There are some essential things to consider when buying a pickleball set. These are:

Weight of the paddle and the ball: 

A critical factor that plays a vital role in determining how well you perform in the pickleball game is the weight of the Paddle. It is, therefore, necessary that you pick a paddle with an ideal weight. An ideal paddle should weigh between 6-14 ounces. The right paddle will offer you a comfortable feel when holding and swinging the paddle. Also, with a paddle of desirable weight, you will be able to control the ball with ease.

Besides, you should consider your physical state when selecting a suitable paddle weight. For example, you should choose a lighter paddle if you’ve had several hand injuries in the past; this will make the game easier to play. Putting this in mind will help to prevent against making a wrong choice of the paddle which may lead to future regrets.

It is also essential that you consider the weight of the ball before purchasing a pickleball set. This because using a very ball will negatively affect your performance in the pickleball game.

Paddle Material: 

The material used for the paddle has a crucial impact on the success of the pickleball game. There are several materials used for the construction of Paddles. The materials include wood, polymer, graphite, composite and so on.

Wooden paddles are generally the least expensive paddle available on the market. But, they are the heaviest of all types of paddles. Thus, it is crucial to put the weight in mind when planning to buy a wooden paddle. As a result of the low cost of purchase of wooden paddles, they are a suitable option for a beginner in the pickleball game.

Polymer paddles are made out of a combination of plastic and resin. They are light in weight, durable and affordable. Also, the paddles are suitable for amateurs and casual players of the pickleball game.

Composite paddles are made with a composite core and either carbon fibre or fibreglass hitting surfaces. The textured surfaces of this type of paddle make it easy to add some spin to your ball. Also, the different cores used for composite paddles have their impact on your play.

Graphite paddles make the lightest paddle you can get. These paddles are made with a thin layer of graphite over the core. The graphite face on both sides of the paddle distinguishes the graphite paddle from other types of a paddle. 

Composite and Graphite paddles are suitable for competitive players as well as for beginner players who desire to get something more tailored to their play style. 

Type of ball: 

When deciding what kind of ball will suit your needs the best, you need to consider whether you will be playing on an indoor court or an outdoor court. There are two types of balls for pickleball game. These are outdoor and indoor balls. These balls are designed to suit the environment in which they are used.

Indoor balls have thin wall construction because they don’t face many difficult conditions. They are light in weight, softer and are easier to control in gameplay. Indoor balls have fewer holes compared to outdoor ones, and they wear out more slowly. 

On the other hand, outdoor balls have thick wall construction; thus, increased strength. They are heavier, harder and with smoother plastic. Outdoor balls are less likely to be affected by the wind because of their weight. These balls are more durable than indoors balls because they face more tough conditions outdoors; although they tend to break more quickly because of the harder surfaces they face.  

Also, you need to choose between a quiet or noisy ball. Your decision is based on the neighborhood you will be playing from.

The shape of the paddle: 

Pickleball paddles come in different shapes and sizes. This includes edgeless paddles, wide-body paddles, elongated paddles amongst others. 

The edgeless pickleball paddles lack the guard that usually protrude slightly around the edge of the paddle. The absence of this guard offers wider playing surface. The paddle with this shape is therefore desirable for serious pickleball players.

The elongated paddle is the current most popular. It is a paddle with a longer and thinner surface. 

Wide-body paddles are ideal for beginner players of pickleball game. These paddles have a wider body.

Net Quality: 

Pickleball net should be durable with its frame or be heavy enough to withstand any kind of windy condition. Nets that are made from a quality, heavy-duty materials are more suitable than lightweight ones. Net frames that are galvanized or powder coated helps to prevent rust and corrosion. Thus, they are ideal for use in a rainy or humid environment.

For a windy environment, wide and heavy frame legs are most suitable.