Pickleball Skirt or shorts? We're asking the real questions here.

July 2024 • Evie Beasley

So we’re going to dive into the fashion and functionality debate on the pickleball court. Dive in with me. Let’s talk skirts versus shorts - the showdown that hits close to home for so many pickleballers, especially those who want to look good while making strategic moves on the court.

Pickleball Skirts: The Pros

  1. Fashion-Forward Flair: Let’s be real - pickleball skirts bring a certain style that can’t be ignored. The flow, the movement, the pop of color? Instant game-changer. You walk on the court in a skirt, and you own it (did someone say "Rally Red - Skirtin' Round the Kitchen"?)

  2. Freedom of Movement: The design of skirts, especially with built-in shorts, gives you that breezy, unrestricted feel, which is ideal for quick pivots and lateral movements. The skirt flares out, giving you more range when lunging or reaching for those tricky shots.

  3. Versatility: With skirts, you can effortlessly transition from the court to casual off-court settings. You can pop into brunch or a wine tasting and still look stylish, no wardrobe change needed!

  4. Hidden Ball Pockets: Some pickleball skirts come with built-in compression shorts underneath that offer pockets for balls. Plus, it keeps everything smooth and streamlined, so no bulky pockets or awkward movements. The Good Get line of women's skirts have bigger built-in pockets to handle a pickleball.

Women’s Pickleball Shorts: The Pros

  1. Practicality and Comfort: Shorts win in the practical department. With no extra material flaring out, they’re straightforward and functional. If you want zero distractions, a solid pair of shorts will keep you focused entirely on your game.

  2. Built-In Storage: The beauty of shorts is often in the extra pockets! You’ve got easy, no-nonsense places to stash extra balls or a towel, especially those designed specifically for pickleball.

  3. Minimal Adjustments: Unlike skirts that may ride up or shift, shorts tend to stay put. If you’re all about performance and prefer not having to adjust your outfit mid-game, shorts might be your best bet.

  4. Athletic Look: There’s a certain sporty vibe to shorts that’s clean and competitive. It says, “I’m here for business,” which is a great mindset for match play.


The Verdict?

It honestly comes down to personal preference. If you love bringing a bit of style and enjoy the freedom of movement, skirts are where it’s at. The flair and function of a good pickleball skirt (I’m looking at you, Good Get Apparel) is a hard combo to beat.

But if you’re more about pure functionality, shorts will give you that no-fuss, all-business approach. They can be your reliable go-to when you just want to focus on the game without thinking about adjustments.

At the end of the day, it’s all about what makes you feel confident and ready to dominate the court. Personally? I’m all in for skirts - they offer the best of both worlds: sporty chic and performance perfection!