First-time players
Everything here covers your first few months of social games without overspending.
Your Pickleball Starter Kit
Pickleball is quick to learn and very easy to get hooked on. Here is the short list of gear a beginner actually needs, in the order we would buy it, so you can get on court sooner.
What do you need to start?
The essentials we would pick first, most important at the top.
START HERE
Paddles and sets, from easy starters to carbon.
What to prioritise
Your first buy
Pickleball Paddles
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BALLS
Indoor and outdoor balls, plus a few practice extras.
What to prioritise
Stock up
Pickleball Balls
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FOOTWEAR
Multi-court shoes for adults and kids that grip.
What to prioritise
Court grip
Pickleball Shoes
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CLOTHING
Breathable tees and shorts for adults and kids.
What to prioritise
Stay cool
Pickleball Apparel
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ACCESSORIES
Caps, overgrips and sweatbands for longer sessions.
What to prioritise
Sun and grip
Pickleball Accessories
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CARRY
Racket bags and covers to carry your kit.
What to prioritise
Grab and go
Racquet Sports Bags
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Paddle weight
Lighter paddles are easier to control and gentler on the arm, while heavier ones add power. Most beginners do well with a mid-weight paddle and adjust once their style settles.
Indoor or outdoor balls
Outdoor balls are harder with smaller holes, so they cope with wind and rough courts. Indoor balls are softer and slower. Buy for the courts you play on most.
Proper court shoes
Pickleball is full of short side steps, and running shoes are built to go forwards. Multi-court shoes support lateral moves and grip well on hard courts.
A comfortable grip
A handle that feels too thin or slippery makes you squeeze harder than you need to. An overgrip adds a little thickness and soaks up sweat, so you can hold the paddle loosely.
Who this kit suits
Tennis and badminton converts
You may already own shoes and clothing, so start with a paddle and balls.
Families and friend groups
A paddle set and a bag of balls gets several people playing at once.
Your starter kit at a glance
| Item | Why it matters | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Paddle | Your main tool for every shot | A mid-weight paddle suits most beginners |
| Balls | Indoor and outdoor balls play differently | Keep a few spares, as outdoor balls can crack |
| Court shoes | Support quick side steps | Choose shoes made for multi-court play |
| Breathable clothing | Keeps you cool between rallies | Light tees and shorts dry fastest |
| Cap or visor | Cuts glare on outdoor courts | Pair it with sunscreen and a water bottle |
| Overgrip | Improves hold on a sweaty handle | Replace it once it turns smooth or shiny |
| Racket bag | Keeps paddles and balls together | Pick one with room for shoes and a drink |
Look after your gear
- Wipe the paddle face with a damp cloth after play to keep its surface grippy.
- Keep paddles out of a hot car, as strong heat can damage the core and edge guard.
- Retire balls that are cracked or soft, since they bounce unpredictably.
- Loosen your shoes and let them air dry away from direct heat after each session.
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Frequently asked questions
What do I need to start playing pickleball?
A paddle, a few balls and a pair of court shoes are the real essentials. Most public courts and clubs supply the net, so you rarely need your own. Add breathable clothing, a cap for outdoor courts and a bag once you are playing regularly.
How do I choose my first pickleball paddle?
Focus on weight and grip size before materials. A mid-weight paddle gives a good balance of control and power, and the handle should let you hold it without squeezing. Fibreglass and composite faces are forgiving for beginners, while carbon faces tend to suit players who want more feel and spin later on.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs?
Outdoor balls are made from harder plastic with more, smaller holes, which helps them fly true in the wind and survive rough concrete. Indoor balls are softer, with fewer and larger holes, so they bounce lower and feel slower. Using the right ball for the surface makes rallies more consistent.
Can I play pickleball in running shoes?
You can for a casual hit, but we would not recommend it for regular play. Running shoes are designed for forward motion and often have soft, raised heels that can roll on quick sideways moves. Multi-court shoes sit lower and give more support for lateral steps.
How can I avoid injury when I start playing?
Warm up for a few minutes with light movement and easy dinks before playing points. Build up the length and number of sessions gradually, and stay hydrated on warm days. If you have a previous injury or have been inactive for a while, it is worth checking with a health professional first.
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Ready for your first game?
Start with a paddle, balls and good shoes, then add the extras as you play more. Our full racquet sports range is here when you want to explore.
Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.
