Getting started
Pickleball Beginner Equipment
You need two things to start playing pickleball: court shoes and a paddle. Everything else is optional. Here is what to buy, what to skip, and how to avoid overspending before you know if you love the game.
Total beginner spend: $100–200
Court shoes: $50-120. The most important purchase. Lateral support = no ankle sprains.
Beginner paddle: $50-100. Polymer core, fiberglass face, midweight. That's it.
Court shoes
EssentialThe most important gear purchase. Court shoes (tennis shoes or dedicated pickleball shoes) protect your ankles from lateral movement injuries. Running shoes are not acceptable, they increase sprain risk. Do not skip this.
Beginner paddle
EssentialA mid-range paddle with polymer core and fiberglass face. Avoid wood paddles (too heavy, no feel) and ultra-cheap composites. Avoid expensive paddles (carbon fiber, textured face), you won't use those features yet.
Skip: Paddles under $30 (wood or low-quality composite)
Pickleball balls
Most courts and rec centers provide balls. If you want your own: get a 3-pack of outdoor Franklins or Dura Fast 40s. Most beginners don't need to buy balls for their first few months.
Skip: Buying balls before checking if your court provides them
Athletic clothing
Any moisture-wicking athletic wear you already own works perfectly. There is no dress code for recreational play. You do not need to buy new clothing to start.
Skip: Pickleball-branded apparel at first
Paddle bag / sport bag
A basic paddle cover protects your paddle face from scratches. A bag for your paddle, shoes, and balls is optional but convenient. Buy this after you are sure you will keep playing.
Skip: Expensive dedicated pickleball bags when starting
What to avoid buying
Frequently asked questions
What equipment do you need to start playing pickleball?
To start playing pickleball you need: a pickleball paddle, court shoes (tennis or dedicated court shoes), and pickleball balls (provided at most courts and rec centers). That is it, paddle and shoes are the only purchases required to get started. Everything else (bags, apparel, grip tape) is optional. Most beginners should spend $40-80 on a starter paddle and make sure their shoes are lateral court shoes, not running shoes.
How much should a beginner spend on a pickleball paddle?
Beginners should spend $40-100 on a pickleball paddle. In this range you get a solid fiberglass or composite paddle with polymer core that will serve you well through your first year of play. Paddles under $30 are often thin wood or very low-quality composite, avoid these. Paddles over $150 offer advanced features (carbon face, textured surface for spin) that beginners cannot take advantage of yet. The $50-80 range offers the best value for new players.
What is the best beginner pickleball paddle?
Good beginner paddles include the Selkirk Latitude, Paddletek Bantam, and Gamma Hellbender (all in the $60-100 range). Look for: polymer honeycomb core (most forgiving), fiberglass or composite face (good touch), midweight (7.5-8.2 oz), and standard shape (not elongated). Avoid wood paddles and very heavy paddles. If budget allows, brands like Selkirk, Paddletek, and Gamma offer reliable starter models that will hold up and help you develop proper technique.
Next steps
Put this into action
Use what you just read to find a game, get on court, and show up prepared.