How High Is a Pickleball Net? [Official Specs]

Pickleball has become one of the most accessible and fast-paced paddle sports, but like any sport, it comes with specific regulations. One of the most important pieces of equipment is the net—and while it may seem like a small detail, net height has a direct impact on gameplay, strategy, and court setup.

So, how high is a pickleball net supposed to be? Here’s a clear breakdown of the official measurements and why they matter.

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Official Pickleball Net Height

According to the official rules set by USA Pickleball, the standard net height for pickleball is:

• 36 inches (3 feet) high at the sidelines
• 34 inches (2 feet 10 inches) high at the center

This slight dip in the middle is intentional. It encourages cross-court shots and adds more nuance to rallies. Compared to a tennis net, which is generally 36 inches high across the entire center, a pickleball net is both lower and more curved—emphasizing control, not just power.

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Why Net Height Matters

Net height influences how the ball travels over the court, especially during fast-paced exchanges near the kitchen. The lower center height encourages cross-court dinks, drop shots, and strategic positioning rather than brute force.

A properly set net also ensures consistent gameplay, especially when you're playing in leagues, tournaments, or with mixed experience levels.

If the net is too high, rallies become harder to control, and the soft game suffers. Too low, and power shots become far too easy to exploit.

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Portable Nets vs. Permanent Nets

Not all pickleball games are played on dedicated courts. Many casual players use portable nets, especially on tennis courts or multipurpose surfaces. The best portable pickleball nets are designed to meet the official height specs, but it’s always a good idea to double-check.

Some nets include center straps or support posts that help maintain the dip to 34 inches in the middle. If you're using a tennis net as a stand-in, it will likely remain a bit too high at the center unless it's adjusted.

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Measuring Net Height

To ensure your net meets regulation height, you can use a net gauge or a basic tape measure. Measure at both the center and the sidelines:

• At the center, it should measure 34 inches
• At the sideline posts, it should be 36 inches

This ensures you're not playing with an accidental advantage—or disadvantage.

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Does It Ever Change?

The official net height hasn’t changed in recent years and is standard across all levels of play, from recreational to professional. Whether you’re in a local rec league or playing in a sanctioned tournament, the same height rules apply.

Even in international play, the same dimensions are widely accepted, keeping consistency across courts and competitions.

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Final Thoughts

The net in pickleball may seem simple, but its exact dimensions play a significant role in how the game flows. With a 36-inch height at the posts and 34 inches at the center, the net creates just the right amount of challenge—rewarding players who have both finesse and awareness.

Whether you’re setting up a casual game in the park or checking equipment for tournament play, knowing the proper pickleball net height ensures a fair and fun match every time.