Maple Leaf Golf and Country Club

BUYING PICKLE BALL EQUIPMENT

The following local stores and on line sites are good sources of Pickle Ball equipment. These are provided by way of example only, to assist those new to the game; there are other locations to buy Pickle Ball equipment. The Maple Leaf Pickle Ball Club in no way endorses any particular retailer.

Local Stores
Sports Authority, 18219 Tamiami, North Port, www.sportsauthority.com – 941-423-0146
Grand Slam Tennis, 2705 Tamiami Trail, suite 313, Punta Gorda, www.grandslamtennisco.com – 941-347-8165

On Line
www.pickleballcentral.com
www.pickleball.net  (Onyx Sports, owned by Steve Wong, US national pickleball champion)
www.amazon.com
www.calibex.com
www.best-deal.com
www.pickleballpaddlesplus.com
www.picklepro.com

Paddles

Graphite, fiberglass, aluminum or composite Pickle Ball paddles are better than wood paddles, and can be purchased for $45-80, although one can easily pay more. Wood paddles are, however, much cheaper ($15 – $25). Buying paddles of a grip size and weight to be comfortable to the player is key. Some retailers have an inventory of Gently Used Paddles and Paddles With Minor Defects, which can be purchased at a reduced price (up to 40% or 50%). Buying paddles in a bundle of 2-4 paddles (even up to 10) can also reduce the price per paddle. Some retailers have a 30-day return policy, allowing free testing of a racket.

Balls

Balls are usually white, yellow or orange, but other colors, i.e. green, are sometimes available (yellow is the most popular outdoors). There are different ball models intended for indoor and outdoor play (indoor balls typically have larger holes). The 40 hole pickle ball is the standard outdoor pickle ball used by most pickle ball players.  Balls usually sell in packages of 6 (about $15) or 12 (about $25), but you may be able to buy them on sale or in smaller quantities.

Shoes

Comfortable tennis shoes are recommended, but any shoe is acceptable as long as the sole is light colored. If you arrive with dark colored soles, you will not be allowed to play unless and until you put on appropriate footwear. It is essential that we enforce this rule to protect the court surface, and your understanding is appreciated. Court shoes are specially designed for durability on outdoor courts. They offer great control, support and stability. They may also have extra supports to prevent toe jams. Expect to pay $100 or more.

Clothing
No special clothing is required, but you may want to wear light colored and light weight shorts and a top, such as a tennis or golf shirt. Pickle Ball tee shirts are also available through the above retailers, and these sell for $15 – $20 or more. You will probably also want a hat or visor and sunglasses.