A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Pickleball Equipment

To play pickleball, you'll need a few essential pieces of equipment: a pickleball paddle, a pickleball ball, and a net. Pickleball paddles are smaller than tennis racquets but larger than ping-pong paddles. The balls are similar to wiffle balls, designed with holes and made of durable plastic. The net is similar in height to a tennis net but slightly lower. 

What is all the equipment you must have to play pickleball?

To fully enjoy pickleball, having the right equipment is essential for both the quality of play and safety.

Here’s a comprehensive list of what you must have:

1. Pickleball Paddle: The most crucial piece of equipment, pickleball paddles are made from various materials including wood, composite, and graphite. The choice of paddle can affect your game’s quality, offering different weights and levels of power and control.
2. Pickleballs: There are two main types of pickleballs: indoor and outdoor. Indoor balls are softer and have larger holes, while outdoor balls are harder, with smaller holes to withstand wind conditions.
3. Net: A pickleball net is required to divide the court into two halves. The net height must be 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the middle.
4. Court Shoes: Proper footwear is crucial for safety and performance. Court shoes designed for tennis or volleyball offer good support and grip, minimizing the risk of slips and falls.
5. Comfortable Sportswear: Lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended for ease of movement and comfort during play.
6. Protective Eyewear: While not mandatory, protective eyewear is recommended to safeguard against accidental hits from the ball or a paddle.
7. Sun Protection: For outdoor play, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses can protect against sunburn and glare.
8. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential, so a water bottle should be considered a necessary part of your gear.
9. Portable Net System (Optional): For those who play in various locations, a portable net system can be a great investment, allowing you to set up a game almost anywhere.
10. Pickleball Bag: To conveniently carry all your equipment, a dedicated pickleball bag can hold your paddles, balls, shoes, and personal items.

This comprehensive list covers the essentials and some additional items that enhance the playing experience, ensuring you’re well-prepared for a game of pickleball.

Recommended Training Aids for Beginners

1. Ball Machines: These allow for consistent practice of different shots and help improve hand-eye coordination.
2. Rebounders: Wall or net rebounders are excellent for solo practice, focusing on control and volleying.
3. Target Nets: Placing targets on the court can help beginners aim their shots more accurately, improving precision.

What do you need to set up a pickleball game?

Setting up a pickleball game requires a few key components to ensure a proper play area. Here’s what you need:

1. Pickleball Court: A standard pickleball court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, divided into two equal halves by a net. If you’re setting up a temporary court, you can use chalk, tape, or a portable court marker system to outline the boundaries on a flat, smooth surface.
2. Net: The net is central to setting up a pickleball game. The official net height is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the middle. Portable net systems are available for temporary setups, while permanent nets are used in dedicated pickleball facilities.
3. Measuring Tape or Ruler: To ensure the net is set at the correct height, a measuring tape or ruler is necessary for setup.
4. Marking Equipment: For a temporary court, you’ll need something to mark the lines. This can be chalk for asphalt or concrete surfaces, or painter’s tape for indoor gym floors.
5. Optional: Boundary Cones: If you’re setting up in a multi-use area, cones or other markers can help delineate the pickleball court area from surrounding activities.

Check out our guide on how to build a DIY pickleball court.

How to choose the right paddle for beginners?

Choosing the right pickleball paddle is crucial for beginners, as it can significantly impact their learning curve and enjoyment of the game. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a paddle for a beginner:

Weight: Opt for light to medium weight; s paddle weighing between 6.5 to 8.5 ounces is ideal for beginners. Lighter paddles offer better control and are easier on the arm, reducing the risk of fatigue and injury.

Material Choices: Paddles are made from wood, composite, or graphite. For beginners, composite paddles are often recommended because they offer a good balance between power and control, at a more affordable price point than graphite. Wood paddles are the most affordable but can be heavier and less comfortable for extended play.

Find the Right Grip Size: Grip size is crucial for control and comfort. A simple way to determine a suitable grip size is to measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. Sizes typically range from 4 to 4 ½ inches. As a general rule, smaller grips offer more control, while larger grips provide more power and are easier on the arm.

Paddle Shape: While various paddle shapes offer different benefits, beginners should start with a standard shape (approximately 8 inches wide by 15¾ inches long) to learn the basics of the game. 

Price: As a beginner, it’s wise not to invest heavily in your first paddle. Start with a mid-range priced paddle that offers good quality without breaking the bank. 

How to choose the right shoes for beginners?

For pickleball beginners, choosing the right shoes involves selecting court-specific footwear that offers good lateral support for quick movements, has a durable and grip-friendly sole suitable for your playing surface (indoor or outdoor), and provides comfort and a snug fit with adequate cushioning and breathability. 

• Ensure the shoes have non-marking soles to prevent damage to court surfaces. 
• Opt for pickleball or tennis, badminton, or volleyball shoes for their designed stability and support. 
• Prioritize comfort, fitting your foot shape well, and consider any personal orthotic needs.

Is it better for beginners to play pickleball indoors or outdoors?

Each environment offers unique advantages that can suit different beginner needs:

Also, read our article on indoor vs. outdoor courts.

Beginners interested in a more controlled learning environment may prefer indoors, while those looking to play in a variety of conditions and enjoy the outdoors might lean towards outdoor courts.