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When it comes to padel courts, every detail matters—especially in the world of business. If you’re a sports facility owner, investor, or contractor, understanding the precise measurements and materials of a padel court is crucial. These elements aren’t just about meeting standards; they directly impact player experience, court longevity, and ultimately, your return on investment.
In this article, we’ll provide a clear and concise guide to padel court specifications, covering everything from the exact dimensions to the materials that ensure durability and performance.
We’ll also explore what it takes to build a court that aligns with industry regulations and keeps players coming back. If you’re looking to elevate your facility or expand into this booming sport, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the essentials of creating a professional-grade padel court.
When it comes to padel court dimensions, precision is everything. A standard padel court measures 20 meters long and 10 meters wide, creating a compact space that encourages fast-paced rallies and strategic gameplay. The court is divided into two halves by a net, which stands 0.88 meters high at the center and slightly higher at the sides, reaching 0.92 meters. These exact measurements are what make padel courts uniquely suited for the game’s dynamic, team-oriented nature.
The playing area is enclosed by walls or fences, a defining feature of padel. The back walls, typically made of glass or other durable materials, are 3 meters high, with an additional 1 meter of metal mesh on top to complete the enclosure. The side walls vary in height, sloping from 3 meters to 4 meters, ensuring consistent ball bounce while giving players the opportunity to use the walls strategically during play.
Markings on the court are minimal but essential, with service lines positioned 3 meters from the back wall, and a center line dividing the service area into two equal parts. These measurements must be strictly adhered to, as they directly influence gameplay flow and compliance with international standards. By following these dimensions, you’ll ensure your padel court meets the requirements for both recreational and professional use.
The materials used in constructing a padel court play a critical role in its performance, durability, and overall player experience. Each element of the court, from the surface to the enclosure, requires careful selection to meet industry standards and ensure long-term functionality.
1. Court surface: The playing surface is typically made from artificial turf designed specifically for padel. This turf provides the right balance of grip and slide, enabling players to move swiftly without risking injury. Sand is often used to fill the turf, helping with drainage and improving traction. The choice of turf and sand quality impacts not only player safety but also the speed and bounce of the ball during play.
2. Glass walls: The back walls and portions of the side walls are constructed using tempered glass, which is both durable and shatter-resistant. This material allows players and spectators to see the game clearly while providing a surface that the ball can rebound off reliably. Glass panels are usually 10 to 12 millimeters thick, ensuring strength and safety.
3. Metal mesh: The upper sections of the court’s enclosure and some side walls feature metal mesh. This material is strong enough to contain the ball during high-energy play while maintaining visibility. Galvanized steel is a popular choice, as it resists rust and weather damage, ensuring longevity even in outdoor installations.
4. Net and posts: The net is made from high-quality nylon or polyester, materials chosen for their durability and ability to withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements. The posts supporting the net are typically constructed from galvanized steel or aluminum to provide stability and corrosion resistance.
5. Lighting: If the court is intended for evening play, LED lighting systems are the preferred choice. They provide consistent, bright illumination while being energy-efficient and long-lasting. Proper placement of lights ensures there are no shadows on the court, allowing for uninterrupted gameplay.
Building a padel court might sound like a big project, but with the right plan and attention to detail, you can create a professional-grade space that players will love. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you started:
1. Pick the perfect spot and prep the base
First things first—find a solid, flat location for your court. The base needs to be tough, so materials like concrete or cement are your best bet. It’s important to have good drainage in place; no one wants puddles ruining their game. This foundation sets the stage for everything else, so make sure it’s strong and ready to go.
2. Measure, mark, and get it right
Padel courts aren’t just about looking good—they have to meet official specs. Measure out 20 meters long by 10 meters wide, with a little wiggle room (up to 0.5%). Split the rectangle down the middle with a net and mark the service lines 6.95 meters from the net, adding a 20 cm extension to the central service line. Use 5 cm-wide lines in white or black so they pop against the court’s surface. Precision is key here—those lines are more than just decoration; they shape the game.
3. Build the walls and fence
The enclosure is what makes a padel court, well, a padel court. Start with the back walls: they need to be 4 meters high, with the bottom 3 meters solid (glass, brick, or cement) and the top 1 meter wire netting. The sides are a mix of solid walls (3 meters high for 2 meters) and netting up to 4 meters at the ends. Whatever materials you use, make sure they give a good ball rebound and are safe for players. Tempered glass is a favorite for a clean, professional look.
4. Set up the net
Next up is the net, which stretches across the court’s 10-meter width. It should sit 88 cm high at the center and 92 cm at the sides. The posts holding it up should line up perfectly with the court’s edges and be rounded for safety. Keep it sturdy—this net will see a lot of action!
5. Lay down the playing surface
The court’s surface is where the magic happens, so it needs to be just right. You can go with concrete, artificial turf, or other materials, as long as the ball bounces well and players can move comfortably. Stick to one color—green, blue, or brown are common choices—and make sure it stands out from the walls. If you’re using turf, adding sand can help with grip and drainage.
6. Keep it clear up top
For covered courts, you’ll need at least 6 meters of clear space above the court to avoid interference during gameplay. If you’re building something new, aim for 8 meters to future-proof the court for professional matches. No one wants a light fixture or beam ruining their perfect lob.
7. Add doors or openings
Players need to get in and out easily, so plan for symmetrical openings on one or both sides of the court. A single opening should be 1.05 to 2 meters wide and 2 to 2.2 meters high, while double openings can be a bit smaller. Make sure they’re safe, functional, and don’t block movement.
8. Add lightning
If you’re building a court for nighttime use, install LED lighting. It’s energy-efficient and gives players clear visibility without casting shadows. Position the lights so the entire court is evenly lit, keeping the game smooth and enjoyable.
Building a padel court might seem like a big job, but when you get the measurements, materials, and process just right, it’s worth every effort. It’s not just about following regulations—it’s about creating a space where players can have fun, connect, and experience the thrill of the game.
Managing that court shouldn’t be a hassle. That’s where Rezerv comes in. With our all-in-one Padel court management software, you can streamline bookings, handle payments, schedule matches, and even market your court—all from one platform. Whether you’re running a single court or a full sports complex, Rezerv makes managing it as smooth as a perfect volley.
So, if you’re ready to build or upgrade your padel court, focus on the details that matter—great design, quality materials, and a seamless experience for players. And when it’s time to manage your facility, let Rezerv take care of the rest. After all, a professional-grade court deserves professional-grade management.
1. What are the standard dimensions of a padel court?
A standard padel court measures 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width, with a slight tolerance of 0.5%. This compact size is perfect for the fast-paced, doubles action that padel is known for.
2. What materials are commonly used for constructing padel courts?
3. How much space is required to build a padel court?
Beyond the court's 20m x 10m dimensions, it's wise to have some extra space around the perimeter. This additional area enhances safety and provides room for players to move freely.
4. What is the recommended ceiling height for indoor padel courts?
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For indoor courts, a minimum ceiling height of 7 meters is recommended to accommodate high lobs and ensure unobstructed play. However, aiming for 8 meters is even better, especially for advanced players who utilize more elevated shots.
5. How long does it take to construct a padel court?
The construction timeline can vary based on factors like site preparation, materials, and weather conditions. On average, building a padel court can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks from planning to completion.
6. What maintenance is required for a padel court?
Regular maintenance includes:
Proper upkeep extends the court's lifespan and ensures a safe playing environment.
7. Can existing tennis courts be converted into padel courts?
Yes, converting tennis courts into padel courts is possible and increasingly common. This process involves modifications to meet padel specifications, such as installing appropriate walls, fencing, and surface materials.
Two of the fastest growing sports in the world – but what are the differences between padel and pickleball? Get the full comparison of padel and pickleball and find out how you can get involved in both.
What are the differences between padel and pickleball courts?
For starters, the padel court is slightly bigger than a pickleball court. A padel court is 20m x 10m, whereas a pickleball court is 13.41m x 6.09m.
The layout is also slightly different. A padel court is laid out like a tennis court where you have two service boxes close to the net, whereas in pickleball, the service boxes are connected to the baseline.
Instead, pickleball has a no volley zone (known as the kitchen) which is the full width of the court and is roughly 1.06m either side of the net.
Then there’s the biggest difference of all – the walls. A padel court is surrounded by glass walls and a metal cage, with a door on either side of the court. While playing padel, you can use the walls to play off, which can make for exciting rallies.
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What are the different types of equipment for padel and pickleball?
While both only require a racket and a ball, they are slightly different.
Let’s start with the racket. A padel racket is perforated with a pattern of holes and is often made of either carbon fibre or fibreglass. The racket is shorter than a tennis racket for example but has a much thicker head to absorb the impact when hitting the ball. The head can come in a few different shapes designed for different styles, e.g., round-shaped for control and diamond-shaped for power.
Pickleball however, uses a thin plastic racket with a rectangular shaped head. However, they can come in different sizes as long as the length and width are equal to or less than 24in and they aren’t longer than 17in.
In terms of the ball – padel uses a less pressurised tennis ball, while pickleball uses an entirely plastic ball with between 26 and 40 holes on it so that it doesn’t bounce as high – great for the smaller courts.
Pickleball equipment guide
What are the rule differences between padel and pickleball?
Padel is traditionally only played as doubles, while pickleball can be both singles and doubles.
Both sports start with an underarm serve diagonally into the opponent’s service box before playing the point out. In both padel and pickleball the ball can only bounce once.
Padel is unique in that you can hit the ball off the walls or let the ball hit the wall to help you make a return. When you play a shot to your opponent it must bounce on their side of the court before hitting the wall – otherwise your shot is out.
Read more about the rules of padel
In pickleball, there must be one shot on either side of the net (including the serve) before you can play a volley. To play a volley you must be stood outside of the ‘kitchen’ area on the court.
How to get started in padel
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Scoring in padel vs pickleball
Scoring in padel is the same as tennis and is most commonly played as sets and games. To win one set, you have to win six games and be leading by two clear games.
Similarly, to clinch a game, you must win four points with a two-point advantage. Games are scored as:
If the game goes to 40-40, this is called ‘deuce’. You will still need to win by two clear points – whoever wins the next point will have ‘advantage’ and will then need to claim the following point to seal the game. If you lose the advantage point, it’s back to deuce.
Pickleball is scored as a first to 11 points, but this must be by two clear points. The score is called as the server first, then the returners, followed by the serve number. For example, the score could be 5-3-2, which would mean the serving team are 5-3 up, but are now on their second server after losing a point on serve already.
What are the different shots used in padel and pickleball?
A lot of the shots a very similar – both require an underarm serve; you play groundstrokes off both sides, and you hit volleys.
In padel there are a couple of different shots that you should know as well. For example, La Chiquita, which is a slow and soft shot bouncing below your opponent’s side of the net, which can be useful if they are trying to play forward and more attacking. You also have La Bandeja, which is a slow smash where you cut across the ball to reduce the bounce.
However, in pickleball you have shots like the ‘dink’, which can only be used near the net, or in the kitchen area of the court. A dink is a very soft shot that just about reaches over the net, making it difficult to return – much like a drop shot in tennis.