If you’re a pickleball enthusiast like me, you know that rain can be a real bummer when playing this fun sport.
I’ve been playing pickleball for years and have had my fair share of rainy-day matches. And while it can be tempting to tough it out and keep playing in the rain, I’ve learned the hard way that it’s not worth it.
Can you play pickleball in the rain? Sure you can. However, I will explain why it’s not a good idea.
So, if you’re considering playing in wet conditions, stick around and let me share my personal experience and some helpful advice on why it’s best to avoid it altogether.
Can You Play Pickleball in The Rain?
While it might seem like a good idea to play pickleball in the rain or on a wet court, I can tell you that it’s best to pack up and head indoors. Let’s see why.
1. Slippery Court Surface
Playing pickleball in the rain or on a wet court increases the risk of slipping and falling. When the court is wet, the surface becomes slippery, making it challenging to maintain your footing.
This can result in serious injuries such as sprains, fractures, or even head injuries. As someone who has slipped and fallen on a wet court before, I can attest to how scary and painful it can be.
It’s simply not worth the risk to continue playing in such conditions. Even if you’re wearing appropriate footwear with a good grip, the unpredictable nature of a wet court can still cause you to lose your balance.
2. Poor Ball Control
A wet court surface makes it difficult to control the ball, leading to mistakes and poor shots.
The ball bounces differently on a wet court, and it can be challenging to get a consistent bounce, making it difficult to hit the ball with accuracy.
This will affect your overall game and diminish the fun factor of playing.
3. Damage Your Paddle
Wet conditions can cause the surface of the paddle to warp, which can affect how the ball bounces off it.
In addition to warping, the wet grip can also cause the paddle to slip out of your hand, leading to accidental damage to your paddle.
Keeping your paddle dry and in good condition will prolong its lifespan.
4. Increased Risk of Getting Sick
Playing pickleball in the rain is not advisable due to the increased risk of getting sick.
Wet and cold conditions can cause your body temperature to drop, making you more susceptible to catching a cold or the flu. Being wet for an extended period can also lower your immune system, which makes it easier for you to get sick.
5. Unpleasant Playing Conditions
Playing pickleball in wet clothes makes moving around freely and comfortably difficult. In addition, wet shoes can cause your feet to slip inside, leading to instability and a higher risk of injury.
6. Lightning
People love to go outside and watch lightning because of its raw power and awe-inspiring beauty. Trust me; I’m one of them!
However, playing pickleball in the rain can be dangerous due to the potential for lightning strikes. Thunderstorms often accompany the rain, and lightning strikes can occur without warning.
Pickleball courts are typically located in open areas and are surrounded by metal fencing, making players more vulnerable to lightning strikes.
As much as we may want to stay outside and watch the light show, it’s not worth the risk of being struck by lightning!
Can you play pickleball in the rain? I guess you could, but is it worth it?
Did You Know?
I’ve witnessed a significant transformation in the sports landscape, with pickleball rising from a little-known activity to widespread prominence.
The 2023 report from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) brings thrilling updates for pickleball fans! The sport continues to be America’s fastest-growing, with its expansion showing no signs of abating.
The year 2022 marked a remarkable surge in pickleball’s participation, which nearly doubled, registering an 85.7% increase from the previous year and an impressive 158.6% growth over the last three years.
Final Thoughts on Can You Play Pickleball in The Rain
I hope you have enjoyed this post on can you play pickleball in the rain. While it may seem like a fun and exciting challenge, the potential risks and discomfort simply aren’t worth it.
As someone who loves playing pickleball whenever I get the chance, It’s best to pass on playing in the rain.
The dangers of slipping, getting sick, damaging your equipment, and the potential for lightning strikes outweigh any potential benefits.
