Players keen to learn the sport need some basic basketball equipment to get started, whether you’re looking to join a team, work with a coach, or participate in basketball games at your school, college or local court.
How should a beginner train for basketball? The first task is to ensure you have a good quality ball, clothing and equipment.
It can take trial and error to select the brands, styles and fit that you feel most comfortable in, so we’ve shared some tips and advice to help you pick the right equipment.
Basketball Training Equipment
Most of the equipment you need to play basketball is likely already in place at your sports centre or court, but as a summary, you’ll need:
- A basketball hoop or set of hoops–these can be affixed to a wall or freestanding hoops on a frame.
- A ball–leagues have specific ball sizes that are inflated to a certain pressure, but in training, any decent ball will do the job!
- Training aids–things like agility hurdles and rebound attachments for a hoop are ideal if available.
Aside from these pieces of equipment, the other items you’ll need are clothing, with basketball brands the best choice since things like basketball shoes are designed specifically for the sport and are different from casual or running shoes.
Jerseys for Basketball
Sportswear made for high-action games makes a significant impact on your comfort, with jerseys created to be lightweight, flexible, and high-wicking, which means a great jersey will feel effortless rather than becoming heavy and damp during an intense match.
Most basketball jerseys are either polyester or a polyester blend; if you already own some player jerseys, you’ll know they’re very light and don’t shrink or crease in the wash. Other features like mesh panels are there for breathability and ensure you keep your cool even when the game gets heated.
Basketball Shorts
Athletic shorts are better than general cotton shorts that might start to rub if you’re running and shooting during a training session. Basketball shorts are made with the same fabrics and features as jerseys and are pull-on with elasticated waistbands for a secure fit.
Shoes and Socks
Your basketball shoes are perhaps the most important piece of equipment you will use, and a supportive high-top is a good bet–go for your regular shoe size and be sure to wear them in a little before your first match or training session to avoid blisters.
Basketball is normally played on an indoor court, so you’ll want footwear that is suited to this surface, although you can also purchase outdoor or multi-purpose basketball shoes that are fine to use on outdoor or concrete courts. Compression socks are a great option if you have them–they help support healthy circulation and can save your feet from feeling sore and tired after a long day of basketball.
Otherwise, you can opt for sports socks or even wear two pairs; this is common in basketball as it provides a softer cushion for your heels and reduces friction as you spin, run and pivot.
Accessory Basketball Equipment
Much depends on your personal style and preferences, but if you’re playing in the summer, you might like to pick up:
- A cap to keep the sun out of your eyes
- Sweatbands for your head or wrists
- Spare jerseys and water bottles
In the winter, basketball players also bring a tracksuit or warm layers to put on over their jersey while warming up and fingerless sports gloves to keep their hands flexible without impacting their grip. It’s also worth having a kit bag, particularly for your basketball shoes, so they don’t get worn or dirty when you’re travelling to and from training; some indoor courts have very strict rules about wearing outdoor shoes on a newly cleaned surface!
Having all the essential sportswear can make a difference to your basketball game for various reasons, but it is primarily there to ensure you’re comfortable and aren’t wearing anything that will restrict movement or limit your range of motion. Make sure you try everything on before your first game or workout to check it fits correctly. The best kit will feel easy to move around in, so it won’t interrupt your movements on the court.
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