What To Add To Your Pickleball Bag
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This guide will answer your question: “What do I need to start playing pickleball?” and teach you ladies how to pack your pickleball bag, ready for any game.
What do you think of when you want to play pickleball? You’re probably checking out what the pros have.
Or some of you may be on the other side of the spectrum thinking you only need the bare minimum of paddles and balls.
Either way, there’s no right or wrong to what you bring to the court, so long you can play. But it’s always good to bring along more than what you think you might need.
Let’s face it, there are times when we travel light and end up thinking “I should have brought them”.
I would say, for any sports match, practice, or even just a fun sesh, it’s best to be safe than sorry. Bring as many necessary items as you possibly can carry. At the end of the day, you’d want to enjoy the game.
In our women’s beginner guide, we discussed basic rules and how to get started. This article outlines exactly what you need to complete your bag with the beginner essentials to bring to a pickleball game session.
What To Bring For A Pickleball Game
There are 16 items on this list. While I prefer to travel light, these are necessary to play lots of games and last the day.
1. Wristbands To Wipe And Swipe
Before stepping out, I always make sure to have a wristband in my bag. I tend to sweat a lot during games, and a wristband that absorbs sweat is a must-have for me. It stops sweat from running down my arm and affecting my grip on the paddle.
Talking to my lady friends, one of their favorite brands is Lululemon. One reports, “They are super moisture-wicking to keep your hands dry, comfortable to wear, and do not slip off during gameplay.”
Most importantly, these are slim, soft, stretchy, and absorbent, not chunky like most men use.
2. Protective Eyewear
Protective eyewear can prevent injuries and is recommended by many clubs and leagues. The best is to use impact-resistant glasses.
Through experience, I found that the Pickleball Owl Glasses from ONIX are a great affordable option for women beginners.
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Not only do they protect my eyes from stray balls and collisions on the court, but they also give me peace of mind to focus on my game and screen a bit of the sunlight.
These safety glasses are modern, lightweight, and have an impact-resistant frame. They offer 99.9% UV protection and anti-fog and anti-scratch features. Plus, they come in two different colors: clear and blue tint.
3. Sweat and Water-Resistant Sunscreen
Not only does sunscreen protect my skin, but it also helps prevent premature aging and skin damage.
When looking for sunscreen, it’s important to choose one that won’t sting your eyes. I recommend trying Supergoop sunscreen, specifically their Play Everyday Lotion.
It’s affordable and won’t irritate your eyes during gameplay. It is also sweat and water-resistant, and this company uses only quality ingredients in their products.
You’d be surprised, most sunscreens out there are still using banned ingredients! I won’t mention who, so stick with SuperGoop to stay safe.
In addition to finding a safe sunscreen that won’t sting your eyes, you should also look for a sunscreen that lasts.
You don’t want to have to keep reapplying sunscreen during a game, so it’s important to choose one that will provide long-lasting protection.
If you prefer natural skincare products, there are also many natural sunscreen options available.
Just make sure to choose one with an SPF of at least 50 to ensure adequate protection.
4. Socks To Keep Off Blisters
The right socks are so helpful. Not only do they keep my feet comfortable during long matches, but they also help prevent blisters and provide the necessary support for quick movements on the court.
After trying out a few different brands, I found that the Pickleball socks from OS1st are my go-to choice.
These socks are made of a comfortable blend of cotton, nylon, polyester, and spandex, ensuring breathability and supreme comfort both on and off the court. They offer a snug fit and lasting comfort, making them perfect for all-day wear.
In addition to being comfortable, these socks are also designed to prevent blisters.
Their moisture-wicking properties keep my feet dry, and the seamless toe design helps prevent rubbing and irritation. Plus, the arch support and cushioned sole provide the necessary support for quick movements on the court.
5. Moisturizer For skin and lips
I never realized how important it is to keep my hands moisturized until I started playing regularly.
The skin on the part of my hand that meets the paddle’s grip gets dry and cracks easily. It gets painful as I play. There are times when it bleeds.
I don’t hope that this happens to you, but do bring along a moisturizer to apply after the game. Especially if you don’t wear gloves and don’t want to tape up your hands.
I recommend using a moisturizer that is specifically designed for dry and cracked skin.
One affordable brand that I love is O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream. It’s non-greasy and absorbs quickly, so you can apply it before a game without worrying about it affecting your grip.
Plus, it’s unscented, so it won’t interfere with any perfumes or lotions you may already be wearing.
Another thing to keep in mind is the weather. If you’re playing in cold weather and outdoors in the sun, your skin is more likely to become dry and cracked.
In that case, I suggest using a thicker moisturizer, such as the Healing Ointment from Aquaphor. It provides a protective barrier to help prevent moisture loss and keep your skin soft and smooth.
As for chapped lips, I love using the Vaseline lip balm. Dry lips can hurt quite bad, and you don’t want that to spoil your game.
The petroleum jelly in Vaseline works wonders on such conditions as a useful moisturizer to heal the dryness pretty quickly.
6. Water bottle To Hydrate
If you perspire a lot, staying hydrated is crucial. That’s why I always make sure to bring along at least a 1.5-litre water bottle.
When it comes to water bottles, I prefer ones that are lightweight and easy to carry. I also like to choose ones that are durable and won’t leak in my bag.
One affordable brand that I recommend for beginner players is Contigo. They have a variety of water bottles to choose from, including ones with a straw or a spout for easy drinking.
It’s important to stay hydrated during pickleball games, especially if you’re playing in hot weather. I always make sure to fill up my water bottle before each game and take sips throughout the game to stay hydrated.
7. Balls for Indoor and Outdoor Play
As a beginner pickleball player, I was overwhelmed by the brands of pickleball balls available for indoor and outdoor play.
After researching and testing different types and brands, I have found that the most important factors to consider when selecting a pickleball ball are its durability, bounce, and visibility.
For indoor play, I recommend using a ball with fewer holes (26 holes) and made of softer materials.
These balls are designed to bounce higher and skip less than outdoor balls, making them more suitable for indoor surfaces such as hardwood, cement, padded, or even carpet.
The ONIX Fuse G2 indoor pickleball is a great option for indoor play. It has smaller holes that help with balance and make it a good option for both indoor and outdoor play. This ball is durable and has a good bounce with minimal cracking.
For outdoor play, I recommend using a ball with more holes (40 holes) and made of harder materials. These balls are designed to withstand the rougher outdoor surfaces and windy conditions.
The Franklin brand has pickleballs which are a great option for outdoor play. It has an optimal combination of value and performance, and its bright yellow color makes it easy to see on the court.
It’s important to note that not all pickleball balls are created equal. Some pickleball equipment manufacturers make their balls differently, and it’s important to select a ball that the USAPA approves for tournament play.
Additionally, you should select a ball that is appropriate for your skill level and playing style.
8. Overwrap and Replacement Grips
Your paddle may already have an existing grip. But it’s always good practice to carry a few replacement grips and overwrap grips.
One brand that I highly recommend for beginner players is Gamma Sports.
Their grips are made from high-quality materials and come in a variety of colors to match your style.
I’ve experienced countless times of my grip hanging loose from the handle due to overuse. A quick switch of a replacement grip or simply running an overwrap grip over the existing grip can keep the fun going.
While some players prefer to use tape to customize their grip, I find that using a pickleball grip is more comfortable and longer lasting.
9. Small Towel And Fast Dry
I always sweat a lot on the court. That’s why a towel is an essential item to add to my pickleball bag. I recommend the Lululemon’s towel that’s made of fast-dry material.
It can absorb sweat quickly yet it is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in any average-sized bag.
It also has clean-cut edges that won’t fray.
10. Arm sleeves For Support
Arm sleeves are useful in that they provide muscle support, keep you warm and ready, and help you feel good when you endure repeated intense activity and motions. They can also keep your body temperature regulated and offer sun protection.
I highly recommend arm sleeves from Bucwild. They have affordable and high-quality options for beginners.
They are comfortable, and breathable, and come in a variety of colors to match your style. Plus, they are customizable with your own logo or design, so you can show off your unique personality on the court.
If you already have running arm sleeves, those can work for pickleball too!
Just make sure they are comfortable and provide enough support for your muscles and elbows.
11. Headgear for Sun Protection
I’ve been getting a melasma aging spot on the right side of my face due to all that sun exposure from sports, yikes! So these days, I’m doing all I can to protect my skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Besides applying sunscreen, I make a point to wear a hat or visor while playing outdoors, all the time.
One affordable brand that I recommend for beginner women players is PickleballCentral. They offer a variety of hats and visors in different colors and styles at reasonable prices like this one:
Not only does it protect my face and scalp from sunburn, but it also helps me see the ball clearly during gameplay thanks to its long tongue.
Do consider the level of coverage you want. If you want maximum sun protection, opt for a hat with a brim all the way around.
I also prefer hats with some weight that helps them stay in place even while I bounce around on the court. I’ve experienced hats flying off my head while playing and found myself picking hats more than balls.
A visor might be a better choice if you prefer a more lightweight option with better vision of the ball, opponents, and the court space.
12. Comfortable Clothing
Opt for breathable, moisture-wicking athletic wear. Consider clothes specifically designed for racket sports for maximum comfort and movement.
During games, I like to wear clothing that allows for a full range of motion. I prefer classic pieces like polo shirts, tennis skirts, and skorts. These types of clothes are not only comfortable but also stylish and appropriate for the court.
I recommend choosing lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like polyester, nylon, or spandex to stay comfortable on the court. These fabrics will help keep you cool and dry, even during intense games.
Lululemon has the best support bra with a front zipper, nothing else I’ve tried is better. I have 12 of them and their bras hold everything in place without them bouncing around.
With anything you wear, it’s best to pick a breathable fabric that will allow air to circulate and prevent sweat buildup. Avoid cotton or wool, which can absorb sweat and make you feel heavy and hot.
The best is to get a Dri-FIT set of tops and bottoms. They are made of high-quality moisture-wicking material that is both comfortable and functional.
13. Gloves For Delicate Hands
Pickleball gloves are a great addition to your gear bag, especially if you’re a beginner. They help you maintain a strong grip on the paddle, even in wet conditions, reducing the chances of the paddle slipping from your hand.
They also protect your hands from dry tearing skin due to long hours of the game (you’d wish to have more game time!).
Since you’re still learning the basics of the game, a good grip can help you focus on your shots, rather than worrying about the paddle slipping.
For a start, I recommend the Franklin Sports Pickleball Glove for women beginners.
This glove has a premium, one-piece, leather palm that offers durability and strength. This premium leather has the added benefit of wicking moisture away from the hand, ensuring a comfortable grip during long games.
Another benefit of using gloves is that they help reduce hand fatigue and pain, especially for players who play for extended periods of time.
They provide extra padding and support to the hand, reducing the impact of the ball on the hand.
14. Choosing Your Paddle
Without your paddle, you can’t play but you can still be made useful by being the referee of the day. Or share with your friends if they allow it. Otherwise, please remember to take them with you when you leave your home.
I’m going to be biased here to recommend the brand I love called Niupipo. This paddle is light, and affordable and you can use it as an amateur to pro-level.
As a beginner, there’s no urgent need for you to consider the performance of a paddle. Having competed in hundreds of racket games, I’ve always believed that no matter how high-performing the equipment may be, the results still depend on the user.
It’s not to say that any paddle will work for you. I would stress that you should choose a paddle based on your comfort level and objectives, rather than what the pros use and believe in marketing fluff.
Here is a list of what you should consider when buying a paddle to help with ease of play and learning:
Material
When it comes to pickleball paddle materials, you generally have two options: composite or graphite.
Composite paddles are typically made of fiberglass or a combination of fiberglass and polymer. They tend to be more affordable and are a good option for beginners.
Graphite paddles, on the other hand, are made of carbon fiber and tend to be more expensive. They are also lighter and more durable than composite paddles.
Weight and Balance
When it comes to weight, most paddles range from 6 to 14 ounces. As a beginner, it is generally recommended to choose a lighter paddle, as it will be easier to maneuver and control.
A paddle weighing between 7.5 to 8.5 ounces is a good option for most women beginners.
A heavier paddle helps to give a more powerful shot compared to a lighter paddle. But a lighter paddle makes it easier for you to handle the face angle and hence where you want the ball to go.
Look for a paddle with a balanced weight between the handle and the top of the paddle face. I’ve tried a paddle that has much more weight on the head and throughout the game, I felt like my hand was breaking off my wrist.
What happened was one side of the paddle was too heavy, putting too much pressure on my joints. This not only affected my game, but it can also cause injuries and chronic pain in the long run.
Go for a lighter, balanced-weight paddle first. Focus on picking up the techniques of the game and aim at prolonging your rallies rather than on your smashes for now.
Along the way, spend some time off-court to condition your muscles with basic weight-lifting exercises. This will transition your body to be ready for a heavier paddle.
Grip Size and Handle Design
Grip size is another important consideration when selecting your pickleball paddle. A grip that is too small or too large can negatively impact your game. The right grip size for women typically ranges from 4 to 4 1/4 inches.
One way to determine the right grip size is to measure your hand from the tip of your ring finger to the middle crease of your palm.
In addition to grip size, handle design is also important. There are two main types of handle designs: thin and cushioned.
Thin handles are generally preferred by players who prefer a firmer grip, while cushioned handles are better for players who prefer a softer grip.
When it comes to grip size, if you have small hands, I recommend the affordable and beginner-friendly ONIX Graphite Z5 paddle. It is made of graphite and weighs only 7.5 to 8.2 ounces, making it easy to maneuver and control.
It also has a medium grip size of 4 1/4 inches and a cushioned handle, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods.
There are many more specifications that the pros compare when they choose paddles for their games. When you get serious in the game and ready to level up, that’s when it’s time for you to widen your paddle options.
15. Selecting a Durable Pickleball Bag
To conveniently carry your paddle, balls, water, and other accessories.
I’ve changed bags many times, looking for one that can carry all my gear with ease. A good sports bag should be able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use and protect your gear from damage.
When selecting a pickleball bag, I recommend looking for one with multiple compartments to keep your gear organized.
A duffel bag or backpack with separate compartments for your paddle, balls, and other accessories will make it easier to find what you need quickly. Look for a bag with a designated water bottle holder to keep you hydrated during long matches.
One affordable brand that I recommend for beginner women players is the Athletico Pickleball Backpack.
This backpack has a spacious main compartment with multiple pockets to hold all your gear, including a separate padded compartment for your paddle.
It also has a water bottle holder and a zippered insulated pocket to keep your drinks and snacks cool.
16. The Perfect Pair of Pickleball Shoes
Pickleball shoes are designed specifically for the sport, with features that provide stability, support, and comfort on the court.
For beginners, I recommend trying the K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball Shoes. These shoes are lightweight and flexible, allowing for better maneuverability on the court.
They are similar to court shoes or tennis shoes providing support for lateral movements and helping you prevent injuries.
They differ from regular athletic shoes in that they have a non-marking sole to prevent damage to the court surface.
When choosing pickleball shoes, it is important to consider whether you will be playing indoors or outdoors.
Indoor pickleball shoes prioritize agility and responsiveness, often featuring less cushioning than their outdoor counterparts.
On the other hand, outdoor pickleball shoes are designed to withstand the elements and provide more cushioning for shock absorption.
If you were to get the K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball Shoes, you can use these for both indoor and outdoor games without worrying about damaging the shoes or the court surface.
They also feature extra cushioning in key areas, such as along the sides of the feet and near the toes, to help prevent foot pain or injury during play. Additionally, they are an affordable option for those just starting in the sport.
Court And Other Accessories
As a beginner pickleball player, having the right gear and accessories can help me enjoy and improve my game. Here are some tips and tricks to help enhance your playing style and skill level.
Pickleball Court Essentials
The court is similar in size to a doubles badminton court, measuring 20 feet wide and 44 feet long.
To play pickleball, you’ll need a court with a net.
The net is similar to a tennis net, but it’s lower, measuring 36 inches at the ends and 34 inches at the center.
A portable net system is a great option for beginners as it allows you to set up a court anywhere.
I recommend the Amazin’ Aces Portable Pickleball Net Set, which is affordable and easy to set up.
Additional Accessories for Convenience
In addition to personal care items, there are a few extra accessories that can make your playing experience even better.
For example, if you like to listen to music while you play, consider packing a small Bluetooth speaker in your bag.
Or, if you need to bring your laptop with you to the court, look for a bag with a sleek back panel designed to protect your electronics.
Final Thoughts
I was a bit intimidated when I first started pickleball. But after a few games, I was hooked! If you’re new to this sport, don’t worry, it’s easy to learn and a lot of fun.
