Prevent Pickleball Blisters

Pickleball Blisters: Don’t Let Them Keep You Off The Court!

Pickleball is fast, fun, and incredibly addictive—but it can also be tough on your skin. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned player, pickleball blisters are a common issue that can throw off your game and leave you sidelined. The good news? With a few smart habits and the right protection, you can stay blister-free and focused on your next rally.

What Causes Pickleball Blisters?

Blisters form when friction, heat, and moisture combine to irritate the skin. In pickleball, this happens most often from repeated motion—like swinging a paddle or moving quickly in tight shoes. Even experienced players who’ve built up calluses can develop blisters if conditions are right (or wrong).

The most common culprits:

• Paddle Grip Friction
  Swing after swing, your hand rubs against your paddle handle—especially with sweaty palms. Sweat leaves behind salt, which can weaken your skin and make blisters more likely.

• Poor-Fitting Shoes
  Shoes that are too loose, too tight, or just not built for court sports can create friction at your heels, toes, and arches—prime blister zones.

• Moisture Buildup
  Wet skin is more prone to breakdown. Without proper moisture management, socks and gloves can become blister-causing traps.

How to Treat Pickleball Blisters

If a blister does form, don’t panic. Most will heal on their own, but proper care helps prevent infection and speed up recovery:

1. Leave it Intact if You Can
   Try not to pop the blister—intact skin acts as a natural barrier against infection.

2. If You Must Drain It
   Use a sterilized needle, gently drain the fluid, clean the area, and apply an antibiotic ointment.

3. Cover & Protect
   Use a breathable bandage or blister pad to cushion the area and reduce further friction.

4. Watch for Infection
   Redness, pus, or worsening pain? See a doctor—it may be infected.

How to Prevent Pickleball Blisters

Blister prevention is all about reducing friction and protecting your skin before irritation begins. Here’s how:

Choose the Right Equipment

• Proper Paddle Grip:
  Make sure your paddle handle fits comfortably in your hand. Too small, and you’ll overgrip. Consider grip tape or overgrips to reduce slippage and stress.

• Supportive Footwear:
  Wear shoes designed for court sports, with snug—but not tight—fit. Combine them with moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry.

Manage Sweat

• Use towels, wristbands, and armbands to keep sweat under control—especially on hands and palms.

• Rotate socks or gloves between matches to stay dry.

Use Body Glide® Anti-Chafing Balms

The easiest way to protect your skin? Apply Body Glide® before you play.
Our balms create a long-lasting, invisible barrier that reduces friction where it counts—on hands, feet, and anywhere skin is prone to rubbing.

Why Body Glide works:

• Goes on dry and invisible—no mess or greasy residue

• Made with plant-based ingredients that moisturize and protect

• Won’t clog pores or damage clothing or gear

• Long-lasting formula stays put through hours of play

Use Body Glide® Original for hands and paddle grip zones, or Foot Glide® to protect your heels, toes, and arches.

Play Hard. Stay Comfortable.

Blisters don’t have to be part of the game. With the right gear, smart habits, and Body Glide® anti-chafing balms, you can keep your skin protected and your game strong.

Stay blister-free, stay on the court, and play your best.