Have you heard the pops and smacks sounds coming from Fairgrounds Pubic Racket Club while shopping at Capilano Mall? That’s pickleball — one of the fastest-growing sports in Canada! This beginner pickleball guide will show you how to play, what gear and outfit you need, and how to join the fun indoors at Fairgrounds.
What equipment do you need to play pickleball?
Unlike many other sports, pickleball requires minimal equipment with many cost-effective options on the market. To get started, you’ll need:
- A paddle: typically made from materials like composite or graphite, check Dollar Tree for affordable entry-level options, or Walmart for a larger selection at different price points, or Fairgrounds for premium picks
- A pickleball: a hard, plastic ball (similar to a wiffle ball) designed for the sport—snag yours from Walmart or Fairgrounds
How do you play pickleball?
Pickleball is played on a court similar in size to a badminton court, with a net slightly lower than a tennis net. You can play the game as singles (one person on each side) or doubles (two people per side). The goal is to hit the ball over the net so that your opponent can’t return it. Games are typically played to 11 points, and a player (or duo) must win by at least two points. Points can only be scored by the player or team serving the ball. When the serving player or team loses a rally, the serve passes to the opponent.
Unique to pickleball is the “kitchen”, a specific non-volley zone on the court that extends seven feet from the net on both sides. Players can’t hit the ball out of the air while standing in the kitchen, adding to the skill and strategy of the game.
What should you wear to play pickleball?
Stick with clothes that are comfortable and let you move freely—like typical gym attire or athletic wear. If your wardrobe could use a few new pieces, check Reitmans for a full collection of trendy activewear or Fairgrounds for the perfect pickleball pieces.
Be sure to pair your pickleball outfit with non-scuff sneakers from The Shoe Company that support your feet and ankles to reduce the risk of slips and falls when running around the court.
Ready to give it a try?
Pickleball is a simple and fun way to stay active and meet new people. So, lace up your shoes, grab a paddle, and hit the court at Visit Fairgrounds located in Capilano Mall.
Located along the busy Marine Drive corridor and anchored by the only Walmart on the North Shore, Capilano Mall is the preferred value and convenience mall serving both West and North Vancouver communities. Catering to active, time-sensitive, value-driven customers who relish finding the deal, Capilano allows customers to get a little (or a lot) of this and that . . . at a price they can brag about. Whether Kin’s Farm Market for spinach and strawberries, COBS Bread for delicious savouries, the BC Liquor Store for a refreshing rosé, or even Walmart for Brontosaurus-sized angus beef burgers . . . Capilano Mall serves it up on a (albeit, discounted) silver platter.
