In Ultimate, the right equipment can make the difference between a good day on the field and an injury. But you don't need to spend a fortune to get started.
Entering the world of Ultimate Frisbee is exciting and, like any sport, having the right equipment is essential to fully enjoy it without unnecessary risks. For beginners, knowing what to buy, what to prioritize, and how to optimize the budget can make the difference between a frustrating experience and one that inspires you to keep growing in the game.
In this chapter, we will guide you to discover everything you need to equip yourself properly: from the ideal shoes to the right clothing, including sun protection, hydration, and accessories that will make your training and games more comfortable and effective. Additionally, we will share practical tips for beginners focusing on the reality of amateur players and the training sessions of the Disckatus Madrid team, who meet every Monday and Wednesday at the Orcasur Sports Center.
Get ready to equip yourself smartly and start living Ultimate like a true hero on the field.
Choosing the right shoes is one of the most important steps for any Ultimate player, especially beginners. The sport demands quick movements, abrupt changes of direction, jumps, and slides, so inappropriate footwear can cause injuries or discomfort.
What to look for in Ultimate shoes? The essentials are good traction, lateral support, cushioning, and lightness. Unlike other sports, Ultimate is mainly played on grass or synthetic surfaces, so football shoes with short studs or turf shoes are the best option. In Spain, brands like Nike, Adidas, or Asics offer specific models for grass sports that are perfect for Ultimate.
For beginners, it is recommended to look for shoes that offer a good quality-price ratio, prioritizing comfort and durability. A practical tip is to invest in a model that allows optimal grip without sacrificing mobility. Remember that your feet will be your main tool to dominate the field.
If you attend training sessions with Disckatus Madrid at Orcasur Sports Center, you will notice that most players wear shoes with rubber studs, which offer a good balance between traction and comfort, ideal to avoid slipping on wet or artificial grass.
Clothing for playing Ultimate should be comfortable, breathable, and allow freedom of movement. Since the game requires running, jumping, and continuous throws, tight but flexible clothing is the best option to avoid distractions or discomfort during the game.
For beginners, we recommend technical material shirts that absorb sweat and shorts or sports leggings with good elasticity. Avoid cotton garments, as they retain moisture and can cause chafing.
Besides comfort, consider the climate. In Madrid, Disckatus Madrid training sessions usually take place in spring and summer, so a light shirt and shorts are ideal. During winter, light and breathable layers, such as thermal shirts and windbreakers, will help you maintain temperature without losing mobility.
Another point to consider is using light colors to reflect the sun and avoid overheating, especially in outdoor sessions.
Ultimate is mostly played outdoors, which implies prolonged exposure to sunlight. Sun protection is therefore an aspect that should not be overlooked to avoid burns, irritations, or long-term health problems.
Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum protection factor of 30 before going out to train or compete. Remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you sweat a lot. Complement protection with a light cap or visor, which also helps keep your vision clear and prevents the sun from affecting your sight during throws.
Also, consider using sports sunglasses with UV filter to protect your eyes without losing field of vision. For training at Orcasur Sports Center, where the sun can be intense, this extra protection will make a difference.
In a dynamic sport like Ultimate, constant hydration is essential to avoid premature fatigue and maintain concentration on the field. Drinking water before, during, and after exercise is a basic rule every player should follow.
For beginners, we recommend always bringing a reusable water bottle to training or matches. If the session is very intense or lasts more than an hour, consider isotonic drinks to replenish electrolytes and maintain body balance.
A practical trick is to hydrate in small frequent sips instead of drinking large amounts at once. You can also complement hydration with fresh fruits rich in water, like watermelon or orange, which are easy to carry and provide natural energy.
At Disckatus Madrid, one of the tips reinforced during training is to drink at least half a liter of water in each session to ensure optimal performance and prevent cramps or dizziness.
Beyond shoes, clothing, sun protection, and hydration, there are several accessories that can facilitate your experience as an Ultimate player:
These accessories are not mandatory but can make a difference in your comfort and development during the first months. Consider acquiring them gradually according to your needs and budget.
One of the most common concerns when starting Ultimate is the cost of equipment. The good news is that it is not necessary to make a very large investment from the start to play well and enjoy.
Here is a practical guide to organize your budget:
In total, with around 100-150 euros you can assemble a basic kit that will allow you to train and compete comfortably. Also, Disckatus Madrid usually shares recommendations and opportunities to buy equipment at good prices, so don't hesitate to ask during the training sessions held on Mondays and Wednesdays at Orcasur Sports Center.
Remember that the key is to prioritize the essentials and shop smartly, avoiding unnecessary expenses on items that do not add real value for a beginner.
To get the most out of your equipment, we suggest these simple exercises you can do before or after training:
Equipping yourself well is the first step to fully enjoy Ultimate Frisbee. At Disckatus Madrid, we want to accompany you on this journey and ensure your experience is safe, comfortable, and motivating. We look forward to seeing you on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Orcasur Sports Center to train together and keep growing as a team.
Come and be part of this great community! Your Ultimate hero is about to awaken.
Sources of inspiration:
📚 Sources and Inspiration: This article has been inspired by educational resources from USA Ultimate, WikiHow, Ultimate Frisbee HQ, FrisbeeThrows.com, and the collective experience of the Ultimate community. We especially thank the authors and coaches who share their knowledge to help grow this sport.
