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It's easy to learn, social, surprisingly competitive, and addictive in the best possible way.
Pickleball is having a serious moment – and it's not hard to see why. It's easy to learn, social, surprisingly competitive, and addictive in the best possible way.
The good news is you don't need much to get started. With the right paddle, the right ball and a pair of supportive court shoes, you'll be ready to jump into your first game with confidence.
To make it simple, we've pulled together a beginner-friendly pickleball starter pack covering the essentials worth having before you step onto the court.
Pickleball Beginner Checklist
Before your first game, make sure you've got:
- Pickleball paddle
- Pickleball balls (indoor or outdoor)
- Court-friendly shoes for women and men
- Water bottle
- Comfortable clothing
- A few friends (or at least one patient coach)
Let's break down each item.
Pickleball Paddle
If pickleball has a hero, it's the paddle.
Unlike tennis racquets, pickleball paddles are solid and lightweight (and smaller), making them easier to swing and control. Choosing the right paddlev can make learning the game smoother and more enjoyable.
What should beginners look for in a pickleball paddle?
Generally, beginners benefit from paddles that offer:
- A larger sweet spot (the easiest area of the paddle to hit from, helping make shots feel more controlled and forgiving)
- Good control
- Comfortable grip size
- Balanced weight
Weight: Lighter paddles are generally easier to manoeuvre, while heavier paddles can add stability and power.
Material: Carbon-fibre paddles generally offer more control and spin, while fibreglass paddles provide more power with less effort (great for beginners).
What pickleball paddle thickness should you choose?
Paddle thickness affects control, power and feel. Common core thicknesses range from around 10 mm to 16 mm:
- Thinner paddles (around 10–12 mm): Offers good balance of power and a responsive feel, but less forgiveness. It's suitable for a wide range of play styles.
- Mid-thickness paddles (around 13–14 mm): Balance power and control, making them a versatile option for developing players.
- Thicker paddles (around 15–16 mm): Offer greater control, stability and forgiveness, making them ideal for players who prioritise precision over power.
What is the best pickleball paddle for beginners?
For beginners, a mid-to-thick paddle can offer a more forgiving feel, with a larger sweet spot, added stability and greater control on softer shots. It may also reduce vibration compared with a thinner paddle. Look for a paddle that prioritises control and forgiveness rather than maximum power. As your skills develop, you'll have a better understanding of whether you want more spin, speed or power.
Read: How to Choose the Right Pickleball Paddle
2. Indoor vs Outdoor Pickleball Balls
At first glance, all pickleball balls look similar, but they're designed for different purposes.
What's the difference between indoor vs outdoor pickleballs?
The court surface affects how the ball bounces, so choose a ball designed for the surface you're playing on.
Outdoor pickleball balls
- Harder plastic construction
- Smaller holes
- Best for harder outdoor surfaces such as concrete or asphalt, which affect the ball's speed and bounce
- Designed to handle wind
- Typically faster
Indoor pickleball balls
- Softer material
- Larger holes
- Best for smoother indoor surfaces such as timber or indoor sports flooring, which produce a different bounce
- Generally provide a softer feel
Can I use an outdoor pickleball indoors?
You can, but it won't necessarily provide the best playing experience. Using the correct ball for the court surface helps improve consistency and performance.
Read: Indoor vs Outdoor Pickleball Balls: What's the Difference?
3. Pickleball Shoes
What to look for in pickleball shoes
Pickleball involves:
- Side-to-side movement
- Short sprints
- Fast direction changes
- Sudden stops
If you're planning on playing regularly, good footwear is one of the smartest investments you can make.
Choose tennis or all-court shoes with good grip, stability and support for multi-directional movement.
4. Comfortable Court Clothing
You don't need a special pickleball uniform. Comfortable activewear that allows you to move freely is perfect.
Think:
- Shorts
- Skorts
- Training tops
- Performance tees
- Lightweight jackets for cooler weather
The key is breathable, sweat-wicking clothing that won't restrict movement.
Pickleball FAQs
How much equipment do I need to start playing pickleball?
Not much. A paddle, suitable ball and court-friendly shoes are enough to get started.
Is pickleball expensive to start?
Compared to many sports, pickleball has a relatively low entry cost. Most beginners can get started with just a few key pieces of equipment. You can find coaches at some centres at an added cost.
What should I wear to play pickleball?
Choose comfortable activewear you can move freely in. If you can comfortably lunge, squat and sprint for a short ball, you’re good to go. Then in the way of shoes, look for pickleball specific shoes, tennis shoes or court shoes that will allow multi-directional movement.
Are tennis shoes good for pickleball?
Absolutely. Tennis shoes are one of the most popular options for pickleball players because they offer similar court support and durability requirements.
Can beginners use professional pickleball paddles?
Yes, but beginner-friendly paddles are often easier to control and can help develop technique before moving to more advanced options.
Should I buy indoor or outdoor pickleball balls?
Choose the ball that matches where you play most often. If you regularly switch between indoor and outdoor courts, it might not be a bad idea to have both types.
Are pickleball shoes worth it?
If you’re playing regularly, dedicated court shoes can improve comfort, movement and stability while helping reduce wear and tear compared to running shoes.
How many pickleball balls should I have?
More than you think.
Just like tennis balls, pickleball balls have a habit of rolling away, disappearing behind fences or being accidentally claimed by neighbouring courts. Having a few spare balls on hand is not a bad idea.
Ready to play?