No pickleball court? No worries. In a gym, on a tennis court, or just setting up in the street, this is our go-to portable net. It's durable, assembly is straight-forward, and the bag is properly oversized — it won't be like re-stuffing a tent. Erne Tip: Grab a box of chalk and a tape measure if you’re starting from scratch. Painter’s tape also works well if you’re in a gym.

There are only two balls you should consider: Franklin X-40 and Dura Fast 40 (40 = 40 holes, which is the sport standard). Many starter pickleball sets come with balls, but you should put those aside. Franklin and Dura are like chocolate and vanilla, but we prefer the Franklins for their perfect balance of speed, hardness, and durability. They're also the tournament standard and it's best to build the feel early! Erne Tip: Get the 12-pack. Unfortunately, pickleballs wear down and eventually crack. You’ll be bummed if your game is cut short because your balls broke.

Skill : Beginner

Recess's Classic paddle comes in a variety of chic, Austin-inspired patterns for the aesthetically-minded player. It's lightweight and a little bouncy, great for beginners and those who play pickle for the social aspect.

Style : control

If you've suffered from tennis elbow, this is the paddle for you. It's lightweight and maneuverable, and will generate high ball speed without a massive swing. The oval shape will also resonate well with tennis players.

Skill : Intermediate

Style : accuracy

A paddle used by pros for under $100, the Bantam EX-L is best for players who prioritize power and consistency over spin and control. The sound and feel of a crushed overhead is just right, even if you miss the sweet spot.

Skill : Advanced

Style : power

Electrum claims to be the Apple of paddles. We wouldn't go that far, but their signature gritty surface makes this paddle ideal for advanced players who want to pick apart their opponents with spin and power. These paddles also feature a minimalist matte black aesthetic, if that's your thing.

Skill : Advanced

Style : Control

This advanced paddle is ideal for ex-tennis players, featuring a longer face and handle to extend reach and generate power. With the MX 6.0, players can expect surgical precision with every shot.

Skill : Advanced

Style : power

Ben Johns is the Michael Jordan of pickleball and this is his paddle. It's ideal for players looking to generate real power without sacrificing much control or spin. Our best guess for the low price-point is that it's made by sporting goods behemoth Franklin—it could easily sell for more.

Skill : Intermediate

Style : power

One of our pros described this paddle as "way better than anything below $100." Encore's textured surface makes it ideal for spin, but this paddle still packs a punch. Great for intermediate players looking to take the next step.

Skill : Advanced

Style : Consistency

This paddle is for advanced players who love to dink and want every shot to feel smooth, like cutting butter with a hot knife. The Tempest Wave Pro is built for touch and control around the net without sacrificing much power.

Skill : Intermediate

Style : Control

The Onix Z5 has been a staple of the midrange paddle ecosystem for years, and for good reason. It's a trusty do-it-all paddle at a reasonable price— great for players honing various types of shots with consistency and control.

Skill : Beginner

Style : Control

This paddle is a great low-cost option with a nicely textured surface that will add spin and control to your game. We recommend it for those just getting into pickleball—perhaps you've been borrowing your friends' paddles and are ready for a piece of equipment to call your own!

Skill : Beginner

If you're just getting started, pick up one of the cheap composite or graphite paddles from Amazon. Anything from $25 for 1 to $60 for 2 should work. (We recommend Niupipo, although it's likely that other brands are made in the same factory.) Just don't buy a wood paddle!