The Ultimate Pickleball Gift Guide for Beginners

by Kelly Frazier on Oct 31, 2023

The Ultimate Pickleball Gift Guide for Beginners

The holiday season is the perfect time to introduce your loved ones to the joy of pickleball or support those who are just starting their pickleball journey. As a sport that offers a fun, social, and fitness-driven experience, pickleball is an excellent choice for people of all ages and skill levels. In this gift guide, we're sharing the ideal presents for beginners or those who haven't yet tried this fantastic sport.


The Pickleball Starter Kit:

For absolute beginners, a pickleball starter kit also known as a pickleball bundle (2 paddles and pickleballs) or pickleball set (2-4 paddles, balls and a net) is a fantastic choice. This is a great way to get everything you need to start playing with friends or family.

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Beginner-Friendly Paddles:

Select a beginner-friendly pickleball paddle that offers control and ease of use. Look for paddles with a broad sweet spot, which will help newcomers enjoy the game while refining their skills.

Least Expensive: VERSIX Strike 4F Composite Paddle

Cutest: Holbrook Rewind Pickleball Paddle

Best all-around: Prince Response Graphite Paddle

A pack of Indoor or Outdoor Pickleballs:

You don't need much to get started playing pickleball but you will need a pack of pickleballs! As with any of the gear the more you play the more you may find out exactly want kind of ball you like for power, speed, location, weather etc. But here are a few good ones to try first as you learn!

Beginner Indoor Ball: Penn 26 Indoor

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Beginner Outdoor Ball: Onix Fuse G2 Outdoor

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Comfortable Court Shoes:

A quality pair of court shoes is a must for pickleball. These shoes offer the support and grip needed to play safely and efficiently. Look for shoes designed for indoor and outdoor play. This may not be an investment you want to make if you are playing for the very first time but trust us, if you start playing regularly you need court shoes that will help prevent you from injury while playing on the court. The worst thing you can do is wear running shoes that are unsupportive for the type of movements you do while playing. Play smart and play safe!

The all-around favorite court shoes are the K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball Shoe - Women'sMen's

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Fun and Functional Apparel:

Introduce beginners to pickleball with stylish and comfortable apparel. Consider moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, skirts, or dresses designed specifically for playing the sport.

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Portable Pickleball Net:

If space is limited, opt for a portable pickleball net. These nets are lightweight and easy to set up in driveways, backyards, or local parks, making pickleball accessible to beginners.

Least Expensive: Rally Portable Light Pickleball Net System

Easiest to set up: SwiftNet 2.1 Portable Pickleball Net System

Best all-around: Rally Portable Pickleball Net System

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Pickleball-Theme Fun:

For a touch of fun and enthusiasm, consider pickleball-themed items like mugs, keychains, or funny pickleball socks to add a bit of whimsy to their pickleball experience.

Pickleball For Kids: 

1. Start them young, the Oneshot Juniorshot Series Paddle by Oneshot Pickleball is for toddlers and young kids! Their playful paddles will keep them excited and interested in learning this new sport.

2. The ProXR The Junior Pickleball Paddle by ProXR Pickleball is a great next step for kids looking to up their pickleball game and advance from that starter paddle. It includes ProXR proprietary handle technology that will help your kiddo understand where to grip their paddle.

3. Another great options for kids or teenagers learning to play and hone their pickleball skills is the VERSIX® Strike 4F Composite Paddle By VERSIX Pickleball. A lightweight, maneuverable, composite paddle ideal for skill development and offering excellent value, delivering a lively performance for aspiring pickleball players.

Shop all Kids and Junior Paddles


This holiday season, help beginners or potential pickleball enthusiasts embark on an exciting journey into the world of this fantastic sport. With the right gifts, you can ignite their passion for pickleball and share in the enjoyment of this fun, social, and active activity. Still not sure what you get? Get a Gift Certificate!