This page lists some options for portable net stands. While many courts have permanent net posts, other courts must be used for multiple purposes. This page lists some of the options that can be used to set up temporary nets in gymnasiums or multi-sports courts. Included below is the USA Pickleball commercial-grade portable net system as well as a few homemade solutions. Information on the homemade options should not be considered a recommendation by USA Pickleball.
There are other types of temporary netstands that include a sleeve and cover plate installed in the court surface. Anything requiring modification of the court surface is not listed. You should always obtain written permission before altering any court surfac
USA Pickleball Portable Net System
Description: This is a light portable net system designed to be quick and easy to set up and take down. It is a full regulation height and width designed just for pickleball. These are the same nets used by the USA Pickleball for some regional and other sanctioned tournaments.
- Cost: $159 list (only $139 for USA Pickleball Members). Includes the net, frame and carrying bag.
- Advantages: Complete net system. Inexpensive, light, portable, and easy to set up.
- Disadvantages: Designed for pickleball. Cannot be set to badminton height. Applications requiring heavy-duty nets may require heavier commercial net stands.
Net Stands Made from Chain Link Fence Rail
Description: Made from 1 3/8" top rails and fittings for chain link fence.
Cost: $84 + net
Advantages: Relatively inexpensive. Can be assembled from readily available materials from Lowe's.Can be easily disassembled for transport or storage. Entire assembly, including the net, can be picked up by one person and moved to the side of a gym or sports court. That is an advantage because the net does not have to be removed every time the stands are moved. The net is tensioned against the horizontal bar, thus eliminating the need for an excessive amount of weight that is required in most other designs.
Disadvantage: Some basic mechanical skill, time, and tools are required for the initial construction.
Net Stands Made from PVC
Cost: Unknown + net
Advantages: Relatively inexpensive. Can be assembled from readily available materials. Entire assembly, including the net, can be picked up by one person and moved to the side of a gym or sports court. That is an advantage because the net does not have to be removed every time the stands are moved. The net is tensioned against the horizontal bar, thus eliminating the need for an excessive amount of weight that is required in most other designs.
Disadvantage: Some basic mechanical skill, time, and tools are required for the initial construction.
Net Stand Made from 5-Gallon Paint Buckets
Description: 5-gallon paint buckets filled with concrete or large rocks for weight. Net post can be plastic or metallic pipe.
Cost: $20-$40 + net
Advantages: Very inexpensive. Can be assembled from readily available materials.
Disadvantages: Heavy weight makes it very difficult for some people to move (a small hand truck might be desired if moved often). Depending on the court surface, the net stands tend to slide together because of the tension on the net. Some basic mechanical skill, time, and tools are required for the initial construction. Frequent adjustment and/or additional weight may be required. Make your own judgment about the attractiveness.
Cast Iron Base for Outdoor Umbrella Stand
Description: This is an example of a base for an outdoor umbrella stand. Some are heavier than others. The one in the photo weighs 27 pounds. Add a pipe and eyebolts.
Cost: $75-$90 (for a pair) + net
Advantages: Easy to construct and move. Rubber feet on the bottom protect a wood floor.
Disadvantages: Requires minor mechanical skill, time, and tools to construct, but is much easier to make than the 2 designs above. May require additional weight such as sandbags to hold in place. The lightweight net is recommended because of the weight.
Concrete Base for Outdoor Umbrella Stand
Description: This is an example of concrete base for an umbrella stand. It is much heavier than others. Add a pipe and eyebolts.
Cost: About $90-$100 (for a pair) + net
Advantages: Easy to construct. Heavy weight makes it unnecessary to add additional weight.
Disadvantages: Requires minor mechanical skill, time, and tools to add the pipe and eyebolts. Weight is unknown, but at least 70 pounds. Requires a small hand truck to move. Transporting to another location would be difficult. Rough concrete bottom would require a protective pad for a wood floor.
