Equipment You Will Need
Getting started in pickleball doesn’t have to be expensive. Beginners can purchase a basic paddle, a few balls, and suitable sports shoes at a relatively low cost, making it easy to try the sport without a major investment. As your skills develop and you decide whether pickleball is a game you want to continue playing regularly, you can gradually upgrade your equipment. Higher-quality paddles often offer better control, power, and comfort, while premium court shoes provide improved support and durability. Starting with affordable equipment allows new players to enjoy the game and learn the basics before deciding if investing in more advanced gear is worthwhile.
Paddles
A pickleball paddle is one of the most important pieces of equipment in the game. Larger than a table tennis bat but smaller than a tennis racket, paddles are designed to provide a balance of power, control, and comfort.
Pickleballs
Pickleballs are specially designed for the sport and are made from durable, lightweight plastic with evenly spaced holes. While they may look similar to a wiffle ball, pickleballs are engineered to provide a consistent bounce, flight, and level of performance during play.
Court Shoes
Wearing the correct court shoes is essential when you play pickleball because they provide the lateral support, grip and stability running shoes lack; the quick side‑to‑side movements and sudden stops place extra strain on ankles and knees, and proper court footwear reduces injury risk while improving balance and shot control.
The Court
A badminton court can readily serve as a pickleball court because the playing area for pickleball (20 ft × 44 ft / 6.10 m × 13.41 m) matches a badminton doubles court.