Before you begin playing you are going to need to get the following equipment. They go in order from poles, nets, shoes, balls, knee pads, and active ankles.

                       Poles

          In order to have a net you need something to hold it up. That is what poles are for. Poles are basically metal rods that are used to string the net up. They also pull the net tight so you can play the ball off of it.

                   Nets

          Nets are used to divide the court in half. In the game of volleyball touching or going under the net is illegal and the other team will be given the point and the ball. The net is made out of strings tied together to form squares all the way across.

                Shoes

          Depending upon what type of volleyball you are playing, shoes are absolutely necessary. In indoor volleyball you need shoes to enhance your height but mostly for comfort and support. They also help you jump higher. In beach volleyball you do not need shoes.

                                Balls

          Volleyballs are absolutely necessary to play. They are the main object in the sport. With a ball you can serve, hit, bump, set, and pancake. They are usually made out of some type of leather. Inside is a rubber bladder that fills up with air when you inflate the ball.

                                    Knee Pads

          Knee pads are used to protect you knees and they allow you to slide more swiftly. Although knee pads are not required, it is suggested if you want to save yourself from nasty floor burns.

                       Active Ankles®

          Active Ankles® are ankle supports most volleyball player’s use. When playing front row and jumping very high up into the air you are likely to come down on top of someone’s foot. This could twist or possibly even sprain you ankle. Active Ankles® will still let you move freely but will keep your ankles from spraining. They are not required but are suggested.