Pickleball is best played on a hot summer day when the sun is shining. So naturally, you’ll want to come dressed in the best pair of pickleball shorts possible. But what makes the best pickleball shorts so great for Pickleball? And which ones should I consider for your budget and stylistic preferences? These are the questions we’ll answer for you in this article.
What type of shorts are good for Pickleball?
You can wear any type of athletic shorts to play pickleball. And we won’t judge you for what you wear on a pickleball court because the culture of the sport is very accepting. So if you like wearing your thickest pair of Levi’s on a 100 degree day in August, be our guest.
That said, not all shorts are truly created equal for pickleball. When considering what pair of pickleball shorts will be the best for you, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First off, if it wasn’t obvious already, you’ll want your shorts to be made of flexible, breathable material. You’ll be extending, crouching and moving your body each and every way. You’ll sweat, and you’ll need some material that will give a little in terms of stretchiness.
Secondly, just like in tennis, the ball will hit the net or hit the back fence and one of you will have to go fetch the ball each time if you only brought one pickleball. So its best to bring 3 or 4 pickleballs so you don’t to go chasing after the pickleball each time the ball sails out of play. But where do we store those handy extra pickleball, you ask? Reliable snug pockets on your shorts. You’ll want to buy some shorts that have at least a couple of compartments to store extra balls.
Best Pickleball Shorts for Men
Best all around – Fabletics Men’s One Short
The Fabletics One Short was not specifically designed for Pickleball, but ends up being really the best pair of men’s Pickleball shorts you can find. With state of the art design, and places to store 3 pickleballs at one time, these will do the trick for pretty much any Pickleball-dude out there. They also double as great swim trunks as well, so you get a chance to dip in the pool between games, no need to change!
Most affordable – Northyard Quick Dry 7″ Workout Shorts
These Northyard shorts are another pair of athletics shorts great for just about any outdoor activity. Pickleball is no exception. They meet all the requirments of a great pair of shorts, including 2 roomy side pockets and 1 in the back for good measure. They’re lightweight and breathable, and come in at a price point under $25. The choice is a no brainer for those who don’t want to break the bank for a solid pair of shorts.
Best Package Deal – MCPORO Men’s Athletic Shorts with Pockets
Are you the type of Pickleballer who has no clothes whatsoever, but plays Pickleball 5 times a week? This is the package deal that will give you everything you need. Here you’ll get 4 pair of shorts perfect for Pickleball for ~35 bucks.
Best for Pockets – Pudolla Men’s Quick Dry Hiking Cargo Shorts
Yes we know, cargo shorts still get a ton of $h!t from every direction. But if there is one community that DGAF about what you might wear, its the Pickleball community. Besides, these cargo shorts don’t even seem like cargo shorts once you check them out. They are pretty low profile and have plenty of pockets without being obnoxious. If you like to hike, fish AND like to store 4+ Pickleballs in your shorts during play, these are for you.
Most stylish – Flow Society Men’s Pickleball Shorts
Definitely a clothing line for bros with a personality, Flow Society’s shorts will liven up any court. These shorts are fun, loud, and pack a stylish punch. Oh, and they check all the boxes when it comes to Pickleball shorts prerequisites – quality, breathable, comfortable fabric with pockets.
Best Pickleball Shorts for Women
Best all around – Baddle Pickleball Women’s 5″ Shorts
Baddle makes fantastic pickleball shorts just for women with all you need. They are not cheap, but well worth the cost. These shorts have pocket room sufficient for holding a few pickleballs. These are also made with moisture wicking material and extra support for women including the soft, flexible elastic waistband.
Most affordable – RIBOOM Women’s Workout Shorts
When it comes to bang for your buck, RIBOOM is the winner. These active wear shorts will be a dynamic piece of workout clothing for you and meet all your pickleball shorts needs. And it all comes for under $20.
Best Package Deal – 5 Pack: Women’s Workout Gym Shorts
An even better deal than the men’s best shorts package, these comfortable mesh shorts with deep pockets is the only purchase you need to make if you have no pickleball shorts to work with. They come in 3 different color combination, each with dry fit material that is perfect for a hot summer day of Pickleball.
Best tight fitting – ODODOS Women’s High Waist Shorts
If you’re into tight fitting shorts that make your butt look great on the Pickleball court, htese ODODOS shorts are for you. With 4 different length options which range from 5″ to 9″ short that come down to the knees, these can even double as summer yoga pants. They have two snug side pockets that are just the right size to fit one pickleball each.
Most stylish – SheShorts – Women’s Pickleball Shorts
These fun shorts are for the most enthusiast pickleball gals. She Shorts is a brand specially made for Pickleball ladies who want to play in style. The quality of the shorts is fantastic too. With 3 large pockets that fit 4 pickleballs total, the shorts feature a comfortable waist band and breathable, stretchy fabric.