Summer is just around the corner.
It’s time for frozen drinks, afternoons spent at the lake or beach, and, of course, sweaty, scorching pickleball matches.
For pickleball players – especially those who play outdoors – the summer heat adds an extra layer of risk. Heat stroke is more likely to occur after prolonged exposure to heat and is more common in the summer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Heat exhaustion can occur after excessive sweating, according to the CDC.
Planning ahead can help reduce your risk. When the dog days of summer get a little too hot, it’s crucial to have a few strategies to stay cool on the court.
We’re sharing our best tips for protecting yourself from the summer heat, as well as a few products you’ll want in your arsenal before the sweltering summer begins!
5 Tips for Staying Cool on the Pickleball Court
Staying cool on the court doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple tips will help you battle the summer heat in a safe way.
Be Smart About Scheduling
Temperatures climb highest on summer afternoons. Avoid scheduling pickleball matches during the afternoons. Instead, hit the courts in the morning or evening for a little relief from the heat.
Dress Accordingly
Preparing for the heat starts before you even leave the house. When the temperatures spike, reach for clothes made of sweat-wicking and dri-fit fabrics. Light colors like white, tan, and pastels reflect sunlight, making them a great option for hot days. Long sleeves also keep the heat off your skin, making you feel cooler.
Drink Plenty of Water
It’s obvious but worth repeating here: Drink plenty of water and electrolyte drinks before, during, and after your match. Experiment with different hydration approaches to find out what works best for you, but a good rule of thumb is to drink half of your body weight in ounces each day, according to Self. On days you plan to exercise, add another 16 to 20 ounces for every hour of activity.
Set Aside Time to Adjust
It takes time to get used to the heat. As summer begins, carve out some time for some short bursts of exercise to allow your body to get used to the new temperatures. Start with a jog around the neighborhood or an extra-short pickleball match. Increase the time and intensity of exercise over the ensuing weeks so you’ll be well-prepared for the hottest days of the year!
Know Your Danger Zone
When heatstroke and heat exhaustion set in, your body temperature can spike quickly and lead to scary outcomes like disability or death. It’s important to know the signs so you can catch them early. Cramps, dizziness, and nausea can be early indications of heatstroke and heat exhaustion, according to SELF. If you notice these symptoms, get out of the heat and seek medical attention.
5 Products to Help You Stay Cool on the Pickleball Court
Dilly Life Dip Dye Performance Tank Top
There are tons of dip dye pieces to mix and match from this Dilly Life collection, but the performance tank top is our absolute must-have. The ombre color scheme will help you stand out on the court, and the UPF30 UV sun protection will keep you safe in the heat. Take advantage of our discount here use INTOPB20 to receive 20% OFF site-wide
Xena Therapies Onyx Cool Cool Cap
Pop this cool cap under your hat for immediate cooling relief. There are two temperature options: 58 Degree Chill and 80 Degree Go. Both are designed to cool you down without leading to frostbite or ice burns. Keep one handy to help ease heat stress and heat exhaustion.
Total Pickleball Travis Mathew Below Zero Cooler Backpack
Hydration is crucial to staying safe in hot temperatures. Load this cooler backpack with cold water and electrolyte drinks for easy access to the court. With an antimicrobial liner and a comfortable compression strap, you’ll be able to use this handy cooler all summer long.
Phantom Pickleball Cooling Hoodie Towel
This cooling towel offers UPF50 sun protection and is water-activated, hyper-evaporative fabric to help it stay cool for up to two hours. It can be worn as a hood or a towel and needs just 30 seconds to cool 30 degrees below your body temperature.
Joola Water Bottle
Fill up this 40-ounce water bottle and keep your sips within arm’s reach throughout the day. The stainless steel bottle is double insulated to keep water ice cold. The best part? The screw-top lid is leakproof, so you can toss it in your bag without worrying about spills.
Ready to Stay Cool This Summer?
Yes, your pickleball game is on fire – and so are the summer temps. By adding these tips to your pre and post-match routine and snagging a few stay-cool products, you’ll be able to stay cool on the courts all summer long.
