Start with budget-friendly beginner gear

You don't need expensive equipment to start playing pickleball. Quality beginner paddles with carbon fiber faces are available under $100, and many courts provide loaner equipment for first-timers.

Recommended Budget Paddles (2026)

• Wild Monkeys Prima Ghost (~$99): Carbon fiber face, polymer core, 30-day trial
• Vatic Pro PRISM Flash (~$90): Excellent spin, control, and hand speed
• Friday Original (~$50): Best value under $50 with real spin capability
• Hudef Apex Pro (~$75): Wide body with large sweet spot, great for beginners

What Else You Need

• Court shoes with lateral support ($60–120)
• Outdoor or indoor balls ($15–25 for a 12-pack)
• Comfortable athletic clothing

Tips

• Total startup cost for quality gear: $125–225
• Many recreation centers offer free paddles and balls during open play
• Skip paddle sets that come with cheap balls — buy paddles and balls separately for better quality