Pickleball gear - what you need to get started

Today we’re talking pickleball gear - what do you need to start playing the fastest growing sport in America?
The good news - it doesn’t take much. Pickleball is a relatively affordable sport to get involved in. So what’s the catch behind the sport's growing popularity? First off, the game is easy to learn and appropriate for players of all ages and skill levels.  How many sports can you play with your grandparents where they roast you on the court? The game combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. The only equipment you need are pickleball paddles, pickleball balls, a net and maybe some tape! 
Lucky for us, pickleball courts are popping up everywhere and it’s pretty easy these days to find one. One way is through this easy-to-use pickleball court finder.

Getting Started 
First things first, let’s break down the basics of pickleball gear:
1. Pickleball Paddles - the paddle is smaller than a tennis racket, but larger than a ping pong paddle, and is designed with lightweight technology for power and control. There are different paddles for specific skill levels and most experts recommend a carbon fiber paddle over wooden paddles. Our Nettie paddles are perfect for beginners and experts alike. And they feature a stylish retro design making them that much more appealing! 
2. Pickleball Balls - The pickleball ball is an extremely lightweight plastic ball, with holes in it that allow it to soar. You can find balls at most sporting goods stores or online. We recommend the Onix Fuse G2 Pickleballs for having the best bang for your buck. 
3. Pickleball Net - Pickleball can be played on any court that has pickleball lines and a net set up. Dedicated pickleball courts are also popping up nationwide. Check out this pickleball court finder and find a court in your area. For some pickleball courts, you will need to bring your own net. Check out this pickleball nets buyer’s guide for our recommended nets.
4. Pickleball Tape - Depending on where you’re playing, you might need pickleball tape to mark the dimensions of the court. This can be found affordably on amazon.

In case you’re using a mobile net and tape rather than a court, you’re likely going to need a tape measure to mark out the dimensions before you play. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to mark your pickleball court:

• Measure the length of the court at 44 feet long, and mark with tape or for reference
• The width of the court should measure 20 feet. Mark the dimensions on both sides of the court and then lay down tape for the all outer edges of the court
• Place the net halfway through the court at 22 feet
• To mark the Kitchen, measure 7 feet from both sides of the net, mark with chalk, then lay your tape
• Mark the centerline from the edge of the court to the 10 feet mark, then add tape down the middle of the court to the kitchen

Starting a new sport and gathering all the gear necessary can be overwhelming. Luckily, we have developed sets that encompass everything you need. We may be biased, but Nettie has what you need, starting with vibrant, premium pickleball paddles, which are beautifully designed and made from high-quality carbon fiber. Our sets include everything you need to jump-start your pickleball game And they make the perfect gift for that friend you are trying to get out on the court.

• The Family Set includes 4 pickleball paddles, 4 pickleballs, and 4 sweatbands, and a rules guide. 
• The Double Pack comes with 2 pickleball paddles, 2 pickleballs, and 2 sweatbands, and a rules guide. 

There’s a reason pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America –  it’s affordable, accessible, social, and easy to get started. After years of isolation, pickleball provides a sense of community, and a way to stay active, get outside, see friends and family, and just enjoy the game. What’s stopping you from playing pickleball?!