Pickleball is taking over parks, gyms, and backyards everywhere—if you’re not playing yet, you’re missing out. Before you step onto the court, you may be wondering: what do you need to play pickleball?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential pickleball equipment, must-have accessories, and optional extras that can elevate your game. Whether you’re a total beginner or gearing up for a tournament, PickleRage will help you find the right gear to play pickleball like a pro.
Looking to hone your pickleball skills? PickleRage’s state-of-the-art indoor pickleball courts are perfect for players of all skill levels. Find a location near you and enjoy our premium playing conditions—rain or shine!
Essential Equipment Needed To Play Pickleball
Before you can start serving, dinking, and smashing your way to victory, you need the right pickleball gear. Here’s a breakdown of must-have pickleball equipment to get you started:
Pickleball Paddles
Your pickleball paddle is the most important piece of equipment—it determines how you hit, control, and spin the ball. Unlike tennis rackets, pickleball paddles are solid and come in different materials, weights, and grip sizes. Beginners typically start with lightweight paddles for better control, while more advanced players may opt for heavier paddles for extra power.
Pickleball Balls
Pickleball balls may look similar to wiffle balls, but they’re specially designed for pickleball gameplay. They have perforations (small holes) that affect their speed, bounce, and flight path. There are two types: indoor balls, which are lighter and have larger holes, and outdoor balls, which are heavier to handle wind resistance.
Net and Court Setup
A standard pickleball court is about the same size as a badminton court, with a net that’s slightly lower than a tennis net. If you’re playing at a designated pickleball court, everything will be set up for you. If you’re creating a temporary court in a gym, tennis court, driveway, or backyard, you’ll need a portable pickleball net and court markers (such as chalk or tape) to define the boundaries. With the right setup, you can turn almost any flat space into a pickleball court!
Clothing & Footwear for Pickleball Players
When playing pickleball, the right clothing and footwear can make a huge difference in comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Here’s what to wear to keep you moving with confidence on the court:
Best Options for Footwear
Your footwork is just as important as your pickleball paddle skills, so wearing the right shoes is a game-changer. Pickleball involves a lot of side-to-side movement, so you need shoes that offer stability, support, and grip to prevent slips and ankle rolls.
Look for:
- Court shoes: Tennis or volleyball shoes provide lateral support for quick directional changes.
- Non-marking soles: Opt for shoes with non-marking rubber soles to protect the court surface if you’re playing indoors.
- Grippy outsoles: Prevent slipping, especially on outdoor courts.
- Cushioned midsoles: Absorb impact and keep your feet comfortable during long rallies.
- Breathable materials: Keep your feet cool and prevent blisters.
What To Wear During Your Game
During a pickleball game, your clothing should allow you to move freely while keeping you cool and comfortable. Opt for athletic wear that’s lightweight, moisture-wicking, and non-restrictive:
- Athletic shorts or skirts: Stretchy and breathable for unrestricted movement.
- Moisture-wicking shirts: Keep dry to regulate body temperature.
- Compression leggings: Great for added support and warmth in cooler weather.
- Sweatband or hat: Keep sweat out of your eyes and sun off your face.
- Lightweight jacket or hoodie: Ideal for warming up before your game, especially in cooler conditions.
Optional Gear & Accessories to Enhance Your Pickleball Game
Once you’ve got the essentials covered, optional pickleball gear and accessories can enhance your experience on the court:
Protective Gear
Pickleball is a relatively low-impact sport, but it isn’t injury-proof. Protective gear can prevent strains, blisters, and other injuries on the court:
- Knee braces & ankle supports: Stabilize joints and prevent sprains.
- Protective eyewear: Shields your eyes from accidental paddle swings or fast-moving balls.
- Padded gloves: Reduce hand fatigue and prevent blisters during long matches.
- Compression sleeves: Provide muscle support for better circulation and recovery.
Comfort & Convenience
These accessories can keep you comfortable on the court and make your pickleball experience more enjoyable:
- Wristbands: Keep sweat off your hands so you can focus on your shots.
- Pickleball bag: Carry your paddles, balls, and other gear in one place.
- Cooling towel: Stay cool during hot matches.
- Insulated water bottle: Keeps you hydrated, especially during long games in the sun.
Training & Practice Tools
Want to improve your pickleball skills and gain an edge on the court? These training tools can help you fine-tune your technique and level up your game:
- Rebounder net: Perfect for practicing volleys and reflexes during solo practice.
- Target cones or court markers: Helps with accuracy, shot placement, and footwork drills.
- Pickleball machine: Feeds balls at different speeds and angles to practice returns and reaction time.
- Grip strengthener: Improves hand and wrist strength for better paddle control.
Pickleball Gear For Beginners vs. Gear For More Advanced Players
As you improve your pickleball skills, your gear may need an upgrade. Beginners typically start with basic, budget-friendly equipment, while more advanced players invest in specialized gear for better performance, power, and precision.
Here’s how pickleball gear differs at each level:
Gear for pickleball beginners:
- Lightweight paddle with a larger sweet spot: Provides better control and greater forgiveness for off-center hits.
- Basic pickleball balls: Affordable indoor or outdoor balls to practice the fundamentals.
- Comfortable court shoes: General athletic or tennis shoes with good grip and support.
- Paddle grip: Standard grip size for easy handling and control.
- Recreational net setup: A portable net or temporary court markers for casual games at home or the park.
- Basic pickleball bag: A basic tote or backpack to carry gear.
Pickleball gear for more advanced players:
- Performance paddle: Made with carbon fiber or graphite for better power, spin, and durability.
- Pro-level pickleball balls: Tournament-approved balls for precise shots.
- Pickleball shoes: Lightweight, reinforced shoes with lateral support for quick movements.
- Overgrips & custom grips: Improve grip feel, absorb sweat, and enhance paddle control.
- Net and court accessories: Permanent court lines, professional nets, and ball holders for seamless play.
- High-tech training tools: Ball machines, agility ladders, and precision rebounders for more intensive practice.
How To Maintain & Care For Your Pickleball Equipment
With regular maintenance, you can keep your pickleball paddles, balls, shoes, and other equipment in top shape for many games to come. Here are some tips for maintaining your pickleball gear:
- Paddle care: Wipe down your paddle after each game with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat. Store it in a protective case to prevent scratches or warping. Avoid leaving it in extreme heat or cold.
- Ball maintenance: Pickleballs can crack over time, especially outdoor balls exposed to rough surfaces. Rotate your balls regularly and replace them when they lose their bounce or develop cracks.
- Shoe upkeep: Clean the soles of your shoes after playing to remove dust and debris, which can affect grip. Let them air dry completely after sweaty matches.
- Grip replacement: If your paddle grip starts feeling slippery or worn, replace it with a fresh overgrip to maintain control and prevent blisters.
- Net & court accessories: If you use a portable net, store it properly to avoid damage. Clean court lines or markers to keep them visible and slip-free.
- Pickleball bag organization: Empty out your bag regularly to remove dirt and moisture. Store your gear in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew or odor buildup.
What To Avoid When Buying Your Pickleball Equipment
With so many pickleball gear options available, it’s easy to end up with equipment that doesn’t suit your needs. Avoid these common mistakes to make sure you get the best value and performance from your pickleball equipment:
- Cheap paddles: While budget paddles may seem like a good deal, they lack durability and control, making it harder to improve your game.
- Overly heavy or light paddles: A paddle that’s too heavy can cause arm fatigue, while one that’s too light may not provide enough power—find a balanced weight that suits your playing style.
- Wrong ball type: Indoor and outdoor pickleballs are different, and using the wrong type can affect gameplay.
- Running shoes: Running shoes don’t provide the lateral support needed for pickleball, increasing the risk of slipping or injury.
- Uncomfortable grip size: If the paddle grip is too large or too small, it can affect control and lead to wrist strain.
- Low-quality nets: Flimsy portable nets can sag or tip over easily, disrupting your game.
- Unnecessary high-tech gear (too soon): If you’re just starting out, you don’t need expensive pro-level paddles, ball machines, or other advanced gear—focus on mastering the basics first.
Up Your Pickleball Game at a PickleRage Club Near You Today!
Now that you know what you need to play pickleball, it’s time to put your gear to the test! PickleRage’s state-of-the-art indoor courts provide the perfect environment to level up your game—rain or shine. With temperature-controlled facilities, premium amenities, and a welcoming community of players, you’ll have everything you need to play, practice, and improve.
Contact us today to discuss our membership options and join the vibrant PickleRage community!