Choosing the Right Equipment for Pickleball
Pickleball is a fun game to play with family and friends.
Pickleball is a fun game to play with family and friends. This paddle ball game has simple rules and incorporates elements of tennis, badminton, table tennis, and ping pong. Pickleball can be played indoors and outdoors and is among the fastest-growing sports in the country, loved by people of all ages.
What makes pickleball a coveted sport is that, unlike several other sports, pickleball does not require heavy investment in equipment to play the game. Players only need a few pieces of equipment, including a ball, a paddle, and a net, to get going. Players can purchase pickleball equipment separately or buy the complete set. Here is a guide to selecting the right pickleball equipment to start playing the game right away:
Ball
Pickleballs are small, made from durable, lightweight plastic, and punctured with holes around their surface. They resemble wiffle balls and come in an array of colors. Different pickleballs are used for indoor and outdoor play. Always choose the right pickleballs based on the location of the game.
Indoor balls are soft, light, easier to control, and have larger holes. Outdoor pickleball balls are heavier, manufactured from hard, smooth plastic, and have several smaller holes. Outdoor balls are more durable and designed keeping the court, wind interference, and temperature in mind. For those playing proper games or tournaments, always purchase pickleball approved by USAPA. While choosing the pickleball ball color, some critical considerations are court surface color, background wall color, or whether to play indoors or outdoors.
Paddle
The paddle is another crucial piece of equipment necessary to play pickleball. Paddles are available in different shapes, sizes, colors, grips, weights, and materials. Like balls, for tournaments, only USAPA-approved paddles are allowed. Some factors to consider while choosing a pickleball paddle include the following:
Weight: Pickleball paddles can be heavy, medium, or lightweight. Pick a paddle, depending on whether one desires a paddle with more power or swiftness. Usually, a lightweight paddle is a better option.
Shape: Paddle shapes range from diamond and teardrop to square and rounded. Paddles can also have a long or short handle and a narrow or broad body. Please choose a paddle based on one's preferences.
Grip: Players have the option to choose from the standard grip, thin grip, double grip, and contour grip. The best grip will depend on whether one wants comfort, a cushion, or a large or small grip.
Material: Wood, composite materials, and graphite are commonly used for pickleball paddles. Players can test different types of paddles before choosing the perfect one for their needs.
Other considerations include color, cost, durability, warranty, and edge guard.
Net
The size of the pickleball court net is one-third of that of the tennis court and hangs slightly lower. Popular net options include portable, permanent, or nets on rollers. The net must be 36 inches high on the ends and dip slightly towards the middle (about 34 inches). Choose nets that are not flimsy and have solid bases and legs with a Velcro tension system to keep them at a suitable height. Portable nets are easy to assemble and have a mesh net with vinyl edges, steel tubes, and a carrying bag.
Choose suitable pickleball equipment
If one needs to install a pickleball court on the property, indoors or outdoors, these are the essential equipment necessary to get out and enjoy the game.
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