Pickleball Superstitions: Lucky Socks, Paddles & Pre-Game Rituals
Inside the Quirky Habits That Players Swear By
Pickleball is a game of skill, strategy, and… socks? Oh yes. For many players, what happens on the court is only half the battle. The other half? An elaborate web of rituals, lucky charms, and deeply held beliefs that range from the mildly quirky to the full-on theatrical.
For the last few months I won’t put a ball in my pocket when I’m playing. I have no idea how this superstition started, but now I’m that guy. And I know someone who always wears a headband, usually orange. Here are some other superstitions that showcase the lighter (and weirder) side of pickleball.
The Lucky Paddle
We’ll start with the classic. Many players swear their paddle has a "sweet spot" that only activates when they're wearing their favorite hat, standing on a certain side of the court, or haven’t washed the paddle since Tuesday. Switching paddles mid-match? Blasphemy. Even touching someone else’s paddle might bring a curse upon your dink game.
The Serve Ritual
Ever notice someone bouncing the ball exactly three times before serving? That’s no coincidence. It’s a sacred routine. One bounce too many, and suddenly the serve flies into the net. Two bounces? Don’t even joke. This is pickleball, not chaos.
Court Karma
Some players believe the court itself holds energy. Certain courts are “hot” or “cursed.” You might hear someone say, “I never win on Court 4,” with the same intensity as someone describing a haunted house. One missed shot and suddenly it’s not your fault—it’s the court's bad juju.
Outfit Magic
That neon visor and mismatched socks combo might look like a fashion emergency, but it’s actually good luck. Many a match has been won (or at least believed to be won) thanks to a specific outfit. Woe to the player who dares to change from their “winning skirt” to something more breathable.
So, are these superstitions completely rational? Of course not. Are they funny, endearing, and part of what makes pickleball so fun? Absolutely.
After all, pickleball isn’t just about the score—it’s about the stories, the rituals, and the strange little habits we pick up along the way. Whether you bless your paddle before play or insist on using only the green Franklin balls, you're in good company. Superstition might not win games, but it sure keeps things interesting.