A regulation pickleball net is 22 feet long and stands 36 inches at the sidelines.
If you care about accurate play, knowing the length of pickleball net and its exact setup matters. I’ve measured, installed, and tested nets on public courts and private setups, and I’ll walk you through everything from official rules to quick setup tips. This guide covers the regulation length of pickleball net, height tolerances, measuring tricks, common mistakes, buying advice, and personal lessons so you can set up a court that plays true.
Official dimensions: how long is a pickleball net and why it matters
The regulation length of pickleball net is 22 feet, which fits across a standard pickleball court that is 20 feet wide with posts placed 1 foot outside each sideline. The top of the net must measure 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. These dimensions affect serve clearance, volley angles, and overall fairness in play, so installing a net to the correct length of pickleball net is essential for consistent games.
Net height specifics and center drop
Net height is not uniform across the span. The regulation height is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center, which creates a slight sag. That sag is expected and built into the way the length of pickleball net is measured and tensioned. Proper tensioning ensures the center height remains 34 inches, so check the middle and both sides when you set up.
Singles vs doubles and court placement considerations
The length of pickleball net does not change between singles and doubles play; both use the same 22-foot net. What changes is player positioning and court dynamics, so the net length influences strategy but not the equipment. For both singles and doubles, ensure posts sit one foot outside each sideline so the full length of pickleball net spans the prescribed distance.
Step-by-step: measuring and setting up a pickleball net correctly
Follow these steps to set the length of pickleball net right every time.
- Place your posts one foot outside each sideline so they bracket the court width properly.
- Unroll the net and drape it between posts, centering the net tape over the court midline.
- Tighten the center strap until the top measures 34 inches at the center and adjust side posts so the top is 36 inches at the sidelines.
- Use a tape measure and a level if available to confirm the length of pickleball net and both heights.
Buying guide: choosing the right net by material and transport needs
When shopping, look for nets that advertise a 22-foot length to meet regulation play. Materials vary: braided nylon is affordable, while vinyl-coated polyester and heavy-duty mesh resist wind and UV better. Consider portability if you play in parks; a collapsible 22-foot net with quick-release posts saves time and holds the correct length of pickleball net for tournament-style play.
Maintenance and common mistakes to avoid
Common mistakes include positioning posts at the court edge instead of one foot outside, which shortens the playable net span and skews the length of pickleball net. Over-tightening can over-stress posts and damage net tape, while under-tightening raises the center height. Clean the net regularly, check the center strap, and replace worn posts to keep the length of pickleball net and heights consistent.
My experience: what I learned installing nets on many courts
I once helped set up a community court where the net felt too high for hours. We found the posts were placed at the sidelines rather than outside them, which shortened the length of pickleball net and pushed the tape higher. After moving posts and adjusting tension, play improved immediately. From that job I learned to always measure both the net length and heights before starting play.
Frequently Asked Questions of length of pickleball net
What is the official length of a pickleball net?
The official length of pickleball net is 22 feet, measured between the posts placed one foot outside each sideline. That length is standard for both singles and doubles play.
How high should a pickleball net be at the center?
The net should be 34 inches at the center. The center uses a tightening strap to maintain that 34-inch height.
Are there different net lengths for casual play?
Most casual setups still use the regulation 22-foot length; however, portable or youth nets may be shorter. Always check product specs so the length of pickleball net matches your needs.
What if my net sags too much in the middle?
Check the center strap tension and post placement. Proper adjustment will restore the correct center height and ensure the length of pickleball net is used correctly.
Can I use a tennis net for pickleball?
A tennis net is longer and higher, so it’s not ideal. Using a proper 22-foot net gives correct play dimensions and avoids issues with net height and the length of pickleball net.
Conclusion
Getting the length of pickleball net right is a small step that makes a big difference in how the game feels and plays. Measure posts, set tension, and confirm the sidelines and center heights to enjoy fair, consistent games. Try these setup steps on your next play session, and leave a comment with your setup tips or questions — I’d love to hear how your net adjustments improved your court.