How To Dress for Pickleball? A Guide to Shopping for the Sport

Pickleball is now the fastest-growing sport in America for the third year running. Invented in 1965, pickleball offers a fun, social, and engaging way to stay active. Like most sports, finding the right clothing for pickleball can significantly enhance your comfort and performance. So, what exactly should you wear? Let's dive into the best clothing choices for pickleball...

Comfort Comes First

Comfort is key when it comes to pickleball. The sport combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong, so you’ll be doing a lot of moving—quick lateral shifts, short sprints, and sudden stops. Your clothing needs to allow for plenty of mobility, while keeping you cool and dry.

Pickleball Clothing Essentials:

Breathable Fabrics: Look for moisture-wicking fabrics that draw sweat away from the skin, keeping you cool and dry. Materials like polyester, spandex, and nylon are excellent choices, as they offer flexibility and breathability.
Loose vs. Fitted: While some women prefer a looser fit, it’s important to ensure that the fabric doesn’t bunch up or restrict your movement. Opt for activewear that fits comfortably without being too tight or too baggy.

Tops for Flexibility and Comfort

Your top should give you the freedom to move without restriction. Since pickleball requires quick arm movements, a good top will allow for that range of motion while also keeping you cool and comfortable.

T-shirt vs. Tank Top vs. Polo:

T-shirts: A classic, breathable cotton or performance fabric T-shirt can be a great choice for casual play. Look for designs with added stretch or sports-specific cuts that don’t cling to your body but still stay in place during movements.
Tank Tops: If you’re playing in warmer weather, a tank top might be a more comfortable option.
Polos: For those who prefer a more structured or slightly dressier look, a moisture-wicking polo shirt is an excellent option. This style can be especially nice for social or league play when you want to look polished while still staying comfortable.

Bottoms: Comfort and Mobility

Your bottom half needs to be just as flexible and breathable as your top half. Shorts, skirts and leggings are popular options for women who want comfort and mobility, but there are a few key things to consider when choosing which to wear.

Active Shorts: Choose shorts that are lightweight, breathable and have a comfortable waistband. Many activewear shorts are designed with a built-in liner for added comfort and support. Opt for a longer style if you prefer a bit more coverage or a shorter pair if you want to stay cooler in warmer weather.
Skorts: A hybrid of a skirt and shorts, skorts offer the feminine appeal of a skirt with the practicality of built-in shorts underneath. This combination ensures you have the flexibility and confidence to move quickly without worrying about exposure.
Athletic Leggings or Capri Pants: Women who prefer more coverage, will like leggings with stretch, breathability, and moisture-wicking technology. Capri pants are ideal for cooler weather or for women who simply feel more comfortable with full leg coverage.

Footwear: Support and Comfort

Pickleball involves a lot of lateral movement, quick pivoting and sudden direction changes, which makes choosing the right footwear essential. A good pair of shoes will support your feet, absorb shock, and minimize the risk of injury.

What to Look for in Pickleball Shoes:

Support: Look for shoes designed for court sports that provide lateral support. Pickleball involves side-to-side movements, so you want shoes that won’t slip or strain your feet.
Cushioning: Proper cushioning is essential for comfort, particularly for players 40 and older, as feet can become more sensitive with age. Shoes with added cushioning in the sole or midsole help absorb the shock of quick movements.
Non-Marking Sole: To protect the court, look for shoes with a non-marking sole. Most pickleball courts (indoor or outdoor) require shoes that don’t leave marks, so choose footwear with appropriate traction for your court type (e.g., rubber soles for indoor courts, outdoor-specific shoes for hard courts).

Sun Protection: Hat, Sunglasses and SPF

If you’re playing outdoors, sun protection is a must. Spending time outside on the court can expose you to harmful UV rays, especially when you're playing during midday hours.

Hat/Visor: A lightweight, moisture-wicking hat or visor can help protect your face and eyes from the sun. Look for hats with adjustable straps for a better fit, and ones with breathable mesh panels for ventilation.
Sunglasses: A good pair of sport sunglasses will shield your eyes from UV rays and help reduce glare from the sun, ensuring better visibility on the court. Opt for sunglasses that are lightweight, comfortable, and don’t slide off as you move.
SPF Clothing: Pickleball apparel, like JOJU sun shirts for men & women offers built-in sun protection. This is an easy way to add another layer of protection, especially if you're playing during peak sun hours.

Accessories and Extras

To round out your pickleball wardrobe, consider a few essential accessories:

Sports Bra: A well-fitted sports bra designed for movement and comfort is essential, especially if you're engaging in high-intensity play.
Tennis Wristbands: If you’re sweating a lot, wristbands can help keep sweat off your hands and face, preventing it from interfering with your game.
Towel: Keep a small towel handy to wipe off sweat during breaks. Many pickleball bags come with a towel loop for easy access.

Shop Smart and Play Your Best

Dressing for pickleball is about more than just style—it’s about ensuring comfort, support and functionality on the court. As you shop for your pickleball gear, consider the fabrics, fit, and accessories that will allow you to move freely, stay cool and protect yourself from the elements. With the right clothing and footwear, you’ll be able to focus on what really matters: enjoying the game!