What to Wear for Your First Pickleball Tournament (Style + Performance Guide)

What to Wear for Your First Pickleball Tournament (Style + Performance Guide)

šŸ“ What to Wear for Your First Pickleball Tournament (Style + Performance Guide)

Heading to your first pickleball tournament and not sure what to wear? Whether you're playing competitively or just having fun, what you wear can impact your comfort, confidence, and performance on the court. Here’s everything you need to know—from breathable fabrics to stylish pickleball hats—to help you dress like a seasoned player.


šŸŽ½ 1. Start with a Moisture-Wicking Shirt

Tournaments can last hours, so it’s important to wear a shirt that keeps you dry. Look for moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabrics that help regulate your temperature and reduce sweat buildup. Lightweight performance tees like this one from Servewell Apparel offer the ideal blend of breathability and style.

šŸ’” Bonus tip: Choose a color that reflects sunlight if you’re playing outdoors—light grays, whites, or pastels work great.


šŸ‘Ÿ 2. Court-Ready Shoes Are a Must

Pickleball requires lateral movement, so your everyday running shoes won’t cut it. Invest in court-specific shoes that offer:

  • Grip for sudden stops and starts
  • Lateral support
  • Breathable uppers to avoid overheating

Make sure to break them in a week or two before your tournament.


🧢 3. Don’t Forget the Hat

A good pickleball hat is more than just style—it keeps the sun out of your eyes and helps manage sweat. At Servewell, we designed our signature pickleball hats to be:

  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Built with bold, fun designs players love

šŸŽÆ Serving style + function is what Servewell is all about.

Check out our pickleball hats to top off your tournament look.


🩳 4. Go for Comfort-First Shorts or Skorts

Avoid anything bulky or restrictive. Opt for stretchy, lightweight shorts or athletic skorts with built-in liners or pockets. You’ll want freedom of movement and somewhere to stash a spare ball during play.


🧦 5. Performance Socks Matter More Than You Think

Your feet will thank you if you wear cushioned, anti-blister performance socks. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics and arch support to stay comfortable for the full tournament.


šŸŽ’ 6. Pack Extra Apparel

Bring backups of:

  • A second shirt (you’ll sweat—trust us)
  • Socks
  • A lightweight jacket if it’s chilly in the morning

It’s better to be over-prepared than overheated or underdressed.


šŸ† Final Thoughts: Dress Like a Pro, Play Like One Too

Your first pickleball tournament is an exciting milestone—make sure your outfit sets you up for success. Prioritize comfort, breathability, and freedom of movement, and don’t be afraid to show a little personality with your gear.

Looking for gear that blends performance and style? Explore the full collection at Servewell Apparel and get tournament-ready with gear made for the court and beyond.

Back to blog