Are you starting a local pickleball league? Maybe you’re a P.E. teacher introducing the youth to this amazing game, OR you’re just fortunate enough to have a pickleball court in your yard. Whatever the scenario is, here are some ideas for the best portable pickleball nets to make life easier.
Let’s dive right in.
Regulation Size Pickleball Net
This list has been verified, and it adheres to the pickleball net guidelines put forward by the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) and the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP). All nets meet the required net dimensions of 36″ height at posts, 22′ wide, and 34″ at the center.
For More Info Check Out: The Guide to Pickleball Court Dimensions
Top Portable Pickleball Nets
Best overall Net
SwiftNet 2.1 Portable Pickleball Net
- Weight: 14 LBS
- Frame Material: Carbon Alloy
- Price: $369.99
- Features: Lightweight Carbon Frame, 1 year Warranty
Amazon ($369.99)Pickleball Central ($369.99)
The frame and feet of the SwiftNet 2.1 portable pickleball net are made out of aluminum, while the bottom is made out of aerospace-grade carbon fiber, which offers amazing durability.
Everything about this portable net system is made for quality and stability. The flat feet made it unbelievably stable, and the outline of the net is very easy to see on any pickleball court color.
The SwiftNet 2.1 is light and super easy to set up. The rope lock is so reliable, it was nice to play a full day without having to readjust the tension of the net.
Because of its reliability, portability, and durability, it’s great portable pickleball net for every player from beginners to tournament level.
Pros
- Attention to detail
- Modern and Functional design
- Easy setup
- The net is tight and stays tight
- Very stable in all weather conditions
Cons
- Expensive
Editor’s Choice
Rally Deluxe Portable Pickleball Net
Weight: 24LBS
Frame Material: Steel
Price: $164.99
Features: 25% Off Sale At PickleballCentral
Amazon ($164.99)Pickleball Central ($164.99)
The Rally Deluxe Pickleball portable net is the newer version of the original Rally net from Pickleball Central. The biggest difference between the deluxe and the original Rally is the oval-shaped tubing and the crossbar to improve stability.
At 32 LBS, it’s a slightly heavier portable pickleball net, but far more reliable. The oval tubing makes setting up much easier, and the netting material is nylon for increased durability.
The net tension stays consistent due to the clasp as well a velcro as a backup re-enforcement and although there is a center line that helps with visibility, there is no fiberglass rob that can cause rips.
Pros
- On sale
- Lightweight
- Doesn’t use velcro for tension straps
- No center post
- Very easy to see in periphery
- Under warranty
Cons
- At 32 LBS, it’s on the heavier side
- Bag zippers lack durability
- Carrying case is a tight fit.
Best Entry Level Net
Pickle-Ball 3.0 Portable Net System
- Weight: 24 LBS
- Frame Material: Powder Coated Steel, Fiberglass center post.
- Price: $199.99
- Features: Frame is under warranty
Amazon ($199.99)Pickleball Central ($199.99)
The Pickle-ball 3.0 net checks all the boxes. It has a lime green powder-coated frame that makes it durable and very easy to see out of your periphery.
Aside from looking good, this portable pickleball net has wide legs that offer amazing support and doesn’t use velcro for the tension straps which can wear out over time. Furthermore, the netting itself is reinforced with nylon coating in case you want to leave it outside for longer periods of time.
As far as portability goes, the net only weighs about 20 LBS, and the bag that comes with it has plenty of extra space so you can store other items in it.
The final aspect that is hard to ignore is how easy it is to set up and take down this net. All the rods are numbered and they fit together very easily.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable netting and frame
- Tubes lock together very well
- Padded feet to protect indoor and outdoor surfaces.
- Metal tension clasps
Cons
- Center rod may rip vinyl
Best Net For Drills
The Onix 2-in-1 Portable Pickleball Net
- Weight: 24LBS
- Frame Material: Steel
- Price: $163.95
- Features: Adjustability
The Onix 2-in-1 Portable pickleball net is the most versatile net in this review. It’s fully adjustable from a regulation size net, down to a 10” practice net which is a perfect pickleball net for skinny singles or a backyard game.
The craftsmanship and durability are great. There is no fiberglass center rod that can cause tearing in the net, and no velcro that’s going to lose tension over time.
Furthermore, the nylon-coated net and the powder coating on the frame make it able to withstand the elements.
The bag comes equipped with wheels for extra portability and there’s enough extra space to throw in some balls and maybe a pair of shoes.
Pros
- Very good price
- Adjustable for drills or sidewalk games
- Lightweight
- Carrying case has wheels
Cons
- Feet can scratch the playing surface
Rally Portable Pickleball Net
- Weight: 24 LBS
- Frame Material: Steel Frame
- Setup Time: 3 minutes
- Price: $199.99
Amazon ($199.99)Pickleball Central ($199.99)
This is a very basic but reliable portable net system for everyone. The Powder-coated steel frame and rods, make this portable pickleball net very reliable and ready to stand the test of time. The setup on this net is super simple and took about 5 minutes total from out of the bag, to on the court and ready for play.
The fiberglass rod in the middle is usually a concern for me considering it can rip through the net, but this net is reinforced with padding to ensure that doesn’t happen.
The plastic covers make it scrape-proof so you can drag it along the court if you need to make adjustments.
The net is extremely straight and keeps consistent tension so it’s harder to get away with a let (when the ball hits the net, but still makes it over.) Which is my least favorite shot to see.
Overall it’s a great portable pickleball net, overtime the Velcro might lose a little grip but you should get a solid year of play if you play a lot.
Pros
- Amazing quality steel
- easy to set up
- good locking system
- very solid net tension
Cons
- Can lose sturdiness over time for avid players.
Most Affordable
ZENY Portable Pickleball Net
- Weight: 18.3 LBS
- Frame Material: Steel With Fiberglass center-rod
- Price: $67.99
The Zeny portable pickleball net really stands out because of the quality you’re getting for the price you’re paying. At this price, it gives you the option to buy multiple so it’s highly recommended for someone who needs a fleet of pickleball nets.
The Zeny has thick steel rods that feel durable and sturdy. However, the one thing I didn’t like was the fiberglass center because in my experience that can rip through the net, but after almost 8 months of use, there are no signs of wear.
It’s a very sturdy, yet light portable pickleball net that come equipped with lock buttons on all the poles, but i
One complaint I have is that the feet don’t have padding, so they got scratched as well as the court, but for the price, you can just throw some pads on the bottom and it’s pretty much a flawless portable net system.
Pros
- Amazing price
- Very sturdy in wind
- Paint is durable in outdoor conditions
- Easy to Assemble
- Lightweight
Cons
- Fiberglass poll makes it more prone to damage
- Feet done have pads and may scratch
- Velcro straps will be the first part of this net to weaken
Best Pickleball Nets With Wheels
Most Durable Pickleball Net
Douglas Premire Portable Pickleball Net PPS-22SQ
- Weight: 215 LBS
- Frame Material: 11-Gauge Steel, Aluminum
- Price: $2299.00
This is one of the best nets on the market. The Douglas Premier is a portable pickleball net that looks and acts like a permanent pickleball net system.
It’s the Rolls Royce of nets and can be seen at all the big professional Pickleball tour events, like The USA Pickleball National Championships, The US Open Championships, and The IFP Bainbridge Cup, along with many others.
This net was specially designed for the Indian Wells pickleball facility and can be found at some of the top facilities in the United States.
As far as durability, performance, and quality, this is about as good as it gets for both indoor and outdoor pickleball nets.
This portable pickleball net is ideal for tournament play. I recommend this if you’re hosting a regional tournament or if you’re playing high-intensity pickleball and want as few variables as possible.
It’s a very expensive net, but an extremely quality net.
A few notes about this pickleball net system.
- It’s about 215 pounds but, the extremely stable frame has smooth and sturdy wheels that can make it easy to move short distances.
- The wheels also feature a reliable locks that keeps the net in place firmly.
- It is designed to be able to leave outside and perform much like an outdoor net. The heavy steel tubing and the steel cables protect it this pickleball net system from the elements
- Their customer service is amazing and can get any replacement parts upon request.
Pros
- Good tournament net
- Extremely Durable
- Consistency in tension
- Very Stable
- Top Quality materials
Cons
- Expensive (but worth it)
- Not easily portable.
- Comes in a very heavy box
Best Tournament Net
OnCourt OffCourt PIckleNet Deluxe
- Weight: 63 LBS
- Frame Material: Hybrid Aluminum Steel
- Price: $389.95-$430.85
- Features: Wheels with reliable locking system, lightweight frame
Amazon ($430.00)Pickleball Central ($389.95)
The OnCourt OffCourt PickleNet Deluxe portable pickleball net is beautifully sleek, yet lightweight. It’s equipped with scratch-resistant powder-coated steel frames to protect against the elements.
The white vinyl border with the center strap keeps the net visible in your peripheral vision so you always know where it is and the wheel locking makes it a perfect option for both indoor or outdoor play.
The unique powder coating will ensure durability for a long time. Just in case though, the PickleNet pickleball net comes with a warranty and you can reach out for replacement parts.
Pros
- Perfect or indoor or outdoor play
- Wheels lock into place
- Very stable legs
- Easy maneuverability
- Warranty included
- Wheels on carrying case
Cons
- Very heavy net
- Velcro tension straps lose durability
Best Value
Franklin Pickleball Portable Net
- Weight: 28 LBS
- Material: Steel
- Price: $134.99
- Features: 25% Off at PickleballCentral, Locking wheel system,
Amazon ($154.16)Pickleball Central ($179.99)
Franklin offers the most bang for your buck with this portable pickleball net. Nets with wheels tend to be on the heavier side, but at just under 30 LBS, it’s pretty while having a lot of maneuverability.
The wheels have a lock guard so you don’t have to worry about it rolling around, but if you need to adjust, it’s extremely easy.
Between the metal tension clasps, no fiberglass center rod, and the lock systems on the posts, it can endure hours of play without suffering any wear.
The wheels provide so much versatility and portability. It can be used as an indoor or outdoor pickleball net without worrying about scratching the floor.
Pickleball Central is currently running a deal so you can get this Franklin Sports portable pickleball net for 25% off.
Pros
- Reliable wheel locking system
- On sale
- Very affordable for the quality
- Good for indoor and outdoor use
- Roomy carrying case
- No velcro tension straps
Cons
- Wheels may get loose or squeaky
Dominator Portable Pickleball Net
- Weight: 35 lbs
- Price: $389.00
- Features: Rust Proof, warranty against any manufacturer defects.
Amazon ($350)Pickleball Central ($389)
The dominator portable pickeball net is a hybrid between the highly durable and heavy Douglas Premiere net, and the high-quality but lightweight PickleNet Deluxe. It offers incredible durability and it’s built from high-quality rust-proof aluminum but it only weights 35 pounds which is pretty light for a net with wheels.
Furthermore, this net is very easy to assemble and although 35 lbs doesn’t seem very portable it does come with a carrying case with wheels that makes the net easier to lug around.
If you’re looking for a net that will hold it’s tension overtime, can withstand the elements on an outdoor court, and offers extreme durability this is a great option.
The wheel locking structure is great and ensures that the net will stay in place even after several games.
Pros
- Durable but relatively lightweight for nets with wheels.
- Comes with an extra net
- The company provides replacement parts
- The aluminum frame gives a lot of support
Cons
- velcro fasteners
- Bag has a hole in it after about 2 months.
What Makes a Good Portable Pickleball Net?
Frame Material: When choosing a great net, you want to pay special attention to the frame material. A low-quality frame is going to have the biggest impact on the overall performance of the net. Once the bars start to bend, the buttons stop locking, and the frame starts to rust, the overall integrity of the net starts to fail and it turns into a nuisance. Ideally, you want to look for a portable pickleball net made from carbon fiber, and stainless steel. Those are going to perform the best, hold their shape, and be able to resist rusting.
Weight: Obviously you want your portable pickleball net to be portable. If you’re going for more heavy-duty pickleball nets with wheels it’s important to have a carrying case that has wheels as well to make transportation a breeze. Keep in mind that the lighter the net does not necessarily mean it’s better. Sometimes the lighter nets will move and need to be readjusted during games. If I’m playing outdoor pickleball I like my nets to e right around the 20-pound range. That being said, some nets like the swift net 2.1 are very light, but they have a very wide base that offers amazing support for your net.
Coated Net: ensuring that the net has a protective coating over it is important for overall longevity and durability. Most of these pickleball nets do have a nylon coating, but if you want to you can pick up some extra fabric protective coating.
FAQs About Nets
How Do You Pick A Pickleball Net?
Make sure the net meets regulation size requirements (22′ wide, 36” high at the sidelines, and 34” tall at the center). Also, the color should be easy to see out of your peripheral vision on the court. Next, look for stability and durability. The posts should lock in tight. Finally, it should be easy to set up and takedown.
What Size Is Regulation Pickleball Net
A regulation-sized pickleball net should be 22′ wide, 36” high at the sidelines, and 34” tall at the center)
Can You Use Tennis Net For Pickleball?
A tennis net is wider and taller at the center than a regulation pickleball net. I would recommend getting a portable net. You can set up about 4 regulation pickleball courts on one tennis court.
The Bottom Line
If you’re in need of a pickleball net system, you can’t go wrong with any of these options. It really depends on what the best nets are for your personal needs.
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