The Volleyball Gear You HAVE To Have

When it comes to buying volleyball gear, the bottom line that there are a lot of retailers that would love to talk you into buying a ton of equipment you don't really need in order to boost their profit margin. If you've got the money to spare that's fine, but if you're like most of us and living on a tight budget that slightly inflated list may mean the difference between purchasing high quality gear and second rate equipment that won't give you the performance quality you need.

Over the next few blog posts we're going to look at buying guidelines for your volleyball equipment so you're prepared when it's time to hit the stores, but before we do that I thought I should start by introducing you to the bare basics-the equipment you absolutely, positively cannot live without if you're talking about hitting the court on a regular basis.

First and foremost, you're going to need to purchase a good practice ball. There are hundreds of options out there to choose from, and a second-hand ball is just as good as a new one when you're first learning how to play if your budget is tight. As long as it's regulation sized, you're good to go.

Secondly, you're going to need a comfortable pair of shoes. You can play volleyball in jeans (although you shouldn't), you can play volleyball without proper knee pads, but you absolutely, positively cannot play indoor volleyball without a good pair of athletic shoes on your feet. (If you're a beach volleyball player this is a moot point when you're on the court; however, a good pair of sneakers is going to be vital for training.)

Speaking of training gear, you're going to want to make sure you've got some comfortable practice clothes handy. A great pair of spandex shorts, a comfortable pair of sweats and a tee-shirt that lets you move freely are the basic essentials. Ladies, don't forget to add a sports bra to your shopping list! Not only is it provide more support than a regular bra, it's a lot more comfortable when things start getting hot and sticky.

Knee pads are going to be a must sooner or later, so it's wise to pick them up to protect your joints from the very beginning. Luckly, knee pads now a days do protect the like they are suppose to! To make sure you're never left searching for your gear when it's time to hit the court, invest in a duffle or backpack reserved exclusively for your volleyball gear.

Unless you need to add a net to your collection (which you may if you don't play with an established league) these are the bare essentials you're going to need to get you started. Tune in on Friday for helpful hints on choosing a top of the line ball that will make sure you're primed and ready to play the game of your life when it's time for your first game!

Come check out our huge selection of volleyballs, kneepads, jerseys and other volleyball gear at http://www.volleyballproshop.com/.