A Look at Pickleball

​In pickleball, a sport with rules, players play in singles, doubles, or fours. They hit a perforated and hollow plastic ball using smooth-faced and short-handled paddles on a level court, indoors or outdoors. The sport combines aspects of table tennis, tennis, and badminton.

Invented as a children’s backyard game in 1965 in the United States, the game has grown in popularity globally. People of different ages and skill levels can play. Notably, the sport was named Washington’s official state sport in 2022.

A pickleball court measures 20 feet by 44 feet. The net resembles a tennis net but is slightly modified. It measures 34 inches in height at the middle and 36 inches at the sidelines. The court resembles a tennis layout. It is 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, with designated service areas on each side and a 7-foot zone near the net called the "kitchen," where volleys aren't allowed. These courts can be constructed specifically for pickleball or converted from tennis or badminton courts.

The paddles, made from wood or composite materials, must have a maximum of 17 inches in length, with the total length and width not exceeding 24 inches. However, no limitations exist on how thick or heavy a paddle can be. The paddle’s core, the part sandwiched on either side of the surface, and the surface can be made of different materials to suit different player needs.

The core’s material can determine shot accuracy, control, and power. For example, a graphite paddle gives more control, a fiberglass paddle gives more power, and a carbon fiber paddle gives power and control. One may also consider the core’s thickness, which ranges between 11 millimeters and 16 millimeters. A thin core ensures more power, while a thick one gives enhanced control. Overall, the player decides the balance that works well for them.

The ball is lightweight and measures between 2.87 and 2.97 inches in diameter. The holes on the ball control airflow when it is hit, ensuring it moves consistently and directing it to where the player aims it. Depending on whether the game happens indoors or outdoors, there are two types of pickleball balls.

The outdoor version is heavier than the indoor one. It has 40 holes and is designed for outdoor and windy conditions. The indoor version features 26 holes and is adapted for smooth indoor surfaces. It also lasts longer than the outdoor ball.

There is no specific dress code in pickleball. Players need comfortable clothes in which they can move. It is also advisable to wear lightweight, sweat-absorbent, and breathable clothes that help keep the player cool. A weather-resistant jacket can keep a person comfortable and dry during chilly and light rain days.

An individual can play in any pair of trainers. They can also use tennis or pickleball shoes for enhanced movement, speed, and stability. For sun protection, one may also consider a hat, visor, and protective eyewear. Additionally, a paddle bag helps carry additional gear, while a grip prevents the hand from slipping when handling the paddle.

Play begins with an underarm serve into the opposing service area. Players should serve the ball from behind the baseline, the line marking each end of the court. The goal is to send the ball across from the server, over the net, into the service box, avoiding the “kitchen.” The opposing player or team must allow the ball to bounce once before returning it. After the ball has bounced once on each side, players can volley it directly or let it bounce before making their shot.

Only the serving player or team can score points when the opponent makes a fault, such as failing to return the ball, hitting it out of bounds, or volleying from within the non-volley zone. In doubles, each player serves before switching sides, and the server continues until losing a rally.

The player or team that gets 11 points first wins the game. However, during tournaments, games can go up to 15 or 21 points, and a team needs a 2-point lead to secure the win.

Jay Kolmar

Shop