Make Ping Pong Not Boring
round21 brings art and sport together. Airline designed a different kind of paddle: a joy to grip, made by Japanese craftspeople and tested in the Takyu halls of Shibuya, the paddle faces are a canvas for round21’s roster of emerging and established artists.
Industrial Design • Prototyping • Manufacturing Sourcing and Oversight • User Research • User Testing
Infuse expression into sports gearSometimes products become so common and accepted they turn invisible, which is what happened with the game of Ping Pong. Our client saw an opportunity to bring fresh energy and perspective to paddles and accessories, and celebrate the game and the joy of playing.
Reconsider paddle ergonomics, materials, and stylesAirline created over 100 prototypes along the way to the final design, starting in cardboard and working through 3D prints and wood prototypes.
Every Detail ConsideredAirline worked with our partner Hidakuma, a wood working collaborative, in Hida, Japan, to create prototypes that were user tested with recreational players, experts and retired professionals in Ping Pong halls around Shibuya.
A Different Kind of Paddle
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We are always open to hearing about your project and understanding if we can bring something to its success. If we don’t think your project is a good fit for Airline, we will be happy to point you to one of our friends or partners who can better help you.
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