Pickleball is a sport that has been rapidly gaining in popularity over the last couple of years. This sport is a combination of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton, and it’s played on a court that is a slightly smaller version of a tennis court.
Sounds too much? Well, it shouldn’t be.
The best part about pickleball is that it’s super easy to learn how to play—even if you have never heard of it before, you will be able to compete at your first game.
But before hitting the court, you’re going to need some equipment to play. Below is a list of gear available at Pickleball Portal that you can buy as you get ready for your first pickleball game:
Invest in Good Paddles
You’re going to need a paddle to play the game so it’s quite obvious you’re going to start with buying a paddle or two. Pickleball paddles are made of fiberglass or graphite composite: fiberglass is less expensive and usually heavier, while graphite composite offers more power and control.
The core of the paddle is usually made of foam (usually polyurethane) or honeycomb (a type of pressed aluminum). Honeycomb cores tend to be louder and offer better control, while foam cores are quieter and have a larger sweet spot (the area on the paddle’s face where the ball makes contact).
Finally, there are two other features to consider: grip size (which determines how much hand coverage you want) and grip style (how much “tack” or stickiness you want).
Playing Shoes
When you’re gearing up for your first pickleball game, one of the most important piece of equipment that you’ll need is a good pair of shoes. This is because pickleball involves quick sprints, quick stops and turns, and plenty of time spent pivoting on one foot as you reach out to return the ball.
The right pair of shoes will help you move more quickly and confidently on the court. Pickleball players like to wear sneakers that are lightweight and flexible, with low heels and non-marking soles (so they don’t leave black marks on the court). Non-marking soles are also important so that your shoes don’t scratch up the surface of the court when you make sudden stops.
Pickleball Balls
There are three main types of balls for different levels of play. The first is the indoor pickleball ball, which is typically green or dark blue and made from plastic. These are used on an indoor court with a shorter net (or other indoor game equipment), and they have a more bouncy feel than the outdoor balls.
The second type is the outdoor ball, which can be found in a variety of colors and made from plastic or composite materials. They’re typically used on wood paddle courts. Outdoor balls are designed to be more durable than indoor balls, so they can withstand harsh weather conditions like rain and wind.
Finally, there’s the competition-level ball, which is usually yellow or white and made from composite material. These balls are made with performance in mind, featuring a softer feel and more consistent bounce than other balls on the market.
The Final Word
Pickleball is a fun, easy game that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. The equipment is fairly inexpensive, so you don’t need to break the bank before you even hit the court. Try and look for a pickleball store near me online to find quality playing gear that will make you fall in love with the sport.
