Many people new to the game of pickleball assume that the pickleball net height is the same as a tennis net. But that’s a common misconception.
According to the official pickleball rules, the correct pickleball net height is 34 inches in the center and 36 inches at the sidelines.
What Is the Correct Pickleball Net Height?
The standard pickleball net height is 34 inches in the middle and 36 inches at the sides. That 2-inch dip in the center makes it easier to hit the ball over the net with a lower, more strategic trajectory.
It might seem like a small difference, but experienced players know those two inches can be the difference between winning and losing a point.
In terms of width, a regulation pickleball net is 22 feet wide. Since a pickleball court is 20 feet wide, the net extends one foot beyond the boundaries on each side.
Pickleball Net Materials and Design
The pickleball ball is lighter and larger than a tennis ball. That means net materials must be durable but flexible enough to accommodate the pace and spin of the sport.
Nets are usually made from mesh materials like nylon, polyethylene, or polyester. For pickleball courts used outdoors, polyethylene is preferred because it holds up against sunlight, wind, and rain.
The top of the net should have a 2-inch white tape binding over a cord or cable to improve visibility. Many permanent nets include a center strap to help maintain the correct pickleball net height at the 34-inch center mark.
Pickleball Net Frames and Weight
Portable pickleball nets usually come with frames made from either steel tubing or PVC. Steel is heavier and more stable, making it better for competitive games. PVC is lighter but can tip over in strong wind or from powerful shots.
High-quality frames often use interlocking, powder-coated steel tubes similar to tent poles. A wide base increases net stability on any pickleball court.
Typical net weight ranges between 25 to 35 lbs. Newer innovations like carbon fiber reduce weight significantly but at a higher price.
Some portable nets also include wheeled carrying bags, making it easier to move your gear to and from different playing areas.
How Pickleball Net Height Compares to Tennis Nets
Many people set up pickleball games on tennis courts, but there’s a key difference:
- Pickleball net height: 34” center, 36” sidelines
- Tennis net height: 36” center, 42” sidelines
That means tennis nets are both taller and wider. The higher sidelines on tennis nets make it harder to hit the ball cleanly in pickleball, especially when executing low shots or drop shots.
A standard tennis net spans 33 to 42 feet wide, whereas pickleball net width is always 22 feet. If you enjoy comparing sports, our top racquet sports guide covers how pickleball stacks up against tennis, badminton, squash, and more.
Similarities and Differences Between Tennis and Pickleball Nets
Similarities:
- Both nets serve the same purpose: a barrier that players must hit over.
- Made of similar mesh materials.
- Reinforced with visible top tape and durable cords or cables.
Differences:
- Tennis nets are higher and wider.
- Tennis posts often include built-in crank systems to adjust tension.
- The weave on tennis nets is tighter, as tennis balls are smaller and faster.
- Pickleball paddles are lighter and shorter than tennis rackets, making proper net height even more crucial.
Playing Pickleball With a Tennis Net: Is It Okay?
Yes, you can use a tennis net for a casual game of pickleball. However, most players quickly notice the difference in height and performance. Higher tennis nets can disrupt gameplay, leading to more faults and higher shots.
Many players solve this using a net converter strap like the "Convert-a-Net," which pulls the tennis net down to standard pickleball net height. But the best option is still using a portable pickleball net, especially on makeshift pickleball courts.
With a portable net, measuring tape, and line chalk, you can set up a correct playing area almost anywhere.
Where Did the Pickleball Net Height Come From?
There’s an interesting story behind how pickleball net height was standardized.
The game was invented by Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell in 1965. Initially, they used badminton nets, which were too high. To adjust, Joel simply stood at the net and checked if it reached his waist. That turned out to be 34 inches, and that’s the height we use today.
Since then, official pickleball rules have maintained that measurement to keep the sport consistent.
Final Thoughts
To recap:
- Pickleball net height: 34 inches (center), 36 inches (sidelines)
- Net width: 22 feet
- Smaller than tennis nets but optimized for the pickleball ball and pickleball paddles
Having the right pickleball net height makes the game of pickleball more fun, fair, and skillful. Whether you’re playing in your driveway or at professional pickleball courts, it pays to double-check your setup.
So next time you grab your pickleball paddle and step onto the court, make sure the net's at the right height. Your shots, strategy, and overall gameplay will thank you.