Everything you need to stay cool, comfortable, and competitive—all day long.
Pickleball tournaments are exciting, competitive, and exhausting—in the best way possible. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or stepping into your first bracket, one thing is certain: if you’re not prepared, the heat, the grind, and the long hours can wear you down faster than a fifth-game tiebreaker.
With summer here and tournament season in full swing, here’s an expert-approved guide to what you should wear and pack to stay focused, fueled, and feeling great throughout the day.
What to Wear on the Court
Moisture-Wicking Apparel
In warm weather, sweat is inevitable but discomfort doesn’t have to be. Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing designed to pull sweat away from your body. Think performance shirts, breathable skirts or shorts, and technical fabrics like polyester or nylon blends that dry fast and stay light.
Bring Extra Outfits
One set of clothes won’t cut it. Pack at least 2–3 complete outfit changes, including extra underwear and socks. After a couple of intense matches, a dry change of clothes can do wonders for your comfort and confidence. Don’t underestimate the power of a clean shirt to reset your mental game.
Hats and Sunglasses
Protect yourself from the sun with a few hats, sweaty headbands can only do so much. A visor or moisture-wicking cap can help keep sweat out of your eyes and your focus on the ball. Sunglasses are optional, but helpful on bright, outdoor courts.
Off-Court Footwear
After your match, do your feet a favor. Bring a pair of slides or sandals to let your shoes (and feet) breathe between games. This small move can help prevent blisters and keep you feeling fresher through the day.
What to Pack in Your Tournament Bag
Hydration Essentials
Bring a large water bottle (or two) and electrolyte supplements to stay hydrated and replenish what you’re sweating out. Pickleball is deceptively intense and dehydration can sneak up quickly in the heat.
High-Energy Snacks
Pack snacks that fuel performance, such as:
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Protein bars
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Bananas
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Trail mix
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Peanut butter sandwiches
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Energy chews or electrolyte gummies
Tournaments can run long with unpredictable breaks. A few good snacks can mean the difference between staying sharp and hitting the wall.
Food Planning
Check if the venue has food vendors on-site. If not, bring a small cooler with sandwiches, fruits, and cold snacks. You’ll thank yourself around hour six when your next match is 30 minutes away and the only thing nearby is a vending machine.
Sunscreen
This one’s non-negotiable. Apply broad-spectrum SPF before you step on the court, and reapply every few hours, especially if you’re sweating heavily or toweling off frequently.
Final Pro Tips
Towel or Sweatbands: Keeping your hands dry is critical—bring a small towel or wear gear designed for sweat management.
Extra Paddle and Gear: Always bring a backup paddle and plenty of grips. Don’t let a last-minute equipment issue ruin your day.
Charged Phone & Power Bank: For checking brackets, taking video, pictures, and notes.