Preparing for the Outdoor Season

I very recently spent some time playing outside in some very hot conditions and I’m about to do so again.

It got me thinking about playing outdoor pickleball in Toronto, and how many of us are so ready to ditch the indoor Onix and swap winter boots for hats and sunscreen.

Even though I went through a more extreme temperature change (from the weather in Toronto to 28 degrees, full sunshine, and humidity), whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, there are several key steps you can take to ensure you're ready to hit the courts and make the most of your time outdoors.

In this article, we'll explore some essential tips and tricks for preparing for the outdoor pickleball season.

Image credit: Sara McInnes

Check Your Equipment:

So, just how much does your outdoor gear differ from indoor play, aside from the ball? Most players will be switching their softer, rubber indoor footwear for a harder court shoe.

I highly suggest doing so or wearing a multi-court shoe. The sole of an indoor shoe will rip pretty quickly, otherwise.

Many players tape their paddle edge guard to prevent scraping, this is especially a good idea if you’re playing in Toronto where most courts are on cement or concrete.

Check your paddles for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or chips. It also may be time to think about replacing it after the summer season, so trying a few demo paddles with the outdoor conditions and elements is not a bad idea.

Check your pickleballs as well, as they can become worn or misshapen over time. If you’re one of those players who use courts outside during the winter, the Franklin X-40 cracks pretty easily, but fortunately, it’s also really easy to see the cracks forming on a ball.

Having the right equipment is essential for playing your best game and ensuring a smoother transition.

For anyone who plays in larger groups where there’s a bit of a wait time, I highly recommend buying or finding a folding chair to toss into your car.

Many outdoor courts do not have an ideal place to sit and rest.

Image credit: Sara McInnes

Adjusting to Outdoor Conditions:

Playing pickleball outdoors comes with its own set of challenges, including wind, sun, and varying court surfaces.

Take some time to acclimate to these outdoor conditions by practicing in different weather conditions and on different types of courts.

This will help you adapt your game and develop strategies for dealing with outdoor elements.

Many people use a website called “Playtime Scheduler”. This website was designed for players to find individuals or small groups to join, of a similar skill level.

Unfortunately, the website with all of its good intentions has been taken out of context.

People tend to treat it like a court reservation system. Just a reminder that outdoor courts that are provided by the city are public and cannot be reserved unless the city approves a permit.

If you happen to come across a group who state that they get to use the court (like they're running a club), you can kindly ask to see their permit.

Stay Hydrated:

Outdoor pickleball can be physically demanding, especially in hot weather, but particularly, in the spring when it’s not as hot out, I find that people tend to forget to hydrate.

Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your games to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration. Consider bringing a water bottle with you to the courts and taking regular breaks to rehydrate.

Protect Yourself from the Sun:

Playing pickleball outdoors means exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, as well as a hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from the sun.

Consider playing during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense, or seek out courts with shaded areas.

Warm Up Properly:

Before diving into a game, take the time to properly warm up your muscles and joints to prevent injuries. Start with some light cardio, such as jogging or jumping jacks, followed by dynamic stretches to loosen up your muscles.

Pay special attention to your shoulders, arms, and legs, as these are the areas most commonly used in pickleball.

Brush Up on Locations: 

Some municipalities are subtly adding more pickleball court lines to their underutilized tennis courts.

Here in Toronto, this is very much the case. You will probably spend the first few times recalling the courts you like and why (and on the flip side, the courts you least prefer, and those reasons why).

For example, there are a few locations I enjoy if I’m drilling one vs one, and locations I like when I’m coordinating a larger group of players but there are also courts I’ve simply forgotten about and there are also locations I will avoid depending on weather conditions.

Image credit: Sara McInnes

On the Flipside:

If you are a snowbird reading this and you’re coming from endless days of sunny Floridian (or other sunny states) pickleball, be prepared to make some of your own adjustments yourself.

The players are different, I find that people who have only played up here have a different style from those who play in various places in North America. The system of sharing the public courts is different as well.

People here play all throughout the day, really, but in hotter climates, pickleball will be played early in the morning or in the evening; avoiding the afternoon.

If you’re playing with people who have been indoors all winter, then you may need to exercise some patience for players who are a little creaky, but it shouldn’t take long for the W-D40 to work its magic.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the outdoor pickleball season can require a combination of physical preparation, mental focus, and coordinating.

I would say most people slip into the summer season without really thinking about it, but the more planning you do I’m sure then the more ready you will be to hit the courts and make the most of your time outdoors. 

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