What To Wear When Playing Pickleball

Over the last few years, interest in pickleball has exploded across the country. In fact, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. Whether you've been playing for a while or are a beginner, choosing the right clothes for pickleball is important. Unlike golf, tennis and other sports, pickleball lacks an official dress code, and its less formal nature is part of its appeal. However, the lack of established rules can leave you wondering "what do you wear to play pickleball?" 

The good news is that deciding what to wear for pickleball is easy when you know what to look for in apparel and accessories. This guide will teach you how to pick the best pickleball clothes, so you can look and feel your best on the court. 

Why Choosing the Right Pickleball Attire Matters 

Pickle ball attire is essential to your game. When you choose the right clothing and accessories, you'll be in the best position to play at your best. Here are some factors to keep in mind when deciding what to wear to play pickleball. 

Comfort and Freedom of Movement 

During a pickleball game, you'll have to change directions in the blink of an eye, quickly sprint toward the ball and make large, dynamic movements to maintain the proper form throughout each swing. As a result, you can't afford to be wearing anything that gets in your way. The best attire will have some stretch to allow you to have the fullest range of motion possible and little or no bulk to slow you down. 

Breathability and Moisture-Wicking Properties 

Pickleball may be easy to learn to play but that doesn't mean that the sport won't make big demands on your body. During intense rallies, you're bound to work up a sweat, and it's easy to get distracted and thrown off your game when you're overheated. 

Wearing the right clothes for pickleball can help keep you feeling comfortable even when your body temperature climbs. Breathable fabrics like mesh and cotton promote airflow to help regulate your body temperature during rallies. The best pickleball clothes may also offer moisture-wicking benefits, meaning that they draw perspiration away from your skin and allow it to evaporate more quickly to help you feel drier on the court. 

Protection from the Elements 

Being appropriately dressed for the weather conditions contributes to your overall comfort during rallies. You're most likely to take to the court in dry conditions, but you'll still need to be prepared for the sun. To reduce the risk of painful sunburns that could leave you sidelined, look for apparel with short or long sleeves, depending on the season. Also, plan to cover your head for added sun protection and to keep your vision clearer on bright days. 

Tips for Choosing the Right Clothes for Pickleball 

Now that you know some of the key considerations when deciding what to wear to play pickleball, you're ready to start comparing your options. Keep the following tips in mind as you explore your closet and shop for new pickleball apparel. 

1. Opt for Performance Fabrics

Performance fabrics are textiles that offer breathability and moisture-wicking benefits. Some also have increased sun protection to shield skin from UV. Which fabrics are best for you will depend on the temperature and weather conditions when you play. Check the weather before you head to the court and dress appropriately. 

2. Find the Perfect Bottoms

A lot of attention goes into choosing tees and tops for pickleball, but bottoms are equally important. Look for something that keeps you comfortable and moving freely. Athletic shorts, track pants or sweatpants can be a good option for men, while shorts-skirts combinations called skorts are popular for women. To maintain your range of motion, look for bottoms made of stretch-able materials like those that contain elastane or spandex. An elastic waist with or without a drawstring is typically a better option than a button-zip fly. 

3. Embrace Colors and Prints

Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through when you're choosing what to wear for pickleball. Bold prints and graphics are welcome and encouraged on the court, so feel free to let your creativity guide you as you put together your pickleball outfit. If you prefer classic looks that are more understated, you can always go for solid-colored tees and tops. 

4. Don't Forget About Footwear

The perfect pickleball outfit goes from head to toe, making shoes just as important as the rest of your attire. Specialty court shoes are generally your best bet because they provide solid traction to reduce the risk of slippage and optimized support to keep your feet stable when you turn sharply or move laterally. Other types of athletic shoes like running shoes or training sneakers can't rival the support and traction of the classic court shoe for pickleball. 

5. Accessorize Wisely

Complete your pickleball outfit with accessories that can keep you comfortable. Some top ones to choose include: 

• Sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun 
• A bucket hat or baseball cap like our Dink and Drink Trucker Hat, which features a breathable mesh back 
• Sweatband to wear under your hat or a towel to dry off your face and hands as needed 
• Backpack to carry your gear 
• Water bottle for staying hydrated 
• Paddle for playing 

Put Together the Perfect Pickleball Outfit 

When choosing pickleball attire, think about comfort, freedom of movement and weather conditions. By assessing clothes and accessories on these points, you can focus on items that will help you play your best. Remember that your personal style matters, too. One of the great things about pickleball is that you're free to show off your individuality on the court. 

At Devereux, we design pickleball apparel and accessories that enhance performance and look great on and off the court. In our Pickleball collection, you'll find styles inspired by streetwear trends and packed with features to keep you cool, comfortable, moving freely and focused. Check out the Pickleball collection now and keep an eye out for more Pickleball drops coming soon.