Ever been invited to play pickleball but you're not sure what to wear? Tights? Joggers? A dress? No worries. I'll help you sort it out.
Pickleball skirts and skorts are super popular on the court, and the number of choices available has skyrocketed in recent years. They move well, keep you cool, and look good.
But wait! Are pickleball skorts better than skirts, and can you use a tennis skort instead? What pickleball skirt goes with a pair of top pickleball shoes? How do you choose a pickleball skirt, skort, or skirted legging?
I'll answer all of those questions below. I've also added a buyer's guide to help you choose the right pickleball skirt or skort for your needs. Whether you're just getting started in pickleball or adding to your collection, read on for the options I'd look at first.
Best pickleball skirts and skorts
This is a big decision! You want to make sure you’re the best-dressed player on the court, while not sacrificing performance. You may have style preferences, like camo print, comfy built-in shorts, or maybe, an A-line wearable.
I'll cover them all. Here are my top picks for the best pickleball skirts and skorts:
Best overall
The Ekouaer line has a long track record with Amazon shoppers and comes in on top. Stretchy, stylish, breathable, these skorts are a great fit for most players. Plenty of colors and patterns at a reasonable price make Ekouaer Athletic skorts my pick for Best Overall.
Specifications:
- Materials: 100% Polyester
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 24
- Pockets: 1
Pros:
- Elastic waistband
- Headphone cable hole
- Wrinkle-resistant
Cons:
- Shorts are not made for cold weather
Best lightweight
If you want to quickly hop around the court without anything weighing you down, check out the Fulbelle line. They almost feel like you’re wearing nothing. But these pickleball skirts come with three pockets and are still super stylish.
Specifications:
- Materials: 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 17
- Pockets: 3
Pros:
- Incredibly light weight
- Multiple pockets (two hidden, one side)
- Stylish patterns
Cons:
- Can sometimes fit larger than expected
Best pleated
Ekouaer Pleated Athletic Skort
Ekouaer shows up again with the pleated version of their best-selling skirt. These offer everything that won the brand best overall but with a slightly more stylish look (and slightly more expensive price tag).
Specifications:
- Materials: 100% Polyester
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 18
- Pockets: 1
Pros:
- Elastic waistband
- Moisture-wicking
Cons:
- Fewer colors
- Headphone cable hole can be noticeable
Best for comfort
The polyspan blend that HEAD offers in their skirt is like playing in a pillow. It’s super comfy and has such a simple design that it won’t irritate your skin with seams or zippers. You can play pickleball all day wearing this skirt!
Specifications:
- Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 5
- Pockets: 2
Pros:
- Very comfortable
- Side pockets
- Breathable
Cons:
- Limited colors
- Can fit small
Best long skort for UV protection
These high-waist, knee-length skorts can be difficult to find at times. But the MOTEEPI line is perfect for those who are looking for something with a little more UV protection.
Specifications:
- Materials: Skirt – 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex, Lining – 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL
- Colors/Patterns: 23
- Pockets: 5
Pros:
- Modest length
- Multiple pockets (two outside, two inside, one hidden)
Cons:
- Some patterns not available in all sizes
- Can feel heavier
Best breathable
Talk about looking good and feeling good, the CRZ YOGA line of pleated skirts describes themselves as a “feathery fit.” Head right from the yoga studio to the court!
Specifications:
- Materials: Skirt – 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex, Lining – 71% Polyamide, 29% Spandex
- Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
- Colors/Patterns: 26
- Pockets: 3
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- Multiple pockets (back, front waistband, inside)
Cons:
- Too short for some customers
Best skirt with inner shorts
Sometimes skorts aren’t the look you’re going for, even if you want the extra coverage. That’s not an issue with these, as the drawstring-waisted skirt completely covers the shorts as a nearly independent layer.
Specifications:
- Materials: 90% Polyester, 5% Spandex, 5% Rayon
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 36
- Pockets: 2
Pros:
- Can’t see-through
- Modest
- Stretchy
Cons:
- Fabric can pill easily
- Not as breathable
Best skirt with leggings
ANIVIVO Tennis Leggings Full-Length
Some players will want a skirt with full-size leggings so that they can play in colder climates or just cover up. The ANIVIVO line is a great option.
Specifications:
- Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 48
- Pockets: 2
Pros:
- Full-length leggings
- Stretchy
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Can be expensive depending on pattern
Best skirts by length
If the most important thing to you is finding the perfect length, then we've got you covered. Here are our top picks for pickleball skirts and skorts by length:
Best mini skirts
You might click on that link and wonder “well that doesn’t look too short.” Trust me, the MCEDAR line fits small, and essentially ends up as a mini skirt. The thing is, they still look great!
Specifications:
- Materials: Polyester/Spandex/Nylon blend
- Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 23
- Pockets: 3
Pros:
- Very stylish
- Comfortable
- Multiple pockets (inside, hidden)
Cons:
- Can fit small
- Some customers will find them too revealing
Best midi skirts
For something a little more modest but with all the same style, check out Ibeauti’s pleated line. You can even get a cute flag print if you’re headed out to a party on the Fourth of July.
Specifications:
- Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 13
- Pockets: 3
Pros:
- Stylish
- Breathable
- Fun patterns
Cons:
- Limited colors
- Doesn’t wick sweat
Best long skirts
Another beautiful longer design is the KORALHY knee-length skirt line, which is worn mostly by tennis club members. It’s great for pickleball too, and won’t look out of place when you hit the patio after!
Specifications:
- Materials: 87% Polyester, 13% Spandex
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 10
- Pockets: 4
Pros:
- Modest
- Beautiful design
- Fine for non-athletic outings
Cons:
- Limited colors
Best skirts with pockets
You don't want to have to carry around a bag when you're playing pickleball. That's why we love skirts and skorts with pockets. You can keep your phone, keys, and other essentials close at hand without having to worry about them.
Skirts with ball pocket
These skorts were in the running for best overall, but they’ll find a fit here as the perfect option with a big ball pocket. For serious players, these are the ones!
Specifications:
- Materials: 94% Polyester, 6% Spandex
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 34
- Pockets: 1
Pros:
- Quick-drying fabric
- High performance
- Solid return policy
Cons:
- No hidden or outer pockets
With 3/4/5 pockets
BALEAF High Waisted 4-Pocket Skirt
BALEAF comes right back with their four-pocket option, which has an extra back zipper pocket for holding even more.
Specifications:
- Materials: 75% Nylon, 25% Spandex
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 10
- Pockets: 4
Pros:
- Lots of pockets
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Zipper can annoy at times
Other skirts and skorts
The picks above are all great but maybe you are looking for something a little more specific. Here are some more great pickleball skirts and skorts:
Best skirts for older women
Right from the review section on Amazon: “I am a teacher and the length is very appropriate!” These modest knee-length skorts are great for playing pickleball, or just about anything els
Specifications:
- Materials: 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 15
- Pockets: 3
Pros:
- Modest
- Versatile
- UPF 50+
Cons:
- Some might find them heavy
- Limited patterns
Best for style
Want to make a real entrance? How about this take-no-prisoners brand that is all about unique styles and patterns. The Andy Warhol-inspired wine skirt, or the loud Dink-Dink-Wham! design will surely turn some heads.
Specifications:
- Materials: Polyester/Spandex blend
- Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: Rotating
- Pockets: 0
Pros:
- Great designs that are always changing
- Unique look
Cons:
- Expensive
- No pockets
Best stretchable
Another contender for the best ladies pickleball skirts, they’ll find a place on our list because of the stretchable nature of their fabric. You can do just about anything in a Werena, and look good doing it.
Specifications:
- Materials: 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex
- Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 34
- Pockets: 3
Pros:
- Very stretchy
- Lots of colors
Cons:
- Limited patterns
- Very common now
Best skin friendly
If you have sensitive skin, you’ll need something that won’t leave your thighs raw and chafed at the end of a game. The LouKeith line is perfect for that, with its super-soft feel.
Specifications:
- Materials: 75% Nylon, 25% Spandex
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colors/Patterns: 24
- Pockets: 1
Pros:
- Very soft
- Comfortable
- Breathable
Cons:
- Only one pocket
How to choose the best skirts for pickleball
Even if you don't take one of our recommendations, there are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing a pickleball skirt or skort.
Length
First, consider the length. You want a skirt or skort that's long enough to cover your backside but not so long that it gets in the way when you're playing.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a skirt or skort that falls at or just above the knee. This will give you the coverage you need without getting in the way of your game. For the winter season, you can buy a skirted legging to wear on the court.
Style
Do you want to make a big entrance, or sport the subdued, professional look? The answer to this question will help you determine the style of skirt or skort you want.
For a more dramatic entrance, go for a pleated pickleball skirt with ruffles or tulle. If you prefer a subtler look, choose a solid-colored wrap skirt or skort.
Find the perfect paddle
I've personally tested over 200 paddles. Take the quiz to see which ones fit your game best.
Color
Along the same lines is color. Do you want to stand out on the court or blend in? Professional pickleball players usually choose white or black pickleball skirts or skorts. But if you want to add a pop of color, go for it.
Breathability
It’s the worst feeling in the world to be caught on a hot day in a pickleball skirt that doesn't breathe. Not only will you be uncomfortable, but you'll also be at a disadvantage on the court.
To avoid this situation, choose a pickleball skirt or skort made from lightweight, breathable fabric. This will keep you cool and dry, no matter how long the game goes.
Level up with a lesson
Up your game with a 1-on-1 lesson. See what's available in your area!
Pockets
Do you want to keep an extra ball for the serve, or your phone close at hand? If so, look for a pickleball skirt or skort with pockets.
- Ball pockets: These are open at the bottom. So, you can put a ball away without lifting your skirt. Not sure which ball to carry? Here's my guide to the best pickleball balls.
- Inside pockets: On the shorts, these inside pockets can keep your phone or keys secure.
- Back pockets: Usually a zipper along the waistband that's big enough to fit a phone.
- Hidden pockets: On the inside of the waistband to hide a single key or card.
Fabric quality
Even if it's breathable, a pickleball skirt or skort made from cheap fabric will be uncomfortable and won't last long. To get the most bang for your buck, choose a skirt or skort made from high-quality fabric, such as polyester or nylon.
These fabrics are durable and can withstand the rigors of pickleball without losing their shape or color. Plus, they'll keep you cool and comfortable even on the hottest days.
Design & print
You can get a simple, solid-colored pickleball skirt or skort. Or, you can choose one with a fun print or design. If you want to show your personality on the court, go for the printed option!
Floral prints are always popular, as are geometric patterns and abstract designs. Just make sure the print isn't too busy. Otherwise, it will be distracting when you're playing (unless that’s what you’re going for!) Wear them with a nice pair of pickleball shoes.
Price
Last but definitely not least, you'll want to consider price when choosing a pickleball skirt or skort. Skirts and skorts can range from around $20 to $100 or more, depending on the brand you go with.
Pickleball skirt vs skort
Are skorts better than skirts? It's a matter of personal preference, but I think skorts have a few advantages.
Many pickleball skirts are quite short, which can be a bit revealing during play. Skorts offer more coverage, which can be important depending on your preference.
Second, they're more comfortable. While some tennis skirts can feel a bit constricting, skorts allow for more movement and breathability. This is especially important in pickleball since the game is quite active.
So, if you're looking for a pickleball skirt or skort that's both stylish and comfortable, I'd go with a skort.
Bottom line
There you have it. My guide to the best pickleball skirts and skorts. I hope it helps you narrow down your choices and find the right skirt or skort for your game.
Now, all you have to do is grab yourself a top pickleball paddle, and get yourself down to your local court - unless you're looking for more game-ready pickleball gear, that is. Either way, let us know how you get on via social!
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