So you’ve decided to try pickleball. Good decision. Now what do you actually need to get started — and what can you skip for now?
Here’s the definitive starter kit: what to buy, what to borrow, and what to leave off the list until you know the sport is for you.
The Essentials (You Actually Need These)
A Paddle
Your paddle is your most important purchase. Don’t overthink it for your first game, but don’t buy the cheapest thing you can find either — a poor-quality paddle teaches bad habits and puts you off the sport.
For a first paddle, look for:
- Midweight (7.5–8.1 oz / 213–230g)
- Fibreglass or composite face
- Polymer core
- Standard shape
- Budget: $60–$130 AUD / $55–$120 NZD
You do not need a carbon fibre performance paddle as a beginner. You do not need to spend $250. A solid mid-range paddle will serve your game well for your first year.
Balls
Balls are inexpensive and consumable. A tube of three is usually enough to start.
- If you’re playing outdoors: outdoor balls (26 holes, harder plastic)
- If you’re playing indoors: indoor balls (40 holes, softer plastic)
- If you’re unsure: start with outdoor balls — they work in more contexts
Replace balls when they crack, go out of round, or lose their bounce consistency.
Court Shoes
You can start with any supportive athletic shoe, but dedicated court shoes make a meaningful difference quickly. What you need:
- Lateral support: Pickleball involves sharp side-to-side movement. Running shoes are built for forward motion and won’t support your ankles properly.
- Non-marking soles: Required on many indoor courts.
- Durability on hard surfaces: Court shoes have reinforced outsoles for asphalt and concrete.
Tennis shoes work perfectly for pickleball. Many brands now make dedicated pickleball shoes. Avoid running shoes if you can.
The Nice-to-Haves (Useful But Optional at First)
Overgrip
An overgrip wraps over your paddle’s existing grip to add comfort, tackiness, and slight thickness. A pack of three costs around $10 and is worth having:
- If you sweat heavily during play, overgrip significantly improves paddle control
- If your grip feels slightly too thin, an overgrip builds it up
- If your grip is worn and slippery, an overgrip restores tackiness cheaply
Replace overgrip whenever it feels slick or unresponsive — usually every few weeks for regular players.
A Paddle Cover or Bag
Paddles don’t need much protection, but a cover prevents face scratches that can affect performance. A small paddle bag or tote keeps your gear organised and easy to carry to the court.
What You Don’t Need Yet
A net: Unless you’re setting up your own court, the venue provides this. Portable nets are great for backyard play but unnecessary for club players.
Multiple paddles: One paddle is enough to start. Some players eventually carry two (a backup in case of damage), but don’t buy two paddles until you know what you like.
A ball machine: Great training tool, but obviously not for day one.
A smart coaching subscription: Learn from your club community first. You’ll get more out of paid instruction once you’ve built some base skills.
An expensive paddle bag: A small tote or drawstring bag works fine. The premium gear bags are for players who travel to tournaments.
The Total Cost to Start
| Item | Budget Range (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paddle | $60–$130 | Most important purchase |
| Balls (tube of 3) | $12–$20 | Get outdoor to start |
| Court shoes | $60–$150 | Can use existing athletic shoes initially |
| Overgrip (pack of 3) | $8–$12 | Optional but useful |
| Total | $140–$312 | — |
This compares very favourably to starting tennis ($200+ for a racquet alone), golf ($500+), or most watersports. It’s one of the most accessible sports to gear up for.
Where to Find Courts to Play
Don’t have a court nearby? Here are your options:
Use existing tennis courts: Many recreational tennis courts can be lined for pickleball. A portable net and some court tape can transform any tennis court into pickleball courts.
Join a local club: Most capital cities and major regional centres now have active pickleball clubs. Open-play sessions typically cost $5–$15 per session and include access to equipment if you’re still deciding whether to buy.
Community centres and gyms: Check your local council’s sports facilities — many now have dedicated pickleball sessions.
Find courts: Pickleball Australia and Pickleball New Zealand both maintain court finders.
Ready to Go
DINQ has everything you need to get started — paddles, balls, and accessories designed for Asia-Pacific players. Get your kit sorted and get on court.