What to Wear to Play Pickleball: A Head-to-Toe Guide

Pickleball is easy to pick up, but showing up in the wrong clothes can turn a fun game into a sweaty, slippery mess. Running shoes that roll your ankle on a quick side step, a heavy cotton tee that clings in the heat, shorts with no room to lunge: these are the most common first-timer mistakes. This head-to-toe guide explains what to wear to play pickleball, from breathable shirts and bottoms to court shoes, socks, hats and sun protection, for men and women, beginners and seasoned players, indoors and outdoors.

What pickleball clothing needs to do

• Let you move in every direction. Pickleball is full of short lateral steps, lunges and quick resets at the kitchen line.
• Keep you cool and dry. Many games are played outdoors in direct sun, and even indoor gyms get warm.
• Protect you from the sun. Outdoor players can spend hours on the court.
• Stay out of the way. Nothing loose should flap into your paddle swing.

Tops: what to wear on your upper body

Performance T-shirts

A lightweight, moisture-wicking tee is the everyday pickleball uniform. It breathes, dries fast and lets you swing freely. Avoid heavy cotton, which soaks up sweat and clings.

Sleeveless polos and tanks

Many women, and plenty of men, prefer sleeveless tops for hot outdoor courts. A sleeveless polo keeps a sporty, polished look while maximizing airflow.

Long-sleeve UPF shirts

If you play outdoors for hours, a long-sleeve shirt with sun protection keeps UV off your arms without the need to reapply sunscreen as often. Light colors and breathable fabrics keep it comfortable.

Polos

Some clubs, leagues and tournaments prefer collared shirts. A performance polo covers that while staying cool.

Browse every style in our pickleball shirts collection.

Bottoms: shorts, skorts and more

• Athletic shorts with a little stretch and an inseam that lets you lunge comfortably
• Skorts and athletic skirts, popular with women for freedom of movement and built-in shorts
• Leggings or joggers for cooler mornings or indoor play
• Pockets to hold a spare ball, a big plus during recreational play

Avoid jeans, cargo shorts and heavy fabrics that restrict movement or trap heat.

Shoes: the most important part of your outfit

If you only invest in one piece of pickleball gear, make it shoes. Pickleball involves lots of quick side-to-side movement, and running shoes are designed for forward motion. Their raised heels and soft sides can make it easier to roll an ankle.

• Court shoes (pickleball or tennis shoes) offer lateral support and durable, flat soles.
• Outdoor courts call for tough, grippy outsoles.
• Indoor courts usually require non-marking soles; many gyms ask for clean indoor shoes.
• Fit should be snug at the heel with room for your toes.

Socks

Moisture-wicking athletic socks with a bit of cushioning help prevent blisters. Avoid cotton socks that get soggy. Many players like socks that rise above the shoe line to prevent rubbing at the ankle.

Hats, visors and sunglasses

Outdoor pickleball means looking up at lobs into bright sky. A visor or cap shades your eyes, and sport sunglasses reduce glare. Visors are especially popular because they keep the sun out without trapping heat on top of your head.

Sun protection and hydration

• Apply sunscreen before playing and reapply during long sessions.
• Consider long sleeves or UPF fabrics for extended outdoor play.
• Bring a large water bottle; you will sweat more than you expect.
• A cooling towel helps on hot summer afternoons.

What to wear to play pickleball as a woman

• A breathable tee, tank or sleeveless polo cut for a woman's frame
• A skort, athletic skirt, shorts or leggings
• A supportive sports bra
• Court shoes with lateral support
• A visor and sunglasses outdoors

Our women's sleeveless polo runs from XS (35.8-inch bust) to 4XL (49.6-inch bust), according to our size guide. See our women's pickleball shirts.

What to wear to play pickleball as a man

• A moisture-wicking tee, polo or long-sleeve UPF shirt
• Athletic shorts with pockets
• Court shoes and athletic socks
• A cap or visor for outdoor play

Our UPF T-shirt measures 23.6 inches across the chest in L and 25.2 inches in XL (measured flat). Browse men's pickleball shirts.

What to wear for your first time

You do not need fancy gear for your first game. Wear a breathable tee, athletic shorts, and the most supportive athletic shoes you own (court shoes if possible). Bring water and a hat. Once you are hooked, upgrade to court shoes and performance shirts.

Indoor vs outdoor pickleball outfits

Indoor

Lightweight tees or tanks, shorts and non-marking court shoes. No need for hats or sunscreen.

Outdoor

Breathable or UPF tops, a visor or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen and grippy outdoor shoes. Layer for cool mornings.

Cold-weather pickleball

For chilly mornings, layer a long-sleeve shirt under a light zip-up and wear joggers or leggings. Remove layers as you warm up; you will heat up quickly once the rallies start.

Accessories worth bringing

• Sweatbands or a headband to keep sweat out of your eyes and off your grip.
• A small towel for between games.
• A spare shirt for long sessions on hot days; changing into a dry shirt halfway through feels great.
• A light jacket for cool early-morning open play.
• Knee or ankle support if you have a history of injuries; check with a medical professional for advice.

Common pickleball clothing mistakes

• Running shoes on court. The most common mistake, and the one most likely to cause a rolled ankle.
• Heavy cotton tees that get soaked and heavy in the heat.
• Shorts without pockets, leaving you nowhere to keep the second ball during recreational play.
• Dark colors in strong sun, which absorb heat on hot outdoor courts.
• Forgetting sunscreen on the back of your neck and the tops of your ears.

League and tournament outfits

Many leagues and doubles teams wear matching shirts. It makes partners easy to spot in a busy bracket and looks great in photos. Our pickleball team shirts can be personalized with team and player names. Shirts are printed to order: 2–3 business days of processing plus 3–7 business days of US shipping, and orders over $50 ship free.

Quick pre-game checklist

Before you head to the courts, run through this list: breathable shirt, shorts or skort with a pocket, court shoes, moisture-wicking socks, visor or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, towel and your paddle. Pack a spare shirt and you are ready for anything from a quick game to a full morning of open play.

FAQ: what to wear to play pickleball

What is the best clothing to wear to play pickleball?

Breathable, moisture-wicking tops and bottoms that allow lateral movement, plus court shoes with good side support.

Can I wear running shoes for pickleball?

It is not recommended. Running shoes are built for forward motion, while court shoes support quick side-to-side movement.

What should a woman wear to play pickleball?

A breathable tee, tank or sleeveless polo, a skort, shorts or leggings, a supportive sports bra and court shoes.

What should I wear for my first pickleball game?

A breathable shirt, athletic shorts, supportive athletic shoes, water and a hat if playing outdoors.

Can I return a personalized pickleball shirt?

Yes. All items, including personalized ones, can be returned within 30 days. Support is available 8 AM–5 PM Pacific time.

Dress for the rally. Find your next shirt in our pickleball collection and wear your game.