Starting something new is always exciting—especially when it involves being outside, breaking a sweat, and having fun. If you’ve recently discovered pickleball or are eyeing that first game at the courts, you’re probably wondering what gear you need to get started. While the sport is known for being easy to pick up, having the right equipment in your corner makes all the difference.
Whether you're aiming for social games or plan to dial up the competition later, your starter kit should cover the basics: a solid paddle, the right balls, clothes that let you move, and a bag to carry it all. Each piece plays a role in how comfortable and confident you feel on the court. Let’s go over the main pieces of gear you should have on hand before playing your first match.
Pickleball Paddles
Your paddle is your main piece of equipment, so choosing the right one right off the bat can really affect your experience early on. Beginner paddles don’t need to be top-tier or expensive, but they do need to feel comfortable in your hand and be suited to your playing style and strength.
Paddles come in a range of materials, each with its own feel on the court:
- Wood: Heavier and typically the most affordable, wood paddles can be a bit clunky and aren’t usually recommended unless you’re playing casually or just testing things out.
- Composite: Made from fiberglass or carbon fiber faces with a plastic core, these paddles offer a nice balance between power and control.
- Graphite: Lightweight and great for players who want quick reaction time and excellent control.
Grip size and paddle weight are key when deciding what to go with. Heavier paddles give more power but can tire your arm and strain your elbow. Lighter ones offer better control and are easier on your wrist, which is great for beginners figuring out their swing. To find the right grip size, try holding the paddle naturally and checking the space between your fingers and palm—there should be enough room for a pencil to slide in. If it's too tight or too loose, it’s probably not the right size. We recommend purchasing a smaller grip and adding overgrip as needed. You can always size a handle up, but not down.
What works for one person may not work for another. One beginner-friendly option: test out a few paddles at your local court if others are willing to lend you theirs for a quick hit. That small trial can save you time and money down the road.
Pickleballs
The ball you play with matters more than you might think. It's easy for beginners to assume all pickleballs are the same, but there’s a difference, especially between indoor and outdoor use.
The main differences come down to weight, durability, and how the ball handles in different playing environments:
- Indoor Balls: Usually lighter with larger holes. They give you more control but can bounce differently and wear out quickly on rough surfaces. They're better for smoother, indoor courts like gym floors where there is no wind.
- Outdoor Balls: Heavier with smaller holes. These are made to take more impact and hold up against wind, uneven surfaces, and sun. They don’t crack as easily and tend to be louder.
Your best bet is to have a set of each, especially if you’re not sure where you’ll end up playing most. For a general starter kit though, go with outdoor pickleballs since they’re more versatile overall.
It’s smart to grab more than just one or two. Balls get lost easily once a rally heats up and even soften up over time. Starting with a pack of four to six gives you backups without needing to stop mid-game. Keep them in a breathable mesh bag or paddle case pocket so they stay clean and dry.
Appropriate Footwear
Shoes might not be the first thing that comes to mind when putting together your first pickleball kit, but they’re one of the most important. A good pair can help prevent rolled ankles, slips, and sore knees. Court movements involve quick lateral steps and sudden stops, so regular running shoes with soft soles don’t provide the kind of support you need.
When it comes to choosing the right shoes for pickleball, look for:
- Stability: Side-to-side movement happens often. A shoe with solid lateral support helps your feet stay planted.
- Durable Outsole: Pickleball is often played on hard surfaces like tennis courts or gym floors. Go for a tough, non-marking rubber sole designed for court use.
- Cushioning: Every game puts pressure on your feet. Good padding under the heel and arch helps reduce fatigue and discomfort.
- Breathability: Mesh uppers or ventilation holes help keep your feet dry through long matches or warm days.
Court-style shoes from tennis or volleyball lines usually work well too. If you're playing outside more, shoes with thicker soles also help absorb shock from harder ground.
Many new players start with regular sneakers and quickly learn they need more support. Upgrading to court-specific shoes often makes a big difference in comfort and movement.
Comfortable Apparel
Your clothes don’t have to be flashy, but they do need to keep up with how much you move on the court. Comfort and flexibility matter more than brand names. Pickleball often gets competitive before you even realize it, so wearing the wrong thing—like a cotton shirt that sticks after you sweat—can take the fun out of the game.
Look for clothing with these traits:
- Lightweight and stretchy: Shorts, skorts, and tops that move with you rather than restrict you.
- Moisture-wicking fabrics: Keeps sweat off your skin so you stay cooler and avoid chafing.
- Breathable materials: Mesh panels or quick-drying synthetics are ideal for hot days.
Many players like to bring along a visor or hat to shield their eyes from the sun. A light, adjustable hat can keep the sun off your face without making you overheat. Sunglasses are helpful too, as long as they don’t shift when you move.
Think about layering, especially if the weather could change during the day. A long-sleeve zip-up or pullover you can remove easily is perfect. It’s also useful to pack an extra shirt for hot days when one just isn’t enough.
When your clothes feel good and stay dry, you’ll focus more on your game and less on adjusting your outfit or dealing with heat.
Extras and Accessories
Beyond the paddle, balls, shoes, and clothes, there are a few extras that can make your time at the courts smoother and more enjoyable. If you're packing your first pickleball bag, these are great additions:
1. Towels: A small hand towel helps wipe off sweat between games.
2. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated keeps you sharp. Bring a refillable bottle that works well in warm weather.
3. Carrying Bag: Choose one with enough compartments for your gear, including paddle, shoes, and a change of clothes.
4. Grip Tape: If your paddle grip starts to wear down or feel slippery, fresh tape is a simple fix.
5. Wristbands or Sweatbands: Great for warm days when sweat can reach your eyes or affect your grip.
6. Sunscreen: Long sessions outdoors mean your skin needs protection even on cloudy days.
7. First-Aid Items: Blisters and scrapes happen. A few band-aids or an ice pack can be a relief.
You don’t need all these right away, but they’re worth adding as your time on the court increases. Over time, these small extras can make a big shift in how prepared and comfortable you feel while playing.
Gear Up and Get Playing
Starting your pickleball journey with the right stuff makes things smoother from day one. It’s about creating a setup that helps you stay focused and have fun while learning and improving.
Your paddle, type of balls, court-ready shoes, and breathable clothes all work together to help you play longer and with fewer distractions. The right extras round out your starter kit and make match days more comfortable.
As you keep playing and learning your style, you’ll naturally upgrade or swap out gear. But starting with the basics covered makes stepping on the court less stressful and a lot more exciting. Playing your first game with confidence often comes down to simply being prepared.
To gear up for your pickleball adventure, explore our selection of quality equipment designed to enhance your play. Whether you're just starting out or refining your game, having a pickleball starter kit with the right mix of gear can make all the difference. Find everything you need under one roof with Swinton Pickleball's comprehensive collection, and head into each match feeling confident and prepared.
