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My first time on a pickleball court I showed up with a borrowed paddle and running shoes. Nobody said anything but I definitely got the look. Here’s the short list of what you actually need before you show up, so you can skip that part.

1. Your own paddle

Borrowing a spare is fine once. After that, get your own — you’ll start to feel the difference pretty quickly. For beginners, look for something with a carbon fiber face and a forgiving sweet spot. The Vatic Pro Prism Flash is what I’d point a new player toward and it’s the brand I personally play, so I’m not just guessing on this one. It’s crept up to $99 lately which, fair warning. If you’re not quite ready to commit at that price point — totally understandable, some people need proof before spending real money on a hobby — the TENVINA Carbon Fiber paddle is a genuinely well-reviewed mid-range option that won’t make you feel like you wasted money if you end up obsessed and want to upgrade later. (You will end up obsessed.)

2. Court shoes

Not running shoes. Pickleball has a lot of quick sideways movement and running shoes aren’t built for that. I learned this the uncomfortable way. Right now I’m playing in Nike court shoes, which work fine, but I’ve been eyeing the Womens New Balance FuelCell and plan to try them soon. Look for anything labeled for tennis or pickleball — flat sole, lateral support. I’ll update this once I’ve actually worn them on a court.

3. A few pickleballs

Most places will have balls when you’re just getting started, but once you’re playing on your own you’ll want some. Franklin X-40s are basically the standard outdoor ball and a pack runs about $12. Ask whoever you’re playing with whether you need indoor or outdoor.

4. Water

This is Texas. Hydration is not optional. An insulated bottle that actually keeps things cold makes a real difference once spring hits. This one comes in a bunch of colors and does the job well.

5. Clothes you can move in

You don’t need a pickleball outfit. Just wear something you’d work out in — shorts or leggings, moisture-wicking top, hat if you’re outside. That’s it.

One more thing nobody warned me about

You are going to be sore. Like, “wait, what muscles are those” sore. After my first session I was walking funny for two days and I was not prepared for that. A woman I met at the court recommended Picklebalm and I have to say it’s genuinely better than anything I’d grabbed off the shelf at my local drugstore — and I’ve been reaching for it for regular everyday soreness too, not just post-pickleball. Worth having on hand before you need it.

Seriously, that’s the whole list. Show up, don’t overthink it. The obsessing over gear comes later, and it will come.

If you’re looking for somewhere to play around here, the Where to Play page is a good starting point. And if someone sent you this post as a hint, I also wrote a gift guide for pickleball players that might help them be more specific about it.

Ann R.