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Gear Guide
Gear Guide
Essential Pickleball Gear Checklist for Beginners
Everything worth having in your bag, in the order you should actually buy it.
You don’t need everything on this list on day one — here’s the priority order that actually makes sense as you go from trying pickleball to playing it regularly.
| Priority | Item | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1. First session | Nothing — most courts loan paddles and provide balls | Try it before spending anything |
| 2. Once you’re hooked | Court shoes | The single highest-impact gear upgrade — see our shoe guide |
| 3. Playing weekly | Your own paddle | Matched to your grip and playstyle — see our Paddle Guide |
| 4. Playing weekly | A sleeve of balls | Matched to indoor or outdoor play |
| 5. Ongoing | Overgrip and a basic bag | Small, cheap upgrades that add real comfort |
| 6. Playing outdoors | Sun protection and hydration gear | See our outdoor gear guide |
TOTAL COST
Following this order, most beginners spend very little upfront and build their kit gradually — see our full cost breakdown for starting in Malaysia.