Sourcing padel courts can feel like a gamble; you’re never quite sure if the specs you’re quoted are the specs you’ll get. One delayed shipment or a single batch of non-compliant glass can derail your entire project, costing you time, money, and your client’s trust. This guide removes the guesswork by giving you the official specifications for a standard padel court, so you can source with confidence every time.
1.What Dimensions Define a Standard Padel Court?
What are the exact length and width specs?
You might be wondering about the official playing area. According to the International Padel Federation (FIP), the internal playing area must be a perfect rectangle.
- Length: 20 meters (65 feet 7 inches)
- Width: 10 meters (32 feet 10 inches)
How high must the surrounding walls be?
The bottom line is that wall heights are non-negotiable for proper gameplay. The back walls are taller than the side walls.
- Back Walls: 4 meters high (3 meters of solid wall + 1 meter of mesh).
- Side Walls: 3 meters high at the ends, stepping down in the middle.
Why are official tolerances so important?
Think about it. Even small deviations can affect ball rebound and gameplay, leading to client complaints. Ensuring your supplier adheres to FIP tolerances protects your project’s integrity.
- Dimensional Tolerance: +/- 0.5%
- Surface Flatness: Max deviation of 3mm under a 3m straightedge.
Key Takeaway: Strict adherence to FIP dimensions (20m x 10m) and tolerances is the first sign of a professional supplier.
| Dimension | Official Specification | Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Length | 20.00 m | +/- 0.5% |
| Internal Width | 10.00 m | +/- 0.5% |
| Back Wall Height | 4.00 m | +/- 0.05m |
| Side Wall Height (End) | 3.00 m | +/- 0.05m |
2.What Glass is Used for a Standard Padel Court?
Why is 12mm tempered glass the norm?
Here’s the deal. While 10mm glass exists, 12mm tempered glass provides superior resistance to impact from players and balls. It’s the industry benchmark for safety and durability in club and professional courts.
- Thickness: 12mm is standard.
- Type: Tempered (toughened) safety glass.
What safety standards must the glass meet?
You need to know that not all glass is created equal. Your supplier must provide glass that meets specific European safety standards to be considered compliant.
- Certification: Must comply with EN 12150 standard.
- Breakage Pattern: Shatters into small, blunt pieces to prevent injury.
How do panoramic courts change glass needs?
But what does this mean for you? Panoramic courts remove the corner posts, requiring thicker or more reinforced glass panels to handle structural loads. This affects both the cost and installation complexity.
- Panel Size: Larger, seamless panels are used.
- Reinforcement: May require special fittings for 12mm glass.
Key Takeaway: Always specify 12mm tempered glass that is certified to EN 12150 to protect players and your liability.
| Glass Feature | Standard Court Specification | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Tempered Safety Glass | Breaks safely into small, dull pieces |
| Thickness | 12 mm | High impact resistance and durability |
| Certification | EN 12150 | Confirms manufacturing & safety quality |
| Panoramic Option | 12mm | Requires higher strength for structure |
3.What Fencing Defines a Standard Padel Court?
What are the specs for the steel mesh?
You might be wondering about the wire grid itself. It’s not just any fence; it’s a welded electro-welded steel mesh designed for a consistent ball rebound.
- Wire Diameter: 4mm or 5mm.
- Mesh Opening: 50mm x 50mm square grid.
How does galvanization prevent rust?
The bottom line is that outdoor courts are constantly exposed to the elements. Hot-dip galvanization coats the steel in a layer of zinc, providing long-term protection against corrosion.
- Process: Hot-dip galvanization is preferred over electro-galvanization.
- Purpose: Prevents rust and structural degradation.
What post structure supports the fence?
Here’s the deal. The posts form the skeleton of the court, so their strength is paramount. They are typically square or rectangular steel tubes anchored securely to the foundation.
- Material: Structural steel (e.g., S235JR).
- Dimensions: Common sizes are 80x80mm or 100x50mm.
Key Takeaway: Insist on hot-dip galvanized steel for all structural components to guarantee a long-lasting, low-maintenance court.
| Component | Specification | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Mesh | 50x50mm opening, 4-5mm wire | Consistent ball rebound, player safety |
| Coating | Hot-Dip Galvanization | Superior rust and corrosion protection |
| Support Posts | 80x80mm or 100x50mm structural steel | Provides rigidity and structural integrity |
| Powder Coating | Optional polyester powder coat | Adds color and an extra protective layer |
4.What Turf is on a Standard Padel Court?
What are monofilament and fibrillated turfs?
You need to know the two main types of artificial turf used. Each offers a different feel and durability.
- Monofilament: Made of single, individual fibers. It’s more durable and offers a faster game.
- Fibrillated: A wider fiber that splits over time, holding sand better but wearing faster.
How much sand infill is required?
The bottom line is that sand is not just for show. It provides stability to the turf fibers, controls the speed of play, and aids in drainage.
- Amount: Typically 10-15 kg of silica sand per square meter.
- Type: Rounded silica sand, with a specific grain size.
Why is drainage a critical turf feature?
Think about it. For outdoor courts, poor drainage means lost revenue after rain. The turf backing must have perforation holes to allow water to pass through to the foundation beneath.
- Perforation: Holes in the latex backing.
- Function: Prevents water from pooling on the playing surface.
Key Takeaway: The choice between monofilament and fibrillated turf affects play speed and durability, but proper sand infill is non-negotiable for both.
| Turf Feature | Monofilament | Fibrillated |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Individual, thicker fibers | Wider fibers that split into a net |
| Play Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Durability | Higher | Lower |
| Sand Requirement | ~12 kg/m² | ~15 kg/m² |
5.What Lighting Does a Standard Padel Court Need?
How many LED lights are typically used?
Here’s the deal. For good visibility across the entire court, a minimum number of light poles is required. The standard setup is four poles, but some clubs opt for eight.
- Standard: 4 light poles, one near each corner.
- Professional: 8 light poles for broadcast-quality lighting.
What is the required lux level for play?
But what does this mean for you? Lux is the measurement of light intensity on a surface. You need to hit a certain level for safe and enjoyable recreational play.
- Recreational Play: 200-300 lux average.
- Competition Play: 500+ lux average.
Are the light poles part of the structure?
The bottom line is that poles are almost always integrated into the court’s main steel structure. This simplifies installation and ensures they are positioned correctly.
- Integration: Attached directly to the corner or side posts.
- Height: Typically 6 meters high.
Key Takeaway: Specifying 200W LED fixtures on 4 poles to achieve 200-300 lux is the cost-effective standard for most clubs.
| Lighting Aspect | Standard Specification | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fixture Type | LED | Energy efficiency, long lifespan |
| Number of Poles | 4 (standard) or 8 (pro) | Ensures even light distribution |
| Pole Height | 6 meters | Provides wide coverage, reduces glare |
| Lux Level | 200-300 lux (recreational) | Guarantees good visibility for players |
6.What Foundation for a Standard Padel Court?
Why is a concrete base necessary?
You might be wondering if you can just lay a court on the ground. A reinforced concrete slab provides the stable, flat surface needed for proper ball bounce and prevents shifting over time.
- Material: Reinforced concrete.
- Function: Stability, flatness, and longevity.
How thick should the concrete slab be?
Here’s the deal. The foundation’s thickness depends on the ground conditions, but there is a general guideline. A thicker slab provides more stability.
- Standard Thickness: 10-15 cm (4-6 inches).
- Reinforcement: Steel mesh (rebar) embedded within the concrete.
What about slope and surface evenness?
Think about it. A perfectly flat court won’t drain water. A slight, imperceptible slope is built in to guide rainwater away from the playing surface.
- Slope: A gentle slope (e.g., 0.5%) for drainage.
- Evenness: The surface must be perfectly smooth, without pits or bumps.
Key Takeaway: Never cut corners on the foundation; a 10cm reinforced concrete slab is the minimum requirement for a court that lasts.
| Foundation Element | Specification | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Reinforced Concrete | Provides a stable, permanent base |
| Thickness | 10-15 cm | Prevents cracking and shifting |
| Reinforcement | Steel Mesh (Rebar) | Adds tensile strength to the concrete |
| Slope | Minimal (e.g., 0.5%) for runoff | Ensures proper drainage for outdoor courts |
7.What are the Rules for a Standard Padel Court Net?
What is the official height of the net?
You need to know the exact measurements for a regulation net. It’s lower than a tennis net.
- Center Height: 0.88 meters (2 feet 10.5 inches).
- End Height: Maximum of 0.92 meters (3 feet).
How is the net tension maintained?
The bottom line is a saggy net ruins a game. A steel cable runs through the top of the net and connects to a tensioning mechanism on one of the posts.
- Tension Cable: A metallic cable with a diameter of 4-5mm.
- Mechanism: A ratchet or winch system on a net post.
What materials are the posts made from?
But what does this mean for you? The net posts must be strong enough to handle the tension without bending. They are typically made from the same material as the court structure.
- Material: Galvanized steel.
- Shape: Usually round or square, matching the court design.
Key Takeaway: The net’s height (0.88m at the center) and tension are specified by the FIP, and your posts must support these rules without fail.
| Net Component | Official FIP Specification | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Center Height | 0.88 meters | Regulation playing height |
| End Height | 0.92 meters (max) | Anchors the net at the correct height |
| Tension Cable | 4-5mm metallic cable | Keeps the net taut |
| Posts | Round or square galvanized steel | Securely holds the net under tension |
8.What are the Access Rules for a Standard Padel Court?
Should a court have one or two doorways?
You might be wondering what the official rule is. FIP regulations allow for either one or two entrances on each side of the net.
- Standard: Two openings are most common.
- Flexibility: One opening is permitted.
Why are open, gateless entries popular?
Here’s the deal. Most modern courts feature open, gateless doorways. This design allows players to run outside the court for spectacular out-of-court plays, a key feature of the modern game.
- Benefit: Allows for “por fuera” plays.
- Safety: Reduces collision risk with a gate.
Do accessibility regulations apply here?
Think about it. Yes, they do. For public facilities, entrance widths must accommodate wheelchair access, which is a consideration during the design phase.
- Width: Openings should be wide enough for wheelchairs.
- Clearance: There should be no raised lip or threshold at the entrance.
Key Takeaway: Gateless entries are the modern standard, and ensuring they are wide enough for accessibility is a smart, future-proof choice.
| Access Feature | Common Specification | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Doors | 2 (one on each side) | Symmetrical and convenient player access |
| Type of Entry | Gateless / Open | Facilitates out-of-court play, enhances safety |
| Width | 0.72m minimum (1.05m ideal) | Allows player movement and accessibility |
| Location | Centered on the side panels | Standardized placement |
9.What Factors Influence Standard Padel Court Costs?
How do materials impact the final price?
The bottom line is you get what you pay for. Cheaper materials often mean thinner steel, lower-grade glass, or turf that wears out quickly.
- Glass: 12mm glass costs more than 10mm.
- Steel: Thicker galvanization and posts increase the price.
- Turf: High-quality monofilament turf is more expensive than basic fibrillated.
You need to know that the factory price is only part of the story. You must account for ocean freight, insurance, customs duties, and local taxes.
- Freight: Varies greatly by route and container availability.
- Duties: Depends on your country’s import laws.
- Local Delivery: Transport from the port to the final site.
How does a supplier affect long-term value?
But what does this mean for you? A reliable supplier provides durable materials that lower your maintenance and replacement costs over the court’s lifetime. A cheap court that needs constant repairs isn’t a good value.
- Warranty: Look for strong warranties on the structure and turf.
- Support: A good supplier offers post-sale technical support.
Key Takeaway: Focusing only on the initial price is a mistake; true value comes from a durable court with low long-term maintenance costs.
| Cost Factor | Lower Cost Option | Higher Value Option |
|---|---|---|
| Glass | 10mm tempered | 12mm tempered (EN 12150 certified) |
| Steel Treatment | Electro-galvanized | Hot-dip galvanized |
| Turf Type | Fibrillated | Monofilament |
| Supplier Focus | Lowest initial price | Best long-term value and reliability |
10.How to Find a Reliable Standard Padel Court Supplier?
What certifications should you ask for?
Here’s the deal. Certifications are your proof of quality. Don’t just take a supplier’s word for it; ask to see the documents.
- ISO 9001: For the manufacturing process.
- CE / EN 12150: For the tempered glass.
- SGS/Labosport: For the artificial turf.
Why is response time a key indicator?
Think about it. If a supplier takes days to answer a simple question before the sale, how will they act when you have a problem after delivery? Fast, clear communication is a sign of a professional operation.
- Good Sign: Replies within 12-24 hours.
- Bad Sign: Vague answers or long delays.
How do you verify manufacturing quality?
The bottom line is you need to see the details. Ask for photos and videos of their production line, welding quality, and galvanization process. A proud manufacturer will be happy to show you.
- Welds: Should be clean and consistent.
- Galvanization: Should be smooth and uniform.
- Packing: Professional packing prevents damage during shipping.
Key Takeaway: A trustworthy supplier will be transparent, responsive, and able to provide clear proof of their certifications and quality control.
| Reliability Check | What to Look For | Red Flag |
|---|---|---|
| Communication | Fast (<24h), clear, and technical answers | Slow, vague, or evasive responses |
| Certifications | ISO 9001, CE, SGS reports | No documents or unwilling to share them |
| Transparency | Willing to share factory photos/videos | Hiding their production process |
| Client History | Testimonials or project references | No provable track record |
Choosing the right court isn’t just about meeting specs; it’s about guaranteeing performance and durability for your client. The details, from galvanization thickness to glass certification, are what separate a short-term cost from a long-term asset. Ultimately, the best specification sheet means nothing if it’s not backed by a supplier who delivers exactly what was promised, on time.
Tired of sourcing uncertainty? Get a guaranteed, standards-compliant quote from our experts in under 12 hours.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the primary difference between a World Padel Tour court and a regular club court? A World Padel Tour (WPT) court uses a specific blue monofilament turf, often has enhanced structural elements for camera mounting, and features unique branding. While the core 20x10m dimensions are the same, the materials and finishes are optimized for professional broadcasting and play.
Q2: How much physical space is needed to install one standard padel court? You need more than just the 20x10m playing area. We recommend a minimum footprint of 21m x 11m to allow for the structure itself and safe runoff space around the entrances.
Q3: What is the typical lifespan of the artificial turf on a standard padel court? Depending on usage, maintenance (regular brushing and sand redistribution), and initial quality, artificial turf typically lasts between 4 and 7 years before needing replacement.
Q4: Can a standard padel court be installed indoors? Absolutely. A standard padel court can be installed indoors, provided the ceiling height is at least 6 meters (7-8 meters is ideal) to allow for lobs without interference.
Q5: What are the most common points of failure or maintenance on a court? The most common maintenance areas are the artificial turf seams, the net tensioning system, and ensuring the sand infill remains evenly distributed. For the structure, the welds and bolts on the mesh panels are the first places to check for wear or corrosion if not properly galvanized.