Blog & Resource Centre

Pickleball is an engaging and rapidly growing sport that combines elements from tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Its accessibility and appeal span across various age groups and skill levels, making it a popular choice for recreational and competitive play alike. For both newcomers and seasoned players, understanding the essential equipment is fundamental to maximizing performance and enjoyment on the court.

Tips For Getting Started

If you're new to the game, getting the right gear is the first step. But navigating through the play itself can be tricky. Here's a beginner-friendly breakdown of the tips:

1. Around the Post Shot (ATP): This is a special shot where you hit the ball around the net instead of over it. It looks tricky, but with practice, it can become a powerful move in your game.
2. Target Your Opponent’s Weak Side: Most players are weaker on their backhand (the non-dominant side). Aim your shots there to keep them on the defensive.
3. Serving Wisely: When serving, adjust your approach based on your opponent. Use strong serves if they struggle to return them, but keep it consistent if they can handle power.
4. Switching Opponents: In doubles, if you’re in a rally with one player, surprise them by suddenly hitting the ball to the other player, who might not be ready.
5. Be Patient: Don’t rush your shots. Pickleball rewards patience—wait for the right moment to make a smart move instead of trying to end the rally quickly.
6. Take Advantage of Easy Shots: When the ball comes to you high and slow, go for a strong shot. These are your best chances to score, so don't waste them.
7. Place Your Shots Wisely: When you get a good opportunity, aim for your opponent’s feet or open areas on the court to make it difficult for them to return the ball.
8. Poaching: In doubles, if your partner is playing far back and your opponents aim at them, step in to intercept the ball. This can catch your opponents off guard.
9. Expect Fast Shots: When you're near the net, always be ready for your opponent to suddenly hit a fast shot. Keep your paddle up and your eyes on their movements.
10. Drive or Drop Shots: On your third shot after serving, you can either hit the ball hard (drive) or softly (drop). If the ball comes to you high and slow, a drive is more effective. If it’s fast and low, a drop might be safer.

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In addition, we cover everything you need to know about pickleball rackets, balls, and accessories, providing you with the knowledge to make informed choices and elevate your game.

1. Rackets

The pickleball racket, also known as a paddle, is perhaps the most obvious piece of equipment you’ll need. When selecting a racket, consider factors such as weight, grip size, and paddle shape. The racket should feel comfortable in your hand and suit your playing style. For example, if you prefer a lighter racket for quick reflexes, a graphite or composite option might be ideal. Conversely, if you value a bit more power and don’t mind a slightly heavier paddle, a wooden or composite racket could work well. There are various types of rackets available:

Wooden Rackets: Historically, wooden rackets were the standard for pickleball. They are relatively more affordable although tend to be heavier and less forgiving than more modern materials. If you're just starting out, a wooden racket can be a cost-effective way to familiarize yourself with the game. See Wooden Pickleball rackets at Marchants’:

Rhino Pickleball Edge Paddle

Diller Wood Pickleball Set

Composite Rackets: Composite paddles are crafted from a mix of materials such as polymer, fibreglass, and carbon fibre, which makes them strong yet lightweight. Players often prefer these types of rackets due to their versatility and ability to improve different aspects of play. The larger sweet spot on these paddles helps with accuracy, even if you don’t hit the ball perfectly every time. At Marchants, a large range of composite rackets with the Wilson series offers a wonderful selection.

Wilson Fierce Pro 13 Pickleball Paddle

Wilson Blaze Pro 13 Pickleball Paddle

Tempo Pro 16mm Pickleball Paddle

Graphite Rackets: Graphite paddles are known for their lightweight nature and durability. The use of graphite allows for a more responsive and controlled playing experience. Advanced players often prefer graphite rackets because they provide excellent feedback and precision, which can be crucial for high-level play. Despite their higher price point, many players find that the investment is worthwhile for enhanced performance and reduced fatigue during extended play.

Blaze Tour 16mm Pickleball Paddle

Pickleball Paddle Graphite with Cushion Handle

2. Pickleball Balls

Pickleball balls are unique in their design, featuring a perforated surface that distinguishes them from other sports balls. The choice of ball can greatly affect your gameplay, depending on whether you are playing indoors or outdoors.

Indoor Balls: These balls are designed to be lighter and have smaller holes. They are crafted for use in indoor environments where wind and outdoor elements are not a factor. The lighter weight of indoor balls leads to a softer bounce and a slower pace of play, which can be beneficial for certain playing styles and indoor court conditions.

Onix Fuse Indoor Pickleball (Yellow)

Onix Fuse Indoor Pickleball (Orange)

Outdoor Balls: Outdoor pickleball balls are heavier and have larger holes compared to their indoor counterparts. They are built to withstand the elements, including wind and varying temperatures. The increased durability of outdoor balls helps them maintain consistent performance and bounce despite challenging conditions. For outdoor play, it's essential to use balls specifically designed for this purpose to ensure a fair and enjoyable game.

Onix Fuse G2 Outdoor Pickleball - Yellow - 3 Pack

Remember to always check the ball's specifications to ensure it matches your playing conditions and preferences. You can also consider our popular Pickleball Retriever and Storage Tube for easy gear management.

Pickleball Retriever and Storage Tube

3. Eye Guards

Protective eyewear not only shields your eyes but also enhances visibility in various conditions—be it windy, sunny, or cloudy. Our collection features goggles and glasses with UV protection, durable lenses, sturdy frames, and wrap-around bands. No matter your style, we have eyewear that ensures both safety and comfort, helping you perform at your best. At Marchant’s we’ve got you covered with Junior Eye Guards, Senior Eye Guards and Specialty Eye Guards.

Junior Eye Guards:

Leader Jr. Sophomore Racquet Eye Guard

Wrap Sports Eye Guards - Junior (Ages 6-12)

Senior Eye Guards:

Leader Sr. Sophomore Eye Guards

Wrap Eye Guards - Senior

Specialty Eye Guards:

Black Knight Turbo Eye Guards

4. Pickleball Nets

Generally, pickleball nets should be 22 feet wide, with a height of 36 inches on the sidelines and 34 inches in the center. There are many factors to consider when picking out even a net. For instance, the portability, time and complexity in setting up the net is few of the predominant ones. If you’re looking to invest in one it is also important to consider the durability and sturdiness of the net to withstand continuous game play. We've round up three net systems suitable for different occasions, this and many more available at Marchants.

Tournament Pickleball Net System

This versatile and robust net system is ideal for both casual and competitive play. It offers portability and high-quality performance, making it suitable for various settings.

Rhino Pickleball Tournament Net

Engineered to meet official tournament standards, this net provides durability and precision for intense gameplay. It is an excellent choice for professional and high-stakes matches.

Deluxe Pickleball Net W/Wheels

Featuring wheels for easy portability, this durable net system is perfect for both on-court and off-court use. Its versatility and mobility make it a top choice for players seeking convenience and durability.

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Now that you have these essential tips, it's time to put them into practice on the court. As always equipping yourself with the right pickleball gear can make all the difference. So, take the time to choose the best gear for your needs, and enjoy the exciting and fast-paced world of pickleball. Happy playing!