Sports

G E T P I C K L E D

Once a go-to pursuit of senior living communities, pickleball is now the cool cour t spor t. Here’s the gear to get you star ted.

TRUE COLORS Show your allegiance to your favorite pastime with an Oversized Vintage Varsity Pickleball Sweatshirt. The soft, oversize top has a cool ’70s retro logo and sporty red, black and white accents that’ll make a statement on and off the court. Bonus: Hipsters new to the game will ask where you got this fashionable piece of picklewear. $65; varsitypickle.com

BACKCOURT BAG Don’t tote all of your pickleball essentials in an old tennis bag. Rock a dedicated piece like the Franklin Sports Pickleball Sling Bag to show you’re a serious contender. Not only will it carry up to six paddles and balls with room to spare, but it also boasts a soft phone pocket and a nifty hook to hang on the fence while you stylishly destroy the competition. From $35; franklinsports.com

SMACK MY PITCH UP Arguably the most important piece of equipment in the game is the paddle. The Ashbury from Nettie is built on a lightweight polymer honeycomb core with a 13mm thickness that will make your shots pop, and it’s designed for players of all ages. An octagonal grip and 5-inch handle should elevate your backhand game and help drop dinks all day long. $80; playnettie.com

BALLS TO THE WALL The seamless, one-piece design of Onix Dura Fast 40 Pickleballs allows for straighter, more precise shots, along with enhanced durability. Machined holes offer better bounce and they’re designed to handle outdoor weather. Dura Fast 40s are also the official ball for multiple official tournaments. $13; onixpickleball.com

COMPETITION KICKS You’ve got to be quick on your toes on the court, which is why you should invest in a pair of Skechers Viper Court Pickleball Shoes. These lightweight sneakers have a mesh upper and a removable arch that molds to your foot to reduce sole shock. A genuine Goodyear outsole enhances traction and stability. $95; skechers.com