One of the great things about pickleball is that starting is cheap and simple, and you need very little gear. Still, choosing the right paddle, ball and shoes will improve the experience and prevent injury. This guide covers everything a beginner needs to get on court.
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📲 Download nowThe paddle, the most important item
The paddle is the core piece of gear. Three factors drive the choice: weight, material and grip size.
- Weight: a light paddle (about 7.3 to 7.8 ounces) gives control and agility, a heavier one (8 ounces and up) gives power but loads the arm.
- Face material: graphite and composite are common and balanced, wood is cheap and heavy and suits only a first try.
- Grip: a grip circumference that fits your hand matters for injury prevention. Beginners in doubt should pick a slightly smaller grip.
The ball, indoor vs outdoor
A pickleball is made of hard plastic with holes. There are two main types, and the difference between them is significant.
- Indoor ball: about 26 large holes, softer and lighter, suited to indoor courts and a slower, more precise game.
- Outdoor ball: about 40 small holes, harder and heavier, more resistant to wind and hard outdoor surfaces.
Shoes, do not play in running shoes
This is a common mistake. Pickleball involves quick side to side movement and sudden stops, and running shoes are built for forward motion only, which increases the risk of a sprain.
Choose court shoes for tennis or pickleball, which provide lateral support and good grip on the court surface.
Clothing and accessories
Comfortable athletic clothing that wicks sweat is plenty to start. On hot days a cap and sunglasses help on an outdoor court, and a water bottle is always worth having.
There is no need to buy everything up front. Start with the basics and expand as you progress.
What you need on a starter budget
You can start playing pickleball with a very small outlay and upgrade later.
- A basic composite or graphite paddle in a medium weight
- A few balls suited to where you will play (indoor or outdoor)
- Court shoes with lateral support
- Comfortable athletic clothing and a water bottle
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best pickleball paddle for beginners?
A composite or graphite paddle in a medium weight, with a grip that fits your hand. That combination gives a good balance of control and power and is easy to learn with.
What is the difference between an indoor and an outdoor ball?
An indoor ball is softer with about 26 large holes and suits indoor courts, while an outdoor ball is harder with about 40 small holes and is more resistant to wind and hard surfaces.
Can I play pickleball in running shoes?
Better not. Running shoes are built for forward motion, not quick side to side movement, which raises the injury risk. Court shoes with lateral support are preferable.
How much does it cost to start playing pickleball?
Very little. You can start with a basic paddle, a few balls and court shoes, and upgrade later as you progress.
Where do I find people to play pickleball with?
The simple way is to search for players and open games by level and location through an app like PlayRocket.