Beginner buying guide

Linda's Picks

Everything I personally use, trust, or recommend for beginner pickleball players.

Paddles

Find the right paddle for your game and arm comfort.

JOOLA Essentials Dash 10mm pickleball paddle

JOOLA Essentials Dash 10mm Pickleball Paddle

Start with the lightweight JOOLA Dash — its easy-to-maneuver build may help newer and 50+ players avoid over-swinging and manage arm fatigue while developing control.

Shop at JOOLA (opens external merchant in a new tab)
JOOLA Perseus Heat Vision 16mm paddle

JOOLA Perseus Heat Vision 16mm Pickleball Paddle

Choose more comfort and control — reduced vibration and feedback may feel more comfortable for players managing hand, wrist, elbow, or shoulder sensitivity.

Shop at JOOLA (opens external merchant in a new tab)
JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16mm paddle

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16mm Pickleball Paddle

Shop Linda's premium paddle pick — balanced weight and forgiveness can help reduce paddle fatigue and the urge to overwork the arm during longer sessions.

Shop at JOOLA (opens external merchant in a new tab)

Shoes

Court shoes support the stops and lateral movement.

Balls

Consistent high-visibility balls keep practice controlled.

Eyewear

Protective eyewear adds a layer of eye safety.

Kitchen Blockers pickleball protective eyewear

Kitchen Blockers Protective Eyewear

I recommend protective eyewear as an extra layer of protection for pickleball players. The kitchen area can be fast-paced, and having appropriate sports eyewear is a practical consideration for players who want added eye protection.

Shop at Pickleball Central (opens external merchant in a new tab)

Bags

Carry your gear without the bulk or strain.

Sun & Sweat Protection

Manage glare and sweat for clearer vision.

Court Accessory

Small gear for grip comfort and dry hands.

JOOLA Premium Overgrip

JOOLA Premium Overgrip

A comfortable grip matters, especially when you play regularly. I recommend this overgrip because it helps provide a comfortable, secure feel in the hand without adding unnecessary bulk.

Shop at JOOLA (opens external merchant in a new tab)

Recovery Picks

Recovery tools from Power Plate — Coach Linda's picks for staying ready to play.