What You Really Need (And What You Don't)

What You Need to Start Playing Padel

Good news: the list is short. For your first session, you really just need:

1. A Racket (Bat)

If you’re brand new, don’t buy one yet. Most clubs will lend or rent you a racket for free or a few quid. Try a session first to see how it feels.

When you’re ready to buy, look for a beginner-friendly option:

• Shape: Round or teardrop (bigger “sweet spot” = more forgiving).
• Price range: £30–£60 is plenty to start. Skip the £300 pro models.

Think of it like learning to drive: no one starts with a Ferrari.

2. Balls

Courts often provide them, especially at intro sessions. If not, grab a tube (£5-ish). They’re basically softer tennis balls, nothing fancy.

3. Comfy Shoes with Grip

No need for padel-specific shoes on day one. Wear clean trainers with decent grip and support (tennis or court shoes are ideal if you have them). Avoid worn-out runners—they’re made for straight-line running, not side-to-side moves.

4. Sportswear

Whatever you’d wear to the gym works:

• Breathable t-shirt or top
• Shorts or leggings
• Nothing overly baggy (it’ll catch on the fence)

Padel has no dress code. We’ve seen it all—from tennis whites to old band tees. Comfort is king.

5. Water (and a Few Nice-to-Haves)

Bring a bottle. Optional extras: towel, spare top, cap if playing outdoors. That’s it.

Quick Recap:

• Racket (borrow or buy cheap)
• Balls (often provided)
• Trainers with grip
• Comfy sportswear
• Water

That’s enough to walk on court and play. Simple.

What You Don’t Need (Yet)

Here’s what beginners often think they need—but don’t:

• Pricey “pro” rackets: Advanced rackets are heavy, stiff, and unforgiving. Leave them to the pros.
• Padel shoes on day one: Helpful later, but any decent trainers will do for now.
• Loads of accessories: Bags, overgrips, vibration dampeners—skip it until you know what you like.
• Club membership: Many UK venues (especially in the Midlands) are pay-and-play. No long-term commitment needed.
• A team of four: No friends keen? No problem. Clubs run social mix-ins and apps like Playtomic let you join games solo.

Bottom line: avoid “all the gear, no idea.” Play first, buy later.

Book an Intro Session

The easiest way to start? Join a beginner taster session:

• No gear needed: Rackets and balls provided.
• Friendly vibe: Everyone’s new and learning together.
• Cheap or free: Many Midlands clubs run £5 sessions (some free).
• Find them: Check club websites, Playtomic, Padel Mates or via one of our guides.

These sessions are relaxed, social, and designed to make you feel at home.

Solo or Bring Friends?

Both work.

• With friends: Book a court, grab a few mates, and laugh your way through.
• Solo: Clubs love beginners and will pair you up. Many run WhatsApp groups or mixers to match players.

Padel’s community vibe means you won’t be short of partners for long.

Ease Yourself In

A few bonus tips to make it even smoother:

• Watch a quick YouTube vid: Visuals help the rules stick.
• Practice lightly: Hit a ball off a wall or serve underarm at home.
• Laugh off mistakes: Everyone fluffs shots. It’s part of the fun.
• Stay safe: Warm up, watch the walls, hydrate.

You’ll be surprised how fast it clicks.

Bottom Line

Padel’s beauty is in its simplicity: borrow a racket, wear comfy trainers, book a court. You’ll pick it up in minutes and be hooked before you know it.

Ready? Check out our Where to Play guide and get your first game booked.

‍