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Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of badminton, table tennis, and tennis. Due to its simplicity and low-impact nature, it has gained popularity in a wide range of age groups. What equipment is needed to play pickleball?
Below is a pickleball equipment list, so you can dive into the world of pickleball with the proper gear for optimal performance and safety.
A pickleball paddle is a solid, flat-faced paddle. It is designed to strike the ball, making it arguably the most critical pickleball gear. The weight, grip, and material are the biggest factors to consider when looking for the perfect pickleball paddle.
Lightweight paddles are easier to handle, but heavier paddles provide more power. The grip affects how you control the paddle, so make sure you can grip the handle firmly without slipping. The paddle can be made with composite (carbon fiber or fiberglass), graphite, or wood, with each material affecting the weight and power of the paddle.
You can’t play a pickleball game without a pickleball. Pickleballs are perforated plastic balls. They are similar to Wiffleballs, but they are specifically designed for playing pickleball. They come in different colors, such as yellow, white, and orange.
There are indoor and outdoor pickleball balls. Indoor balls have larger holes and are lighter. Choose them when you intend to play in basketball courts, gyms, and other indoor spaces. Outdoor balls are heavier and have smaller holes to withstand wind and rougher surfaces. Choose them when you are playing in a backyard, tennis court, or any other outdoor space.
The pickleball net stretches across the center of the pickleball court, similar to a badminton and tennis net. It is 22 feet wide and 36 inches high at the sidelines, dropping to 34 inches in the center.
Your pickleball net must comply with professional pickleball standards in terms of height, length, and design. However, if you are just a casual player trying to play pickleball with friends, portability should be your number one priority. Look for nets with sturdy frames that are easy to assemble, such as those made from aluminum and steel.
Quick Setups: Many portable pickleball nets are designed to be set up in 10 minutes or less. They make it easy to transform any flat surface into a pickleball court.
Pickleball shoes are athletic footwear specifically designed for lateral movements and sudden stops, which are very common in a pickleball game. You can use tennis shoes or basketball shoes, but pickleball shoes give the most optimal performance and safety.
A common mistake for beginners is using running shoes. These shoes don’t have the lateral support and traction you need for pickleball, decreasing performance and increasing injury risk.
Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for sports activities. This typically includes breathable tops such as jerseys and shirts, comfortable bottoms such as shorts and leggings, and warm outwear such as hoodies and windbreakers.
At Sports Gear Swag, we have a wide collection of pickleball products, including custom apparel and accessories. Customize them as much as you want, from their design to their fabric. You can also add your name and number, so you can look like a professional in the pickleball court.
While pickleball is a low-impact game, players are still prone to injury because of its dynamic movements and fast-paced nature. Wear protective gear to prevent injuries and enhance your overall pickleball game experience.
Wear goggles and mouthguards to protect yourself from accidental ball impacts. Use elbow and knee pads for cushion during dives and falls. For outdoor play, consider using hats and visors.
The water bottle is essential pickleball equipment to maintain your performance and health. Dehydration can lead to decreased coordination, dizziness, and fatigue, especially if you play in an outdoor pickleball court.
Choose a water bottle with a 32-ounce capacity or more to ensure you are hydrated throughout a long pickleball game. Look at the shape and weight, and consider the one that fits your pickleball bag easily.
A training towel may seem like a simple item, but you should always have one in your pickleball bag. It’s not just for keeping yourself comfortable with cooling and sweat management. It’s also for improving your performance with grip maintenance.
Dry your hands and pickleball paddle regularly to optimize your accuracy and control. Sweaty hands and wet pickleball paddle grips can lead to poor performance and accidents.
Organize and transport all your pickleball equipment in a single bag. Look for bags with multiple compartments, so you can organize your pickleball equipment properly. You need dedicated compartments for pickleballs, paddles, shoes, and personal items such as jerseys and shorts.
Consider those with air vents, mesh pockets, or ventilated compartments. They are useful for storing items that get sweaty during play.
Insulated Pickleball Bags: Some pickleball bag designs include a dedicated cooler compartment to keep beverages and snacks cool while you play.
Playing outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful UV rays, putting you at risk of sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Your sunscreen and hat are your immediate defense against the sun.
Choose a sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF rating. If possible, get the water-resistant version, so it stays effective even when you sweat. Make sure your hat covers your face, neck, and ears. Wearing simple baseball caps is better than wearing no hat or visor at all.
Overgrips are thin layers of synthetic fabrics you wrap around the existing grip of your pickleball paddle. They improve the overall feel of the handle and help absorb moisture. Replacement grips are thicker grips that replace the original grip on the paddle handle. They provide better control and traction.
While grip enhancements such as overgrips and replacement grips improve your pickleball performance, they are not strictly necessary. Use them to beat your friends with better comfort and grip.
This device helps you pick pickleballs from the court surface without bending over. It’s not really a piece of equipment you need, but it’s handy for a better pickleball experience.
Constantly bending over to pick up pickleballs can lead to back, hip, or knee issues. Minimize this repetitive motion with a ball retriever. There are very simple designs available, including those that you simply attach to the end of your pickleball paddle handle.
Improve your pickleball skills, technique, and performance with ball machines and targets. Ball machines can constantly feed balls at varying speeds and angles, helping you improve your shot and reaction time. Targets and markers are useful for precision drills, helping you focus on hitting specific spots on the pickleball court.
Training aids are optional tools, but they are perfect for beginners looking to get serious and experienced players trying to take their game to the next level.
The right pickleball equipment can make all the difference. High-quality pickleball gear is an investment not just in your enjoyment and skill development but also in your health.
At Sports Gear Swag, we have a wide range of custom pickleball apparel and accessories you need to ensure your performance and safety. From custom pickleball jerseys to custom headbands, each addition to our collection brings you closer to this unique game. Start playing pickleball today with Sports Gear Swag.