Everything You Need to Start Playing Pickleball: Attire, Equipment, and More

Part tennis, part badminton, and part ping-pong, pickleball is a sport that’s easy to learn, social by nature, and surprisingly addictive, which is why it’s become so popular over the last year. If you want to get into it, though, there are a few things you need. Here’s what to wear and the gear that makes play smoother and more enjoyable:

What to Know Before Stepping Onto the Pickleball Court

Before going into the attire and the equipment you’ll need, it helps to know what pickleball demands from your body. The court is smaller than a tennis court, but the movement is quick and constant. You can expect yourself to be side-stepping, lunging, and reacting fast at the net. 

Because rallies can go from gentle to intense in seconds, comfort and mobility matter more than gear that’s flashy. Starting with the right essentials sets you up for a better first experience and keeps frustration to a minimum. 

What to Wear for Comfort and Confidence

Pickleball attire doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should be intentional. Breathable athletic clothing is the foundation: lightweight tops and moisture-wicking fabrics help manage sweat during long sessions, especially if you’re playing outdoors. A lot of players opt for athletic shorts, skirts, or leggings that allow free movement without riding up or restricting steps. 

In this sport, fit matters more than fashion. If you wear clothes that are too loose, you might end up feeling awkward during quick movements. On the other hand, go the opposite way with clothes that are too tight and it can limit your flexibility. The goal is to feel like you’re wearing nothing at all, at least in terms of distraction. 

The Importance of the Right Sports Bra

For women, wearing the right sports bra is especially important when playing pickleball. While the sport doesn’t involve constant sprinting like, say, soccer, it does include sudden starts, stops, and lateral movements. An extra support sports bra like our EXTREME CONTROL style can help reduce discomfort and strain during these motions. 

EXTREME CONTROL is one of our solution-based, high-impact, maximum support sports bra. It features three-section cups that are supported at the sides with a clever side sling solution. The combination of tailored cups on the outside with a seamless inside is simply unmatched! It’s also made out of highly functional piqué fabric that absorbs and transports moisture quickly. With this extra support sports bra in your corner, your focus stays on the ball, not on constantly adjusting your clothing. 

Choosing Shoes That Support Quick Movement

Apart from your sports bra, footwear might be the most important piece of attire you’ll invest in. Pickleball requires quick lateral movement, so running shoes decidedly are not the best choice. Court shoes designed for tennis or indoor sports provide better side-to-side stability and help prevent ankle injuries. 

The right shoes should offer good grip without sticking too much to the surface of the court. Cushioning is also important, especially if you plan to play several times a week. Comfortable shoes reduce fatigue and protect your joints, making the sport more enjoyable to play over time. 

Pickleball Paddles and How to Find the Right Fit

The paddle is your primary tool when playing pickleball, and choosing one can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you’re new to the sport. Beginner-friendly paddles are typically lightweight and offer a larger sweet spot, making it easier to control the ball. They come in a wide variety of materials, from wood to composite, but many new players find that composite paddles provide a nice balance of power and control. 

Another detail worth paying attention to is grip size. A grip that’s too small can cause strain, while one that’s too large may limit wrist movement. The paddle should feel like a natural extension of your arm for improved accuracy and less fatigue during play. 

Balls and Other Handy Essentials

Pickleball balls are unique: they have holes that affect how they move through the air. Outdoor balls are slightly heavier and are designed to handle wind, while indoor balls are lighter and bounce differently. To avoid unnecessary frustration, make sure you’re using the right type of ball for your playing environment.

Other helpful items to bring to your first pickleball session include a small towel for mopping up sweat, a water bottle to stay hydrated, and sunscreen if you’re going to be playing outdoors. 

Where to Play and How to Get Started

Many community centers, parks, and gyms now offer pickleball courts, often with open play sessions for beginners. These are great opportunities to learn the rules, meet other players, and pick up tips without pressure. Most pickleball communities are welcoming and happy to help newcomers get comfortable with the sport. 

The important thing to remember is that you don’t need to master every rule before your first match. The basics come quickly once you start playing, and experience is the best teacher. Just show up prepared, dressed comfortably, and ready to move. 

Getting into pickleball doesn’t require an intimidating amount of gear or expertise. With comfortable clothing, supportive shoes, the right sports bra, a paddle that feels good in your hand, and a healthy amount of enthusiasm, you’ll already be ahead of the curve.