Comfortable and breathable clothing is essential for pickleball. You’ll need to move quickly and change direction frequently, so your clothes should allow for plenty of flexibility.
What to Wear: Shirts, Shorts, and Skirts
- Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Choose moisture-wicking fabrics (like polyester or nylon) that draw sweat away from your body and help keep you dry. Cotton absorbs moisture, making it heavy and uncomfortable during play.
- Breathable Design: Look for shirts and shorts with mesh panels or other breathable features to increase airflow and keep you cool.
- Lightweight Materials: The lighter, the better. Look for clothes that are lightweight but durable, allowing for full range of motion.
- Shorts, Skirts, or Pants: Pickleball players typically wear either athletic shorts or skirts with built-in shorts for women. Men might prefer lightweight performance shorts that don’t restrict movement.
Top Picks:
- Men’s Shirt: The Under Armour Tech 2.0 shirt is breathable, moisture-wicking, and has a great fit for active play.
- Women’s Shirt: The Nike Women’s Dri-FIT Victory Polo offers both style and comfort, while keeping you cool during intense matches.
- Bottoms: For women, the Baleaf Women’s Tennis Skirt is a popular choice, offering a comfortable fit and built-in shorts. For men, the Adidas Club 9” Shorts offer great freedom of movement and comfort.
3. Pickleball Socks: Keep Your Feet Happy
When you’re playing pickleball, your feet are in constant motion. The right socks can make a huge difference in comfort and help prevent blisters.
Pickleball-Specific Socks
- Cushioning and Arch Support: Opt for socks with cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas to absorb shock and reduce pressure during sudden stops and starts. Arch support can also help prevent fatigue and keep your feet feeling fresh.
- Breathability: Choose socks made of synthetic fabrics like polyester or blends of cotton and spandex that help wick moisture and keep your feet dry.
- Compression: Some players opt for compression socks, which help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and prevent cramping during long games.
Top Pick: The Thorlos Performance Pickleball Socks or Balega Hidden Comfort Socks are both highly rated for comfort, durability, and performance on the court.
4. Pickleball Hat or Visor: Protect Your Eyes
Whether you’re playing outside or under bright lights, protecting your eyes from the sun is essential for maintaining focus and performance.
Why You Need a Hat or Visor
- Sun Protection: A good hat or visor will protect your face and eyes from harmful UV rays. A wide-brimmed hat is best for all-around sun protection, while a visor will allow more air circulation to keep your head cool.
- Improved Focus: A hat or visor can help reduce glare from the sun, keeping your focus on the ball and improving your reaction time.
Top Pick: The Nike Dri-FIT Aerobill Cap is lightweight, breathable, and offers excellent sun protection without sacrificing comfort or style.
5. Pickleball Gloves: Improve Grip and Comfort
While not all players use gloves, some prefer them to improve their grip, especially during longer rallies or on hot days when sweaty hands can cause a loss of control.
Why Pickleball Gloves?
- Grip Enhancement: A grippy glove can help you maintain a firm hold on your paddle, reducing the chances of slipping.
- Blister Prevention: The repetitive motion of holding the paddle can cause blisters, especially for beginners. Gloves can help prevent this.
- Comfort: Gloves can also provide added comfort during longer matches, reducing strain on your hands and wrists.
Top Pick: The Wilson Pro Pickleball Glove is one of the best for comfort and grip, made with lightweight material that won’t restrict your movement.
6. Pickleball Paddle: Find the Right Fit
While not technically “wearable,” your pickleball paddle is an essential part of your gear. The right paddle can help you improve your accuracy, power, and control on the court.
Choosing the Right Paddle
- Weight: Pickleball paddles come in various weights, from light (6-7 oz) to heavy (7.5-8 oz). Lighter paddles offer more control, while heavier paddles provide more power.
- Grip Size: The right grip size ensures comfort and control. If your grip is too small, it can strain your hand, while a grip that’s too large will reduce your ability to maneuver the paddle quickly.
Top Pick: The Onix Z5 Graphite Paddle is a favorite among beginners and experienced players for its balance of power and control.
7. Additional Accessories: Headbands, Wristbands, and Sunglasses
A few extra accessories can make your game even more comfortable and stylish:
- Headbands and Wristbands: These can help keep sweat out of your eyes and off your hands, so you maintain a firm grip on the paddle.
- Sunglasses: If you’re playing outdoors, a pair of polarized sunglasses can reduce glare and improve visibility.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key, so always bring a reusable water bottle to keep your energy up throughout the game.
Conclusion: Play Comfortably, Play Your Best
The best pickleball gear helps you stay comfortable, perform your best, and enjoy every match. From the right shoes and moisture-wicking clothing to essential accessories like hats and gloves, wearing the proper gear ensures you’re ready for anything the game throws your way. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, investing in quality pickleball apparel and equipment can make a noticeable difference in your performance and overall experience on the court.
Now that you know what to wear, it’s time to gear up and hit the court with confidence!
