Portable pickleball nets (or sometimes referred to as a portable pickleball net system) are perfect for homeowners who don’t want to commit to a permanent pickleball court in their backyards and provide for a a great option when playing on an existing tennis court. Instead of investing tens of thousands of dollars, you can easily set up a game in a matter of minutes.
These products are a fantastic alternative for multi-use sports courts that don’t have pickleball-specific lines. You’ll definitely want one for those situations!
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Top Recommendations
Portable Pickleball Net Reviews
PickleNet by OnCourt Offcourt
Starting off strong with our top pick. OnCourt Offcourt is the king if pickleball nets. They sell two versions of their Picklenet this one (the standard) and the deluxe. These two nets are then also rebranded and sold by other sellers as well. So if you buy a decent net, there’s a good chance it was made by OnCourt Offcourt.
The main features of the Picklenet standard:
- It’s almost exactly the same net as the USAPA and Rally nets
If you find that one of these other nets is selling for less or you like the branding better then by all means buy these, as you will be getting the same net.
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USAPA Portable Pickleball Net System | View Price on Amazon |
- Patented oval tubing design
Make sure you are buying the newer PickleNet, NOT the Classic. The classic was a fine net but the circular tubing is inferior to what you can get now with their oval tubing.
- Flat, solid base
Works great in the wind, and you have less of a chance than other nets of tripping over the base since the feet are flat.
- Great design and fast setup
It takes just 3.5 minutes to set up and 2.5 minutes to take down. You can adjust the net tension as needed very easily.
Pros:
- No tools needed
- Powder coated oval steel tubing
- Standard USAPA measurements
- Fast set up
Cons:
- Neither the bag nor the net come with wheels
PickleNet Deluxe by Oncourt Offcourt
So, everything we said above about the PickleNet? It applies to the Deluxe. But with a few significant differences.
The main features of the Picklenet Deluxe:
- Wheels on the posts
The posts have wheels which makes it very easy to move around once set up. You can slide it around with one hand and then simply lock the wheels in place with your feet. They won’t budge an will stand up well to the wind.
- Patented oval tubing design
Again, oval tubing design is key with this net too.
- Heaviest portable net but the bag comes with wheels
It’s super heavy all together, but the wheeled bag makes a huge difference. That said, if you are going to be carting it around a lot or need to move it over long distances, consider that the net and bag together weigh in at 50 pounds.
- More durable and stable with adjustable net straps and center strap
The extra weight is due to the wheels and a sturdier frame so if you’re worried about wind, this will be a better bet.
- More expensive than the standard Picklenet
You’ll end up paying more for this.
Pros:
- No tools needed
- Powder coated oval steel tubing
- Standard USAPA measurements
- Fast set up
Cons:
- Heaviest of the nets reviewed
- Significantly more expensive than the standard Picklenet
PickleNet Deluxe Pickleball Net from Oncourt Offcourt
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ONCOURT OFFCOURT PickleNet Deluxe TAPND 22'x 34" Oval Tubing... | View Price on Amazon |
SwiftNet 2.1 Portable Pickleball Net System
This is a cool one. The Swiftnet has a unique design from the posts to the sweeping carbon fiber pole that runs from the top of the posts down to the ground in the middle.
The main features of the Swiftnet:
- Wow it’s light
The bag and net together come to under 17 pounds which is lighter than any of the nets we’ve looked at. Super easy to carry around when in the bag as well as after you’ve set it up.
- Unique design and setup
Setup is a bit different due to the unique design. Check out this video to see the quick process of the setup in action. The main support is a “shock corded tensioning boom”. I think the net tension adjustment is also the easiest and quickest I’ve seen
- Taught top band of the net
Some other nets with center posts might have a bump in the middle where the net sags to either side, not so with this. Here the center strap holds the center down to the right height due to the strong top band of the net.
- Most expensive of the bunch
You pay for that super light, super strong, super non-corrosive metal.
Pros:
- Super light but sturdy
- Made of recycled aerospace carbon fiber
- Low profile feet for reduced tripping risk
- Won’t rust or bend
- Unique looking design
Cons:
- Most expensive of the nets we’ve looked at
Pickle-Ball 3.0 Portable Net System
This portable pickleball net is slim, sleek, and easy to carry along to pickup games with friends and family and great for when you need to put it in storage. With a weight of just 22 pounds, if you want to take take it with you on a trip, its portability is quite convenient, as is its setup. Further, compared to more traditional permanent nets, it’s quite sturdy and resilient.
The main features of the Pickle-Ball 3.0 Portable Net System:
- Highly Portable
As this net comes with its carrying case as well as a frame, it is fantastic that it only weighs 22 pounds in total so it’s not heavy at all. All of the accessories fit into it, so you can easily store it in your garage or keep it in the trunk of your car.
- Easy Setup
There’s no point in investing in a portable net that takes hours to assemble. Luckily, this model has an easy — if not terribly fast — setup that should take a few minutes to put together. From what I’ve seen the Picklenet is faster in terms of setup. Owners will have to snap the pieces together to get it ready and do the same for taking it down.
- Reinforced Frames
Pickleball nets portable are made for ease of use, but this model is incredibly sturdy when assembled. The frame is made from sturdy, reinforced metal that is powder-coated for durability and weather-resilience.
Aside from that, you will appreciate how the wide legs are bent in a way that keeps the net stable in windy conditions.
- Great design
This design has a raised crossbar so that your pickleball can roll underneath the net instead of getting caught and easily adjustable tension straps.
Pros:
- No tools needed
- Perfect for backyards and driveways
- Four-season use
- Sturdy center foot support
- Round, powder coated steel
Cons:
- May have incorrectly welded parts
- Very likely to scratch
- Takes a while to set up compared to other nets
- Raised side supports may present a tripping hazard
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3.0 Portable Pickleball Net System (Set Includes Metal Frame... | View Price on Amazon |
A11N Sports Portable Pickleball Net System
This net is classified as official regulation size, making it the perfect option for tournament-style play. You will find that it is a little lighter than the previous portable system, as it weighs only 20 pounds, including the carrying case.
The main features of the A11N Sports Portable Pickleball Net System include:
- Regulation Size
Measuring in at 22 feet wide, 36 inches high at the sidelines, and 34 inches tall at the center, this net is perfect for tournaments and more professional games. Additionally, it’s highly adaptable for everyday casual games.
- Quick Assembly
There aren’t any tools required to assemble this net; all you have to do is snap the pieces together. You’ll appreciate how the parts are individually labeled so that the setup is even easier than imagined.
- High-Quality Features
The frame of the net is sturdy, as it’s made from high-quality metal. This pickleball net set is notable as well, as it features PE knotless netting and a dual PVC fabric for all-season play. We especially love the center rod that helps to prevent the net from sagging in the middle.
- Velcro Tightening
With the simple tension adjustment system, you can manipulate the Velcro on both sides of the net.
- Brightly Colored
For optimal visibility, the most critical parts of the net are painted with bright colors, such as yellow and black. You’ll find that it creates a perfect contrast against your court.
Pros:
- Feels quite sturdy
- Locks at junction points
- Center pole doesn’t damage net
- Easy to take down and setup
Cons:
- Net may be too short
- Attaching the net is time-consuming
ZENY Portable Net System
Similar to the other nets on this list, the ZENY Portable Net System is easy to put together and disassemble. With a convenient carrying case, you can quickly get a pickleball court ready in a matter of minutes, regardless of the weather.
There are better nets out there, but this will do the job if you are looking for a lower-end net.
The main features of the ZENY Portable Pickleball Net System include:
- Fairly Durable Frame
Compared to most other pickleball portable nets, this unit comes with relatively durable frame that is decent for all-season play. When assembled, you lock all of the pieces together. This process allows you to move the net once it is put together.
- Stable Legs
With the specially designed legs, you’ll experience optimal stability, even when it’s windy. The legs are set wide and have a particular bend in them to help the net stand against the wind.
A couple of other stable features include metal support, fiberglass net support, and the ability to adjust the tension at the sides.
- Easy Assembly
To put the system together, all you need to do is snap the metal together. You’ll be able to play modified volleyball, tennis, badminton, and, of course, pickleball. There is a carry case included for optimal portability.
- Moderate Weight
Compared to other pickleball net systems, this one is slightly more heavy at 32 pounds instead of 20 or 22 pounds. Its dimensions are 22 feet long, 36 inches tall on the sides, and 31 inches in the middle.
Pros:
- Stays together
- CHEAP
- Easy to assemble
- Tension is easy to adjust
Cons:
- Not regulation size
- Doesn’t really distinguish itself from other nets
- Poorly made carrier
USAPA Portable Net System
Okay, so this one is just about the same net as the Oncourt Offcourt Picklenet – it really just has different branding on it. But again be sure you’re getting the oval tubing version. If you’re searching for a legitimate regulation-size net (34 inches high at the center, 36 inches high at the sides and 22 feet wide), such as this one.
The USAPA Portable Net System is a great option for a versatile and convenient pickleball net for a tournament and casual play.
The most notable features of the USAPA Portable Pickleball Net System include:
- Powder-Coated Metal
All of the metal parts you receive with this net have been professionally powder-coated. This process helps to prevent the weather from affecting the metal, though it’s not recommended to be left outdoors. When you’re not using this net, be sure to keep it in its carrying case.
- Highly Durable Net
This particular net system has been upgraded over the years to improve its durability. The synthetic nylon net is far more consistent and easy to use for years without signs of wear and tear. You’ll find that it comes with a reinforced center strap, so you can adjust the net with ease.
Pros:
- No tools needed
- Powder coated oval steel tubing
- Standard USAPA measurements
- Fast set up
Cons:
- Neither the bag nor the net come with wheels
Amazin’ Aces Portable Pickleball Net
This net is undoubtedly a contender for the top portable pickleball net system when you factor in the cost, especially if you’re looking for a regulation size net. As a portable pickleball net, you can always be prepared for a game at family functions or on your property.
Some of the features of the Amazin’ Aces Portable Net include:
- Easy Setup
One of the most notable features of this net is that it is easy to setup. When you unbox the pieces, you’ll find that each post has a sticker with a corresponding number so that you can cross-reference the instructions. Setting this net up is substantially easier than others on the market.
- Lightweight and Portable
With a weight of only 22 pounds, you’ll find that the portability of this net system is what you’d expect. It also arrives with a carrier with straps, so you can easily transport all of the accessories.
- Professional Specifications
As mentioned, this pickleball net is designed to meet professional regulations. It measures 36 inches on the sidelines and 34 inches at the center of the net. It also spans 22.4 feet in width.
Pros:
- Easily portable
- Simple Velcro tension adjustments
- Quick and easy disassembly
- Can be carried once assembled
Cons:
- May blow over in the wind
- Leg length may be uneven
Portable Pickleball Net Buyers Guide – What to look for in a pickleball net
So here’s what you should consider and look for when deciding on buying a portable net:
- Durable, strong, high quality hardware: Generally you should avoid plastic and aluminum (unless it’s Swiftnet). The highest quality net hardware is made of steel and carbon fiber. Powder coating metal is good for protecting the metal against corrosion. You want it to be strong enough to stand up against wear and tear, wind and the stress of the net.
- Know what you are buying it for: is this for a tournament? for your kids in the driveway? for an indoor court? for light practice? That will dictate how robust you want the net to be and, obviously, your budget.
- Portability and Weight: If you’re going to be carting a net around back and forth, get a lighter net. At the same time, some bags come with wheels which makes even the heavier nets easy to move around.
- USAPA Standard measurements: the USAPA standard dictates that a net be 22 feet wide, 36 inches at the sides of the net and 34 inches at the center. Not all nets follow that standard, so if that’s important keep an eye out for USAPA standard measurements.
- Wheels on the net itself: a few nets have wheels on them which allows them to very easily move them around, put them away, shift them where they’re needed.
- Design: The two best designs are by Swiftnet which uses a sweeping carbon fiber supporting brace that goes across the net and Picklenet’s patented oval tubing. Just about all of the other designs for net hardware involve simple metal tubing that may twist. Also look out for the feet on the side poles – some are designed so that they might cause a tripping hazard.
- Net Tension: you want the top of the net to be tight, not loose and floppy. With some nets this can degrade over time, so eventually you might need to get a replacement net for your portable net.
- Center pole, base support and strap: generally having a central pole and strap will help keep the net taut and at the right height. Further, having a center base of support helps with keeping the net stable.
- Ease of setup and taking down: Some nets are easier to set up and take down. If it’s indoors and you don’t have to move it often then it’s not much of an issue. But if it’s outdoors you should generally be setting these up and taking them down whenever you play because these are portable and temporary nets. They are not generally made to be left outdoors. You can leave them outdoors but the net will degrade much more quickly.
How much do pickleball nets cost?
Prices range from $35 all the way up to $1,500.
The cheapest nets are under $90 but you get what you pay for. Half nets and very cheaply made full nets cost about $50. They will be more flimsy, may blow over in the wind, might have sagging nets, and will be lower quality.
The sweet spot for good nets that aren’t too expensive is between $150 and $200.
At the high end nets will run you about $300.
Finally, you get to the pro-grade portable nets that are $1,500.
How do you set up a portable pickleball net?
Here is a summary of the steps as recommended by OnCourt OffCourt for putting together their PickleNet:
- Put the base frame together and making sure the parts are inserted fully into one another.
- Position the 2 end bases 22 feet apart with the center support halfway between them
- Insert each of the inter-locking steel tubes and then connect 3 straight poles (with no end caps) on each side to the center base.
- Insert two vertical net post poles that have end caps into each end base. Your frame is now assembled!
- Slide the net sleeves over each vertical net post.
- Insert the center strap rod through the rectangular opening in the center support base. Attach the velcro around small round vertical pole.
- Use adjustable net straps to create straight net appearance. To accomplish this, loop black adjustment straps through “D” ring and then back around pole to secure with velcro at desired tension.
- Now you are basically all set up — the center of the net should be 34 inches and at one foot inwards from the end of the net on each side, the net height should be a regulation 36 inches. To adjust this height, slide the net sleeve up or down as needed.
But the best way is to show you. Here is a video showing you how to set up one of my top picks in 3 minutes 35 seconds, the PickleNet:
And here is how to set up the PickleNet Deluxe:
Final Verdict – What is the best pickleball net?
My top choice is really a tie and it’s up to you what’s more important. If having a wheels on the net to move it around and being extra sturdy are important — and you’re okay with the higher price tag — go for the PickleNet Deluxe by Oncourt Offcourt
If you want to save some money, want a lighter portable pickleball net and don’t care about the wheels, go for the standard Oncourt Offcourt Picklenet. Just make sure you get the oval tubed version.
And if you just love the idea of using recycled aerospace carbon fiber, really need a net that’s as light as possible and have some extra money in your pocket, go for the SwiftNet 2.1.
If you’re looking for something more permanent: check out How to Build a Pickleball Court
Last update on 2023-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
