Tennis nets: how to choose the right one?

Good tennis practice requires the best possible equipment. This quality requirement also applies to the net, which must follow very precise rules. Depending on your playing style, there's a model to suit you. Here's a closer look at how to choose the right tennis net!

Federation standards

A list of official measurements has been drawn up by the federations, enabling competitive players to play matches on a standard net. Firstly, it must be 12.70 m long. Secondly, it must be between 99 cm and 1.04 m high. The mesh must be square or diamond-shaped, with sides measuring 45 mms. The regulator strap must be no more than 5 cms wide. The width of the white band should be approximately 5 cm. Finally, the posts must fix the cable at 1.07 m from the ground.

Training models may not meet these standards, but by choosing a model that does, players are optimally prepared for the ATP ranking, if that's the goal. The principle is simple: to play like the pros, you need to train with equipment that complies with official dimensions.

The importance of choosing the right net for the game

For players who want to train seriously, it's best to opt for a net that meets federation standards. If, on the other hand, the net is to be used for private lessons, so that the whole family can enjoy themselves at weekends, there's no point in investing in a net model that meets the criteria. These are expensive and won't make any difference to the family's game. A simple net is all you need to have fun in the garden, exchanging a few balls.

Removable net or net fixed to the pitch

Depending on the type of course, either can be a good solution. Removable nets are perfect for private individuals, as they provide a multi-sport court. Simply remove the net to install equipment dedicated to another sport, such as a soccer cage. This is the main advantage of this type of equipment. However, it should be borne in mind that playing comfort is likely to be reduced with a removable net. A negative point that can be offset by the fact that removable models are less expensive. In short, the removable model is ideal for family use.

However, if the net is intended for a tennis club or sports association court, then the removable model is best avoided. It's a less resistant material, and the high frequency of use will wear it out quickly. In fact, you'll need to change your equipment regularly. A professional net is almost unavoidable for a structure dedicated to the practice of tennis. Not only are these nets more resistant, but they also allow you to play a more serious game.

Take mesh thickness into account

Once again, the thickness of the net mesh must meet the expectations of the game. Whether for a club or an individual, the thickness is not necessarily the same.

• For beginners or amateurs who have made tennis their hobby, a two-millimeter-thick mesh will suffice.
• For club use, or intensive matches, it's best to opt for a net thickness of between 2.5 and 3 millimeters, with double mesh on the first 6 rows.
• Finally, for professional play, the net must be 3.5 mm thick, with double mesh all the way up. The strokes of professional players are hard and vigorous, and a net of lesser thickness would quickly be damaged.

The various options available

Tennis nets come in a variety of options. In particular, there's the net with anti-UV treatment. This type of net generally offers high mechanical strength and optimum durability. In fact, the fact that it is UV-treated protects it from abrasion, and therefore from premature deterioration.

There are also nets with eyelets for the lacing cords, which make it easier to manoeuvre the regulating strap.

Last but not least, you can pay attention to the different net materials when making your choice. There are three: PVC, polypropylene and polyethylene. PVC-coated netting is highly weather-resistant and ideal for outdoor use. A polypropylene net offers good mechanical strength and is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Finally, a polyethylene net is both lightweight and rot-proof. It is also highly resistant to abrasion and ultraviolet rays. It can be installed indoors, but is particularly effective outdoors.