According to The Economist, pickleball is shedding its reputation as your grandpa's Saturday pastime and is now the fastest-growing sport in America.

Recently, pickleball, which combines tennis, ping-pong, and badminton, has seen explosive growth. This racquet game was invented in Washington in the mid-'60s, but the uptick in younger players over the last few years have turned many into "picklers." Pickleball is competitive, social, easy to learn, and provides a great workout (yes, really).

If you're new to the sport, you may wonder what you need to start. From the best pickleball paddles to fan-favorite gear, here's the pickleball equipment we're raving about.

This essential pickleball equipment will give you the competitive edge you need.

Pickleball paddles are solid, smaller than a classic tennis racquet, but bigger than a ping-pong paddle. They come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, weights, grips, colors, prices, and materials.

Here's what to consider when shopping for a new pickleball paddle.

Pickleball paddles range anywhere from 6 to 14 ounces. Lighter paddles give more control but less drive, and heavier paddles give less control but more power and drive. Start with a more lightweight paddle if you have elbow strain or arm fatigue.

The grip size should fit your hand. Find your grip size using your height. This simple guide works well for most players:

•       Under 5'2" - 4" grip
•       5'3" to 5'8" - 4 ¼" grip
•       5' 9" and up - 4 ½" grip

Our recommendation? Vaught Sports pickleball paddles are excellent for recreational players at affordable prices. Find a more in-depth breakdown of Pickleball Paddle buying here!

You need balls, of course! Pickleball balls are small, hard plastic balls between 2.87″ - 2.97″ in diameter and have between 26 and 40 circular holes. They're slightly heavier than a Wiffle ball.

There are different balls for indoor and outdoor play, so be sure to pick up the correct ones. Check out our collection of indoor and outdoor pickleball balls.

Tip: Always replace cracked balls immediately. Even a little break can impact your game.

Keep stray hairs out of your face with the Under Armour Tie Back Unisex Headband. Pickleball can get intense. Keep your eyes on the ball with a breathable headband that also helps control sweat. If headbands aren't your style, pack a hat in your pickleball bag. The courts can get super sunny, so you'll want a hat to block the harmful UV rays.

While you can always check out local courts near you, if you're looking to play at home, consider picking up a portable net. Play anywhere with the Harrow Pickleball Net. This net comes with a portable bag to take with you on the go. We love this net because it's easy to set up and super durable.

The Harrow net is also more budget-friendly than other nets, so you won't feel like you're breaking the bank if you're still new to pickleball.

Any essential athleticwear can work for a game of pickleball. We recommend light, breathable, flexible fabrics you'll feel comfortable wearing. There's no official dress code for pickleball, so wear what feels good.

Remember, pickleball isn't a seasonal sport. Play indoors or outdoors any time of the year. If you're playing in chilly weather, wear warm layers that you can peel off.

Pickleball sneakers are made to favor multi-directional movement while supporting the foot and ankle. Pickleball shoes often have a cushioned insole for added comfort. Look for a pair of shoes with a broad base and a heel cup to protect your ankle. If you already have a good pair of tennis shoes, you can wear those to play as well.

Grab a new pair of pickleball shoes here.

Tip: You can wear your pickleball sneakers while playing other court games like squash or badminton.

Don't let sweaty hands ruin your fun. The Franklin Performance Pickleball Glove is specifically designed with pickleball in mind. The Franklin gloves are similar to baseball batting gloves and help prevent grip fatigue with a padded thumb and index finger.

Pickleball bags are an easy way to keep your equipment organized. Carry all of your pickleball gear in the Head Tour Pickleball Backpack. This bag can hold up to two paddles, and there's plenty of room for your water bottle, sunscreen, and pickleball balls.

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