An In-Depth Guide To Buying Tennis
Nets + My Top Picks
An In-Depth Guide To Buying Tennis Nets + My Top Picks
A tennis net is an essential piece of court equipment required to play the game. On the surface, all nets appear to be virtually identical. However, dig a little deeper, and there’s a surprising variety to consider.
The type of net you choose depends on your specific needs, from full-size to portable and rebound. It also pays to understand the nuances that distinguish one from the next in each category.
In this guide, I’ll cover all of the vital details about nets, including the different types, parts of a net, brands to consider, and key features you should understand so you can make an informed purchase.
Rules & Regulations
Tennis nets are fundamental to the game, so it likely won’t come as a surprise that the governing body of tennis has specific rules and regulations for this piece of court equipment.
To that end, it’s helpful to gain a high-level understanding of these guidelines to ensure the net you purchase meets the necessary criteria.
Full-Size Nets
The International Tennis Federation’s (ITF) Rules of Tennis outlines the following details that manufacturers must meet for use in competition. As a result, these apply to any full-size tennis court.
- A cord or metal cable should suspend the net between two posts
- The max diameter of the cord or metal cable should be 1/3 in (.85 mm)
- A band should cover the cord or metal cable at the top of the net
- The band should be between 2 and 2.5 in deep on each side (5.08 – 6.35 mm)
- The net posts should be 3.5 ft (1.07 m) tall
- The net should completely fill the space between net posts
- The mesh should be small enough so the ball can’t pass through
- The net should be 3 ft (.91 m) at the center and held down by a strap
- The maximum width of the strap should be 2 in (5.08 cm)
- The strap and band should be completely white
- For doubles, the center of each net post should be 3 ft (.91 m) outside the doubles court on both sides
- For singles, the center of each net post should be 3 ft (.91 m) outside the singles court on both sides
- If using a doubles net for singles, you should support the net at the height of 3.5 ft (1.07 m) with singles sticks, which should be 3 ft (.91 m) outside the singles court on both sides
- The net posts shouldn’t have a diameter of more than 6 in (15.24 cm)
- The singles sticks shouldn’t have a diameter of more than 3 in (7.62 cm)
- The net posts or singles sticks shouldn’t be more than 1 in. above the top of the net chord
If you have a tennis court, you’ll want to make sure your net meets these criteria when you purchase and install one. By doing so, you can ensure your court is consistent with others you might frequent.
To dive further into the rules and regulations related to tennis nets or any aspect of the game for that matter, I’d encourage you to check out the ITF’s Rules of Tennis.
Portable Kids Nets
In 2010, the USTA introduced 10 and Under Tennis to help make the sport more approachable, easier to learn, and fun for children.
In short, a four-stage color-coded program adapts the size of the court, ball, and racquet to children’s ages. As it turns out, the net is one of the modifications that change depending on the stage.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the color-coded stages:
Stage | Age |
Red Stage 1 | 4-6 |
Red Stage 2 | 6-8 |
Orange Stage | 7-10 |
Green Stage | 11-12 |
For the red stages, the net is shorter at only 2 ft 9 in (83 cm), and the width of the court is only 18 ft (5.49 cm), so the net is significantly smaller.
Once children progress to the orange stage, the court remains smaller than a regular court, but kids use a traditional full-size net.
Children graduate to a full-size court and net during the green stage, but the balls have a lower compression and the racquets remain smaller.
If you’re buying a portable net for your child, it’s beneficial to have the size of the net match up with their age range.
Types Of Nets
There are three main categories of tennis nets, which include full-size, portable, and rebound. Depending on your needs, you’ll likely find one type of net more practical, so let’s review what you can expect from each.
Full-Size Singles & Doubles
If you have a standard tennis court, then you’ll want to purchase a full-size net. However, depending on your court’s design, you’ll need to decide on a doubles or singles net. Here’s the difference in size:
Type | Typical Length | Height |
Singles Net | 33 ft (10.06 m) | 3.5 in (8.89 cm) |
Doubles Net | 42 ft (12.80 m) | 3.5 in (8.89 cm) |
The vast majority of tennis courts have doubles alleys with a single set of net posts that sit three feet outside the doubles court. If that’s the design of yours, you’ll need to purchase a doubles net.
Although less common, some courts with doubles alleys will also have sleeves for net posts three feet outside of the singles net so that you can move the net posts and use a smaller singles net. If that’s you, you can opt for a singles or a doubles net, depending on your preference.
Alternatively, you may only have a singles court without doubles alleys. If that’s you, you’ll want to purchase a singles net.
Overall, the use of singles nets is rare, so most people shopping for a net will want to double-check that they don’t accidentally buy one.
Helpful Tip
Although rare, freestanding full-size nets are available for purchase. Typically, these nets can wheel around a court, and you can break them down if necessary, but they’re not easily portable. These nets are sometimes used on grass courts to prevent installing net post sleeves into the ground or on multiuse facilities, including turf where equipment is swapped out depending on the sport.
Portable
Although typically reserved for children, portable nets offer players of all ages the opportunity to play tennis on the go.
Red Stages 1 & 2 in 10 and Under Tennis use portable nets placed strategically on full-size tennis courts. However, adults can also enjoy them with children, for a casual volley back and forth with friends, or a more competitive mini-tennis game.
They’re convenient in that they pack tightly and can be used in various locations, including your driveway, backyard, parking lot, park, or lawn if it’s flat enough for a relatively consistent bounce.
Some people will even bring a portable net to the beach and avoid letting the ball bounce, much like badminton.
If you’re in the market, here are a few qualities I look for that are worth considering:
- Freestanding
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Stable
- Easy to pack
- Height adjustable
- Included bag for travel
Regardless of your use case, portable nets are a fun option to consider, especially if you have kids in the house.
Rebound
Instead of splitting the court, a rebound net is a large freestanding net with a durable and stable frame.
When a player hits a ball at the net, it bounces back so they can repeatedly strike the ball and practice their groundstrokes and volleys. You can also serve at a rebound net to practice without having to chase down the ball.
Although simple in concept, rebound nets are helpful training partners that are portable and fun to use.
Here are a few qualities I look for in rebound nets:
- Large net
- Durable
- Consistent bounce back
- Portable
- Adjustable angle
It’s worth noting that it can take some time to get used to playing with a rebound net, but once you establish a rhythm, they can provide you with an excellent workout and opportunity to practice your strokes.
Parts Of A Net
If you’re buying a tennis net, it’s helpful to understand the different parts, which often differ from one to the next, resulting in various price points.
This section will focus on full-size nets because most portable options are relatively straightforward in their design and construction.
Netting
The core construction of a tennis net is braided polyethylene, which is a common plastic material. Black in color and solid core for durability, it’s woven together and tied off in knots to form small squares measuring roughly one and three-quarters inches.
These squares are essential to prevent the ball from passing through while providing sufficient visibility for players. Of course, netting must also be durable to stand up to the pounding of tennis balls and the elements they’re exposed to indoors or outdoors.
A subtle nuance incorporated into the design of most quality nets is a taper at the bottom of the net toward the middle. The sides of a net are three feet six inches, while the center is three feet, so the taper prevents excess material from draping the court and ensures a clean look.
Headband
Sewn onto the top of the net is a durable headband that’s either polyester or vinyl for added durability. A cord or cable passes through the headband to suspend the net.
Like a handful from Edwards, some nets offer added reinforcement using overlock stitching at the edges and headwire line with loop and pin tensioning system at the top.
At the edges on both sides of the headband, you’ll find one or two eyelets that are laced and secured at the side posts for stability.
Finally, the headband is always white to give players proper visibility.
Side and Bottom Tape
Like the headband, the side and bottom of the net have durable tape stitched against it for added durability and stability.
This tape is often vinyl and always black to blend in with the net and prevent unnecessary visual distraction.
Dowels
For extra rigidity, dowels, which are thin plastic or metal rods, are inserted into the net’s side tape.
Stitching
As you evaluate your options, one of the differentiators beyond the material is the number of stitches for sewing the headband, side, and bottom tape. For example, one net might offer two stitches for the headband while another four for added durability.
Similarly, some nets will have their headbands sewn with a lock-stitch, which helps keep the stitching intact even if it breaks in one spot.
Net Cable or Cord
A strong cord or metal cable threads through the headband and suspends a tennis net at the top. The vast majority use a metal cable, which has high tensile strength necessary to support its weight.
Most metal cables have a smooth white vinyl cover for added durability and to prevent unnecessary wear to the headband.
Center Strap
At the center of a net, you’ll find a strap, which aids stability.
However, beyond that, it ensures the height at the middle of the net is exactly six inches lower than the side posts. The net is 3 feet 6 inches at the side posts, while the center’s height measures precisely three feet.
On the surface, that small change in height doesn’t seem like a big deal, but it creates a unique challenge where it’s harder to hit down the line than hit over the center of the net.
Lacing
For stability, black lacing threads through eyelets at the headband’s edges and down the side tape to secure it to the net posts and ensure the net hangs tightly without any excessive sag.
Accessories
If you’re buying a tennis net, it’s helpful to become familiar with some of the available accessories. A few of these items are necessities, e.g., net posts, but many of them are entirely optional.
Net Posts & Sleeves
For stability, tennis court construction teams install metal sleeves into the ground, and each post slips into the sleeve. A net suspends across a court by mounting its cable or cord to the top of two net posts.
Winder
Net posts feature either an internal or external winding mechanism for tightening and raising the net’s height. After installing the net onto the posts, you rotate the winder’s handle until the net is tight.
Singles Sticks
Most tennis courts have singles and doubles boundaries for players to enjoy both games on the same court. In such cases, the net posts are set up three feet outside the doubles sideline, which is correct for doubles.
However, the net posts should be positioned three feet outside the singles sideline if you’re playing singles. Rather than installing extra sleeves in the ground and adjusting the position of the net posts, you can place singles sticks three feet outside the singles sidelines to prop up the net to its correct height for playing this version of the sport.
Center Strap Anchor
When you tighten a center strap, it will bring down the net’s height as long as it’s fixed to the ground by an anchor.
Most anchors are embedded within the court and attached to the net with a clip on the strap. However, some movable anchors or weights serve the same purpose for a less permanent fixture.
Scorecards
It’s proper tennis etiquette to call the score out at the start of each game and before every point. However, if you’ve played tennis for a long time, you’ve likely run into disagreements regarding the score.
In most cases, it’s unintentional confusion rather than malicious intent. However, scorecards are a simple way to help keep people honest and avoid those awkward discussions.
Some scorecards attach to the net post, while others sit on top of the net toward the outside edge.
Net Measurement Checker
Before each match, it’s best to check the net to ensure it’s sufficiently tensioned and the center is the correct height at three feet six inches, which you can easily accomplish with a net measurement checker.
However, most players don’t think to carry or keep a net measurement device on hand to check the height quickly. Net measuring tools come in a variety of styles, from chains to sticks.
Replacement Headbands
Often, one of the first parts of a tennis net to require replacement is the headband, which takes a lot of abuse.
If the stitching is coming undone or you end up with excessive wear of the headband, it may be time to replace it. Most replacement options are vinyl with metal eyelets and lacing rope to weave through the grommets and secure it to the net.
Reputable Brands
Tennis nets are a niche product, so you’re not going to find hundreds of options out there. However, with that said, there are a surprising number of vendors available to consider.
Edwards Sports
Based in the UK and with over 100 years in the business, Edwards Sports dates back to 1884. Although well-known for their nets, the company also produces equipment for various sports, including cricket, football, golf, rugby, hockey, and basketball, to name a few.
Their most significant claim to fame is the production of nets for use at Wimbledon. Here are a few of the nets Edwards Sports produces in order of quality and price:
- Edwards Club
- Edwards Matchplay
- Edwards Championship Singles
- Edwards Championship Doubles
Depending on the net and its planned use, Edwards Sports offers variations in its construction methods. Here are the few areas of emphasis that they may modify from one net to the next.
- Headband material, i.e., polyester vs. vinyl
- Headband stitching, i.e., double vs. quad
- Netting thickness, i.e., 2.5 vs. 3.5 mm
- Single vs. double netting
- Length, i.e., singles vs. doubles
If you’re in the market for a new net, Edwards Sports is one of the top brands in the business and well worth considering.
Douglas
Founded in 1967, Douglas is located in the United States and operates its family-owned business from Eldridge, Iowa.
Like Edwards Sports, Douglas produces equipment for a wide range of activities, including tennis, basketball, baseball, hockey, pickleball, and volleyball, to name a few.
As far as nets go, here are the options Douglas offers:
- Professional Nets
- TN-45
- TN-40
- Championship Nets
- TN-36 – Tapered
- TN-36DMT – Tapered
- TN-28DM
- Tournament Nets
- TN-30
- TN-30DM – Tapered
The Professional line is manufactured by Doublas in the US, while they manufacture all others elsewhere. All of their nets come with a multi-year warranty for protection against wear and tear.
Har-Tru
When you hear the name HarTru, the first thing that likely comes to mind is tennis court surfaces, such as their classic Har-Tru green clay. Back in 1931, Henry Robinson developed their distinct clay surface and has thrived outfitting courts worldwide.
However, as a company, their reach extends far beyond court surfaces offering products to construct a court from start to finish, including nets.
Today, they sell the following line:
- Har-Tru Courtmaster Pro Tour
- Har-Tru Courtmaster DHS
- HAr-Tru Courtmaster Deluxe
- Har-Tru Regency
- Har-Tru Royale
- Har-Tru Revolution
Whether you’re looking for an economical option or a top-of-the-line tennis net, Har-Tru has you covered with exceptional nets and strong warranties to help protect your investment and give you peace of mind.
Gamma
Well-known in the industry for their tennis strings and stringing machines, Gamma also offers a range of court equipment, from tennis balls and nets to ball hoppers and scorekeepers.
Their current selection includes the following:
- Gamma Pro Net
- Gamma Tuff Net
- Gamma Super Tuff Net
- Gamma Premium Net
Although their selection is somewhat limited, the nets they offer are quality options that all come with warranties.
Tourna
In 1972, Tourna introduced a unique light blue overgrip, which has become a mainstay in the sport.
However, piggybacking off the success of their first product, Tourna has expanded their line of tennis products and branched out into multiple sports, such as baseball, basketball, golf, and lacrosse.
As far as nets go, Tourna offers a handful of options to consider:
- Tourna 3.0 mm Single Net
- Tourna 3.0 mm Double Net
- Tourna Deluxe 3.5 mm Single Net
- Tourna Deluxe 3.5 mm Double Net
- Tourna Deluxe 3.5 mm Double Net with Polyester Headband
Their nets offer quad stitching for the headband, a minimum of 3mm braided polyester for the netting, and fiberglass dowels. Optional features include double mesh for the first six rows and a thicker 3.5 mm polyester for the net if you’re looking for extra durability.
Although it might not be the first name that comes to mind, they’re a quality option worth considering.
Vermont
A newcomer to the tennis scene relative to many of the other names on our list, Vermont is a Net World Sports brand, which sells tennis, volleyball, badminton, and pickleball equipment.
Here’s a list of what they currently offer:
- Vermont 2.0 mm Doubles Net
- Vermont 2.5 mm Singles Net
- Vermont 2.5 mm Doubles Net
- Vermont 3.0 mm Doubles Net
- Vermont 3.5 mm Championship Singles Net
- Vermont 3.5 mm Championship Doubles Net
It’s worth noting that the 2 mm and 2.5 mm nets do not meet ITF tournament regulations if that’s important to you. However, these are excellent options if you’re looking for competitive prices.
MacGregor
If you’re on the hunt for an affordable no-frills net then, MacGregor might be right up your alley. They offer two:
- MacGregor Varsity 300
- MacGregor Super Pro 5000
As you might expect, the Varsity 300 is their lower-end recreational net, while the Super Pro 5000 is their premium option.
The main differences between the two nets are durability. However, the Super Pro also comes in 40 ft (12.19 m) and 42 ft (12.80 m) options, while the Varsity 300 is only available as a 42 ft (12.80 m) net.
Durability Features
Durability is of utmost importance for tennis nets and is one of the key differentiators between available options.
As you evaluate various nets and brands, the following are some of the key features you’ll want to consider related to durability.
Netting Material
Most manufacturers make their nets with solid core polyethylene, one of the most common plastics across various industries. It’s durable, UV and weather-resistant, and easily braided and tied off to form netting.
Although polyethylene is the gold standard, some lower-quality options may use polypropylene or nylon. As a side note, you should always look for those that braid their netting, which is significantly more durable than basic twisting that you’ll find on some.
Headband Material
The white strap or headband at the top of a net takes a lot of abuse from play and the weather, so it’s often an area of emphasis when it comes to durability.
Typically, you’ll have two options: polyester or vinyl coated. Although polyester headbands look great, they’re not as durable, so you’ll find them in use more frequently indoors. Vinyl is highly durable and easier to clean. As a result, it’s more common to use outdoors.
Braid Thickness
The thicker a net’s braid, the higher its durability, cost, and weight because it requires more material to construct. Here are the most common thicknesses you’ll find in use:
- 2.0mm
- 2.5mm
- 3.0mm
- 3.5mm
- 4.0mm
Generally, we recommend purchasing nets with a minimum of a 3mm weave for adequate durability.
Single vs. Double Netting
The top portion of a net sees the most pounding from tennis balls, so you’ll find some that come with a double layer of netting for the top five or six rows to help prolong the life of the net.
If your net doesn’t see heavy use, then a single layer of netting throughout may be more than sufficient.
Stitching
Some crucial parts of a tennis net are held together with stitching, such as the headband. Not only does the headband support the weight of the net, but it also needs to withstand a constant pounding.
As a result, the quality and quantity of that stitching can go a long way toward extending the life of a net. Most high-end nets will use four rows of lock stitching for maximum durability.
Warranties
When buying a tennis net, you might consider narrowing your options to those that offer a warranty. Doing so helps protect your investment and ensures you have some course of action if you run into any issues.
The following brands offer warranties for their nets:
- Edwards
- Douglas
- Gamma
- Har-Tru
In some cases, the warranties will be limited and cover specific defects like workmanship vs. wear and tear, abuse, negligence, or user modifications. Additionally, some companies like Har-Tru and Gamma prorate their warranties, so it’s less valuable as time goes by but still better to have than nothing.
Either way, if you’re concerned about your net’s durability, opting for a brand that offers a warranty might save you some headache or added expense down the road.
What The Pros Use
I frequently receive the question regarding what kind of nets tournaments use on the ATP & WTA pro tours. Unfortunately, it’s not cut and dry because not all events showcase brands or use the same nets, and organizers periodically change manufacturers.
However, with that said, I’ll touch on some of the most prominent in use at some of the game’s most significant tournaments.
ATP
If you’ve ever watched an ATP tour-level match outside of the Grand Slam events and noticed the nets have a different, almost plastic look to them, then you have a fantastic eye.
The ATP partnered with German company FUNTEC Sports to create specialized silicone nets that are ultra-durable and allow for unique branding opportunities. For example, the ATP Tour prints ‘ATP World Tour’ along the bottom of their nets for a distinct look.
WTA
You won’t find the same branding style on WTA nets as you will on the ATP, so it’s more than likely that every tournament takes it upon themselves to source theirs from wherever they see fit.
Australian Open
As the first Grand Slam of the year, there’s always a ton of excitement surrounding the Australian Open. Although it’s easy enough to track down Dunlop as the tournament’s official ball or Yonex for stringing, it’s not cut and dry who supplies theirs.
On close inspection of their nets, you won’t find the typical branding or badges found on most nets available to consumers. Instead, their nets are unbranded, which means they’re likely purchasing them custom from any number of manufacturers.
Fun Fact
In 2020, the Australian Open partnered with Garnier to produce what they collectively dubbed a green tennis net, constructed from recycled plastic and showcased at the tournament. Although the net meets quality standards for competition, they weren’t in use for the event. Instead, the net was a symbol of what’s possible by recycling plastic.
I’ve reached out to the tournament to see if they can provide us with any details regarding how they source their nets, so I’ll update this section as I learn more.
Roland Garros
The French Open or Roland Garros, which takes place every year in Paris, France, works with many sponsors, including Wilson, which supplies the official balls and co-branded gear for the tournament.
However, when it comes to tennis nets, those you’ll find on the courts at Roland Garros aren’t branded, so they’re not showcasing the company or manufacture that produces them.
With that in mind, I’ve reached out to the tournament to ask what they’re using and if they’re willing to share. I’ll update this post as soon as I receive any new details.
Wimbledon
For years, Wimbledon sourced their nets from local company Edwards Sports. However, if you check Wimbledon’s website, they list that the Dunlop Slazenger Group supplies all balls, posts, nets, etc.
To our knowledge, Dunlop is supplying the nets but continues to work with Edwards Sports, who actively market themselves as the official nets for the tournament. Dunlop isn’t actively producing nets for purchase.
I’ve reached out to Wimbledon to see if they can share any additional details regarding the types of nets they use.
US Open
Like Roland Garros, Wilson is the official ball of the US Open, but the tournament doesn’t have a publicized partner regarding the nets that they use throughout the tennis courts at Flushing Meadows.
Up close, you’ll find that the nets are unbranded. As a result, it’s not particularly clear who the tournament buys them from, so I’ve reached out to them as well to learn more.
My 12 Favorites
I hope our guide has provided you with all the information you need to select the ideal tennis net for your specific circumstances.
However, even with the correct information, I recognize that there’s still a lot of information and products to sift through to nail down a handful to consider for your upcoming purchase.
If you’re still a bit unsure and looking for some extra guidance, then this section is for you. I’ve selected the best nets in the industry to help you narrow down a few that you’ll almost certainly enjoy.
Full-Size
Full-size nets meet guidelines for competitive play and offer pro-level construction for standard doubles or singles courts.
Har-Tru Revolution
The Har-Tru Revolution is the company’s self-proclaimed ‘top net,’ and I couldn’t agree more.
With an industry-leading 4 mm polyethylene net body, it’s the thickest and most durable option out there. Although some of the best nets use a double layer for the top six rows of netting, Har-Tru opts for a single layer with their Revolution net because of the body’s thickness, which I think makes for a clean look without sacrificing durability.
However, they don’t stop there. For added strength, Har-Tru uses a double-layer vinyl headband that’s heavy-duty and anti-fungal. They’re also making use of a thick thread and lock-stitching to ensure the headband will remain intact after years of abuse.
Size | 42 ft (12.80 m) |
Body | 4 mm |
Weight | 43 lbs (19.50 kg) |
Headband | Vinyl |
Tapered Bottom | Yes |
Warranty | Yes |
Edwards 40LS Double Center
When you think of the gold standard for tennis nets, the first name to come to mind is likely Edwards Sports, and for a good reason. They’ve been in the business longer than any other net maker, and they continue to produce some of the best nets worldwide.
One of their top-of-the-line nets is the 40LS Double Center net, which offers a 3.5 mm body, a quad stitched vinyl headband and six rows of double netting at the top for maximum durability.
Are you looking for a custom net? Edwards Sports has you covered. Reach out to them directly to learn more about what they have to offer.
Size | 42 ft (12.80 m) |
Body | 4.5 mm |
Weight | Unknown |
Headband | Vinyl |
Tapered Bottom | Yes |
Warranty | Yes |
Douglas TN-45
Douglas makes an excellent collection of nets. However, my favorite is the TN-45, which offers a 3.5 mm body and a double-thick polyester headband with four rows of lock-stitch polyester thread.
As you’d expect from a polyethylene net, the material is weather-resistant. Similarly, the vinyl bottom and side tape for the net will handle any weather they’re exposed to and won’t shrink, mildew, or rot.
The net is manufactured in the USA and offers classic style and clean lines without sacrificing durability.
Size | 41 ft 9 in (12.73 m) |
Body | 3.5 mm |
Weight | 20 lbs (9.07 kg) |
Headband | Polyester |
Tapered Bottom | Yes |
Warranty | Yes |
Gamma Super Tuff Premium
Another excellent option and one of my top picks for full-size options is the Gamma Super Tuff Premium net, which has all the bells and whistles and quality craftmanship I expect.
It has 3.5 mm braided polyethylene netting, which is doubled up for the top six rows to deliver exceptional durability. Add to that a vinyl headband with four rows of stitching, and you have a quality net with lasting all-weather performance.
I’m also impressed by Gamma’s price point for the Super Tuff Premium, which is highly competitive compared to other top nets on the market.
Size | 42 ft (12.80 m) |
Body | 3.5 mm |
Weight | 23 lbs (10.43 kg) |
Headband | Vinyl |
Tapered Bottom | Yes |
Warranty | Yes |
MacGregor SuperPro 5000
If you’re looking for a quality net that won’t break the bank, then the MacGregor SuperPro 5000 might be right up your alley.
Although it doesn’t offer high-end features or carry a prestigious brand name, it does come with a respectable 3.6 mm braided polyethylene body and a durable vinyl headband with four rows of lock stitching.
Size | 42 ft (12.8 m) |
Body | 3.6 mm |
Weight | Unknown |
Headband | Vinyl |
Tapered Bottom | No |
Warranty | No |
Portable
Perfect for kids and some casual fun for adults, portable nets are the ultimate in convenience for tennis on the go.
Wilson
One of the top brands in tennis, Wilson has a long history of delivering best-in-class equipment for the sport. As you’d expect, their portable tennis net is no exception and perfect for travel.
The net’s primary audience is kids, and at 18 ft (5.49 m) in length and 33 in (83.82 cm) high, it’s suitable for red stage 10 & Under tennis. However, the net is also perfect for adults looking to teach their kids or those looking to enjoy a friendly mini tennis or pickleball game.
Our biggest complaint is that you can’t raise the net to multiple heights for different sports, but it serves its purpose well.
Boulder
One of the more popular portable options comes from Boulder, and it stands out from the pack due to its range of customization.
For starters, you can purchase the net in three widths: 10, 14, and 17 ft (3.05, 4.27, and 5.18 m), which provides plenty of options to ensure that the net fits your space. However, if you have the room, I’d highly recommend purchasing the biggest 17 ft (5.18 m)net. I find the smaller sizes ideal for anyone who has tiny yards or driveways.
However, another area where Boulder stands out is its ability to adjust to multiple heights from 34 – 60.5 in (86.36 – 153.67 cm), which allows kids to use it for various sports, including badminton.
The net is easy to assemble, built to last, and perfect for travel.
AMA SPORT
One of our favorite portable options is from AMA SPORT, and although the net is first and foremost for pickleball, it doubles as a tennis net.
The net measures 34 in (86.36 cm) high at the middle, which is only 1 in (2.54 cm) higher than the height for red stage 10 and Under tennis and, although not regulation, perfectly sufficient for kids learning how to play.
I’m a huge fan of this net’s durability and stability, which is a cut above the rest. Of course, it’s easy to assemble and packs conveniently into the included carry bag for travel.
Aoneky
Another portable option for a tennis net is from Aoneky. It comes in 10 and 18 ft (3.05 and 5.49 m) lengths, so be sure to select the option that’s best suited for your needs. Our preference is the 18 ft length unless space is limited.
Its height is 33 in (83.82 cm), which is the recommended size for 10 and Under tennis, so it’s ideal for kids. However, like most other portable nets, it’s practical for adults who want to play mini tennis or pickleball.
Keep in mind that this net does not have an adjustable height, so you’ll need to opt for another net if that’s important to you.
VIVOHOME
Another pick for one of the highest-quality portable nets is from VIVOHOME, which features a similar design to AMA SPORT’s offering.
Its 22 ft (6.71 m) length and 36.4 in (92.46 cm) height make it ideal for pickleball, but it’s also perfectly well-suited for kid’s tennis.
I appreciate the net’s stability, and it works well as a lightweight option that you can stash in a bag and transport easily.
Rebound
Ideal for practice, rebound nets are excellent training aids.
Tourna Delux
Our favorite tennis rebounder is from Tourna, which I’ve found delivers the best all-around hitting experience.
At 9 ft (2.74 m) wide and 7 ft (2.13 m) tall, it’s one of the largest on the market and provides players with a substantial hitting surface and a significantly larger margin for error when practicing. As a result, you’ll spend more time hitting and less time chasing down balls.
The white net has a strap through the middle providing you with a target height for hitting the ball, and it’s suspended by ten metal springs at the top and bottom and eight at the right and left for a clean and consistent rebound.
One of our favorite parts about the Tourna rebounder is its wide metal base, which helps ensure it remains stable during play.
RapidFire
Another excellent option for a tennis rebounder is the Rapid Fire jumbo rebounder, which like the Tourna Delux, spans 9 ft (2.74 m) wide by 7 ft (2.13 m) tall.
However, the Rapid Fire model differs from the Tourna Delux with its adjustable base for achieving four different net angles. Changing the angle allows players to modify the rebound.
As far as the net goes, it has a white strap for helping players practice with the net’s height in mind. Regarding setup, the net attaches to the black powder-coated metal frame with 53 elastic bungee ties that help give the net an adequate and consistent bounce for repetitive practice.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re building a tennis court and researching the purchase of a full-size net or looking for some portable fun with a product that you can use in your backyard, driveway, or on the go with kids or friends, we hope our guide has provided you with some helpful insight.
As you evaluate different options, keep in mind that the best tennis net is the one that aligns with your needs and budget. Although it might be tempting to spring for the most expensive, there’s no need to overspend, so it pays to start by taking stock of your needs before beginning a search.
If you have any questions searching for one, please don’t hesitate to post a comment in the section below. We look forward to hearing from you!
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