, USA Pickleball and the Junior PPA.
The CityPickle partnership adds to Kitchen Blockers’ growing retail and venue footprint as the sport continues to expand in urban markets.
About Kitchen Blockers
Founded by Brad Robins and Dave Katz, Kitchen Blockers is redefining pickleball safety with its innovative lensless eyewear, designed for ultimate protection and playability. With its tagline to ‘Play Safe. Stay Safe.’, Kitchen Blockers empowers players to protect their vision without sacrificing style or performance. Kitchen Blockers is also setting the safety standard across the sport as the Official Lensless Eyewear Partner of DUPR, USA Pickleball and the PPA Junior Tour.
About CityPickle
CityPickle is your city’s home for pickleball. The lifestyle brand debuted in New York City with the city’s first indoor pickleball club in Long Island City. Like its first club, CityPickle’s flagship Times Square club features climate-controlled courts and a full bar and restaurant, making it the ideal destination to connect in person, spend quality time, and host events. CityPickle operates 14 courts in Central Park’s iconic Wollman Rink during the spring, summer, and early fall. The brand brings the joy and community of pickleball to thousands through its seasonal activations; locations include Hudson Yards, Union Square, Brooklyn’s Industry City, Atlantic Terminal and Philadelphia’s City Hall. CityPickle is also partnering with industry leaders to open the forthcoming Boca Paddle by CityPickle, a 25 court racquet sports facility with both indoor and outdoor pickleball and padel courts set to open in South Florida in 2026.