What You Need to Play Pickleball

Pickleball is a unique combination of three fan-favorite paddle sports: badminton, tennis, and ping pong. This means that it combines elements from each sport, and it requires a mix of different equipment, especially if you are looking to play a more official game with your friends, family, or competitively.

The sport began in the mid-1960s when a Congressman and a few friends had a mix of random equipment but not enough of the right items to play any one game. So, they used a badminton court, ping pong paddles, and a wiffle ball to create what we now know as pickleball.

This means that there is not too much equipment required to play the sport, but we will break it down for you and where you can buy it, from attire to paddles and whiffle balls.

What Are Pickleballs?

One of the most essential pieces of equipment for pickleball is the ball they used based on a whiffle ball. They are very similar to one another when it comes to material and design. Both are made out of hard plastic and tend to be about three inches in diameter, yet a pickleball is just slightly heavier than whiffle balls.

Outdoor balls are typically heavier to help them hold up a bit longer. However, they do not last long between the holes, rough surfaces, and exposure to the sun. Indoor balls can last a bit longer than outdoor ones, but any pickleball will need to be replaced regularly, whether that's because it cracked or got worn out.

You can pick up a 3 pack of balls right here on Badminton Warehouse: https://www.badmintonwarehouse.com/collections/pickleball-paddles/products/photon-indoor-pickleball?variant=20106184261750

Player Paddles

Paddles can be made out of either graphite, composite, or wood, depending upon the player’s needs and preferences. Some will be heavier than others, and some will be lighter. Similar to tennis or badminton, this can affect the force and control that you have when swinging.

A lighter one, for example, tends to allow you to have more control but less force behind the swing. At the same time, a heavier one provides you with more force but less control. So, it's a bit of a give and takes to find out what works best for you.

Grip sizes for these paddles also depend upon the player’s height. Anyone under five foot two would use a four-inch grip, then anyone five foot three to five foot eight would use a four and one fourth inch grip, and anyone above five foot eight would go for a four-and-a-half-inch grip.

Pickleball paddles can be found at most supercenters or sports stores, but here are some of the options that you can buy right here:

• Mirage Premium Poly Core Paddle – This middle-weight pickle ball paddle comes in at $90.00. This is also approved by the USAPA for sanctioned tournament play.
• Head Radical Tour GR Pickleball Paddle – This is a high end paddle for players who play with power and stability. This paddle is great for players of all skill levels and comes with high and innovative technologies to help you perform your best on the court.

Setting Up the Court

Let's not forget one of the most essential items for a pickleball game, the net. Now pickleball courts are quite small in size, and they tend to have low nets. This enables multiple games to be played at once in a smaller area.

Dressing the Part

Similar to any other sport or even the trifecta of sports that make up pickleball, the attire is quite similar. You will need breathable items, easy to wear, and that allows you to move freely.

Here are some items that we would recommend looking into or playing a fun and enjoyable game of pickleball. Try picking up a:

1. Dry-Fit Moisture Shirt

2. Loose-Fit Performance Shorts

3. Pickleball Shoes

You can find some of these clothing options right here on our website!

Get on the Court!

Those are the items you will need to play any pickleball game, whether casual or professional. The essentials are net, paddles, pickleball balls, and proper game attire to enable you to play at your best.

On a final note, it's important to remember that your balls may need to be replaced more often than not to ensure that your game is being played correctly.