What to Wear to Play Padel: A Beginner’s Guide

You have been invited to a padel game, you have booked a court, and now comes the question nobody mentions in the group chat: what on earth do you wear?

The good news is that padel is one of the most relaxed racket sports when it comes to clothing. There is no strict dress code, no all-white rule and no collar requirement at most venues. The better news is that a few simple choices will make you move more freely, stay cooler and play better. This guide walks through everything you need, from your top to your shoes, and what you can happily leave at home.

Do you need padel-specific clothing?

Short answer: no. Plenty of beginners turn up in their gym gear and have a great time. Padel is played on a compact enclosed court, roughly 20 metres long by 10 metres wide, in doubles, with quick bursts of movement, sharp changes of direction and lots of reaching and twisting. Anything that lets you do that comfortably will work.

That said, clothing designed for racket sports tends to get a few things right: lightweight fabric, freedom around the shoulders and a cut that does not ride up when you stretch for a lob. If you plan to play regularly, it is worth investing in a couple of pieces that suit the sport. Think of it like running: you can start in anything, but the right kit makes the habit more enjoyable.

Choosing your top

Your top does the most work on court, because your arms and shoulders are constantly moving. Here is what to look for.

Breathability. Padel courts can be hot in summer, and indoor courts can feel humid. A breathable fabric helps heat escape, which is why many players choose a mesh jersey. Our Bajada Padel Jersey is made from 100% breathable polyester mesh, so air can move through the fabric while you play.

Room to move. Raglan sleeves, where the sleeve seam runs diagonally from the collar to the underarm, give you more freedom through the shoulder than a standard set-in sleeve. That matters for overhead shots and big swings.

A relaxed fit. Tight tops can restrict your swing, while very baggy ones flap around and distract you. A relaxed fit with a slightly longer hem is a sweet spot, because it stays put when you reach up and does not untuck or ride above your waistband.

A neckline that suits you. A classic round neckline is comfortable, easy to move in and does not need adjusting between points.

Choosing your bottoms

Shorts are the default for both men and women, and for good reason. Look for something lightweight with an elastic or drawstring waist that stays secure when you lunge. Some players prefer a skort or tennis-style skirt with built-in shorts, and that works well too.

A few practical pointers:

•             Pockets help. Padel balls need somewhere to go between points, and many players like a pocket that can hold a spare ball without bouncing around.

•             Avoid anything too long or loose. Baggy shorts can catch on your racket or your legs during quick turns.

•             Leggings or joggers on cooler days. Winter evening sessions can be chilly, especially on outdoor courts, so lightweight track pants are a smart choice.

The most important item: shoes

If there is one place to spend a little extra, it is footwear. Padel involves constant stopping, starting and pivoting, mostly on artificial turf covered in sand. Dedicated padel shoes usually have a herringbone or patterned sole designed to grip that surface and let you slide just enough to stay balanced.

If you are not ready to buy padel shoes yet, a pair of flat-soled court shoes or trainers with good grip and support will do for your first few games. Avoid running shoes with thick, cushioned heels, because they can feel unstable when you change direction quickly. Avoid anything with spikes or cleats, which are not welcome on the court surface.

Layers, caps and accessories

Once the basics are sorted, a few extras can make a real difference.

•             A cap or visor. Outdoor courts mean sun, and a cap helps with glare on lobs. Our golf trucker hats have a mesh back and are comfortable to wear off the court too.

•             A light jacket or hoodie. Handy for warm-ups and for walking between courts when the temperature drops. Browse our Hoods & Sweats for easy layers.

•             Wristbands or a headband. Entirely optional, but they can keep sweat out of your eyes and off your grip.

•             A towel and water bottle. Rallies can be long, and you will want to stay hydrated.

•             Sunscreen. If you are playing outdoors in Australia, put it on before you start and reapply between sets.

What colour should you wear?

There are no rules here either. Many players choose lighter colours for hot weather because they reflect more heat, while darker colours can hide sweat and look sharp off the court. If you play outdoors in the evening, avoid colours that blend in with the ball. Padel balls are usually bright yellow or green, so a white or black top gives a clear contrast. The Bajada jersey comes in both black and white, so you can pick whichever suits the conditions.

What to bring in your bag

A tidy kit bag means you arrive ready to play. A simple checklist:

1.           Your racket (or confirm that the venue hires them)

2.           Balls, if your group does not already have a fresh can

3.           A spare top, because you will want a dry one afterwards

4.           Court shoes

5.           Water, a towel and sunscreen

6.           A cap or hoodie, depending on the weather

Quick answers to common questions

Can I wear tennis clothes for padel? Absolutely. Tennis and padel clothing are very similar, and most venues welcome either.

Do I need to wear a collar? No. Unlike some golf clubs, padel venues rarely have a collar rule. If you are curious about the contrast, read our golf dress code guide.

Is a unisex jersey a good idea? Yes. A unisex cut with a relaxed fit suits a wide range of body shapes, and it means you can share sizing advice with a doubles partner. Check our Padel Sizing Guide before you order.

Dress for the court you want to play on

The best padel outfit is the one you forget you are wearing. Pick breathable fabric, a top that lets your shoulders move, shorts you trust, and shoes that grip, and you will be ready for your first rally. From there, it is all about finding the pieces that make you feel sharp.

Ready to kit up? Explore the full Bajada padel collection, designed in Australia by Sharp by Design.