Equipment

Choosing the right paddle and balls:

Pickleball is played with a solid paddle primarily made of lightweight composite materials, including aluminum and graphite. Balls made of plastic with holes in them, similar to a whiffle ball.

When choosing your first paddle, you’ll want to take into consideration weight, grip and feel. In addition, some paddles are designed for power and others for control.

Different ball models are intended for indoor and outdoor play and come in different colors. Currently the SCOV Pickleball Club provides balls for club play so there is no need to purchase your own balls for playing on SCOV courts.

Check out this video to help you decide which paddle and ball is best for you.

Choosing the right clothing and Accessories:

Players wear just about anything comfortable and appropriate for the climate: athletic shorts, sweatpants, wicking apparel, t-shirts, etc. Comfortable court shoes are a must; sneakers or running shoes do not supply the right kind of support for the side-to-side action inherent in pickleball. You might also want to consider eye protection.

As for accessories, you’ll need sunglasses hats or visors, sweatbands and light jackets or sweatshirts for cold outdoor play.

In the warm summer months, cooling towels help to provide some relief from the heat. An insulated water bottle is highly recommended for the warmer months.