Experts share recommendations for essential pickleball equipment, including paddles, footwear, and protective eyewear for new players.
Key facts
- •Pickleball is played on a 44-foot court and requires players to serve underhand.
- •Experts recommend court shoes designed for side-to-side movement to prevent injury.
- •Protective eyewear meeting ASTM F803 standards is suggested to protect against ball deflections.
- •The Franklin Sports X-40 is noted as the official outdoor ball used in the US Open of Pickleball.
- •Pickleball is an aerobic activity that can improve balance, flexibility, and strength.
Pickleball has grown in popularity as an accessible racket sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Experts, including professional players and coaches, recommend that beginners prioritize comfortable, appropriately weighted paddles and court-specific footwear to prevent injury. While the sport requires minimal gear, selecting the right equipment can improve gameplay and provide necessary stability for the lateral movements required on the court.
By the numbers
Selecting the Right Paddle
Experts advise beginners to choose a paddle with a weight and grip size that feels comfortable to avoid arm strain. For those seeking affordability, starter bundles are available that include lightweight paddles and balls. For newer players, a wide-body, square-shaped paddle is often recommended because it offers a larger sweet spot and increased forgiveness during play.
Footwear and Safety Gear
Because pickleball involves quick, lateral movements, experts emphasize the importance of wearing court shoes rather than standard running shoes to ensure stability. Additionally, protective eyewear is recommended to guard against potential ball deflections, with experts suggesting glasses that meet ASTM F803 impact standards.
Sport Rules and Benefits
Pickleball is played on a 44-foot court, which is approximately half the size of a standard tennis court. The game, which originated in the 1960s, features unique rules such as an underhand serve requirement and a double-bounce rule for returning serves. Games are typically played to 11 points, with a requirement to win by two.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Guardian Tennis.
