Playing Pickleball indoors versus outdoors can result in a very different game experience. There are many variables that create these differences, some obvious and some subtle. Either way, each court will support a dynamic game filled with competitive fun and enjoyment.
Here are the seven big differences between outdoor and indoor court play that may impact your game. Just keep in mind, it’s better to play than not to play, so get out on any court and savor the action.
Playing Surface
Outdoor courts are usually made of concrete or asphalt. Many times, outdoor courts are converted tennis courts. These are very hard surfaces with lots of texture and imperfections that may cause the ball to bounce higher, skip faster, or move on an awkward trajectory. Indoor courts are usually made of wood flooring (think of a basketball court). These floors are smooth and much softer than outdoor courts. The ball may not “bite” on the surface as easily creating variations in bounce height, the impact of spins, and ball direction. Plus, outdoor courts get hot in the sun while indoor surfaces are climate controlled. This can impact ball travel.
Weather Conditions
If you play outdoor Pickleball, you will eventually face difficult weather (rain, snow, high/low temperatures, high winds, humidity, searing sunshine, etc.). Learning to play through various weather conditions is necessary outdoors. Conversely, indoor facilities are climate controlled offering a consistent gaming experience no matter where you play. Indoor play is predictable and easier to manage. Consider your desired playing conditions when selecting a location.
Lighting Conditions
One of the biggest differences between outdoor and indoor play is lighting conditions. Outdoor Pickleball is subject to natural light and changing conditions as the sun comes up and goes down. Natural light is impacted by clouds, weather, trees, shade, and non-natural outdoor court lighting. Outdoor lighting is not consistent day-to-day or from court-to-court.
Indoor courts generally offer consistent lighting all day. Some natural light may enter a facility through windows yet most light is from non-natural halogen or LED lamps. This allows the facility to control conditions for an optimal playing experience.
NOTE: One exception may be playing at an indoor inflatable facility. Those white inflatable buildings allow a lot of natural light to enter, combining natural and non-natural light. Results may be inconsistent as lighting changes from natural during daylight to non-natural when dark.
Wind
Even though wind is a weather issue, it deserves its own section. One of the biggest differences between outdoor and indoor pickleball is that wind can significantly affect outdoor play. Wind is unpredictable. High wind can make it more difficult to control your shots. High wind affects the flight of the ball making it hard to anticipate where the ball will land. High wind can impact your eyesight making it hard to hit a ball.
Indoor courts are not impacted by wind. Indoor courts do not have this problem (unless they use high speed fans at the wrong times). This makes indoor courts a much better choice for people who want consistent gameplay.
Equipment
A big difference between outdoor and indoor court play is the Pickleball. Outdoor and indoor pickleballs are not the same. Outdoor balls are made from harder and more dense materials to survive the punishment of outdoor surfaces and play. Indoor balls are made from softer materials and may have a softer exterior that can “grab” smoother indoor surfaces better. Outdoor balls have up to 40 holes allowing for better aerodynamics and faster play. Indoor balls have around 26 holes and play at a slower rate.
Other equipment can vary (paddles, shoes, eyewear, etc.) yet most other equipment can be used interchangeably between outdoor and indoor courts.
Accessibility
Depending on where you live, accessibility may be the primary factor determining if and where you can participate in Pickleball. While pickleball is gaining in popularity, many states and municipalities still do not have a lot of venue options.
In cold northern states, outdoor courts are not accessible all year. Indoor courts, where indoor tennis courts can be converted for winter use, may be a great option. In southern and western states, the ability to be outside all year may mean more outdoor facilities are available. In extreme heat states, indoor courts may be a better option during summer heat.
Overall, indoor pickleball courts are usually more accessible and easier to find than their outdoor counterparts. Luckily, many towns and cities are adding Pickleball courts into newly built or renovated parks and recreation facilities expanding outdoor and indoor options. If you’re looking to play, search your local area for available courts and take advantage of what is available.
Cost
Cost is the last factor we’ll discuss. While the cost to play in a league or tournament may, or may not, vary much in your area there are factors that impact the cost of play.
Outdoor courts can be more expensive to maintain (surfaces, paint, fencing, stands, facilities, etc.) than indoor courts making them more costly options for long-term play. Indoor pickleball courts are usually less expensive over time and easier to maintain (less wear/tear, no weathering, etc.), yet must be climate controlled.
Depending on where you live the cost to maintain a facility, along with supply and demand, will impact the cost of games, memberships, leagues, and tournaments. Luckily, the cost of equipment is fairly consistent due to homogenized online options across the country.
We, the Pickleball Geeks, simply recommend you find a way to start playing the game. Get used to your local courts and adjust your preferences over time. You may find one style of play suits you best.
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