The U.S. Open tennis tournament may still be months away, but many casual and frequent tennis players are swapping their rackets for paddles to enjoy a sport of smaller proportions: pickleball. According to the USA Pickleball Association (USAP), this low-stakes game is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, with 4.8 million new players since 2021.
Why Pickleball Is Gaining Popularity
Pickleball has caught on for several reasons, primarily because it offers a fun way to exercise and is easier to play than tennis, requiring less court space. Studies even suggest that playing pickleball can improve muscle strength and hand-eye coordination.
Getting Started with Pickleball
If you want to try it yourself, it is fairly inexpensive. Gameplay only requires a paddle and a ball, and you can set up a court almost anywhere, including on a public tennis court. Before you begin, download the official rulebook from the USAP website and consider the following gear and accessories for the court.
1. Paddle Grip Tape Pack
If your paddle handle feels uncomfortable or worn, this grip tape adds extra padding and tackiness. It allows for longer play and more powerful swings, with moisture-wicking material to keep hands dry. $12 at Amazon
2. USA Pickleball-Approved Two-Paddle Set
These carbon fiber-coated paddles feature a polypropylene honeycomb core, making them ultra lightweight yet durable for high-intensity hits. The set includes four balls (two indoor, two outdoor) and is USAP-approved, earning top ratings on Amazon. From $38 at Amazon
3. 9-Pack of Official Outdoor Pickleballs
Durable, balanced, and made from one-piece construction for longevity, these outdoor pickleballs meet official size and weight standards for tournament play, according to USAP. 3-Pack: $10 at Amazon
4. Lightweight Pickleball Shoes
K-Swiss, the first brand to introduce court shoes specifically for pickleball, offers these lightweight, breathable shoes that work well on hard and clay courts. They are highly rated by players. Women's: $115+, Men's: $115+ at Amazon
5. Court-Marking Kit
Pickleball uses less space than tennis, and this marking kit lets you convert any tennis court into a pickleball court. The removable, reusable markers come with a measuring tape for quick and accurate boundary lines. From $20 at Amazon
6. Pickleball Retrieving Attachments
These soft rubber accessories attach to the bottom of a paddle handle, making ball retrieval easy without bending over. The suction-cup design grabs the ball and works during play without interference. $9 at Amazon
7. Adjustable Sling-Strap Sports Bag
Official pickleball bag of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, it offers ample space for balls, paddles, shoes, and more, with several smaller compartments for organization. From $25 at Amazon
