14 Useful Pickleball Gifts for Players of Any Skill Level

Last updated on March 25, 2024

Pickleball has become a lifestyle for many who have taken up the game. While some play it competitively, others indulge in it for the game’s fitness and social aspects. As the game’s popularity grows exponentially, so do the options to buy useful pickleball gifts for the pickleball players in your life.

When it comes to pickleball gifts, there are the obvious and not-so-obvious ones. Paddles and balls would fall into the former category, while protective eyewear or a sun shirt would fall into the latter. Whether you’re shopping for a friend who’s just discovered their love for the sport or a seasoned pickleball pro, the curated list of 14 items covered in this post offers the perfect blend of functionality and style. The included shopping links will give you an idea of the cost of each item covered here.

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So, here are 14 useful pickleball gifts for players of any skill level.

Paddle

Pickleball paddles make great gifts since every pickleball player can use one. However, high-end pickleball paddles don’t come cheap and are often priced higher than tennis and squash racquets. With the manufacturers offering choices of materials, weight, thickness, shape, and appearance, advanced players look for paddles that best fit their playing style and ability. While it may make sense to spend serious dollars to pick up a top-of-the-line paddle for an advanced player, recreational players may be happy to get a paddle that looks great and does the job.

Selkirk Luxx Control Paddle

Recess Vista Paddle

Balls

Whether indoors or outdoors, pickleball balls are a recurring cost for players. For simple-looking plastic balls with holes in them, good-quality pickleball balls can be surprisingly pricey. A set of reliable, tournament-grade balls makes a good stocking-stuffer gift for pickleball enthusiasts. With the sheer number of pickleball brands and models, picking the right ones can be tricky. Here’s a set of outdoor balls popular among regular players.

Pickleball Apparel

When looking for pickleball apparel, there are two things to consider: on-court clothing and off-court clothing. The clothes worn during gameplay are made from lightweight, moisture-wicking material for maximum mobility and breathability. Off-court pickleball apparel consists of streetwear and fashion statements representing aspects of the pickleball lifestyle. While you can safely pick tennis apparel for male and female pickleball players, here are a few unique finds you may want to check out.

Pickleball Shoes

With the increasing popularity of pickleball, injuries are on the rise. The appropriate gear is crucial to perform well on the court while staying injury-free. While many players focus on their paddle and attire, the right pair of pickleball shoes is often overlooked. Though most pickleball players sport non-marking tennis shoes to play the game, a pair of dedicated pickleball shoes can make an excellent gift for outdoor and indoor play.

Skechers

The American footwear company Skechers has become the fourth-largest shoe brand in the United States. From its roots in utility-style boots and men’s street shoes, the company has grown to offer footwear products targeted at the pickleball-playing community. With prominent event and player sponsorships, Skechers has become one of the best-recognized dedicated pickleball shoe brands today.

Image	Product	Features	Price
	Skechers Men’s Viper Pickleball Shoes		Check Price
	Skechers Women’s Viper Pickleball Shoes		Check Price

Pickleball Bag

If the pickleballer in your life carries her playing gear in a shopping bag, it’s time to get her a pickleball bag. It’s a practical gift that not only keeps equipment organized but also adds a touch of convenience to a player’s life. Racquet bags have evolved and hold a lot more than racquets and paddles. Paddles, balls, water bottle, shoes, spare clothes, towel, sweatbands, and other accessories get thrown into the players’ bags. You can opt for branded pickleball bags or a cool bag that serves the purpose.

Hat

Hats are essential for outdoor pickleball play and offer sun protection and style. Most major pickleball and tennis brands sell hats that work well while playing in the sun. Alternatively, you can pick from a range of cool moisture-wicking hats that you find online that are lightweight and machine washable.

Socks

Comfort starts from the feet up. Moisture-wicking, cushioned socks for athletic activity offer support and comfort during extended matches. While you can use any good quality sports socks for pickleball, one brand, OS1st (OrthoSleeve First), stands out as the favourite of the pickleball-playing community. You can pick them up at the company’s site or use the included Amazon link.

Protective Eyewear

You would typically not find protective eyewear in lists that suggest pickleball gifts. With more and more beginners stepping on the pickleball court, the chances of getting it with a ball are increasingly high. For newbies and older players, safety should be paramount. Protective eyewear safeguards against unexpected accidents on the court, ensuring players enjoy the game without worrying about their vision.

Sun Shirt

Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is vital to peak performance in any sport. Pickleball is no different. A durable water bottle can come in handy while playing a game of pickleball or exploring the trail on a summer day.

Grips/Overgrips

Paddle grips wear out over time. Replacement grips and over-grips ensure the paddle handle does not slip while a shot is executed. Grips come in various colors and textures and make a good stocking stuffer gift for pickleball players.

Paddle Cleaner

This one is a nice-to-have for pickleball players. Over time, dirt and tiny fibers from the plastic pickleball balls accumulate on pickleball paddle surfaces, altering their texture and diminishing the spin the paddle can generate. Paddle erasers are purpose-built to gently clean and restore the integrity of the paddle surfaces without damaging them. Paddle cleaning solutions help players keep their equipment in top condition, ensuring every game is their best.

So, there you have it. As the holiday season approaches, you can use this list as a starting point to explore pickleball gifts for that special person in your life.