Summer Pickleball Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed
Let’s be honest: a lot of us prefer playing pickleball outside. You get hard courts, great weather, more space, and overall a better experience—at least in my opinion. But we’ve all had those moments… forgot to apply sunscreen before leaving the house, thought your hat was in the car, or realized (too late) that your sunglasses were still on the kitchen counter.
But what else are we forgetting?
This isn’t a breakdown of the latest gadgets. It’s a reality check for anyone playing through hot days, marathon rec sessions, or weekend tournaments where the only shade is under your towel. We’re talking about practical, no-nonsense essentials that keep you on the court and out of the danger zone.
On-Court Essentials
Longer days mean more court time—but also more sweat, sun, and fatigue. Be ready for it.
Hydration is non-negotiable. A large, insulated water jug is your new best friend. Add an electrolyte mix you actually enjoy drinking, and bring a backup (like coconut or mineral water) to recover between sessions.
Your grip is only as good as your gear. Hot hands = slippery paddles. Pack a couple extra overgrips, wear wristbands to help with sweat, and if you’re feeling fancy (or just super sweaty), try a lightweight glove for more control.
Dress for the elements. UPF-rated sleeves or sun shirts can help protect your skin without slathering on SPF every 20 minutes. Sunglasses help with glare, and a breathable hat (wide-brim if you’re bold) keeps your face shaded without trapping heat. Oh—and don’t sleep on socks. Look for moisture-wicking, cushioned options with arch support. Your feet will thank you.
Off-Court Must-Haves
The moments between games matter too—especially when you’re drenched and running on fumes.
Cooling off counts. Pack a cooling towel or facial mist spray to bring your temp down fast. Change into dry socks and a fresh shirt between games (yes, even if you “don’t sweat that much”). If your feet need a break, toss in a pair of slides.
Rest like a pro. A soft cooler filled with cold drinks and quick snacks keeps your energy steady without relying on vending machines. Add a foldable chair or pop-up shade tent for real relief when the sun’s high and your legs are toast. And if you’re setting the vibe? A small Bluetooth speaker doesn’t hurt.
Sun & Skin Protection
Let’s skip the sunburn horror stories and talk about prevention:
Mineral sunscreen (sweat-resistant, broad spectrum) — reapply often
SPF lip balm — yes, it exists, and yes, you need it
Sunscreen reminder stickers — because we all forget
Anti-chafing balm — especially if you're playing in skirts or compression shorts
Antiperspirant wipes — for a quick refresh between matches
DEET-free bug spray — bugs love pickleball too, unfortunately
Aloe or after-sun lotion — because sometimes you're just a little too late
Just-in-Case Kit
A few small items go a long way when things don’t go as planned:
Blister pads or band-aids
Dry bag or wet pouch for sweaty clothes
Backup paddle or grip tape
Quick snack (banana, granola bar, salty crackers)
Travel-size first aid kit
Extra hair ties, sunscreen packets, hand sanitizer
TL;DR for the Overheaters
Long days, hot courts, no excuses. Prep like you mean it. If you're playing in heat, traveling for tournaments, or just trying to make it through a rec session without overheating, gear matters.
So listen to your body. Hydrate before you feel thirsty. Protect your skin before it burns. And don't push through when your legs are telling you to sit down.
Got a summer must-have you never hit the courts without? Let us know—we’re always crowd-sourcing smarter ways to survive the heat.
