Understanding the Basics of Pickleball
Pickleball is accessible to players of all ages and skill levels, and it’s a great way to stay active and meet people. Before you get started, make sure to bring the right clothing and footwear for peak performance, comfort, and safety.
Does Pickleball Have a Dress Code?
There’s no strict dress code in pickleball, but there are some general guidelines you should follow to have the best experience while playing. First and foremost, bring comfortable and appropriate athletic gear. Choose clothing that allows for a full range of motion, and that’s made of moisture-wicking material to help you stay cool and dry during gameplay. Avoid wearing clothing that’s too loose or too tight, as it can hinder your movement and affect your performance.
What to Look for in Pickleball Clothing
Comfort, flexibility, and breathability are some of the most important aspects to consider for pickleball clothing. Here are some guidelines for each part of your outfit.
Tops
Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics such as polyester or nylon. Avoid heavy cotton fabrics that can trap sweat and weigh you down. Look for tops with moisture-wicking technology to help keep you dry and comfortable. Tank tops or short-sleeved shirts are a good choice for most players. If you prefer a long-sleeved shirt, choose one with a UPF rating to protect your skin from the sun.
Bottoms
Pick shorts or skirts made from stretchy, moisture-wicking fabrics. Look for built-in base layer shorts to reduce chafing and provide extra support. Avoid baggy pants or shorts, which can get caught on the paddle or restrict your movement.
Accessories
Wear a sweatband or headband to keep sweat out of your eyes. Choose socks made from moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters. Wear sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes from the sun.
Men’s Pickleball Clothing
Men should wear comfortable shorts that allow for a full range of motion but aren’t too long or baggy. Make sure your shorts fit snugly and have a comfortable waistband. T-shirts and tank tops are both great picks for the court. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s breathable and comfortable. Avoid wearing cotton shirts, which can become heavy and uncomfortable when you start to sweat.
What to Wear When Playing Outdoors
If you expect to play outdoors, make sure to dress for it. When playing outside, it's important to choose clothing that will keep you comfortable in the elements. If it's sunny and hot outside, wear lightweight and breathable clothing made of moisture-wicking material to keep you cool and dry. Avoid dark colors, which absorb heat and make you feel even hotter. Instead, bring light-colored clothing to reflect the sun's rays and help you stay cool. Bring sunscreen to protect your skin, and consider wearing a hat, a visor, or sunglasses to shield your eyes from glare. On the other hand, if it's chilly or windy outside, layer a long-sleeved shirt or a light jacket over your athletic wear to help you stay warm before and after play. Make sure it’s easy to remove if you get too warm. Consider wearing a base layer shirt and tights to add warmth without restricting your movement. When it comes to footwear, make sure to wear lightweight shoes with good traction and support. If you’re playing on a paved court, bring cushioned shoes made for pavement. If you’re playing on grass or dirt, avoid shoes with smooth soles, which can cause you to slip. Don’t wear sandals or flip-flops, which don’t provide enough support or stability for rapid movements and can come loose.
What to Look for in a Good Pickleball Shoe
You don't necessarily need special shoes for pickleball, though they do exist. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when looking for a good pickleball shoe.
Sole
The soles of your pickleball shoes provide traction and stability on the court. If you play indoors, look for shoes that have non-marking soles made of gum rubber or a similar material that won't leave marks on the court. A herringbone or hexagonal pattern on the sole can also provide excellent traction. Outdoor pickleball courts are often made of different materials than indoor courts, so it's important to choose shoes with soles designed for outdoor use. Look for shoes with soles that offer a good grip and traction on a variety of surfaces, including concrete and asphalt.
Support
A good pickleball shoe should support your feet and ankles to help prevent injuries. Look for shoes that have a supportive upper, such as leather or synthetic material, and a padded collar or tongue to cushion your ankle. High-top shoes give even more ankle support at the cost of some mobility.
Cushioning & Comfort
Pickleball is a high-impact sport that can be hard on your joints. Look for shoes that have adequate cushioning in the sole and heel to absorb shocks, especially if you expect to play on hard surfaces like concrete. They should be comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Breathability
When playing pickleball, your feet can get hot and sweaty. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it can also result in blisters. To keep your feet cool and dry, look for shoes that have a breathable upper made of mesh or other lightweight materials that let air circulate.
Fit
A good pair of pickleball shoes should fit well and feel comfortable from the first wear. Look for shoes that have a snug fit without being too tight or constricting. Make sure there’s enough room for your toes to move freely, but not so much that they slide around.
Durability
Outdoor pickleball shoes need to be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor play. Look for shoes made of high-quality materials that can withstand exposure to the elements and rough outdoor surfaces. Indoor pickleball shoes are designed for smooth surfaces like hardwood, and they’ll wear out quickly if worn on rough surfaces like concrete. To prolong their life, make sure not to wear your indoor shoes outside.
Tennis vs. Pickleball Shoes
You can wear tennis shoes or another type of court shoe to play because of the similarities in the game and the surfaces. Tennis shoes work particularly well if you’re playing outdoors on tennis courts or other hard courts or playground surfaces. If you’re playing pickleball indoors, go for indoor court shoes like those for squash, badminton, or soccer. Their grippy rubber soles may give you a bit more traction. Athletic or running shoes are not the best choice for pickleball because it involves a lot of lateral movement, while a typical running shoe is designed for straight-line movement.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Pickleball Shoes
Most indoor pickleball courts require shoes with non-marking soles, which don’t scuff or damage the court’s surface. Indoor court shoes should provide good lateral support and traction on smooth surfaces to help you stay stable during quick movements. If you play on a pavement court, look for outdoor pickleball shoes or tennis shoes that provide support and stability. They typically feature a durable sole with a larger tread pattern than their indoor counterparts to improve traction so you won’t slip on surfaces that may be slick due to rain or humidity. For added ventilation in hot weather, they often have breathable uppers.
Pickleball Accessories
Paddle: A good pickleball paddle is essential. There are many different types of paddles available, and it's important to find one that suits your playing style and skill level. Look for a paddle with a comfortable grip, the right weight and balance, and a size that feels comfortable to handle.
Balls: Make sure to bring some balls with you. There are indoor balls and outdoor balls, with the difference being that indoor balls have fewer, larger holes. Outdoor balls are also made from slightly harder plastic for more durability and bounce.
Hat or Visor: If you plan to play outdoors, a hat or visor can be very helpful. Not only can it keep the sun out of your eyes, but it can also help to regulate your body temperature by providing shade. Look for a lightweight and breathable hat that won't weigh you down or overheat you on the court.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses can also be useful for playing outdoor pickleball, as they can protect your eyes from the glare of the sun. Look for polarized lenses, which can further reduce glare and enhance visibility on the court. Make sure your sunglasses fit firmly around your ears so they won’t fall off as you play. Alternatively, use a tether to keep them attached.
Bag or Duffle: A good bag can be very useful for carrying your gear to and from the court. A specialized pickleball bag isn’t necessary: any good-quality gym bag that’s big enough should work. Look for a bag with enough compartments to store your paddle, balls, and any other accessories you may need. Consider the size and weight of the bag to ensure that it's comfortable to carry.
Here are some other helpful accessories that you might want to bring:
- Grip-enhancing gloves
- Wristbands to absorb sweat
- Compression sleeves for added support & protection
- A water bottle to keep you hydrated
- Sunscreen to keep you protected if you’re playing outdoors
The right pickleball accessories can significantly help your game, so explore your options and invest in the proper gear.
