No-one can argue that tennis nets aren’t an essential part of every tennis court.

Their functionality may be simple, but for such an ‘unsophisticated’ piece of tennis equipment, there’s an incredible, bewildering array of tennis nets available!

Today’s buying guide aims to untangle the knotty world of tennis nets!

Tennis Net Thicknesses

Most modern tennis nets will be made from either a twisted or braided twine, around 2mm to 3.5mm thick.

The thicker the net, the more durable it will be. Select a net thickness that reflects with the amount of usage it will get.

A home court with low usage will find a 2mm thick net more than adequate. 2mm thick nets should also be used on courts that are prone to vandalism. Higher use home courts and clubs may want to opt for a 2.5mm or 3mm net, whilst competition standard nets  are typically 3.5mm thick.

Tennis Net Headbands

The nets we supply are fitted with three types of headband, made from canvas, polyester or vinyl.

Each type of headband has it’s own characteristics:

• Vinyl: Easy to clean and durable.
• Canvas: A traditional, cream coloured headband.
• Polyester: Easy to clean, excellent durability and visibility.

Headband Stitching

When treated correctly, a good tennis net will provide years of service. But sometimes, a net will start to fail as the stitching that holds the net to the headband begins to break away. There is a solution to this problem however, called ‘quad stitching’.

Double stitching (standard) – Two lines of stitching across the length of the headband hold the net in place. Double netting should be adequate for most home tennis courts.

Quad stitching – Four lines of stitching across the length of the headband hold the net in place. Quad stitching maximises the life expectancy of the tennis net. Quad stitched tennis nets should be used in clubs, schools or on tennis courts with heavy usage.

Knotted vs Knotless Tennis Netting

The difference between knotted and knotless netting is often down to personal aesthetic preference, but both types of net have their advantages and disadvantages.

Knotless netting for instance is less bulky and retains less moisture should it get wet. It also provides a clearer line of sight through the net. Knotted netting on the other hand is very durable and arguably better suited to handling ‘direct impacts’ from objects such as tennis balls. Knotted netting is also easier to repair. Knotted tennis nets are used in many championships, including Wimbledon.

All of the tennis nets currently available from sportsequip.co.uk are knotted style nets.

Other Options

All tennis nets are supplied with an integral plastic coated steel headline wire with loop and pin ends for fixing to an anchor post and into a British winder mechanism.

All nets available online from sportsequip.co.uk are 42′ doubles nets, however 33′ singles nets are also available upon request. Our sales team will be able to assist on 01858 545789.

Custom tennis nets, made to non-standard lengths can also be manufactured or nets can be fitted with double loop headlines if the type of tennis post requires this style of net. Please contact us for details if you have any made-to-order requirements.