Padel Tennis Court: Size, Construction, and Indoor vs. Outdoor
The padel court is one of the first things you encounter when you start playing the sport – and the court's structure is actually a big part of what makes padel so different from regular tennis. In this guide, you'll get an overview of the court's dimensions, structure, and the difference between playing indoors and outdoors.
How a padel court is constructed
A padel court typically measures 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width and is surrounded by glass and fence walls instead of an open court as in tennis. The walls are an active part of the game, so you need to get used to the ball being returnable after it has hit both the court and the wall. The court is divided in the middle by a net, just like in tennis, but the general playing surface is significantly smaller.
Indoor vs. outdoor padel court
Padel is played both indoors and outdoors, and this affects the playing experience. Indoor courts provide more stable conditions without wind and weather, making the ball more predictable and making the sport accessible all year round. Outdoor courts are often cheaper to book and offer a different dynamic, where wind can affect both serves and longer rallies. Many beginners prefer to start indoors, where conditions are more consistent, while more experienced players often enjoy the variety that outdoor play offers.
Covered vs. open courts
In addition to the pure indoor/outdoor distinction, there are also covered courts, which are outdoor courts with a roof but open sides. They provide shelter from rain but still give the feeling of playing outside – a good compromise if you want to avoid cancellations due to weather.
How to find the right court for your level
As a beginner, it can be advantageous to start on an indoor court, where you can fully focus on technique and placement without having to account for wind. As you become more comfortable with the game, you can try outdoor courts, where you also train your ability to adapt to changing conditions.
Ready for the court
Whether you play indoors or outdoors, it's important to have padel apparel that gives you full freedom of movement on the court. A good pair of shorts or a t-shirt designed for high intensity makes a noticeable difference in your performance. If you are a woman looking for activewear for the court, you can find inspiration in our women's collection, and if you're transitioning from court to everyday life, our off-duty wear is an excellent choice.