Do I need special clothes for padel?

No. Any comfortable, breathable sportswear works. Shoes matter much more than clothes.

Can I wear sunglasses to play padel?

Yes. On outdoor courts, sports sunglasses that stay put help with low sun and high lobs.

Is there a dress code at padel clubs?

Rarely beyond sportswear and proper sports shoes. Some venues ban studs, spikes, sandals or casual shoes, so check if you're unsure.

What to wear for padel

No special clothing needed. Wear light, breathable sportswear you can lunge and stretch in, sports socks that cushion quick stops, and court shoes with non-marking soles.

Updated 30 September 2026. No sponsored picks: we don't sell kit and nobody paid to be mentioned.

Illustration: a sports T-shirt, shorts, a cap and a pair of socks laid out on a padel court

Short answer: a breathable T-shirt or top; shorts, a skirt or leggings you can lunge in; cushioned sports socks; and court shoes. Add a cap for outdoor courts. Most UK venues have no dress code beyond sportswear and proper sports shoes.

Tops

A light, breathable sports top. Padel is stop-start and sweaty, so technical fabrics that dry quickly are more comfortable than cotton, especially indoors.

Shorts, skirts and leggings

Anything you can crouch and lunge in without it riding up. A pocket that holds a spare ball is handy between points.

Socks

Cushioned sports socks, not thin trainer liners. Padel is full of sudden stops, and good socks cut blisters and stop your foot sliding inside the shoe. Socks that come above the ankle also help keep sand out.

Outdoor courts

A cap or visor for low sun, especially when you're looking up for a lob.
Sunscreen: outdoor sessions often run longer than you planned.
A light layer for early mornings and evenings, and a spare top for after.

Do padel clubs have a dress code?

Mostly no. Most UK venues ask for sportswear and proper sports or court shoes, and nothing more. Park Sports at Lammas Park says there's no dress code on its padel courts, and Better says you don't need anything specific to start. Some venues ban certain shoes: Bannatyne Grove Park asks for court shoes with no studs or spikes, and Rocket Padel's terms say sandals and casual shoes may not be allowed. In competitions, the FIP rules ask for suitable sports clothing and footwear, and no swimwear.

Questions people ask

Do I need special clothes for padel?: No. Any comfortable, breathable sportswear works. Shoes matter much more than clothes.
Can I wear sunglasses to play padel?: Yes. On outdoor courts, sports sunglasses that stay put help with low sun and high lobs.
Is there a dress code at padel clubs?: Rarely beyond sportswear and proper sports shoes. Some venues ban studs, spikes, sandals or casual shoes, so check if you're unsure.