What to wear and bring to a pickleball session

The essentials: non-marking court shoes, athletic clothing you can move and sweat in, and water. Everything else on this list just makes the session smoother.

Clothing

A breathable shirt and shorts or a skort — the same kind of kit you would wear for tennis or a gym session. Indoors you are climate-controlled but you will still sweat through a two-hour game, so pick moisture-wicking fabric over cotton. A light long-sleeve or a cap is unnecessary indoors (no sun), but bring a spare shirt for after.

Footwear

Court shoes only, non-marking. This is the one item the venue is strict about — street shoes scuff the surface and slip. If you are borrowing everything else, still bring your own shoes.

Hydration and recovery

• Water bottle — a litre for a two-hour session. Air-conditioning hides how much you are sweating.
• Small towel — for your hands and the paddle handle between games.
• Electrolyte sachet if you cramp easily or play long sessions.

The things that save a session

• A spare overgrip. When your grip turns slick mid-session, a two-minute re-wrap fixes it. See the grip guide.
• Plasters or athletic tape. Blisters and jammed fingers are the most common minor pickleball injuries.
• A resealable bag for a sweaty shirt so it does not soak the rest of your kit.

What CentralCourt provides

Nets are set up on every court. Paddles and indoor balls are available to borrow — mention it when you book so staff can set them aside. There is a coffee corner and seating for before and after. Full first-visit walkthrough here.