What to Wear to Play Pickleball: Your Complete Guide to On-Court Attire

If you're new to pickleball or just looking to upgrade your on-court wardrobe, you might be wondering what to wear to play pickleball. Unlike some sports with strict dress codes, pickleball offers flexibility while still requiring thoughtful clothing choices that enhance your performance and comfort. Whether you're booking a court for the first time or you're a seasoned player, understanding the right attire can make a significant difference in your game.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about pickleball attire, from footwear essentials to clothing materials, accessories, and more. Let's dive in and get you court-ready!

The Foundation: Proper Pickleball Footwear

When it comes to what to wear to play pickleball, your shoes are arguably the most critical component of your outfit. The right footwear can prevent injuries, improve your lateral movement, and enhance your overall performance on the court.

Why Court Shoes Matter

Pickleball involves quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and rapid direction changes. Regular running shoes, while comfortable for forward motion, don't provide the lateral support needed for pickleball's side-to-side action. Court shoes are specifically designed with features that support the unique demands of racquet sports:

• Enhanced lateral support to prevent ankle rolling
• Gum rubber outsoles for superior grip on court surfaces
• Reinforced toe caps for durability during toe-dragging
• Cushioned midsoles for shock absorption during quick movements
• Breathable uppers to keep your feet cool during long matches

Choosing the Right Pickleball Shoes

When selecting pickleball shoes, consider the court surface you'll be playing on most frequently. Outdoor courts typically require shoes with more durable outsoles, while indoor court shoes can have softer rubber. Look for shoes labeled specifically for pickleball, tennis, or court sports. At Santa Monica Pickleball Center, our retail store carries a comprehensive selection of pickleball and court shoes designed to meet the demands of both outdoor and indoor play.

Key features to prioritize include a snug but comfortable fit, adequate arch support, and proper cushioning. Your shoes should feel secure during lateral movements without pinching or causing discomfort. Many players prefer shoes with a slightly wider toe box to allow for natural foot expansion during play.

Clothing Essentials for Pickleball

Beyond footwear, the clothing you choose impacts your comfort and performance throughout your pickleball session. Let's break down the ideal clothing choices for this dynamic sport.

Tops: Breathability and Movement

When selecting tops for pickleball, prioritize moisture-wicking fabrics that pull sweat away from your skin. Athletic shirts made from polyester blends, performance fabrics, or technical materials will keep you cooler and drier than cotton, which tends to absorb and hold moisture.

Consider these top options:

• Performance t-shirts with mesh panels for ventilation
• Sleeveless athletic tops for maximum arm mobility
• Polo-style shirts for a classic court look
• Tank tops for warm-weather play
• Long-sleeve athletic shirts with UV protection for outdoor courts

The fit should allow full range of motion without being overly loose or restrictive. You'll be reaching, stretching, and swinging, so test your range of motion before committing to any top.

Bottoms: Flexibility and Comfort

For bottoms, you have several excellent options depending on personal preference and weather conditions:

Athletic shorts are the most popular choice, offering maximum breathability and freedom of movement. Look for options with moisture-wicking properties and consider styles with pockets for holding an extra ball during play.

Athletic skorts combine the coverage of shorts with the appearance of a skirt, offering both style and functionality. Many feature built-in shorts underneath and convenient pockets.

Performance leggings or athletic pants work well for cooler weather or indoor play. Choose options specifically designed for athletic activity with four-way stretch and moisture management.

Avoid jeans, khakis, or any restrictive clothing that limits your movement or doesn't breathe well during physical activity.

Climate Considerations for Santa Monica Pickleball

Playing pickleball in Southern California comes with unique climate considerations. Santa Monica's coastal location provides beautiful weather year-round, but outdoor play requires sun protection and weather-appropriate attire.

Sun Protection Essentials

When playing at outdoor facilities like the professional courts at Santa Monica Pickleball Center, which are open daily from 7am to 10pm, sun protection becomes crucial, especially during midday sessions:

• Wear moisture-wicking shirts with UPF sun protection
• Apply sunscreen to exposed skin before play
• Consider lightweight, long-sleeve options for extended outdoor sessions
• Choose light-colored clothing that reflects rather than absorbs heat

Layering for Morning and Evening Play

Early morning and evening sessions can start cooler, especially near the coast. Layering allows you to adjust as you warm up and as temperatures change. A lightweight athletic jacket or zip-up hoodie can be perfect for warming up, then easily removed once you're moving and your body temperature rises.

Important Accessories to Complete Your Pickleball Outfit

Beyond the basics of shoes and athletic wear, several accessories can enhance your comfort and performance on the court.

Headwear

A good hat or visor serves multiple purposes during pickleball play. It shields your eyes from the sun, helps keep sweat from dripping into your eyes, and provides additional UV protection for your face and scalp. Choose lightweight, breathable options with moisture-wicking sweatbands. Visors offer maximum ventilation, while performance caps provide more coverage.

Eyewear

Protective eyewear isn't just about sun protection—it's also about safety. Pickleball can involve balls coming at your face, and proper eyewear provides a barrier. Sport sunglasses with polarized lenses reduce glare on bright days, while clear protective glasses work well for evening or indoor play. Look for wraparound styles that stay secure during quick movements.

Socks

Don't overlook the importance of quality athletic socks. Court-specific socks typically feature cushioned soles, arch support, and moisture-wicking properties. They should fit snugly without bunching and come up high enough to prevent blisters from your shoes. Many players prefer crew-length or quarter-length athletic socks for optimal comfort and protection.

Wristbands and Headbands

Sweatbands for your wrists and forehead help manage perspiration during intense play. They prevent sweat from affecting your grip on the paddle and keep it from running into your eyes. While optional, many players find these accessories helpful during longer sessions or in warm weather.

What NOT to Wear to Play Pickleball

Understanding what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to wear to play pickleball. Here are some common clothing mistakes:

• Running shoes: Lack the lateral support needed for pickleball's side-to-side movements
• Cotton clothing: Absorbs sweat and stays wet, becoming heavy and uncomfortable
• Jeans or restrictive pants: Limit your range of motion and don't breathe well
• Jewelry: Can catch on equipment or cause injuries; best to remove before play
• Fashion sunglasses: May not stay secure during movement or provide adequate protection
• Shoes with black soles: Can leave marks on court surfaces and may not be allowed

Building Your Pickleball Wardrobe: Where to Start

If you're just getting started and wondering what to wear to play pickleball, you don't need to overhaul your entire wardrobe immediately. Start with the essentials and build from there.

The Starter Kit

Begin with these fundamental items:

1. One pair of quality court shoes specific to pickleball or tennis
2. Two or three moisture-wicking athletic shirts
3. Two pairs of athletic shorts, skorts, or performance pants
4. Quality athletic socks (at least three pairs)
5. A hat or visor for sun protection
6. Sport sunglasses or protective eyewear

This foundation will serve you well whether you're taking private lessons, joining group classes like Liveball, Jumpstart, or Skills & Drills, or just booking courts with friends.

Expanding Your Options

As you play more frequently, you'll appreciate having additional options. Consider adding variety to accommodate different weather conditions and personal preferences. Having multiple outfits means you can play several days in a row without laundry concerns, and different styles for various occasions—from casual recreational play to more competitive matches.

Shopping for Pickleball Attire

Finding the right pickleball clothing and shoes is easier than ever, with many retailers now recognizing the sport's growing popularity. When shopping, prioritize trying on shoes in person whenever possible, as proper fit is crucial for performance and injury prevention.

At Santa Monica Pickleball Center, our full retail store stocks everything you need, from shoes to bags and accessories. The store is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 10pm and Saturday through Sunday from 9am to 8pm, giving you plenty of time to browse and find the perfect gear. Our knowledgeable staff can help you select the right shoes and clothing for your specific needs, whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking to upgrade.

We also offer free in-store pickup and free US shipping on orders over $50, making it convenient to get the gear you need however you prefer to shop.

Caring for Your Pickleball Clothing

Proper care extends the life of your pickleball attire and maintains its performance properties.

Washing Tips

Wash athletic clothing in cold water to preserve moisture-wicking properties and prevent shrinkage. Avoid fabric softeners, which can clog the technical fibers and reduce breathability. Air drying is ideal for performance fabrics, though low-heat tumble drying is usually acceptable if you're in a hurry.

Shoe Maintenance

Keep your court shoes clean by wiping them down after each use. Remove any dirt or debris from the outsoles to maintain traction. Allow shoes to air dry completely between uses, and consider using shoe trees or crumpled newspaper to help them maintain their shape. Replace shoes when you notice significant wear on the outsoles or when cushioning begins to break down—typically every 6-12 months for frequent players.

Special Considerations for Classes and Lessons

If you're signing up for group classes or private lessons, wearing appropriate attire becomes even more important. You'll want to be comfortable during instruction and able to move freely as you learn new techniques and practice drills.

The good news? If you're trying out pickleball for the first time through classes at Santa Monica Pickleball Center, all classes include free demo paddles, so you can test out the sport before investing in your own equipment. This allows you to focus on getting the right clothing and shoes first, then selecting your perfect paddle once you've developed your playing style.

Whether you're working with staff pros in private lessons or joining group sessions like Juniors Hotshots or Youth Summer Camp, proper attire helps you get the most out of your instruction time and stay comfortable throughout the session.

Get Equipped and Get Playing

Now that you know what to wear to play pickleball, you're ready to step onto the court with confidence. Remember that the right attire isn't about fashion—it's about performance, comfort, and safety. Invest in quality court shoes first, choose moisture-wicking athletic clothing second, and add protective accessories third.

Whether you're booking one of the 4 professional outdoor pickleball courts or trying out the 3 brand new padel courts at Santa Monica Pickleball Center, proper attire will help you play your best game. Courts are available daily from 7am to 10pm and can be booked via the PlayByPoint app or by calling 310-486-0726. Stop by our retail store to browse our complete selection of shoes, bags, and accessories, or reach out to us at info@smpickleballcenter.com with any questions about gear or court availability. We're here to serve the Santa Monica, West LA, Brentwood, and Marina Del Rey communities with everything you need to enjoy this amazing sport!