Pickleball Gear Guide: What to Wear on the Court

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just stepping onto the pickleball court for the first time, the right gear can make a huge difference in your comfort, performance, and enjoyment of the game. While pickleball is less demanding than some other sports in terms of equipment, wearing the right clothing and accessories can enhance your experience and help you play your best.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to wear on the pickleball court, from shoes to clothing to accessories, so you’re prepared to move freely and comfortably while staying safe.

1. Footwear: The Foundation of Your Gear

If there’s one piece of gear you should invest in for pickleball, it’s a good pair of shoes. Since pickleball involves a lot of lateral movement, quick stops, and starts, you’ll need shoes that provide support and stability.

Pickleball or Court Shoes: Look for shoes specifically designed for court sports (like tennis or volleyball). These shoes provide excellent lateral support and traction to prevent slipping on the court.
Avoid Running Shoes: Running shoes aren’t ideal for pickleball because they’re designed for forward motion, not side-to-side movements. Wearing running shoes can increase your risk of ankle injuries.
Cushioning and Comfort: Make sure your shoes have ample cushioning, especially if you’re playing on hard courts. This will help absorb impact and reduce stress on your joints.

Pro tip: Look for shoes with non-marking soles, as some indoor courts require this to prevent scuff marks.

2. Clothing: Stay Cool and Comfortable

When it comes to clothing, comfort is key. Pickleball involves a lot of movement, so you’ll want to wear clothes that allow for a full range of motion and keep you cool during intense rallies.

Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Opt for moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, or skirts that pull sweat away from your body and keep you dry. Materials like polyester or nylon blends work well for this.
Breathable Layers: In cooler weather, consider layering with breathable, lightweight materials like a performance jacket or pullover. Make sure it’s easy to remove once you warm up.
Comfortable Fit: Wear clothes that fit comfortably but aren’t too baggy. Baggy clothing can restrict movement or get in the way of your paddle during play.
Sun Protection: If you’re playing outdoors, consider wearing long sleeves or sun-protective clothing, especially during the hotter months.

Pro tip: Look for clothing with built-in UV protection to safeguard your skin during outdoor games.

3. Headwear: Keep the Sun and Sweat at Bay

Whether you’re playing outdoors under the sun or indoors under bright lights, wearing proper headwear can make a big difference in your comfort level.

Caps or Visors: A lightweight cap or visor helps keep the sun out of your eyes, especially during outdoor games. Visors are a great option if you want sun protection without trapping heat.
Sweatbands or Headbands: If you tend to sweat a lot during games, wearing a sweatband or headband can prevent sweat from dripping into your eyes, helping you stay focused on the game.

Pro tip: Choose moisture-wicking headwear that won’t soak up sweat and become uncomfortable over time.

4. Pickleball Gloves: Optional but Beneficial

While not essential, some players prefer to wear gloves, especially if they sweat a lot or play in cold weather. Gloves can provide extra grip and prevent your paddle from slipping.

Grip-Enhancing Gloves: Look for gloves designed to improve grip and keep your hands dry. These gloves are particularly useful in humid conditions or during long matches.
Cold-Weather Gloves: If you’re playing outdoors in cold weather, gloves can help keep your hands warm without sacrificing grip on the paddle.

Pro tip: Make sure any gloves you choose are designed for racket or paddle sports to ensure they don’t interfere with your grip.

5. Eyewear: Protect Your Eyes

Eye protection may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about pickleball gear, but it’s important, especially for fast-paced games. A pickleball traveling at high speed can be dangerous if it hits your eyes.

Protective Eyewear: Consider wearing protective eyewear or goggles, especially if you play a lot of doubles, where there’s a higher chance of getting hit by a ball from an unexpected angle.
Sunglasses: For outdoor play, sunglasses are a must to reduce glare and protect your eyes from UV rays. Polarized lenses can help you see the ball more clearly in bright conditions.

Pro tip: Look for lightweight, shatterproof eyewear that doesn’t hinder your vision or movement on the court.

6. Accessories: The Finishing Touches

There are a few additional accessories that can make your pickleball experience even better.

Pickleball Bag: Invest in a bag specifically designed for pickleball gear. These bags typically have compartments for your paddles, balls, and personal items, making it easy to carry everything in one place.
Towels: Keep a small towel handy for wiping sweat between games. A moisture-wicking towel can help you stay dry without getting soggy.
Water Bottle: Hydration is key when playing pickleball, especially in warm weather. Bring a reusable water bottle that’s easy to grab between points to stay hydrated throughout your match.

Pro tip: Consider using an insulated water bottle to keep your water cool during outdoor games.

Final Thoughts

Wearing the right gear can make all the difference in your pickleball game, helping you move freely, stay comfortable, and avoid injuries. From proper footwear and moisture-wicking clothing to protective eyewear and useful accessories, being prepared on the court allows you to focus on what really matters – having fun and playing your best.

So, before your next pickleball game, take a moment to check your gear and make sure you’re dressed for success. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the right gear can give you the edge you need to enjoy the game to the fullest.