What Does a Pickleball Court Look Like? 

With all this news of pickleball, do you find yourself wondering “what does a pickleball court look like?” Perhaps you have been playing the sport for a while, or maybe you’re new to the game and eager to learn. Regardless of your skill level, every player should know what makes up a pickleball court. 

After all, it’s where all the magic happens!

What Does a Pickleball Court Look Like?

First things first, a pickleball court is not made of pickles. It’s actually a small court that is roughly the size of a badminton court. 

Size

Let’s talk about size. A standard pickleball court is rectangular in shape and measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. The dimensions are almost identical to those of a doubles badminton court. Inside the court, you’ll notice that it’s divided into two halves with a net set at 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high in the middle.

Check out the standard dimensions of a pickleball court here.

Lines

The next thing you’ll notice are the lines on the court. A pickleball court has several lines that determine the boundaries of play. 

The court is divided into two halves by a centerline lengthwise and a net down the center of the court. There are non-volley lines on each side of the net. This 7-foot zone between the net and the non-volley lines is also known as the “kitchen” and it is where players cannot stand while volleying. 

The non-volley zone is designed to prevent players from smashing the ball too close to the net and overwhelming their opponents.

On the back of the court, there are two lines that run parallel to the net (one on either side), called the service lines, where players serve the ball from. The area between the service lines and the non-volley lines is where players serve the ball from.

Surface

A pickleball court can be played indoors or outdoors, although the outdoor courts are much more commonly used. Outdoor courts are usually made of concrete or asphalt and are painted with a non-slip surface to help players keep their footing. You can even play pickleball on grass!

Indoor courts can be made of hardwood, sport tiles, or carpet.

Regardless of the surface, you’ll want to make sure it’s level and free from any debris or cracks that could cause injury. Check out our guide on pickleball court maintenance.

Can You Play Pickleball on a Tennis Court?

Pickleball is actually a sport that more and more people are playing on existing tennis courts. The court is smaller than a regulation size tennis court, but it can still be set up standard size for pickleball on a tennis court. 

Pickleball on a tennis court has some distinct advantages as there’s no need to invest in its own dedicated court. Plus – tennis has been around for much longer, and is a lot more popular than pickleball (so far), so there are plenty of tennis courts in most communities. 

Find out how to play pickleball on a tennis court.

What Equipment Do You Need For Pickleball?

Paddle

One of the most important pieces of equipment needed to play pickleball is a paddle. When choosing a paddle, you want to make sure that it’s the right weight and size for you, as well as has a good grip. There are a variety of materials that paddles can be made of such as composite, graphite, or wood, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.

So, make sure to do your research and test out a variety of paddles to find the one that is right for you. Check out our paddle buying guides here:

• Best Inexpensive Pickleball Paddle
• Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners
• 15 Cute Pickleball Paddles You Need Today
• Recess Pickleball Paddle Review

Balls

Another essential piece of equipment needed to play pickleball is, of course, balls. Pickleball balls are much like wiffle balls, with small holes that make them easier to hit and move through the air. 

When choosing balls, it’s important to make sure that they’re regulation size and weight, as well as high-quality to ensure a good game. So, make sure to stock up on plenty of balls to have on hand. Find the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs.

Shoes

Proper footwear is another key essential when it comes to pickleball. As with any sport, you want to make sure that your shoes provide good support and grip, helping to prevent slips and falls on the court. 

When choosing pickleball shoes, prioritize comfort and stability over style, as these are what will help you play your best game. Breathable, lightweight materials are also important, as pickleball can be quite the workout. Check out some of our pickleball guides here:

• Buyers Guide: 7 Best Pickleball Shoes
• Best Outdoor Pickleball Shoes 
• Best Pickleball Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis
• Best Pickleball Shoes For Women

Clothing

While there is no official dress code for pickleball, it’s important to wear clothing that is comfortable and allows you to move around easily. Breathable, sweat-wicking materials are ideal, as well as shorts or pants with pockets to keep your ball handy. 

If you’re playing outdoors, make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat (or pickleball visor) to protect yourself from the heat and sun. Find out more about what to wear to play pickleball.

Court Equipment

Finally, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment to set up your pickleball court. This includes a pickleball net, chalk or tape to mark out the court lines, and possibly a portable pickleball net system if you’re playing on an unmarked court. 

You’ll also want to have chairs or benches on hand for breaks between games, as well as water or sports drinks to stay hydrated.

Conclusion 

So, there you have it – a complete tour of the court & what you need to play. We hope that we answered your question of “what does a pickleball look like?” From dimensions to lines to surface materials, every component of the court plays an important role in the game. As players, it’s important to understand and respect these elements in order to have a successful and enjoyable game. 

Even if there is no pickleball court in sight, you can easily play pickleball on a tennis court. Aka no excuses. So, what are you waiting for? Get out on the court and start playing!