Youth basketball equipment checklist

The basics

Basketball needs less equipment than many sports, which is part of its appeal. Most young beginners need only a few items to start, and your league or coach can tell you what is required or provided. This list covers what most families should think about.

Shoes, clothing and the ball

Shoes are the most important item. Basketball involves quick stops, jumping, and changes of direction, so a shoe should fit well and give good support and grip on an indoor court.

• Look for a shoe made for court sports, with a sole that grips a gym floor.
• Check the fit with the socks your child will actually wear. There should be a little room at the toe, and the heel should not slip.
• Have your child walk, jog and jump in them in the store if you can.
• Check fit again often. Growing feet can outgrow shoes quickly, and shoes that are too small or worn out can cause problems.
• Use court shoes mostly indoors, since outdoor pavement wears the soles down faster.

Clothing

• Uniform: most teams provide a jersey. Ask whether shorts, shirts underneath or specific colors are required.
• Shorts and shirt: choose breathable, loose clothing that allows free movement. Avoid anything with zippers, hard buttons or hanging strings.
• Socks: comfortable, snug socks help prevent blisters.

The ball

Basketballs come in different sizes, and the right size depends on the age group. Youth leagues often use smaller balls than adult leagues, but the exact size varies by league and age group, so check with yours before buying. A ball is helpful for practicing at home. Look for one that is rated for the surface you will play on, indoor, outdoor or both.

Safety gear and extras

• Mouthguard: some leagues require or recommend one. A properly fitted mouthguard can help protect teeth. Ask your coach or dentist.
• Eyewear: players who wear glasses should ask about sport-specific protective eyewear or secure straps, rather than playing in everyday frames.
• Knee or ankle braces: ask a doctor or athletic trainer before using these, and do not rely on them in place of proper warm-ups and coaching.
• Jewelry: most leagues do not allow watches, necklaces, rings or hard hair accessories, because they can injure other players. Medical alert items and some religious or cultural head coverings are often handled by specific league rules, so ask your league.
• Hair ties: soft hair ties or a headband can help keep hair out of the face.

Packing and caring for gear

1. Court shoes, in the bag or worn into the gym.
2. Uniform and a spare shirt.
3. A water bottle with your child's name on it.
4. A small snack for after practice or games.
5. Mouthguard or protective eyewear if needed.
6. Any medical items, such as an inhaler, as directed by your child's doctor. Tell the coach about them.

Taking care of the gear

A few simple habits help equipment last and stay safe. Wipe down the ball and keep it away from extreme heat or cold. Let shoes air out after practice rather than leaving them zipped in a bag. Wash uniforms as the team directs, and check shoelaces and soles from time to time. Replace anything cracked, torn or worn smooth, since a slippery sole on a gym floor can lead to falls.

Label everything with your child's name. Water bottles, jackets and shoes tend to look alike in a crowded gym, and a name on each item saves a lot of searching after games.

Buying tips for beginners

Wait to buy until you know what your league requires. Many leagues and community programs lend or provide balls and uniforms. If you are buying, prioritize fit and function over style. It is fine to buy secondhand items like balls or bags, but shoes with worn soles or collapsed support are best replaced. Do not buy equipment for your child to grow into, because that causes slips and blisters.

Once you have the gear, see how to prepare for basketball season for a plan for the first practices, and basketball rules for beginners to learn the game. The basketball hub lists more guides.