Pickleball is gaining popularity among young and old athletes alike due to the fact that it is a great way to stay active and can be learned quickly. Pickleball equipment is a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong that requires two opposing team to rally a ball back and forth and try to get to 11 points. Because of this, games can be fairly short and fast-paced.
If you want to learn how to play pickleball, you’ll need the proper equipment first. Here are the five necessary pieces of pickleball equipment you’ll need before you play.
1. Ball
Pickleball balls are similar to whiffle balls in that they are small, plastic, hollow, and have holes. They come in a wide array of colors and can usually be bought in packs of six or twelve.
The ball you use during your game can be different depending on whether or not you choose to play outside. The ball you’ll use outside has smaller holes to make up for possible wind interference. Indoor balls are softer and have larger holes.
2. Paddle
Pickleball paddles are smaller than tennis rackets and larger than ping-pong paddles. They are squared and will weigh differently, depending on the materials that were used to make it.
Paddles used to be made of wood, but can now be found in a wide array of composite materials including aluminum and graphite. Try to test out a few different types of paddles before choosing your own.
You’ll also want to take grip size, handle length, and durability into consideration when choosing a pickleball paddle.
3. Net and Posts
A pickleball net bisects the court and attaches to two posts that sit outside the court. Nets should be 36 inches high at the posts and no lower than 34 inches in the center.
Portable nets are available to serious players who want to take the game with them wherever they go.
4. Court
Pickleball courts are 20 feet by 44 feet. Each side has a left and right service court and a 7-foot non-volley zone (often called the “kitchen”) on both sides of the net.
If you don’t have access to an official court, a tennis court can be modified to act as a pickleball court.
5. Shoes
Running shoes won’t cut it on the pickleball court!
Pickleball shoes are designed to keep you safe as you maneuver your way around the court. They can prevent you from slipping, increase your mobility, and keep you comfortable and supported. Good pickleball shoes can keep you light on your feet while stabilizing your step.
Be sure to break in your shoes before playing to prevent blisters.
Necessary Pickleball Equipment Before You Play
Now that you have an idea of what pickleball equipment you’ll need to play, you just have to find some people who are as eager as you are to learn the sport!
Having the proper equipment is necessary for a successful pickleball experience, but once you have the hang of the game, you should play to win!
