Wear court shoes with lateral support, moisture-wicking clothes, and sun-smart layers.
If you’re wondering what to wear to pickleball, you’re in the right place. I’ve logged hundreds of games across indoor gyms and sun-baked outdoor courts, and I’ve tested more outfits than I can admit. This guide breaks down what to wear to pickleball so you stay safe, move fast, and feel great—all with simple, field-tested tips you can use today.
The essentials: what to wear to pickleball from head to toe
What to wear to pickleball starts with comfort and ends with safety. You need gear that lets you move in all directions without drag. You also want clothes that handle sweat and sun. Think light, quick-dry, and court-ready.
Here’s the baseline kit I trust:
- Top: Lightweight, sweat-wicking tee or tank with room to reach overhead.
- Bottoms: Stretch shorts, skirts, or skorts with built-in liners or compression.
- Socks: Cushioned, breathable, crew-length to protect ankles from shoe rub.
- Shoes: Court shoes with non-marking soles and strong lateral support.
- Hat or visor: Shade your face; pick breathable fabric.
- Sunglasses: Polarized, sport frames for outdoor glare.
- Layers: Zip hoodie or light jacket for warm-ups and cool-downs.
I’ve seen new players show up in running outfits and slip on wide pivots. Court shoes fix that fast. If you remember one thing about what to wear to pickleball, make it this: shoes matter most.
Pickleball shoes: grip, support, and court safety
Your feet take a beating with all the stops, starts, and slides. Running shoes are built to go forward. Pickleball needs side-to-side moves. That is why court shoes are a must for what to wear to pickleball.
Pick the right pair:
- Outsole: Non-marking rubber with a flat, grippy pattern for quick stops.
- Support: Stiff sidewalls and a locked-in heel to cut and plant with control.
- Cushion: Enough for comfort, not so soft that you roll on pivots.
- Court type: Gum or softer rubber for indoor wood. Harder rubber for outdoor asphalt.
From my matches, ankle tweaks drop fast once players switch to proper court shoes. Sports trainers also note that lateral support helps reduce ankle rolls. Rotate pairs if you play often. Dry them fully between sessions.
Fabrics and fit: stay cool and dry
Clothing fabric is make-or-break. Cotton soaks up sweat and gets heavy. That slows you down and can chafe. For what to wear to pickleball, choose performance fabrics.
Use these simple rules:
- Tops and bottoms: Polyester or nylon blends with sweat-wicking tech.
- Fit: Skim the body. Not tight. Not baggy. You want free reach and twist.
- Venting: Mesh panels under arms or at the back help a lot.
- Sun care: Look for UPF 30–50+ fabrics for outdoor play.
- Compression: Light compression shorts or leggings can reduce muscle jiggle and chafe.
I prefer a sleeveless top and a skort on hot days. On humid mornings, I swap to a tee with more mesh. It sounds small, but it keeps energy up through long rallies.
Seasonal and climate tips
Weather shifts what to wear to pickleball. Plan your layers so you can peel or add fast.
Hot and sunny
- Wear a visor or hat, polarized sunglasses, and UPF top.
- Choose light colors to reflect heat.
- Use sweatbands to manage grip on the paddle.
Cool or windy
- Start with a thin base layer under a light zip jacket.
- Keep your knees and elbows warm to protect joints.
- Strip a layer once you break a sweat to avoid chills.
Humid or rainy
- Pick fast-dry fabrics and spare socks.
- Grip-enhancing overgrips help when hands get damp.
- Watch court traction. Shoes with good tread are key.
Indoor gyms
- Air can feel dry and cool. Warm up in a light jacket.
- Non-marking soles are often required.
- Avoid strong colognes; people will thank you.
What to wear to pickleball for your level and style
Your outfit can match how you play. This keeps you sharp and comfy through the whole match. It also helps you build a simple routine.
Beginners
- Choose budget-friendly performance tops and shorts.
- Focus on court shoes first. Everything else can be basic.
- Bring a hat and extra socks.
League or club play
- Upgrade to a fitted top and bottoms with pockets or ball shorts.
- Use moisture-wicking hats or visors and wristbands.
- Keep a spare shirt for back-to-back games.
Tournament days
- Pack two pairs of shoes, extra socks, and a full change of clothes.
- Wear light colors and UPF gear for long outdoor blocks.
- Compression sleeves or knee supports can aid recovery between matches.
Aggressive movers
- Pick snug-but-stretchy gear to avoid drag on slides.
- Reinforced toe caps on shoes help with sudden stops.
Dink-and-place masters
- Prioritize breathable comfort and clear vision. Think visors and non-slip sunglasses.
Accessories that boost comfort and performance
Small items can make a big difference. I keep a tiny kit in my bag for quick fixes.
Useful add-ons
- Wristbands: Keep sweat off your grip.
- Overgrips: Swap as needed for tacky, dry holds.
- Knee or elbow sleeves: Light support for joints that need love.
- Sunscreen and lip balm: Broad spectrum, sweat-resistant.
- Towel: Microfiber dries fast between games.
- Lightweight bag: Separate pocket for shoes and sweaty gear.
These little changes often decide whether set three feels fresh or flat. For what to wear to pickleball, think beyond the shirt and shorts.
Budget and brand-smart buying tips
You do not need to spend big to dress well for pickleball. But you should invest in the right items first.
Spend here first
- Court shoes with solid lateral support.
- Two sweat-wicking tops and two pairs of shorts or a skort.
- Quality socks that protect from blisters.
Save here
- Hats, basic layers, wristbands, and towels.
- Last-season colors or outlet deals on performance wear.
Fit test checklist
- Do a deep lunge and a side shuffle in the fitting room.
- Reach overhead like a serve. Check if the shirt pulls.
- Try a short sprint. Your heel should not lift in the shoe.
Care tips
- Wash on cold. Hang dry. Heat kills stretch and wicking.
- Remove insoles to dry shoes faster.
- Rotate outfits to extend life.
Common outfit mistakes to avoid
Avoid these traps I see all the time:
- Wearing running shoes. They lack side support and can lead to slips.
- Going heavy on cotton. It gets wet, heavy, and cold.
- Dark, marking soles indoors. Many gyms ban them.
- Dangling jewelry. It can catch or distract.
- Oversized hoodies or long strings. They snag on the paddle or net.
- Skipping sun gear. Burn today means sore and tired tomorrow.
When in doubt about what to wear to pickleball, pick simple, light, and secure.
Quick outfit checklists for game day
Indoor court
- Sweat-wicking tee or tank
- Stretch shorts or skort
- Crew socks
- Non-marking court shoes
- Light jacket for warm-up
Outdoor hot day
- UPF shirt or tank
- Light skort or shorts
- Breathable hat or visor
- Polarized sport sunglasses
- Court shoes with outdoor tread
- Sunscreen, wristbands, extra socks
Cool morning start
- Moisture-wicking base layer
- Zip jacket
- Stretch bottoms or leggings under shorts
- Court shoes
- Thin beanie or headband
These lists cover what to wear to pickleball in most cases. Pack backups if you play long sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions of what to wear to pickleball
What kind of shoes should I wear for pickleball?
Wear court shoes with non-marking soles and strong lateral support. Running shoes are not ideal because they are built for forward motion, not quick side steps.
Can I wear leggings or joggers for pickleball?
Yes, as long as they are stretchy and sweat-wicking. Make sure there are no bulky seams that rub during lunges or pivots.
Do I need special socks for pickleball?
Choose cushioned, breathable crew socks to reduce blisters and ankle rub. Avoid thin cotton socks that trap moisture.
What is the best fabric for pickleball clothes?
Pick polyester or nylon blends with sweat-wicking tech. These fabrics dry fast and keep you cool and light.
Is a hat or visor better for outdoor pickleball?
Both work, but visors vent heat better on very hot days. Hats offer more scalp protection and can be great in strong sun.
Can I play pickleball in running shorts and a cotton tee?
You can, but you may feel heavy and damp. Performance fabrics and court shoes make a big difference in comfort and safety.
Do I need sunglasses for pickleball?
Polarized sport sunglasses help with glare and tracking lobs in sun. Look for non-slip nose pads so they stay put during rallies.
Conclusion
Dressing right is a simple win you can feel in every rally. Focus on court shoes, sweat-wicking layers, and smart sun care. Build a small kit, test your fit with a few moves, and you will be set for any court or climate. Now that you know what to wear to pickleball, pick one upgrade to make this week and hit the court with confidence. Want more tips like this? Subscribe, share your questions, or drop your go-to gear in the comments.