Pickleball Gains Popularity Among Tennis Players

Pickleball, a sport often dismissed as "mini tennis," has gained popularity among tennis players looking for a fun and accessible way to stay active and meet new people.

Learning to play pickleball is a simple and affordable process, with many beginner classes available at local clubs and courts. Coach Dylan DeBiase, assistant director of tennis at Court 16 in New York, recommends pickleball as a great way to explore a thriving community of all ages.

While pickleball doesn't require much gear, the right equipment can improve gameplay and prevent injuries. Experts recommend investing in a good pickleball paddle, which should have a weight and grip size that feels comfortable and doesn't require excessive force to control.

## Essential Pickleball Gear for Beginners

### Pickleball Paddles

| | Franklin Sports Aluminum Jet Pickleball Set | Joola Journey Pickleball Paddle | Friday Labs Original | Selkirk Amped Control-S2 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Price | $19.99 | | | | | Description | A starter bundle with two lightweight paddles and two outdoor pickleball balls | A wide-body, square-shaped paddle with a fiberglass design | A paddle with a cult following and a large sweet spot | A paddle with a large sweet spot and excellent control |

Kyle Hermetz, a pro player for the York Yetis in the Canadian National Pickleball League, suggests browsing Franklin Sports for an affordable option like the Franklin Sports Aluminum Jet Pickleball Set.

Gottfried recommends looking for a wide-body, square-shaped paddle, such as the Joola Journey Pickleball Paddle, which has a fiberglass design and a large sweet spot.

### Pickleball Balls

| | Franklin Sports X-40 Pickleballs | | --- | --- | | Price | | | Description | The official outdoor play ball and used in the US Open of Pickleball |

Heller recommends using the Franklin Sports X-40 Pickleballs, which are available in packs of three, six, 12, 36, 50, 100, or 400.

### Pickleball Shoes

| | Wilson Pickle Pro | Babolat Jet Mach 4 | Asics Solution Speed FF | ON The Roger Clubhouse Pro | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Price | | | | | | Description | An affordable pickleball shoe from Wilson | A shoe from Babolat with a patented, supportive material | A court-specific shoe from Asics with a lighter, faster feel | A shoe from ON that adapts to any racket sport |

DeBiase and Heller are fans of the Babolat Jet Mach 4, which uses a patented, supportive material to help keep ankles from turning during play.

### Protective Eyewear

| | Onix Owl Glasses | Kitchen Blockers | | --- | --- | --- | | Price | | | | Description | Protective eyewear meeting ASTM F803 impact standards | A lens-free design that derives protection from a beefy frame |

Gallucci Jr recommends wearing protective eyewear meeting ASTM F803 impact standards, such as the Onix Owl Glasses, which are lightweight and offer UV sun protection for outdoor play.

### Pickleball Bags

| | Selkirk Core Line Pickleball Sling Bag | Beis Sport Tote | | --- | --- | --- | | Price | | | | Description | A compact crossbody bag that holds a paddle, a ball, and a water bottle | A versatile tote that can double as a gym bag and a carryon |

For the minimalist, the Selkirk Core Line Pickleball Sling Bag is a great option, while the Beis Sport Tote is a versatile option that can hold pickleball gear and other essentials.

### What to Wear to Play Pickleball

If you're going to play pickleball, you may as well look good doing it. Le Pickle Club J'adore Mockneck is a stylish and comfortable option, while the Erne + Ace 2-in-1 Snap & Play Dress is a versatile and practical choice.

In addition to the right gear, experts recommend wearing comfortable and supportive clothing, such as the Men's Adidas Climacool 3-Stripes Shorts, which are made from 100% recycled polyester.

Selkirk knows pickleball, and their Spring Owen Men's Rafa Long-Sleeve Pickleball Shirt is an extremely soft and comfortable option for players.