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Pickleball rules, court dimensions and paddles — explained simply.
How to play pickleball, how scoring works, what the kitchen rule actually says, how big a pickleball court is, and which paddles and shoes are worth buying. Written for beginners and rec players — no jargon, no affiliate hype.
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Featured guide
Best pickleball paddles 2026: how to choose one that fits your game
There is no single best paddle — only the right spec combination for your level and budget. What changed in 2026 and how to choose.
Latest guides
Pickleball paddle grip size: how to measure yours in 10 seconds
Grip size is the paddle spec people ignore, then blame. Here is how to measure yours, what each size feels like, and why you should always size down.
14mm vs 16mm pickleball paddle: which thickness suits your game
Core thickness is the biggest single driver of how a paddle feels. What 14mm and 16mm actually change, and how to pick between them.
What to pack in a pickleball bag: the rec player checklist
What actually belongs in a pickleball bag, split into what lives there permanently and what changes for indoor and outdoor play.
How long do pickleball balls last, and when to bin them
Pickleball balls fail two ways: they crack, or they quietly go soft. How long each type lasts, the 30-second test, and what shortens their life.
Pickleball overgrip: how to wrap one and when to replace it
The cheapest change you can make to how a paddle feels. Tacky vs dry, how to wrap one properly, and the test for when it is finished.
What to wear for pickleball: only one item can actually hurt you
Pickleball has no dress code, so the question is comfort and injury. Shoes are the only item that can hurt you. What matters, head to foot.