Pickleball nets, bags and covers: court size, net height and portable gear

What you need to play

Pickleball needs a court, a net, paddles and balls. The court is the same size as a doubles badminton court, and a regulation net is slightly lower than a tennis net. Players hit a perforated plastic ball over the net with solid paddles. A portable net lets you set up on a driveway, a tennis court or a school parking lot, and bags and covers protect the gear between games.

Court dimensions

The measurements come from the official rules. The net length can vary with the maker, so check yours. Lines are part of the court, so a ball that lands on a line is in. Use a tape measure to check your court when you set it up, especially the net height at the center, because a net that sags is lower than it should be.

Portable nets

A portable pickleball net is a frame with a net and posts that you can set up and take down. Common types include:

Check the dimensions (net length and height), the weight and the carry bag. On a windy day, a lightweight frame can tip, so add weights or sandbags. Do not leave a net unattended in a storm.

Bags

"Pickleball bags" can mean paddle bags, ball bags or net carry bags.

• Paddle bags hold paddles, balls and accessories, and often have a separate pocket for shoes or a water bottle. A sling bag, a backpack or a tote all work. Look for padding to protect paddle faces.
• Ball bags and hoppers carry many balls for practice.
• Net carry bags hold a portable net's frame, net and posts. A sturdy bag with a strong zipper and handles makes transport easier.

Covers

Covers protect gear from dirt, sun and moisture:

• Paddle covers are small sleeves that stop scratches and keep the face clean.
• Net covers or tarps keep a permanent or semi-permanent net dry. Choose breathable materials, since sealed plastic traps moisture.
• Court covers protect surfaces from stains, but they are rarely needed.

Keep covers loose enough to allow airflow. Dry equipment before storing it, or it can mildew.

Balls

Pickleballs are plastic balls with holes. Indoor balls are softer with larger holes, while outdoor balls are harder with smaller holes, so they fly through wind more steadily. Outdoor balls crack in cold weather and wear out over time. Do not use a cracked ball. Carry a few spares.

Surfaces

• Asphalt and concrete are the common outdoor surfaces. They give a good bounce but are hard on joints. Check that the surface is clean, flat and dry. Avoid cracks and rough patches.
• Tennis courts are often shared. A tennis court's lines may be confusing, so use temporary tape or chalk to mark pickleball lines, if allowed.
• Grass is not suitable for a regular bounce, so play a modified version at best.
• Indoor gym floors are fine, with indoor balls and non-marking shoes.

Before you tape or paint a driveway, check your HOA, landlord or local rules, and ask about court use at public spaces.

Noise and neighbors

Pickleball can be loud, since paddles hitting balls make a sharp pop that carries. Consider your neighbors when choosing the time and place, and look for local noise rules.

Safety

• Warm up. Stretch and move before play.
• Wear court shoes, which have lateral support. Running shoes can roll on a quick side step.
• Wear eye protection, since the ball can hit the face.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks in the heat.
• Keep the court clear of loose balls, which are trip hazards.

Common mistakes

1. Setting the net too high or low. Check 34 inches at the center.
2. Using a lightweight net in the wind.
3. Storing a damp net.
4. Marking lines wrong. Measure.
5. Ignoring the neighbors.