This article will explain different pickleball net systems, the pros and cons to each and explain how they will affect court design, construction and play.
The categories of pickleball nets fall into the following categories. These have been defined by us, to help you clearly understand the available options.
Permanent Pickleball Nets and Posts
Permanent Pickleball Posts: Immovable system, frequently poured into concrete and placed in sleeves. They will not blow in the wind, they cannot be easily moved. They will last for 10+ years. (Budget: $2,000.00 and up, including labor and materials).
Nonpermanent pickleball nets systems
Disposable: Light weight, portable, fits into the trunk of a car, brought to use at a public park, very inexpensive, lasts 1 years (Budget: $200.00)
Entry Level: Light weight, portable, frequently used in a back yard for an inexpensive net system, moves in the wind, lasts 1-3 years (Budget: $400.00)
Durable: Heavy, Very Strong, Not affected by wind, performs like a permanent post and can be rolled away on attached wheels or rolling casters. (Budget: $2,500.00)
When building a pickleball court the net system should be selected in the design process. And you should ask yourself: Will your pickleball court be used for anything else? Things to consider: basketball, volleyball, badminton, skateboard, a party, other… If you said YES to any of these, than a nonpermanent system is likely the best choice.
By selecting a nonpermanent / portable system, you will be able to quickly and easily transition between different sports. Avoid your children asking “why is dad always in such a bad mood” keep things simple and keep making good memories.
After deciding to use a portable net system. You simply need to select what pickleball net you want. As described above each come with a variety of pros/cons and price points.
If you said NO to the multi-use court question above. A permanent net system might best suits your needs. This will require a 2’ wide by 4’ deep footing poured below your court to secure the net post sleeves. We recommend using a PVC (not metal) sleeve.
Our most frequent recommendation is to use a durable semi-permanent pickleball net system. Even if you only use your court for pickleball. This eliminates the potential for the concrete company to place the posts in the wrong place. This eliminates the tripping hazards the ground sleeves create. This will perform for the most demanding players. Finally, it allows your court to easily change to something else in the future.
