Essential Items You Need To Start Playing Pickleball

by John Wren
Essential Items You Need To Start Playing Pickleball

Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton, is an engaging and easy-to-learn game that participants of all ages can enjoy. If you’re a beginner looking to dive into this exciting sport, you might be wondering which items you need to get started. Here are the essential items you need to start playing pickleball.

Pickleball Net

A pickleball net is an indispensable piece of equipment you will need for the game. Similar to a tennis net—but smaller in size—it is used to divide the court into two parts. The net height for pickleball should reach 34 inches in the center and 36 inches at the sides. This height is carefully standardized to maintain the game’s balance, ensuring that volleying is challenging but achievable. The pickleball net serves as a boundary for players, defining where they can serve and return the ball. It also adds a strategic element to the game, as players must maneuver their shots over the net without touching it. And if you want to play wherever you go, there are several benefits to getting a portable pickleball net.

Pro Tip: Purchasing a pickleball net and setting it up at home is one of the many great ways to get your kids outdoors and keep them active.

Pickleball Paddles

Pickleball paddles are essential items you’ll need to begin your pickleball journey. These paddles, which are typically made from lightweight materials like wood, graphite, or composite, are used to strike the ball. There is a variety of paddles available, ranging from budget-friendly wooden paddles, which are perfect for beginners, to high-end graphite or composite paddles, which are favored by advanced players for their light weight and high durability. Choosing the right paddle depends largely on your play style, budget, and comfort. Opt for a paddle that fits well in your hand, offers a good balance between power and control, and falls within your budget. Remember, the best paddle is not always the most expensive one, but the one that feels most comfortable and enhances your performance on the court.

Pickleball Balls

Equally as crucial as the net and paddles are the pickleball balls themselves. These are typically lightweight, with a design reminiscent of a whiffle ball, featuring numerous holes that influence the ball’s flight path. The balls are designed to be durable yet bouncy, offering a unique playing experience. Importantly, pickleball balls come in two primary types: indoor and outdoor. Indoor balls are softer and have larger holes, which makes them more lightweight. On the other hand, outdoor balls are made of harder plastic and have smaller, more numerous holes, adding weight for better wind resistance. The type you choose depends on where you plan on playing. Having the correct pickleball is vital, as their unique designs and material compositions are what set pickleball apart from its racquet sport counterparts, and using the right ball type can significantly influence your game’s quality.

Bestseller No. 1
Pickleball Paddles Set of 2, USAPA Approved Fiberglass Surface Pickleball Set with 2 Pickleball Rackets,4 Pickleball Balls,1 Portable Carry Bag, Pickle Racket Set ​for Men Women
  • USAPA Approve Pickleball Paddles: The pickleball paddles of 2 are USA pickleball approved & with USAPA approval lable ith high safety and professionalism, and can be used in tournaments
  • Premium Quality Pickleball Paddles: The pickleball paddles set is designed with unique fiberglass and polypropylene honeycomb core technology. Provides exceptional power and control. Polypropylene...
  • Comfortable Ergonomic Grip: Pickle ball set is designed to be perforated, sweat absorbent, and cushioned. It can help users better grasp the grip and provide cushioning. 4.57" grip circumference...
  • Lightweight & Wide Pickleball Rackets: The wide pickleball racket area provides more sweet spots for the perfect shot.Great pickleball paddles for beginners, intermediates and professional players....
  • Complete Pickleball Sets: Includes 2 pickleball paddles, 4 outdoor pickle ball, 2 grip tapes, 1 carry bag
Bestseller No. 2
JoncAye Pickleball Paddles Set of 4 Fiberglass Rackets and Balls, Racquet Case, Overgrip, Mesh Bag, USAPA Approved Pickle-Ball Kit for Women, Men, Lightweight Starter Set for Kids, Adults
  • 𝘾𝙊𝙈𝙋𝙇𝙀𝙏𝙀 𝙋𝙄𝘾𝙆𝙇𝙀𝘽𝘼𝙇𝙇 𝙎𝙀𝙏: This pickleball set of unbeatable value includes 4 fiberglass pickleball paddles, 2 outdoor pickleball balls + 2...
  • 𝙐𝙎𝘼𝙋𝘼 𝘼𝙋𝙋𝙍𝙊𝙑𝙀𝘿: JoncAye BLITZ pickle-ball paddle series is tested and approved by USAPA for tournament play. Each paddle is manufactured strictly according to...
  • 𝙇𝙄𝙂𝙃𝙏𝙒𝙀𝙄𝙂𝙃𝙏 𝙋𝘼𝘿𝘿𝙇𝙀 𝙒𝙄𝙏𝙃 𝙇𝘼𝙍𝙂𝙀 𝙎𝙒𝙀𝙀𝙏 𝙎𝙋𝙊𝙏: JoncAye BLITZ pickleball paddles 4 pack are made of...
  • 𝘾𝙐𝙎𝙃𝙄𝙊𝙉 𝙃𝘼𝙉𝘿 𝙂𝙍𝙄𝙋 𝙒𝙄𝙏𝙃 𝙀𝙓𝙏𝙍𝘼 𝙂𝙍𝙄𝙋 𝙏𝘼𝙋𝙀𝙎: JoncAye pickleball paddles features a perforated, stitched...
  • 𝙌𝙐𝙄𝙀𝙏𝙀𝙍 𝙋𝙄𝘾𝙆𝙇𝙀𝘽𝘼𝙇𝙇 𝙋𝘼𝘿𝘿𝙇𝙀: The composite PP honeycomb core inside this pickleball paddle set of 4 helps the pickleball equipment...
Bestseller No. 3
Franklin Sports Outdoor- X-40 Pickleball Balls - USA Pickleball (USAPA) Approved - 3 Pack Outside Pickleballs - Optic Yellow - US Open Ball
  • PREMIUM QUALITY: Franklin's X-40 outdoor pickleballs are meticulously crafted and rigorously tested to uphold our standard of premium performance and durability that has made this ball a favorite...
  • PRECISION DESIGN: X-40 pickleballs are constructed with 40 precise, machine-drilled holes for a balanced flight pattern and tight; reliable spin that is consistent from ball to ball
  • DURABILITY OUTDOORS: The no-seam, one-piece construction ensures a stronger; longer lasting pickleball that resists dents and cracking on outdoor pickleball courts
  • USA PICKLEBALL APPROVED: These official size and weight X-40 pickleballs are approved for outdoor tournament play by USA Pickleball (USAPA) and were chosen as the official ball for both the US Open...
  • 3 PACK: This set Includes (3) X-40 pickleballs with ball tube that can be used for transportation and storage when off the court
Bestseller No. 4
Pickleball Paddles Set of 2, USAPA Approved Fiberglass Pickle Ball Paddles with 4 Pickle Balls, Durable &Lightweight Racket for Beginners, Pros, Men, Women, Adults, Kids
  • Professional pickleball paddles suitable for everyone, including beginners, intermediate players, or professional players.
  • Material: The pickleball paddle is made of fiberglass and a honeycomb design material, which offers the characteristics of being lightweight, durable, and stable. This enhances the paddle's lifespan...
  • Enlarged Sweet Spot: The wide pickleball paddle face provides an expanded sweet spot, aiding in perfect shots.
  • Lightweight Design: The paddle weighs only 0.47 lbs, making it suitable for all age groups, including children.
  • High-Quality Sandblasted UV Coating: Utilizes a high-quality sandblasted UV coating to ensure precise ball placement control.
Bestseller No. 5
YILLOG Pickleball Paddles,USAPA Approved Pickleball Paddle Set 4,Fiberglass Surface Pickleball Set,4 Pickleball Balls,4 Cooling Towels,Bag,Pickle Ball Paddle Men Women Red/Blue/Green/Yellow
  • USAPA-Approved Pickleball Paddles: The YILLOG Pickleball Set has been inspected by USA Pickleball and is deemed acceptable for official tournament play. The pickleball paddles are engineered with a...
  • Durable Construction: Pickleball paddles are made of fiberglass face and polypropylene honeycomb composition, which has the ideal level of strength and stiffness, and is light in weight; Polypropylene...
  • Lightweight & Wide Body Shape: The paddle measures 15.5" x 8.15" and weighs 7.9oz. The lightweight pickleball paddle boasts a wide racket area with ample sweet spots, enabling players to move quickly...
  • Comfortable Ergonomic Grip: The pickleball paddle has perforated sweat-absorbent and cushioned materials. Players can maintain a strong grip and play comfortably for extended periods of time. The grip...
  • Premium Pickleball Paddle Set: The YILLOG Pickleball Set includes 4 durable paddles, 4 high-performing pickleball balls, 4 Cooling Towels, and 1 carrying bag. The pickleball paddles set is for all...
Bestseller No. 6
Dinkly Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 - USAPA Approved Graphite/Fiberglass Pickleball Racket, 2 Pickleball Rackets, 4 Balls and 1 Portable Carry Bag, Pickle Ball Set for Men Women, Wave Check
  • [Beginner-Friendly] Design for beginners, our 8oz pickleball paddle features 14mm polymer honeycomb for a larger hitting area and lightweight head, providing the perfect balance of speed and power....
  • [Ergonomic & Comfortable Grip] The 4.25 inch handle fits naturally in your hand, enhancing spin and control. With a 4.9 inch length, it increases power on serves. The breathable and anti-slip grip...
  • [USAPA Approved] Our pickleball paddle set has been officially approved by USA pickleball Association, guaranteeing its quality and compliance with official standards. Play with confidence and take...
  • [Stylish & Portable] The unique green pickleball racket features wave check graphics, adding a cute and stylish touch. The set comes with a sling avocado bag, which includes a small front pocket for...
  • [What You Get] This set includes 2 pickleball paddles, 4 outdoor pickleballs, and 1 pickleball bag. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, this set provides all the essential gear for...
Bestseller No. 7
SKECHERS Women's Pickleball Viper Court Pro 2.0 Sneaker, White, 7.5
  • PERFORMANCE-READY DESIGN: The SKECHERS Pickleball Viper Court Pro 2.0 Sneakers are designed to elevate your game on the court. Featuring a breathable synthetic and mesh upper, these sneakers keep your...
  • SUPPORTIVE ARCH FIT TECHNOLOGY: Built with the patented Skechers Arch Fit insole system, these sneakers provide podiatrist-certified arch support to reduce foot fatigue and enhance comfort. Perfect...
  • ROOMY RELAXED FIT: The Relaxed Fit design provides a roomy, comfortable fit in the toe and forefoot areas, allowing your feet to move naturally without feeling constricted. This feature is especially...
  • RESPONSIVE CUSHIONING FOR INTENSE ACTION: The ULTRA FLIGHT cushioning technology in these sneakers delivers lightweight and responsive support during every intense move on the court. With superior...
  • DURABLE AND GRIPPY OUTSOLE: Featuring a Goodyear Performance Outsole, these sneakers offer enhanced traction and stability, so you can move confidently on the court. The durable rubber outsole...
Bestseller No. 8
GARYE Pickleball Paddles Set of 2, USAPA Approved Carbon Fiber Pickleball Set, Lightweight Graphite Rackets 2 Pack with 6 Balls, 1 Pickleball Bag for Men and Women
  • 【USAPA Approved】GARYE WL-01 pickleball paddles are tested and approved by the USAPA for tournament play and international pickleball events. Each pickle ball paddle in the GARYE WL-01 series is...
  • 【Premium Material and Thicker Design】These pickleball paddles are built from a pair of unique, premium carbon fiber plates and a high-density polypropylene honeycomb core. This makes them...
  • 【Comfortable Ergonomic Design】The ridged, perforated grip is cushioned around the handle, providing ultimate comfort. It absorbs sweat, prevents slipping, and resists wear. The 4.57-inch grip...
  • 【For All Skill Levels】This pickleball racket set caters to players of all skill levels. It's a great set for beginners, intermediates, and professional players. The pickleball bag can hold 2...
  • 【What You Will Receive】When purchasing this pickleball set, you will receive 2 pack high-quality carbon fiber pickleball paddles, 6 durable 40-hole pickleballs, 1 versatile pickleball bag, and 2...
Bestseller No. 9
niupipo Pickleball Paddles, Lightweight Pickleball Rackets w/Fiberglass Surface, Pickleball Set of 4 Balls and 1 Pickleball Bag
  • USAPA Approve for Victory; niupipo pickleball rackets has passed USAPA testing and is approved for sanctioned tournament play; Widebody pickleball paddles set of 2 shape with 4.72”grip length and...
  • More Power and Less Noise; The pickleball rackets set of 2 is made of fiberglass face and Polypropylene-honeycomb composition for an ideal level of strength and stiffness with a surprisingly...
  • Less Stress On Elbow and Shoulder; The pickleball rackets is noticeably lighter than most paddles, which allows for a longtime play without fatigue; It can also effectually reduce your elbow and...
  • Premium Grip, Perfect Handle Size; The pickleball paddles are comfortable to handle and works well while in gameplay; USAPA standard pro pickleball paddles are perforated, sweat absorbent, and...
  • Comes With 1 Bag And 4 Balls; Every pickleball rackets is designed to be an awesome pickleball paddle for either a beginner or a professional player; Durable pickleball paddles, plenty of pickleballs,...
Bestseller No. 10
DULCE DOM Pickleball Paddles, USAPA Approved Set with 4 Premium Wood Balls and Bag, Rackets Gifts for Beginners & Pros, Women Men
  • 【Great Value Pickleball Paddles Set】DULCE DOM pickleball paddles set contains 4 durable paddles, 2 indoor and 2 outdoor high-performing pickleballs and 1 pickleball bag. This is the perfect...
  • 【High-Quality Material】DULCE DOM pickleball paddle is made of high-quality 9-ply hard basswood, and the edge of the paddle is reinforced with protective rubber. USPA Pickleball certification...
  • 【Premium Comfort Grip】The shock-absorbing grip is designed with soft material and sweat-wicking ventilation holes, minimizing slippage and reducing the impact from paddle to hand, making your...
  • 【Enjoy Sports Fun】If you want to exercise and have fun, pickleball game is definitely the best choice for you! Our pickle ball paddle set of 4 is friendly to people of any age and skill level,...
  • 【Easy to Carry】Our pickle ball racket set offers a spacious pickleball sling bag that can hold all your essentials including rackets, balls, cell phone, wallet, umbrella, towels, water bottle etc....

Now that you know the essential equipment you need to play pickleball, you can gather the necessary items today. Choose equipment that best aligns with your playing style and budget, and most importantly, don’t forget to have fun.

You may also like

Outdoors Magazine

Embracing the Great Outdoors is a compelling blog dedicated to celebrating the beauty and thrill of outdoor activities, weaving tales of awe-inspiring hiking trails, serene fishing spots, strategic hunting expeditions, and invigorating camping adventures to inspire and guide like-minded enthusiasts.

Edtior's Picks

Latest Articles

©2025 Outdoors Magazine. All Right Reserved.