It’s no secret that you don’t need much to start playing pickleball. Still, as you begin enjoying the game and looking for ways to improve your performance, you might want to invest in the appropriate equipment to improve your performance on the court. The right gear can help you play more effectively and stay comfortable, whether an experienced player or a newbie. This article explores six crucial items that each serious pickleball player—or not so-serious—must have.
Paddle
Can you imagine yourself playing pickleball without a pickleball paddle? I didn’t think so!
Paddles are essential for your performance on the court. Pickleball paddles come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, each offering different characteristics and benefits. When choosing a paddle, consider weight, grip size, and paddle face material. Choosing the right paddle can be overwhelming and time-consuming (time that could be used to play), but it doesn’t have to be. Kona offers paddles for all players. You can check our inventory here.
Shoes
“Good shoes can take you to good places.” Whoever said that is a genius! If you’re a runner, you need running shoes; if you’re a weightlifter, you need weightlifting shoes. And if you’re a pickleball player, you need pickleball shoes! Proper shoes are essential for maintaining stability, agility, and comfort on the pickleball court and in life. When choosing shoes for playing, look for:
Stability, cushioning for absorbing impact, reducing fatigue, and traction.
A hat or a visor
Imagine a summer afternoon. You’ve taken advantage of the sunny day to play pickleball with your friends or family. The sun sets behind the court, and you miss a serve because you can’t see the ball coming. Has that ever happened to you? Well, that can be avoided with the right hat or visor. They are easy to choose and entirely up to your taste, but if you’re looking for comfort and style, check out our inventory here.
Bag or Backpack
I might be stating the obvious, but you’ll need a bag or a backpack to carry your equipment around… A pickleball bag or backpack will not only carry your equipment but also help keep it safe. You don’t want your beloved paddle to scratch, right? A typical player will bring pickleballs, water bottles, towels, and paddles to a court for any session. Investing in a solid pickleball bag will pay dividends for years to come! Check out our inventory here.
Water Bootle
Staying hydrated during matches is crucial, so having a good sports bottle on hand is essential. Consider a water bottle large enough to hold plenty of water but not so heavy that you won’t be able to carry it around; that also has a secure lid to prevent spills and preferably be thermal so you can always have fresh water.
Wristbands
One of the main reasons athletes wear wristbands is to absorb sweat. Sports like pickleball can be physically demanding, and players can sweat a lot during a match. Wristbands help to keep sweat from dripping onto the hands and affecting grip on the racket or other equipment. This can improve control and prevent slips. In some cases, wristbands provide minor support to the wrist joint, potentially reducing the risk of strain or injury.
Bonus:
Don’t forget the pickleballs!
Having the right gear can significantly improve your performance, comfort, and enjoyment on the court. Investing in quality equipment such as paddles, balls, shoes, and bags can enhance your gameplay, reduce the risk of injuries, and help you reach your full potential as a player. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, prioritizing the right gear is essential for success in pickleball and ensuring a positive experience on the court.