The 5 Best Pieces of Pickleball Gear Under $50
Smart Buys for Players Who Want Performance Without the Price Tag
With paddles costing up to $300—not everything about pickleball needs to break the bank. There’s plenty of gear out there promising performance boosts and high-tech advantages, but sometimes, the best upgrades are the simplest ones. Here are five must-have pieces of gear under $50 that make a real difference on the court—and leave room in your budget for post-game margaritas.
1. Selkirk Premium Paddle Case – $20
Protect your paddle like it’s your passport. The Selkirk Premium Case is padded, zippered, and fits most standard and elongated paddles. Keeps your investment safe from sun, sweat, and the inevitable backseat pile-up. Sleek, low-profile, and totally worth it.
2. ONIX Falcon Pickleball Eyewear – $40
I’ve seen several players take a pickleball to the eye over the years, and most of them were not direct hits, but actually deflections off their own paddle, or their partners. The ONIX Falcon Pickleball Eyewear is lightweight, shatterproof, and made specifically for pickleball players who don’t want a ball to the face to ruin their vision (or their vibe). With UV protection and anti-scratch lenses, they’re perfect for outdoor games—and they stay put, even during fast-paced play.
3. Tourna Pickleball Grip Enhancer – $10
If you’ve ever felt your paddle slipping mid-swing, this little puck of magic is your new best friend. Rub the Grip Enhancer on your hands to reduce sweat and instantly improve grip without any sticky mess. It lasts forever, fits in your bag, and works like a charm on humid days or marathon matches.
4. CRBN Paddle Eraser – $15
This compact, no-nonsense eraser keeps your paddle face clean and tacky without any water or fuss. CRBN’s version works especially well on textured carbon fiber paddles that need a little love after dusty outdoor play. Once you use it, you won’t want to go without it.
5. Franklin X-40 Outdoor Balls (12-Pack) – $30
Are they glamorous? No. Are they dependable? Absolutely. Franklin X-40s are the go-to for a reason: consistent bounce, solid durability, and approved for most rec and tournament play. A dozen for $30 means you can lose a few in the landscaping without feeling too bad.
Great gear doesn’t need a triple-digit price tag. These under-$50 MVPs keep you playing better, feeling better, and maybe even looking better too.
