Pickleball equipment for beginners: what you really need

Pickleball is experiencing a meteoric rise, and more and more new players are wondering what equipment is really needed to get started.

Between the advanced rackets, the different types of balls, and a whole range of accessories, it's easy to get lost. What do you need to buy to get started playing pickleball without any unnecessary extras?

In this guide, we review the essential pickleball equipment for beginners, so you can equip yourself intelligently from your first game.

A pickleball paddle suitable for beginners

The pickleball paddle is the central piece of equipment. It's what will most influence your game as a beginner. Good news: there's no need to spend a fortune on the best pickleball paddle right from the start.

In reality, beginners primarily need control , forgiveness , and comfort , far more than power or advanced technology. A racket that's too specialized or expensive could even hinder your progress, as it may be less forgiving of off-center hits.

Opt for a light to medium racket, with a large sweet spot (optimal hitting zone) and a good balance between power and control.

For example, The Pickleballer's Foundation Paddle is designed specifically for beginners: a T700 carbon surface for durability and control, a well-balanced weight, and a design focused on learning proper technique. This type of racket will allow you to develop your strokes with confidence, without being held back by overly demanding equipment.

If you already own a racket for a similar sport (for example, an old paddle tennis or ping-pong racket), be aware that it will not be suitable for pickleball. It is important to use a racket specifically designed for pickleball, as the dimensions and materials are different.

A good beginner's racket usually costs no more than €50 to €100, a reasonable investment to get started. By avoiding ultra-premium models at first, you'll save money while still having equipment perfectly suited to your skill level.

Pickleballs adapted to your court

You can't play pickleball without balls , and there are two main types: indoor balls and outdoor balls.

The main difference lies in the number of holes and the material. An indoor ball is lighter, with approximately 26 larger holes, making it slower and more maneuverable in a gymnasium or on a smooth surface.

The outdoor ball is slightly heavier and harder, with approximately 40 small holes for better resistance to wind and hard outdoor surfaces. Should a beginner buy both types?

If you already know you'll be playing only indoors (for example, in a gymnasium) or exclusively outdoors, you can start with a single type of ball suited to that surface. However, if you're unsure where you'll be playing or plan to practice in both environments, it's advisable to have a few balls of each type.
This ensures you're ready to play anywhere without any unpleasant surprises.

Pickleball balls are usually sold in packs of 3 or 6 and are quite affordable (a few euros per ball). Don't hesitate to ask for advice at your local club; clubs often provide balls during introductory sessions.

However, having your own balls allows you to practice freely. Just be sure to use the right ball on the right surface: an indoor ball used outdoors is likely to get damaged quickly and be affected by the wind, while an outdoor ball indoors may bounce too fast and hinder the game for beginners.

Shoes and outfit: comfort above all

While we don't strictly refer to it as pickleball equipment, your shoes and clothing play an important role in your playing experience. To start, there's no need to invest in pickleball-specific shoes if you already have indoor athletic shoes or non-marking tennis shoes.
The Sketcher brand has notably become the benchmark for specialized Pickleball shoes.

The important thing is that they offer good support, grip, and don't leave marks on the court. Tennis or badminton shoes are perfectly fine to start with.

As for clothing, choose comfortable sportswear that allows for a good range of motion. A breathable T-shirt, shorts or a sports skirt, and perhaps a cap if you're playing outdoors in good weather, are perfectly adequate. The goal is to be comfortable moving and focused on the ball, without being hindered by your equipment.

Useful accessories (without unnecessary extras)

Once you have your racket, balls, and shoes, the rest of the accessories are optional but can improve your playing comfort and the longevity of your equipment. Some useful accessories for a beginner include:

• Replacement grip : Rackets often come with a basic grip. Adding a comfort overgrip can improve your hold and absorb sweat, preventing the racket from slipping. It's a small investment for better control.
• Edge guard : Some rackets, like the Foundation Paddle, are equipped with or compatible with an edge guard. This rubber accessory protects the edge of the racket from impacts with the ground or other objects. It's useful for extending the life of your equipment, especially if you're a beginner and sometimes hit the ground while trying to return low balls.
• Racket cover : A bag or cover protects your racket during transport and storage. It prevents scratches and minor damage, which is especially useful when you start to acquire more serious equipment.

Other items might be on the list, such as a water bottle to stay hydrated, a towel to dry off between rallies, or a small gym bag to carry everything. These items aren't specific to pickleball, but they're part of a well-organized player's kit.

On the other hand, be wary of overly specialized gadgets that might be sold to you right from the start (for example, sophisticated training equipment): they aren't essential for a beginner. Focus on the basics and add accessories as you identify a real need while playing.

The best deal: complete kits for beginners

If the list of everything you need seems a little long, rest assured: there are pickleball kits for beginners that bring together all the necessary equipment in a single purchase.

For example, The Pickleballer's Smart Start Kit is a complete set designed for new players. This clever kit includes the Foundation Paddle racket, two indoor and two outdoor balls, an extra comfort grip and edge protector, as well as a racket cover and even a cleaning eraser for maintenance.

The advantage of a beginner kit is twofold: you are sure to have consistent equipment (each item is adapted to the beginner level), and you often save money compared to buying each item separately.

The Smart Start Kit, for example, helps beginners avoid common mistakes (unsuitable or overpriced rackets, bad balls, etc.) while remaining within a reasonable budget. It's a turnkey solution for starting pickleball with peace of mind, without the fear of forgetting anything.

Of course, buying a kit is not mandatory. You can absolutely create your own equipment by selecting each item individually.
However, if you are unsure about which racket or balls to choose, or if you want to save time, the kits offer valuable peace of mind.
The idea is to start off on the right foot , with reliable equipment that will allow you to progress and have fun from the very first games.

Equip yourself smartly and play!

In summary, what purchases are necessary to start playing pickleball?
Prioritize a good beginner's racket and a few balls suited to your playing area. Add a pair of stable and comfortable sports shoes. The rest (grip, protection, bag, etc.) is useful but can be added gradually.

The goal is to feel comfortable on the field without spending money on unnecessary or overly high-end equipment to get started. By following these tips, you'll avoid common mistakes and have everything you need to begin.

Remember that the most important thing is to have fun and practice regularly. Simple but adequate equipment, like what's offered in a well-designed beginner's kit , will allow you to focus on the game and your progress. It's your turn!

FAQ

Q: What equipment do I need to start playing pickleball?

A: To start playing pickleball, you'll need at least a beginner-friendly pickleball paddle and some balls (indoor or outdoor depending on where you play). Add to that non-marking athletic shoes for safe play. Other items, like a spare grip, a paddle cover, and a water bottle, are helpful but not essential for your first game.

Q: Can a tennis racket or paddle work for playing pickleball?

A: No, it is strongly recommended to use a racket specifically designed for pickleball. Tennis or paddle tennis rackets are different (size, weight, surface) and will not allow you to play pickleball properly. A beginner's pickleball racket is not very expensive and will offer a much better playing experience.

Q: How many pickleballs do I need to get started?

A: It's advisable to have at least two or three balls with you. This allows you to continue playing without interruption if one ball is lost or damaged. Since pickleballs are sold in packs, getting a pack of three or six balls is a good idea to start with. Just make sure you have the right type of ball (indoor or outdoor) depending on the playing surface.

Q: Should you invest in expensive equipment from the start?

A: No, it's not necessary. You don't need to buy the most expensive racket on the market to discover pickleball. On the contrary, many high-end rackets are designed for experienced players and can be difficult for a beginner to master. A mid-range, control-oriented model will be more than sufficient. Similarly, standard balls and a few simple accessories will do the trick. You can always upgrade your equipment later, once you're playing regularly.

Q: Is a pickleball starter kit really useful?

A: A starter kit can be very useful if you want to be sure you have everything you need without making any mistakes. For example, the Smart Start Kit includes a balanced beginner racket, indoor/outdoor balls, and useful accessories, all for a convenient overall price. This avoids having to choose each item separately and ensures consistency in your equipment. Of course, you can buy the items individually, but the kit offers simplicity and peace of mind for getting off to a good start.