Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America — easy to learn, social, and fun from the very first game. If you're curious but don't know where to start, this guide covers everything a beginner needs.
What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport played on a badminton-sized court with a perforated plastic ball. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Games are usually played to 11 points, and you only need a paddle, a ball, and a court.
What gear do you need to start?
Just three things:
- A paddle: beginners do best with a lightweight, forgiving paddle with a large sweet spot. You don't need the most expensive option — comfort matters more than power at first.
- Balls: pickleballs come in indoor and outdoor versions. Outdoor balls are harder and have smaller holes to handle wind.
- Court shoes: any supportive court shoe works. Avoid running shoes — they lack the lateral support you need.
Basic rules in 60 seconds
- Serve underhand, diagonally, and the ball must bounce once on each side before volleys are allowed (the "two-bounce rule").
- There's a 7-foot "kitchen" (non-volley zone) near the net — you can't hit the ball out of the air while standing in it.
- Games are typically played to 11, win by 2.
- Only the serving team can score points.
Tips for your first games
- Start with the dink: soft shots into the kitchen are the heart of pickleball. Control beats power.
- Stay patient: most beginner points are lost on unforced errors, not won on winners.
- Communicate: in doubles, call "mine" early and often.
- Have fun: pickleball's best feature is its community. Don't be afraid to ask better players for tips.
Ready to play?
Browse our paddles, balls, and starter-friendly gear — curated for beginners, shipped fast from the US. See you on the court!