The game of pickleball may have a funny name, but more and more people are finding it even funner to play! Pickleball may have been thought of as a kid’s game at first. These days, however, casual and professional players all over the world are getting in on the fun.
So, what is pickleball? Join SportRx as we give you the scoop on what is often called the fastest growing sport in America.
Table of Contents
1. What is Pickleball?
a. What Does A Pickleball Look Like?
b. Is Pickleball Like Tennis?
2. Is Pickleball an Olympic Sport?
a. Para Pickleball at the Special Olympics
3. Shop Prescription Pickleball Eyewear Online at SportRx
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a low-impact racket sport, and its rules are straightforward to learn. With its small court size, pickleball is inclusive for players of all ages and athletic abilities. It can be played indoors or outdoors, and even those with little to no racket sport experience can easily pick it up, making it fun for the whole family to enjoy!
What Does A Pickleball Look Like?
Pickleball balls are not — to our dismay — shaped like pickles. The type of ball used in pickleball is a lightweight yet sturdy plastic ball perforated with small circle-shaped holes. For reference, it is close to the size of a baseball.
Is Pickleball Like Tennis?
Pickleball is almost like tennis, but not as physically demanding. The game borrows elements from other familiar racket sports, and its equipment is more affordable, too. The paddle is similar to a ping pong paddle. It's typically made of wood, graphite, or a combination of materials. While pickleball also uses a net, it is shorter than a tennis net. It's hung a bit lower, at 34 inches high in the middle and 36 inches high at the side posts. A pickleball court is the same size as a doubles badminton court at 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, with the baseline 22 feet from the net. It is about one third the size of a tennis court.
The rules of pickleball have mostly solidified from its casual beginnings, but minor adjustments are made all the time. The most recent rule change was made as late as 2021.
Is Pickleball an Olympic sport?
Although pickleball is quickly gaining popularity, it doesn’t have enough players worldwide to meet Olympic sport requirements. Yet considering its widespread acceptance, the game is on track to join the Olympics in the future.
Para Pickleball at the Special Olympics
While pickleball might not yet be an Olympic sport, para pickleball made its international debut at the Special Olympics in 2002. Also known as adaptive pickleball or wheelchair pickleball, this variation of the game is slightly modified to accommodate special needs pickleball players. The USA Pickleball Association officially recognized this version as a competitive branch of pickleball in 2016.
Get Prescription Pickleball Eyewear Online at SportRx
Thinking about getting pickleball glasses, sunglasses, or goggles? We've got you covered! When you shop with us, you’ll find video guides and tips throughout the build process as you customize the perfect pair. Answers to all your questions are at your fingertips. We recommend starting with our blogs on the Best Prescription Safety Glasses for Pickleball and our Pickleball Eyewear Buyer’s Guide.
If you want to chat with an expert, contact us! We’ll put you in touch with one of our friendly in-house opticians who can help you build your prescription pickleball glasses, sunglasses, or goggles.
Ditch risky online shopping with the See Better Guarantee™. Try your eyewear for 45 days. If you’re not satisfied, send them back. Get a full refund, exchange, or credit towards a better pair. And return shipping? Covered. Get your pair of prescription pickleball glasses, sunglasses, or goggles at SportRx today!
Comments 2
Leave A Comment