USA Pickleball Referees
Quick update on uniform supply.
Our Distributor is in the testing phase of uniform distribution. Some referees will be allowed to order on a test basis.
Just be patient please. This has been a journey down a rocky road with many turns. We expect by September to be in full operation. We have a list of everyone that has uniforms. We will start taking orders soon. The uniforms are free but there is a shipping and handling fee. You will need approval to order so that outside individuals do not order.
There will be USA Pickleball Referee shirts, hats and jackets for sale on the site. These are for Credentialed Referees only. If you have changed size, forgot where you put your hat, or just need another shirt you will be allowed to order. These are actual uniforms suitable to be worn on court and in training in the US. This is not casual wear. Kitch will have USA Pickleball (non Referee logo) items for general sale.
USA Pickleball has updated the uniform guidelines for 2026. They are going to update again soon. If you have any questions please contact USAP officiating or your RTC/CRC/ Section Leader. We have had four cases this year where referees assumed they were permitted to wear uniforms and were not correct.
Updates include the definition of Cargo short and pants. A small zippered side pocket with no content are acceptable. The Velcro closure pleated pockets are not. As a general rule, if the pocket is sewn on to the outside of the pants or shorts its not accepted.
Mid thigh shorts and skirts are not allowed. Referees that are playing for training such as TRR or ATS and are changing roles between player and Referee are allowed to play in their uniforms. Hats and visors are part of the uniform and are only to be worn with the shirt and or jacket. No Show or ankle socks are not allowed. Even with shorts and skirts. Buttons on shirts. Men and Women are allowed to have one button from the top open. On broadcast courts all buttons are required.
Remember that Verified Trainees do not have a uniform are to wear a plain white polo and black pants, skirts or shorts.
Retired, Suspended and Inactive former referees are not to wear the USA Pickleball Referee Uniform. Uniforms are not to be loaned to non credentialed referees. If a referee has left the program and has a uniform to return or give away please contact USAP Officiating at https://usapickleball.org/contact/. We can try and find it a good home.