While traditional American sports like football, basketball, and baseball still dominate headlines, there’s a quiet revolution taking place in the world of athletics. A new wave of emerging sports is sweeping across the United States, capturing the imagination of young athletes, digital audiences, and brands eager to invest in what comes next. With 2026 on the horizon, many of these niche sports are showing signs of explosive growth. Here’s a look at the top 10 emerging sports in the U.S. that could explode in popularity by 2026 — and how you can get involved before the boom.
1. Pickleball
It’s often referred to as a hybrid of tennis, ping pong, and badminton, but pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. With low barriers to entry, minimal equipment needs, and an all-ages fanbase, it’s no wonder cities and towns are racing to build courts.
How to Get Involved: Local community centers and YMCAs often host beginner clinics. Starter paddles and balls are widely available online or at sporting goods stores.
2. Esports
Competitive video gaming, or esports, has exploded globally, and the U.S. is on the frontlines of this digital transformation. With millions watching professional leagues and players on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, esports is becoming a legitimate career path and spectator sport.
How to Get Involved: Start by joining online gaming communities or entering local tournaments. Colleges are also offering esports scholarships and programs.
3. Spikeball
Originally a beach and backyard game, spikeball has evolved into a fast-paced, competitive sport with national tournaments. It’s easy to learn but difficult to master, and its growing popularity among college students and young adults is notable.
How to Get Involved: You can buy a spikeball set for under $100 and start playing at local parks or beaches. Check the USA Spikeball website for league info in your area.
4. Ultimate Frisbee
This high-energy sport combines elements of soccer, basketball, and football, but with a flying disc. Ultimate has a dedicated community and an expanding network of amateur and professional leagues like the AUDL (American Ultimate Disc League).
How to Get Involved: Most cities have pickup groups you can join. Also, platforms like Meetup and Facebook host community ultimate games every week.
5. Obstacle Course Racing (OCR)
With events like Spartan Race and Tough Mudder, obstacle course racing has grown from novelty races to serious athletic challenges. The sport combines endurance running with strength-based obstacles that test every part of your body.
How to Get Involved: Sign up for a race near you and start training courses offered in gyms and specialized OCR facilities.
6. Drone Racing
If you love tech and speed, drone racing is a perfect fit. Pilots operate high-speed drones with VR headsets, navigating them through complex courses. It’s futuristic, adrenaline-pumping, and growing thanks to leagues like the Drone Racing League (DRL).
How to Get Involved: Start with a beginner drone kit and practice flying in open spaces. Join online forums and local drone clubs to connect with experienced racers.
7. Climbing and Bouldering
Thanks to Olympic inclusion and the rise of indoor climbing gyms, climbing is catching on in a big way. Bouldering (a form of rope-free climbing on shorter walls) is especially popular among millennials and Gen Z.
How to Get Involved: Visit your local climbing gym to get a tutorial and rent beginner equipment. Many gyms offer intro courses to ease you in.
8. FootGolf
A mash-up of soccer and golf, FootGolf involves kicking a soccer ball into oversized holes on a golf course. It’s quirky, strategic, and becoming a hit at modified golf courses across the U.S.
How to Get Involved: Visit American FootGolf League’s website to find courses. All you need is a soccer ball and cleats to get started.
9. Paddle Tennis (Padel)
Paddle tennis — or Padel, as it’s known internationally — is gaining momentum in the U.S. Originating in Mexico and Spain, the sport blends tennis and squash inside walled courts, making it fast-paced and intensely fun.
How to Get Involved: Look for Padel-specific clubs or tennis centers converting courts for dual use. Equipment is similar to pickleball but with a unique perforated paddle.
10. Street Dance & Competitive Breaking
As breaking gears up for its Olympic debut, street dance competitions are experiencing a wave of new fans and media coverage. Events like Red Bull BC One are elevating breaking into an international sensation — and U.S. dancers are among the best.
How to Get Involved: Join a local dance studio or attend workshops. Many communities have open dance sessions where beginners are welcomed and guided by seasoned dancers.
Ready to Choose Your Sport?
These sports are not just trends — they represent shifts in how Americans experience recreation, community, and competition. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, make new friends, or break into a new scene, there’s never been a better time to explore these emerging activities.
Getting started typically requires minimal investment and a willingness to learn. With the right gear, a few YouTube tutorials, and some community support, you could find yourself ahead of the curve in one of America’s next big sports.