Learn pickleball. Play with confidence.
Clear tutorials on the rules, scoring, and every key shot, plus honest buying guides for paddles, shoes, and gear when you are ready.
Your path from first rally to first win
New to the game? Follow these four topics in order. Each one builds on the last, so you always know what to learn next.
Rules and scoring
How a rally works, the two bounce rule, and how to call the three number score.
The kitchen
The non volley zone explained, and why it decides most points at every level.
Core shots
Serve, return, dink, drive, and the third shot drop, with drills for each.
Doubles strategy
Where to stand, when to move up, and how to work as a team with your partner.
Pickleball rules in one minute
Five rules cover almost everything that happens in a beginner game.
Serve underhand
Hit the ball below your waist from behind the baseline, diagonally into the opposite service court.
Let it bounce twice
The return of serve and the next shot must each bounce once. After that, you can volley.
Stay out of the kitchen
No volleys while standing in the 7 foot zone next to the net, or touching its line.
Only servers score
In traditional scoring, you win points only while your team is serving. Games go to 11, and you must win by 2.
Lines are in
A ball that lands on any line is good, except a serve that lands on the kitchen line, which is a fault.
Explore by topic
Paddles
Buying guides, materials, weight, and grip size, so you can pick a paddle that suits your game and budget.
Browse paddles →Learn to Play
Rules, scoring, and beginner basics.
Read guides →Skills and Drills
Step by step shot tutorials.
Practice →Strategy
Smarter doubles and shot choice.
Read guides →Shoes and Apparel
Court shoes, clothing, and eyewear.
See picks →Gear and Accessories
Balls, nets, bags, grips, ball machines, and everything you need to set up a court at home.
Choosing your first paddle
The paddle is the one piece of gear that changes how the game feels. These four things matter more than brand or price.
Choose a paddleWeight
Lighter paddles are quick at the net and easy on the arm. Heavier ones add power and stability. Most beginners feel at home with a midweight paddle.
Grip size
A grip that fits lets you hold the paddle loosely for soft shots. If you fall between sizes, choose the smaller one and build it up with an overgrip.
Face and core
Fiberglass faces add pop, while carbon fiber faces add control and spin. A polymer honeycomb core is the quiet, forgiving standard.
Approval
Planning to enter tournaments? Pick a paddle on the USA Pickleball approved list so it is legal for sanctioned play.
Your beginner gear checklist
You do not need much to start playing. Get the essentials right, then add the extras as you play more often.
See all gear guidesA paddleEssential
A midweight paddle with a polymer core suits most beginners.
The right ballsEssential
Outdoor balls for outdoor courts, softer indoor balls for gyms.
Court shoesEssential
Built for side to side movement, unlike running shoes.
Eye protection
Sports glasses protect your eyes during fast exchanges at the net.
Overgrips
Cheap, quick to replace, and they fine tune your grip size.
A bag and a portable net
Useful once you play often or want to practice at home.
Free tools for new players
Quick answers to two of the most common beginner questions, right in your browser.
Grip Size Finder
Measure your hand and find the paddle grip size that fits you.
Court Space Checker
Enter your driveway or yard size and see if a full court fits.
Questions new players ask
Short answers to the things beginners wonder about most. For more, see the Beginner's Guide.
Is pickleball easy to learn?
Yes. The court is small, the serve is underhand, and the ball moves slower than a tennis ball, so most people can rally in their first session. Getting good takes longer, because the soft game near the net rewards patience and control.
How long does a game of pickleball take?
A casual game to 11 points usually takes about 15 to 25 minutes, depending on how long the rallies last. Many groups play several games in one session.
What is the kitchen in pickleball?
The kitchen is the 7 foot non volley zone on each side of the net. You can stand in it to play a ball that has bounced, but you cannot hit a volley while standing in it or touching its line. Learn more about the kitchen.
Do I need special shoes for pickleball?
Court shoes are strongly recommended. They give lateral support for quick side to side steps, while running shoes are built for forward motion and can make ankle rolls more likely.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor balls?
Outdoor balls are harder, heavier, and have smaller holes so they handle wind and rough surfaces. Indoor balls are lighter and softer with larger holes, which gives more control on smooth gym floors.
Do I need an expensive paddle to start?
No. A well made beginner or midrange paddle is plenty for your first months of play. Focus on a comfortable weight and the right grip size, then upgrade once you know your playing style. Our paddle guides can help.
Can you play pickleball with two players?
Yes. Singles uses the same court and most of the same rules as doubles. The score is called with two numbers instead of three, and you cover the whole width of the court yourself.
How we choose gear
We study the specs, compare what real players report, and explain the trade offs in plain words, so you can buy once and get back on the court.
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