A quality paddle upgrade
If they're still using a starter set, a mid-range paddle is the most noticeable upgrade. Ask their grip size and weight preference first.
for-himfor-herbeginner
Pickleball · gifts
Pickleball Gift Ideas
Thirty gifts pickleball players actually use, from useful gear upgrades to funny shirts and Christmas ornaments. Filter by who it's for and your budget.
Quick answer
The best pickleball gifts are things players use every week: a quality paddle, court shoes, a paddle bag or backpack, outdoor balls, overgrips and edge guard tape. For fun, try a pickleball Christmas ornament, a funny team shirt, a ball-retriever, or a lesson or clinic voucher. Under $25: grips, a dozen balls, a paddle cover or a towel.
Court shoes
Proper court shoes support side-to-side movement better than running shoes.
for-himfor-her
Paddle backpack or sling bag
Holds two paddles, balls, water and keys.
for-himfor-her
Overgrips
A pack of overgrips keeps the handle tacky. Cheap and always used.
under-25for-himfor-her
A dozen outdoor balls
Players go through balls quickly; outdoor balls crack in the cold.
under-25
Paddle cover
Protects the face and edge in a bag.
under-25
Edge guard tape
Protects the paddle edge from scrapes.
under-25
Ball retriever
A clip that picks balls up without bending. Great for seniors.
under-25funny
Pickleball Christmas ornament
A paddle or ball ornament for the tree, or one personalised with their name.
christmasunder-25
Ugly pickleball Christmas sweater
Perfect for the club holiday mixer.
christmasfunny
Pickleball stocking stuffers
Grips, balls, wristbands and a funny keyring.
christmasunder-25
Funny team shirt
Print their team name or a favourite pickleball pun.
funnyfor-himfor-her
'Dink Responsibly' mug
A pun mug for the morning coffee.
funnyunder-25
Lesson or clinic voucher
Coaching from a local pro is a gift that improves their game.
beginnerfor-himfor-her
Pickleball visor or cap
Keeps sun out of eyes on outdoor courts.
under-25for-herfor-him
Cooling towel
A must for summer play.
under-25
Insulated water bottle
Keeps drinks cold through long sessions.
under-25
Pickleball skirt or skort
Pockets for balls are a big plus.
for-her
Wristbands and headbands
Sweat control in fun colours.
under-25for-herfor-him
Portable net
For driveway and backyard games.
for-himfor-her
Ball machine rental
Practice without a partner; renting first is cheaper than buying.
for-him
Pickleball-themed jewellery
A paddle charm or ball necklace.
for-her
Pickleball socks
Funny patterns, cushioned soles.
under-25funny
Personalised paddle
Custom-printed with a name or photo.
for-himfor-her
Beginner paddle set
Two paddles, balls and a bag for someone new.
beginner
Rule book and strategy book
For players who love to improve.
beginnerunder-25
Tournament entry fee
Pay their entry to a local tournament.
for-himfor-her
Pickleball doormat
'Welcome to the kitchen' at the front door.
funny
Massage gun
Soothes sore legs and shoulders after play.
for-himfor-her
Pickleball cake or cookies
For birthdays. Party ideas here.
funny
Tips that make it work
Ask about gear sizes
Paddle weight, grip size and shoe size are personal. When unsure, buy accessories or a voucher.
Indoor vs outdoor balls
Outdoor balls are harder with smaller holes; indoor balls are softer. Check where they play.
Make it personal
A paddle or ornament with their name turns a useful gift into a keepsake.
Frequently asked questions
What do you buy a pickleball player who has everything?
Consumables they always need (balls, overgrips), a lesson or clinic voucher, a tournament entry, or a personalised ornament or paddle.
What are good cheap pickleball gifts?
Overgrips, a dozen outdoor balls, a paddle cover, edge tape, a cooling towel, funny socks or a ball retriever all cost under $25.