What to Wear on the Pickleball Court This Summer (2025 Edition)
If you’ve played recently, you’ve probably noticed: pickleball apparel looks different this summer. There are more colors, smarter fabrics, and enough new options to make your old shorts feel a bit… dated. But this isn’t about chasing trends for the sake of it. Players are leaning into gear that works: breathable, stretchy, sun-protective, and made to keep up with the pace of play.
We did the research so you don’t have to. From moisture-wicking tanks to footwear that actually supports lateral movement, here’s what players are wearing (and loving) on the court this summer… all in one place.
What’s New and Trending This Summer
Here’s what you’ll see more of, and why it matters:
Refined performance technology: Think lighter fabrics, built-in UPF, and more breathable designs that don’t hold you back.
Modern silhouettes: Cropped tanks, high-rise skirts, shorties with oversized layers, and simple, low-fuss dresses.
Color and pattern play: From neons to pastels, preppy plaids to punchy graphics, courtwear is getting a personality boost.
Smarter footwear: Pickleball-specific shoes with real support and traction are finally showing up on shelves.
Sustainability: Recycled fabrics and low-waste production are becoming the new standard — without compromising performance.
Tops: Built for Breathability & Movement
The tank is still king, but it’s had a few upgrades.
Centerline AirLite Tee and Skort
Racerback cuts for maximum mobility.
Cropped lengths that pair well with high-waisted bottoms and help you stay cool.
Sleeveless polos are showing up in both fitted and ribbed styles – a nod to “tenniscore” that works great on-court.
Performance tees with ventilation zones and stretch-knit panels are a solid pick if you prefer more coverage.
UPF fabric is now common in tops, especially helpful for those long tournament days in the sun. One standout this season? The Centerline AirLite Tank and Tee: lightweight, breezy, and made with mesh jersey fabric that’s cooling, quick-dry, and UV protective. Bonus: the curved hem stays put when you move, and the tank’s shoulder vent helps you feel even cooler in the heat. (We love the Lavender Skies and In Bounds Blue options.)
Style callouts to watch for:
Color-blocking (neon + white or pastel + navy)
Rose, mint, and butter yellow tones replacing hot pinks
Open-back designs and cutouts that double as airflow
Bottoms: Skirts, Shorts, & Shorties That Actually Hold Up
Skorts are still the go-to for many players, and they’ve evolved.
High-rise waistbands and no-slip inner shorts are now standard.
Built-in ball pockets are designed for pickleballs (finally).
Style ranges from classic pleats to modern A-line and wrap designs with mesh insets or color contrast.
What matters most:
4-way stretch for freedom of movement
Moisture-wicking poly/spandex blends
Undershorts that don’t ride up or twist mid-point
Centerline AirLite Skort and Tee paired with the Courtside Woven Bomber
The AirLite Women’s Skort by Centerline is a favorite among players who want a high-rise, A-line option that stays in place without feeling too snug. It’s made with 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking fabric, and has subtle GRIPTEK panels for mid-match sweat wiping – even the inner pocket has a grip-friendly texture. And yes, the shorts underneath are designed without a center seam (translation: no camel toe). It’s a thoughtful detail we didn’t know we needed.
Dresses: One Piece, Zero Fuss
If you’re like me and like to get dressed once and be done, this is your summer.
Most pickleball dresses now come with built-in shorts or matching compression layers.
Fits tend to lean slim A-line or slightly flared, with either a racerback or wide strap design.
Shelf bras are common, but plenty of players layer with their go-to sports bra underneath.
What’s new (and amazing):
Many newer styles now come with pull-down inner shorts, meaning you no longer have to Houdini your way out of a one-piece in a public bathroom stall. Honestly, life-changing.
Look for:
Mesh panels for airflow
Seamless straps that stay put
UPF-rated fabrics in light colors or lightweight knits.
Footwear: The Base Layer That Makes the Biggest Difference
Pickleball involves quick lateral movement, abrupt stops, and plenty of time on hard courts. Your shoes matter… A LOT.
Here’s what players are reaching for:
Breathable mesh uppers to keep your feet cool
Low-profile foam midsoles that cushion without sacrificing court feel
Reinforced sidewalls + outrigger soles for ankle support
Multi-directional traction (pivot circles, herringbone grip, durable toe rubber)
While we totally recommend buying a shoe that says “pickleball” on the label, you won’t be out of place… A good tennis shoe often works just as well. But this year, brands are finally offering court shoes tailored to pickleball movements, especially in women’s fits with wider toe boxes and lighter builds.
Acacia Sports DreamShot Women's Pickleball Shoe
We’re also seeing more players wearing Acacia, a brand known for its court-specific pickleball shoes. They offer stable outsoles, lateral support, and just enough cushioning to keep your feet happy during long tournaments. They’re lightweight, durable, and built specifically for the unique stop-and-go of pickleball. (We’re fans.)
Color + Pattern Trends: What’s Showing Up on Court
Whether you lean bold or low-key, there’s a look this summer with your name on it.
Neons: Electric coral, lime, and aqua are energizing court staples
Pastels: Soft pink, butter yellow, and mint offer a lighter, laid-back feel.
Nautical blues + coastal tones: Think clean whites, crisp stripes, and hints of shimmer, inspired by resort and padel collections.
Preppy patterns: Houndstooth, argyle, and plaid are getting modernized in moisture-wicking stretch fabrics.
Graphic prints: From florals to abstract shapes to cheeky pickleball motifs, prints are trending bolder and more playful.
How to wear it: If prints intimidate you, start small: a patterned skirt with a neutral top or vice versa. If you’re feeling bold, go for a full coordinated set.
Accessories: Small Pieces, Big Payoff
You don’t need a lot, but these are worth considering:
Visors and mesh-back caps keep the sun out without overheating your head
Sunglasses with UV protection and anti-slip grips help you stay focused
Sweatbands and headbands are practical and on-trend (hello, 90s comeback)
Arm sleeves offer sun coverage and a little compression support
Court bags are getting a serious upgrade: look for paddle compartments, vented shoe zones, and sleek crossbody designs
One thing we’re loving? Players matching visors to skirts, or socks to shoe soles. It’s subtle, but it’s happening.
Fabric Tech: What’s Actually Keeping You Comfortable
Summer 2025 performance gear is packed with behind-the-scenes innovation:
Moisture-wicking + quick-dry blends help pull sweat off your body and dry fast
Laser-cut vents and mesh panels add airflow in key areas (lower back, underarms, even behind the knees)
4-way stretch keeps everything moving with you, not against you
Seamless or flat-lock stitching helps reduce irritation and friction
Built-in UPF protection gives you a layer of defense against the sun
More brands are also incorporating anti-microbial treatments to keep gear fresher between washes, ideal for tournament weekends or hot travel days.
Sustainability: Playing Better, Wearing Better
Good news: the gear getting smarter is also getting more responsible.
Many brands are now using:
Recycled materials, like polyester from plastic bottles or nylon from ocean waste
Eco-conscious production, reducing water and energy waste
Durable designs, so you don’t need to replace that skirt every few months
If this is important to you, look for certifications like bluesign® or OEKO-TEX. But even without the label, choosing pieces that last (and taking care of them) is a move in the right direction.
What to Wear, What to Avoid, & Why It Matters
You don’t need a complete wardrobe overhaul. Just look for gear that works with your body, your playing style, and the weather you're up against.
Here’s what to look for:
Breathable, stretchable tops with UPF protection
Skorts or shorts with grip, ball pockets, and a secure waistband
Lightweight dresses with real functionality (and easy bathroom breaks)
Court shoes with lateral support, cushioning, and solid traction
Smart accessories that help you play longer and feel better
Fabrics that wick, cool, and protect (without getting in the way)
Styles that feel like you: bold, chill, or somewhere in between
Your gear should support your game, not distract you from it. And if it makes you feel a little bit more confident when you walk onto the court? That’s a win too.
