What to wear for table tennis: shoes, shirts, and gear
You do not need special clothes to play, but a few choices make a real difference.
Shoes
Shoes matter most. Table tennis involves quick side steps on smooth floors, so grip and stability count.
- Indoor court shoes with a flat, grippy, non-marking sole are best. Table tennis shoes are thin and light, but squash, badminton, or volleyball shoes also work.
- Avoid running shoes if you can. Their thick, soft soles can roll during side steps.
- Avoid street shoes and dark-soled shoes that mark the floor. Many clubs and gyms ask for non-marking soles.
Clothing
- Breathable athletic shirts and shorts. You will sweat more than you expect.
- Avoid a plain white shirt if the club uses white balls, since the ball is harder to see. Orange balls are also common.
- Tournaments often have rules about shirt colors, so check before you enter. Competitors usually wear a shirt that is not white or orange.
Other gear
- A towel. Wipe your hands, never the paddle surface.
- A water bottle.
- A paddle case. It protects the rubber. See paddle care.
- Wristbands if your hands sweat.
Checklist
For a complete list, see what to bring to your first session.
Published Oct 3, 2026.