Pickleball / Topic 03
Ball and paddle
USA Pickleball / GPF · 2026In short
The ball is perforated and must meet the approved equipment specifications. A paddle has a rigid striking surface rather than strings; sanctioned play requires an approved model.
The rule
The ball is perforated and must meet the approved equipment specifications. A paddle has a rigid striking surface rather than strings; sanctioned play requires an approved model.
In practice
A paddle's combined length and width cannot exceed 60.96 cm, and its length cannot exceed 43.18 cm. Modifications are restricted: adding a rough or spin-enhancing surface is not permitted.
Independent explanations and translations, not official federation publications. This guide follows the supplied 2026 USA Pickleball Official Rulebook, Global Pickleball Federation edition. Its standard rules cover singles and doubles; tournament and adaptive sections add specific modifications.
Sources & approach ↗
Sources & approach ↗