Get ready
What to bring to your first padel game: clothes, shoes, racket and useful extras
The good news: you need surprisingly little for your first padel game. The most important item is proper shoes; almost everything else the club can provide.
Contents
Find a court →In short
- Shoes matter most: stable trainers with good grip — padel is full of lateral movement.
- Any comfortable sports clothes work; no special outfit needed.
- You do not need your own racket — rent one at the club.
- Bring water, a small towel and your booking confirmation.
This is a practical packing list — what actually matters, what is nice to have and what you should not buy before your first game.
01Comfortable sports shoes
The single most important thing for your first game is footwear. Padel involves constant lateral movement, short sprints and sudden stops, so your shoes must hold your foot firmly and grip the court surface well.
Running shoes with soft, high soles are the worst choice — they are built for forward motion, not side steps. Stable all-court trainers or tennis shoes are fine for a start.
Special padel shoes are not required for your first game — but slippery, worn-out soles are a real injury risk.
02Sports clothes
Clothing should be comfortable and non-restrictive: a T-shirt or top, shorts, leggings or joggers, plus socks that do not rub. There is no dress code in amateur padel.
Playing outdoors? Add a cap and sunscreen. Indoor court in winter — a light long-sleeve layer for the warm-up.
03Do you need your own racket?
No. Almost every club rents rackets, and for beginners it is often free. Renting also lets you try different shapes and weights before spending money.
Buy your own racket after a few games — ideally after talking to a coach who has seen you play.
The rental racket is your friend: it is free experimentation. Buying before your first game is the most common beginner mistake.
04Water and a towel
Padel looks easy from the sidelines, but you will be moving actively within minutes. Bring a bottle of water. Playing in summer or in an indoor club without good ventilation — a small towel will help too.
05Useful extras
- A hair tie, plasters, a spare T-shirt.
- A light snack for after the game.
- Your phone with the booking confirmation.
- Cash or a card for the court, rental and lockers.
Everything fits into one small backpack. If you forget something — clubs have seen it all and will help.
FAQ: common questions
Can I play in running shoes?
For the very first game — yes, if the sole grips well. But running shoes are built for forward motion; for regular play get stable court shoes.
Do clubs rent rackets?
Almost all do, and many give them to beginners for free. Ask when booking.
Do I need special padel clothes?
No. Any comfortable sports clothes work. Special gear can wait until padel becomes a habit.
What should I not buy before the first game?
A racket, padel shoes and accessories. First play, then decide whether you want your own gear.
Ready to get on court?
Find clubs, courts and coaches near you and book your first game.