What to Wear to Your First Pickleball Lesson

So you've booked your first pickleball lesson — exciting! One of the most common questions we get from new players is: what should I wear? The good news is you probably already have everything you need in your closet. Let's keep it simple and walk through exactly what to wear (and what to avoid) so you show up comfortable, prepared, and ready to play.

Shoes: The One Thing That Matters Most

If there's one thing to get right, it's your shoes. Pickleball involves a lot of lateral (side-to-side) movement, quick stops, and starts. You want athletic shoes with good lateral support and non-marking soles. Indoor court shoes (designed for sports like tennis or basketball) are ideal for indoor play. For outdoor courts, a cross-trainer or running shoe with good grip works fine. What to avoid: sandals, boots, dress shoes, or anything without proper support. The wrong shoes can lead to slips, blisters, or even injury.

Clothing: Comfortable and Breathable

For your top and bottom, think comfortable athletic wear that lets you move freely. A moisture-wicking t-shirt or polo, athletic shorts, or leggings all work great. You'll be moving, bending, and reaching, so avoid anything too tight or restrictive. In cooler weather, layers are your friend — a light jacket or pullover you can take off once you warm up. In summer, light-colored, breathable fabrics keep you cool on outdoor courts.

What About Paddles and Balls?

You don't need to bring a paddle or balls to your first lesson. GoodRally provides paddles and balls for all beginner sessions, so you can try the sport before buying your own equipment. Once you're ready to invest in your own paddle, we're happy to recommend the right one for your game. A good beginner paddle typically costs $50–$100.

Other Essentials to Bring

• Water bottle — staying hydrated is important, especially during summer outdoor sessions.
• Towel — handy for wiping off sweat between games.
• Hat or visor — for outdoor courts on sunny days.
• Sunglasses — polarized lenses help with glare on outdoor courts.
• Light snack — if your lesson is during a meal time, a small snack keeps your energy up.

What to Avoid Wearing

• Jeans or restrictive clothing — they limit your movement and get uncomfortable fast.
• Sandals or open-toed shoes — never appropriate for court sports.
• Heavy cotton — it traps sweat and gets heavy and uncomfortable.
• Jewelry that dangles — it can get caught on your paddle or distract you during play.

Looking the Part: Pickleball Apparel

Once you fall in love with pickleball (and you probably will), you might want some gear designed specifically for the sport. GoodRally offers a full line of pickleball apparel — performance shirts, lifestyle wear, and Canadian pride designs created by pickleball players, for pickleball players. But for your first lesson, your regular athletic wear is perfect.

Ready to Hit the Court?

Now that you know what to wear, all that's left is to show up and have fun. GoodRally's beginner lessons and Foundations Clinics are designed for new players across the GTA — we provide the paddles, the balls, and the coaching. Just bring your court shoes, comfortable clothes, and a willingness to learn. Book your first lesson today!