Pickleball Gear Essentials: What You Need to Play

1. Paddle: Your Most Important Tool

The paddle you use is the cornerstone of your pickleball game, and choosing the right one can make a noticeable improvement in your performance. Pickleball paddles are constructed in an array of materials, shapes, and sizes, so take the time to find one that suits your playing style and comfort.

Material: 

Originally, pickleball paddles were made of wood, but modern paddles are crafted from materials like composite, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and graphite. Composite paddles, often featuring a fiberglass face, offer a balanced mix of power, control, and weight, making them a versatile option for a range of players. Graphite paddles, while typically more expensive, are lightweight and prized for their precision and control, making them a popular choice for players who prioritize finesse. Carbon fiber paddles are known for offering even greater control and touch, making them a favorite among many experienced players.

Grip Size: 

The grip size of your paddle should match the size of your hand. A smaller grip offers more wrist action, which can be beneficial for spin and control, while a larger grip provides greater stability and reduces your risk of wrist strain.

Weight: 

Paddle weight typically ranges from 6 to 14 ounces. Lighter paddles (6-7.5 ounces) offer better control and are easier on the arm, but they may sacrifice some power. Heavier paddles (8-14 ounces) provide more power but can be harder to maneuver.

At Power Pickleball Club’s pro shop, we carry a wide range of paddles, and our knowledgeable staff can help you find the one that’s perfect for you.

2. Balls: A Moving Target

Pickleball is played with a unique ball that’s designed to move slower and bounce lower than a tennis ball. This great control allows players of all ages and skill levels to play, opening the sport up to children, octogenarians, and everyone in between. There are two broad categories of pickleball balls: indoor and outdoor.

Indoor Balls: 

Pickleballs crafted for indoor use are lighter, made of a softer plastic, and have fewer holes (usually 26). They are designed for play on indoor courts, such as hardwood or gym floors. They’re also easier to control, making them ideal for beginners.

Outdoor Balls: 

Outdoor balls are heavier, have more holes (usually 40), and are built to withstand outdoor elements like wind and rougher surfaces. They’re more durable and offer a faster game, which can be more challenging and exciting for experienced players. At Power Pickleball Club, we only use and sell outdoor balls, which give the best performance on our courts.

3. Footwear: The Foundation of Footwork

Proper footwear makes a big difference in pickleball, as the game involves quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and pivots. Wearing the right shoes can keep you comfortable while preventing injuries and improving your agility on the court.

Court Shoes: 

Look for court shoes explicitly designed for pickleball or tennis. These shoes provide the necessary grip and stability for quick movements and are built to withstand the wear and tear of court surfaces. While running shoes are fabricated for forward motion, court shoes offer support for lateral movements, which are common in pickleball. Basketball or other sports shoes are fine for play as well, but their soles aren’t designed to withstand the grit of our pickleball courts, so they may wear down more quickly.

Comfort and Fit: 

Before purchasing, verify that your shoes fit well and offer good arch support. A snug fit will prevent your foot from sliding around inside the shoe, reducing the risk of blisters and injuries.

4. Apparel: Dress for Success

While there’s no strict dress code in pickleball, wearing the right apparel can assure your comfort and performance on the court.

Moisture-Wicking Clothing: 

Opt for athletic wear that breathes. The best fabrics wick away sweat, keeping you cool and dry during intense matches. Select permeable fabrics like polyester or spandex blends that offer flexibility and comfort.

Layers: 

Depending on the season and whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, layering can help you stay comfortable. A light jacket or long-sleeve shirt can be useful for warming up or cooling down.

Headwear: 

Consider wearing a visor, hat, or headband to keep sweat out of your eyes and shield your face from the sun during outdoor games. Power courts are brightly lit for maximum visibility, so some people find sunglasses or hats increase their comfort indoors, too. 

5. Accessories: The Finishing Touches

To round out your pickleball gear, consider a few essential accessories:

Pickleball Bag: 

A good pickleball bag is essential for keeping your gear organized. Pick a bag with handy compartments for paddles, balls, shoes, and other personal items. Many players prefer bags that are easy to carry, whether in a backpack or duffle style.

Water Bottle: 

Staying hydrated helps you maintain energy levels during your game. Bring a large water bottle to keep your water cool throughout your matches, but please choose one that’s made of plastic or silicone. Metal water bottles can fall and dent the courts, so we ask that they not be used at Power Pickleball.

Protective Gear: 

If you’re prone to injuries or just want to play it safe, consider wristbands, knee pads, or ankle braces to provide extra support and protection. We especially encourage you to use protective eyewear, as the game of pickleball has sped up in recent years. Our pro shop will be adding eye protection in the future, but for now we recommend the company Brioti in Coeur d’Alene, which offers great options at a reasonable price.

6. Optional Gear: Tech and Gadgets

For players looking to take their game to the next level, there are various tech gadgets and advanced gear options to explore:

Fitness Tracker: 

Monitor your performance with a fitness tracker that keeps track of your steps, your heart rate, and the calories you've burned. With this little device, you can set and achieve fitness goals while playing the sport you love!

Ball Retriever: 

A handy tool for picking up balls without bending over, a ball retriever saves your back and energy for the game.

Training Aids: 

Consider investing in training aids like a ball machine or target cones to help improve your skills during solo practice sessions.

Check Out the Power Pro Shop