Pickleball has gone from a backyard curiosity to one of the most-played sports in the country, and if you have a player in your life, you already know the addiction is real. This is your complete pickleball gifts and accessories guide, sorted by the kind of player you are shopping for, whether that is a wide-eyed beginner, a fashion-forward regular, a tournament-bound competitor, or the person who already seems to own everything. Every pick comes from real time on the court: the paddles I have worn out, the shoes I have blown through, and the gear my regular playing group swears by.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What is Pickleball?
- Gifts for the Beginner
- Gifts for the Pickleball Fashionistas
- Gifts for the Wanna-Be Pros
- Gifts for the Practical Player
- Gifts for the Player Who Has It All
- Gifts for the Retiree
- Tips for Beginner Pickleball Players
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a good gift for a pickleball player?
- What do you get someone who just started playing pickleball?
- What are the best pickleball gifts for her?
- What are the best pickleball gifts for him?
- How much should I spend on a pickleball gift?
- What is a good pickleball gift under $25?
- What accessories does every pickleball player need?
- What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs?
- Are pickleball shoes different from running shoes?
- What is a good gift for a pickleball player who has everything?
- Article Updates
Key Takeaways
- Best gift for a beginner: a quality starter set like the JOOLA Ben Johns bundle covers paddles, balls, and a bag in one box.
- Best gift for her: a stylish court bag, an athletic skort, or a Kendra Scott pickleball pendant that works on and off the court.
- Best gift for him: a proper pair of court shoes, a paddle eraser, or a set of edge and lead tape for the player who tinkers.
- Best gift under $25: extra pickleballs, an overgrip multipack, a paddle eraser, or a cooling-towel stocking stuffer.
- Best splurge: a Lobster ball machine for the player who wants to drill alone, or their own portable net.
- Accessory every player wants more of: pickleballs. They crack, they wander off, and no one has ever complained about a fresh sleeve.
What is Pickleball?
Likely, you know at least one person who has recently taken up the sport. What’s even more likely is that you’ve become hooked on the game yourself. If by some chance you’ve managed to miss it, pickleball can be described as a smaller version of tennis that’s played with paddles and a wiffle-like ball. It is usually played in pairs and is so easy to learn that people anywhere from 10 to 80 years old can pick up a paddle after just one lesson. Although most Americans enjoy this sport recreationally, we keep seeing more pro players emerge, major-league team investments being made, and corporations riding the pickleball wave.
I have played the game semi-religiously since 2020, around three or four times a week. Although I’ve played my fair share of sports (volleyball, soccer, softball, and basketball), none have gripped me like pickleball. Since starting out, I’ve gone through at least four paddles and pairs of shoes. I’ve thrown away countless cracked pickleballs and played on many different courts. I have experience with permanent and collapsible nets of varying quality, and I have played in three tournaments to date. The gift suggestions below are based on my own experience over the years and on recommendations from other avid players.
Four paddles and three tournaments later, I trust this list.
Gifts for the Beginner
New players need the basics, and not much else.
Multi-use Pickleball Net
These nets are great for beginner players and children because of their easy setup and multi-use functionality. You can go between playing pickleball, badminton, and kid’s volleyball all in one afternoon.
Fila Court Shoes
The Fila Volley Zone shoes feel great on most feet and will hold up to the endless pivoting at the net. Court shoes matter more than beginners expect, since running shoes lack the lateral support pickleball demands.
Onix Paddle
This medium-weight USA Pickleball-approved graphite paddle is a quality option that won’t break the bank. It will likely take a new player well into their 3.0 stages.
Onix Pickleballs
Players are always in need of extra balls, especially when they are playing outdoors in cold weather. Onix makes high-quality pickleballs that any player will be grateful to add to their stash.
Beginner Pickleball Set
This JOOLA starter set is perfect for the couple that recently discovered pickleball and can’t get enough. It comes with everything but the net and carries the name of the king of pickleball himself, Ben Johns. As a single-box gift for a brand-new player, it is hard to beat.
Sporty Visor
Players who spend time outdoors need plenty of sun protection in both summer and winter. A classic visor, in men’s and women’s styles, keeps them looking sporty while shading their eyes on those high lob shots.
Gifts for the Pickleball Fashionistas
Half the fun of pickleball is looking good while you dink.
Pickleball Dresses
If you follow the pros, you’ve probably noticed that Anna Leigh Waters and Parris Todd always look like queens of the court in the most fashionable apparel. Fila and Brandon Maxwell Apparel have collaborated on pickleball-specific athletic dresses, shirts, and skirts. Even if you can’t play like Anna Leigh and Parris yet, you can certainly dress like them, which makes these a standout gift for her.
Cute Pickleball Bags
These pickleball bags are so cute and versatile that you can take them straight from the court to a brunch date with friends. They have room for a paddle or two and all of your extra playtime gear, which makes them a reliable gift for her.
Athletic Skirt
These athletic skirts look great as part of a stylish pickleball ensemble, come in a variety of colors, and are very functional.
PKLBLR Gear
The PKLBLR brand has an array of great gear, from graphic tees to hats and backpacks. Check out this cool minimalist repetition tee and this knit beanie that is perfect for cold-weather play.
Pickleball Jewelry
This Kendra Scott pickleball pendant is a step up in polish and makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves to accessorize on and off the court.
Gifts for the Wanna-Be Pros
Try Before You Buy Paddles
Players can be picky about their paddles, and for good reason. A small difference in weight, core design, handle length, or spin capability can change someone’s game. Instead of guessing on a top-of-the-line paddle, pay the shipping fee to send up to three different paddles to your pro-bound player to test first.
Pickleball Machine
If you have a serious player in your life who is always looking to sharpen their game, a ball machine is the tool they will be most grateful for. A Lobster machine feeds hundreds of balls with adjustable spin and speed, so they can drill dinks and drives alone. This certainly isn’t a budget-friendly buy, starting north of a thousand dollars, but it is one investment a hardcore player will cherish.
For the right player, this is the best gift on the page.
Sturdy Pickleball Net
Any dedicated player will appreciate having their very own net to set up for a pick-up game with friends. We use this Delux PickleNet at my local court, and they are very sturdy while also being simple to set up. The locking wheels make it easy to move around and the aluminum poles keep it from sagging in the middle. Overall, this is a great net for a semi-permanent place to play throughout the week. Whether it lives in a nearby park or in their own driveway, a serious player will make room for this game.
Price: $389.95
JOOLA Paddle
The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion is approved by the king of pickleball himself. This USA Pickleball-approved paddle encourages a lot of spin with its carbon-friction surface and suits a more aggressive player with its polypropylene honeycomb core. As a bonus, it comes with its own paddle cover.
Pickleball Paddle Eraser
A paddle eraser is an excellent gift for the player who pays attention to detail and knows the value of a clean paddle. This soft rubber pad removes ball residue, dirt, and minor scratches, leaving a carbon-fiber face looking new. Keeping the paddle clean actually improves spin by clearing the dirt out of the grooves.
Gifts for the Practical Player
This is the gear that quietly makes every session better.
Sporty Pickleball Bags
These sling and backpack styles are quality choices for someone who’s always toting around a lot of gear. With a plethora of accessible pockets, plus fence hooks and shoe compartments, they help a player keep their balls, powders, and sweatbands organized.
This Selkirk Performance backpack is one of the roomiest bags out there, and it is my recommendation for serious players this season. Along with water-bottle holders and a small front pocket, it also comes with an internal laptop sleeve and a protective phone pocket on top. There is plenty of room for multiple paddles, and it is everything you need in a sports bag.
Price: $99.99
Need a bag for your paddles with a bit more retro flair? Check out the STEEL MILL AND CO. Pickleball Bag:
Sweatbands
Players who leave it all on the court are probably leaving behind some sweat as well. These wrist sweatbands, available in multiple colors, are great for wicking sweat and keeping a solid non-slip grip on the paddle.
Pickleball Paddle Tapes
A few different tapes are used by pros and amateurs alike to protect paddles, add balanced weight, and dial in grip. Edge tape helps protect the paddle from the scrapes and dings of everyday play, while lead-tape pieces give more power and control. Overgrip makes the handle easier to hold by adding width and a non-slip absorbent surface.
Electrolyte Powders
Electrolyte powders are an essential part of staying hydrated on and off the court. Liquid IV tastes good, has multiple flavor options, and helps replace the electrolytes players lose during long sessions.
Insulated Water Bottle
Speaking of hydration, this insulated Takeya bottle is perfect for someone who always ends up running out of water or buying plastic bottles on a whim. Like any good water jug, it’s BPA-free and keeps drinks cold for hours. Pair it with a few pickleball-themed stickers and some electrolyte powder for the ultimate athletic gift.
Paddle Cover
Most quality paddles aren’t cheap, so it pays to keep them protected from drops and scrapes. This Selkirk case helps ensure that any wear and tear only happens during play.
Cooling Towels
This 4-pack of cooling towels is a great stocking stuffer for anyone who gives it their all on the court. They help players stay cool, especially in the summer months, and come with convenient carrying pouches and carabiners.
Pickleball Balls
Pickleballs have a short lifespan, especially outdoors multiple times a week. These Onix, Dura Fast, and Franklin outdoor sets are a practical gift that any player will enjoy receiving. They are all USA Pickleball-approved, and both Onix and Dura are used on professional tours.
Paddle Overgrip
Overgrip is a great tool for players with larger hands or anyone who wants to adjust the weight and feel of their paddle handle. It is also one of the easiest gifts to slip into a stocking.
Gifts for the Player Who Has It All
Out-of-the-box Pickleball Presents
It’s hard to buy gear for the player who seems to already own everything. Instead of a physical present they may not use, make a hand-made certificate offering to pay for registration into their next tournament. Tournaments cost anywhere from $20 to $150 to enter, and they are popping up all over the country year-round.
Another non-traditional option is offering to pay for a membership to a nearby pickleball club or gym with courts. Thanks to demand, gyms around the country are adding indoor and outdoor courts for summer and winter play.
Sometimes the best gift is not a thing at all.
Pickleball Paddle Charcuterie Board
This custom paddle-shaped charcuterie board made with cherry wood is the gift they never knew they needed. It is a great conversation starter for backyard pickleball parties and potlucks.
Quirky Stocking Stuffers
For the player who has the serious gear covered, lean into the fun. Insulated tumblers, novelty pickle socks, embroidered towels, ceramic coasters, and a “designated dinker” wine glass all make great stocking stuffers and gag gifts that still get real use.
These get laughs, and they still get used.
Pickleball Sun Glasses
Even established players with four paddles and all the latest gear may not own a pair of these pickleball-specific RIA sunglasses. These non-polarized glasses improve visibility on the court by boosting the contrast of the ball against the court background. They are 100% UVA/B protective and very durable against rogue hits to the face. At around $200, they are a splurge, but well worth the price.
K-Swiss Shoes
K-Swiss has made a name for itself as a reliable tennis brand, so it makes sense that its shoes hold up for pickleball too. The K-Swiss Ultrashot is durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of constant play.
Gifts for the Retiree
Pickleball Retriever
Chasing rogue balls all over the court can put a real strain on a person’s back. Give their back a break with this retriever that scoops and holds a stack of balls, so there is far less bending over between points.
Pickleball Pouch
You can also help someone avoid chasing balls with this holder pouch. The mesh pouch cinches around the waist and is great for a player who tends to stuff their pockets with multiple balls during play.
Pickleball Tube
There is no better way to gather loose balls than with a retriever tube. It eliminates the constant bending and holds up to a dozen standard-sized pickleballs.
Compact Outdoor Chairs
Anyone who’s played on a crowded court knows there is always waiting between matches. These lightweight, compact folding chairs are a convenient way to rest between games and pack down small enough to tote to and from the court.
Long Sleeve Sport Shirt
This moisture-wicking, UPF 50+ long-sleeve shirt is a lifesaver for anyone who is sensitive to the sun. It keeps players covered through a full afternoon of outdoor games without overheating.
FitVille Court Shoe
These FitVille extra-wide court shoes are great for people with wide feet or anyone who needs a little extra arch support. They are comfy and supportive without sacrificing agility on the court.
Tips for Beginner Pickleball Players
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good gift for a pickleball player?
The safest bet is something they will use up: fresh pickleballs, an overgrip multipack, or a paddle eraser. If you want a bigger gesture, a quality paddle or a court bag lands well. When in doubt, a gift card to a pickleball retailer lets them pick the exact paddle weight and grip size they prefer.
What do you get someone who just started playing pickleball?
A complete starter set is the single best gift for a new player, since it bundles paddles, balls, and a carrying bag so they can play right away. A pair of proper court shoes is the second thing most beginners overlook, and it makes a noticeable difference in comfort and injury prevention.
What are the best pickleball gifts for her?
Popular gifts for her include a stylish court bag that doubles as an everyday tote, an athletic skort with ball pockets, and pickleball jewelry like a paddle pendant. Coordinated apparel from lines like Fila and Brandon Maxwell is a step up for the player who likes to look put-together on the court.
What are the best pickleball gifts for him?
Gifts for him tend to skew toward performance and tinkering: a well-reviewed paddle, court shoes, a paddle eraser, or a set of edge and lead tape for adjusting weight and grip. A roomy backpack with a shoe compartment and fence hook is a practical pick for the guy who hauls a lot of gear.
How much should I spend on a pickleball gift?
Stocking-stuffer accessories run $10 to $25, a solid mid-range paddle or bag lands around $50 to $100, and premium items like a paddle-demo splurge or specialty sunglasses can reach $150 to $200. A ball machine is the top of the range, starting north of a thousand dollars. Match the tier to how seriously they play.
What is a good pickleball gift under $25?
Under $25, you have plenty of strong options: a sleeve of pickleballs, an overgrip or edge-tape multipack, a paddle eraser, a cooling towel, novelty pickle socks, or a “designated dinker” tumbler. These are the kind of small, useful gifts that any player is happy to receive.
What accessories does every pickleball player need?
The core accessories are extra balls, a paddle cover, overgrip, and a way to carry it all. From there, sweatbands, a good water bottle, electrolyte powder, and sun protection round out a complete kit. Balls are the one consumable that always runs low, so they are a reliable default.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs?
Outdoor balls are harder, heavier, and have smaller holes to cut through wind, while indoor balls are lighter with larger holes and a softer bounce for smooth gym floors. If you are buying as a gift and aren’t sure where they play, outdoor balls are the more common choice, and many brands sell versatile sets that work reasonably well for both.
Are pickleball shoes different from running shoes?
Yes, and it matters. Running shoes are built for forward motion, while pickleball involves constant lateral movement and quick stops. Court shoes provide the side-to-side support and grippy, non-marking outsoles that running shoes lack, which reduces the risk of rolled ankles. It is one of the most worthwhile upgrades for a regular player.
What is a good gift for a pickleball player who has everything?
For the player who owns all the gear, lean toward experiences and novelties: paying their entry fee for an upcoming tournament, covering a club membership, or gifting a paddle-shaped charcuterie board for their next backyard game. A ball machine is the ultimate splurge for someone who wants to keep improving on their own schedule.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. We only recommend gear we have used or would genuinely give as a gift.
Article Updates
July 20, 2026: Refreshed the full gift guide. Added a Key Takeaways summary and a Frequently Asked Questions section, reorganized the recommendations around who you are shopping for (including gifts for her, for him, and for the player who has everything), and updated roughly twenty product picks that had sold out or been discontinued since the original guide, swapping in current in-stock equivalents.
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