Pickleball vs Platform Tennis
The growing popularity of racquet sports has sparked interest in the variations that distinguish each game, making “Pickleball vs. Platform Tennis” a compelling topic for paddle sports players.
Both sports, while sharing certain elements such as a smaller court size and the use of paddles, offer unique experiences shaped by their distinct rules, playing styles, and equipment. Pickleball, often celebrated for its accessibility and fast-paced nature, contrasts sharply with the strategic and physically demanding play of platform tennis.
In this article, we will explain the detailed comparison of how Pickleball and platform Tennis are two different games despite both being paddle sports, needing a court, paddle, balls, and net to play.
Pickleball vs Platform Tennis- detailed Comparison
Here is the detailed comparison in which you will come to know about their differences and similarities and the end result in which you will be able to select one between them.
Similarities Between the Pickleball and Platform Tennis
The similar points come first which compel you to compare both the paddle sports with each other. Pickleball and platform tennis share several similarities despite their differences. These similarities make them both enjoyable and accessible racquet sports.
Here are the key commonalities,
- Both sports use paddles instead of strung racquets. The paddles are solid, allowing for better control and precision.
- Both use a ball that is designed to reduce speed and enhance control, though their materials differ (plastic for pickleball and spongy rubber for platform tennis).
- Their dimensions of the playing area are identical: 44 feet long by 20 feet wide. Both courts have similar layouts with a net in the middle.
- Both sports use a net that is lower than a standard tennis net (though the exact heights differ slightly).
- Both sports are commonly played as doubles, though singles play is also possible.
- Both sports require an underhand serve. The serve must land in the diagonal service box.
- In both sports, there is a non-volley zone (commonly referred to as the “kitchen” in pickleball), where players are not allowed to hit the ball in the air.
Main Differences between Platform Tennis and Pickleball
| Feature | Pickleball | Platform Tennis |
| Court Size | 44 feet long by 20 feet wide | 60 feet long by 30 feet wide |
| Net Height | 36 inches at sidelines, 34 inches at center | 34 inches uniformly |
| Paddles | Lightweight composite materials, no holes | Composite materials with holes for air resistance |
| Balls | Plastic ball with holes, lightweight | Spongy rubber ball, textured surface |
| Serve | Underhand, below waist, double bounce rule | Overhand or underhand, played off back screen |
| Scoring System | First to 11 points, win by 2, only serving team scores | Traditional tennis scoring, games to 6 sets with tiebreakers |
| Non-Volley Zone | 7 feet from net on both sides (“kitchen”) | No non-volley zone |
| Typical Playing Surface | Hard court, indoor or outdoor | Elevated court with gritty surface, surrounded by wire mesh |
| Weather Suitability | Dry or cool weather | All weather conditions, including cold weather |
| Footwear Requirements | Focus on breathability and lateral support | Insulated, traction on gritty surface |
How are the equipment of pickleball different from plateform Tennis?
The equipment used in pickleball and platform tennis is distinct, reflecting the unique requirements and playing styles of each sport. Here’s a detailed comparison of their equipment.
Platform Tennis Paddles vs. Pickleball Paddles differences
(1) Paddles Material
- Pickleball
Paddles are typically made of lightweight composite materials such as graphite, fiberglass, or sometimes wood. These materials provide a good balance of power and control. - Platform Tennis
Its Paddles are mostly made of composite materials like graphite or titanium. They are designed to be more durable and handle the impact of hitting a heavier ball. In the comparison between platform tennis vs pickleball the paddles of platform tennis are more durable because of their requirements.
(2) Design
- Pickleball
The paddles are solid and do not have any holes. They are smaller and lighter, generally around 7-8 inches wide and 15.5-17 inches long. - Platform Tennis
Its paddles are also solid but feature perforations (holes) to reduce air resistance and enhance control. They are slightly larger and heavier than pickleball paddles, typically around 8-9 inches wide and 18 inches long. It has a rounded type shape. These things keep it apart from pickleball.
Platform Tennis vs Pickleball Ball Differences
Both the balls have different designs and the materials which are used in their structures.
(1) Material
- Pickleball
Uses a plastic ball with holes, just like a wiffle ball. The material is lightweight and allows for slower flight and easier control. - Platform Tennis
It uses a spongy rubber ball with a textured surface. The material is designed to withstand cold weather and provide good traction on the gritty court surface. Its weight ranges from 1.4 to 1.6 ounces (40 to 45 grams).
(2) Design
- Pickleball
The ball has 26-40 holes, which help to reduce its speed and make it more controllable. It is lightweight and typically around 2.87 to 2.97 inches in diameter. - Platform Tennis
The ball is solid and slightly smaller than a tennis ball, about 2.5 inches in diameter. It has a textured surface to enhance grip and control during play.
Net Differences
(1) Height
- Pickleball
The net height is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. This setup is designed for the ball to be played predominantly at a lower height. - Platform Tennis
The net height is uniformly 34 inches at the center, similar to pickleball but with minor variations to accommodate the playing style.
Are pickleball gloves different from plateform tennis?
Yes, pickleball gloves and platform tennis gloves are different. Pickleball gloves are designed for improved grip and control, typically made of synthetic materials like polyurethane or leather. They’re used to prevent blisters and enhance comfort during play.
On the other hand, platform tennis gloves are thicker and insulated, primarily designed to keep hands warm in cold weather conditions, often made of materials like neoprene or synthetic leather.
Is the plateform tennis needs a different shoes from pickleball shoes?
Yes, platform tennis typically requires different shoes compared to pickleball. Platform tennis shoes are designed to provide traction on the gritty court surface and often feature a herringbone pattern on the outsole for better grip. They may also have additional insulation to keep feet warm in cold weather conditions. In contrast, pickleball shoes are generally designed for indoor or outdoor use on hard court surfaces and may prioritize cushioning and support for lateral movements.
What are the differences between pickleball shoes and platform tennis?
There are three main differences between pickleball and platform tennis shoes. These are due to their requirements which keep them apart from each other.
(1) Traction
- Platform tennis shoes have specialized outsoles with a herringbone pattern to provide traction on the gritty court surface, while pickleball shoes may have patterns optimized for indoor or outdoor hard courts.
(2) Insulation
- Platform tennis shoes often feature additional insulation to keep feet warm in cold weather conditions, whereas pickleball shoes may be specially designed for breathability and pickleball court specific traction.
(3) Support
- Pickleball shoes may offer enhanced support for lateral movements and stability on hard court surfaces, while platform tennis shoes may focus more on providing grip and preventing slips on the elevated court with surrounding wire mesh. They are not good shock absorbers.
Platform Court vs. Construction of a Pickleball Court
There is a difference between their courts, like pickleball needs the court with proper level, huge area and hard surfaces from where it will bounce back. There should be a proper zone which defines the movements of a player.
It has a larger dimension than platform tennis. Pickleball courts measure 44 feet long by 20 feet wide, with a net height of 34 inches at the center.
The platform tennis court does not need to be higly leveled court like a pickleball court. It has a length of 60 feet and width 30 feet. Along with this area there will be an 8 feet long area before the base and 5 feet long line with each of the sides.
It is surrounded by a 12-foot high fence made of taut wire mesh, which is part of the playable area. The service lines are 12 feet from the net, creating a service box. It has a gritty surface for traction. There are also boundary lines marking the court’s perimeter and boundaries. It has no wall around it.
The platform tennis players considered themselves as stronger players than pickleball players. It means that platform tennis is not suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Platform tennis is a self explanatory sport which means that it will be played on the platform like terrace, floors, etc. it can be played in every type of weather and seasons while pickleball can only be played in dry or cool weather. It has also “ Kitchen zone”
Are there any differences in the rules of pickleball and platform tennis?
Yes, there are significant differences in the rules of pickleball and platform tennis which are given below.
(1) Serving Rules
In pickleball, the serve must be underhand and below the waist, with the ball landing in the diagonal service court. A unique feature is the double bounce rule, requiring the ball to bounce once on each side before volleys are allowed.
Platform tennis allows overhand or underhand serves, with only one serve attempt per point. The ball must land in the diagonal service court, but can also be played off the back screen, adding a strategic element to serve.
(2) Gameplay Rules
Pickleball has a non-volley zone, known as the “kitchen,” where players cannot volley the ball while standing within 7 feet of the net on either side. This rule encourages longer rallies and strategic play.
While platform tennis has no non-volley zone, allowing players to volley from anywhere on the court, which can lead to more aggressive net play and faster-paced points.
(3) Scoring Rules
Pickleball games are typically played to 11 points, and only the serving team can score points. Players must win by 2 points.
Platform tennis uses a more traditional tennis scoring system (15, 30, 40, game) and is played to 6 games per set, with a tiebreaker at 6-6. Points can be scored by either team, regardless of who is serving, and sets can be extended through tiebreakers.
Bottom Lines
Pickleball and platform tennis both are engaging paddle sports with similar court dimensions and basic equipment. They offer distinct experiences shaped by their unique rules, equipment, and playing environments. Pickleball’s lightweight paddles, plastic balls, and non-volley zone cater to fast-paced, accessible play suitable for all ages. While, platform tennis demands more physicality and strategic play with its durable paddles, spongy rubber balls, and screen-enabled gameplay. The differences in their court surfaces, scoring systems, and footwear further highlight the diverse skills and strategies each sport requires. The choice between pickleball vs. platform tennis depends on player preferences for gameplay style and physical level.
How does the serve differ between pickleball and platform tennis?
In pickleball, the serve must be underhand and below the waist, with the ball landing in the diagonal service court. Pickleball also has a double bounce rule. In platform tennis, serves can be overhand or underhand, with only one serve attempt per point. The ball must land in the diagonal service court and can be played off the back screen, adding a strategic element.
Why do platform tennis shoes have more insulation than pickleball shoes?
Platform tennis shoes often have additional insulation to keep feet warm during play in cold weather conditions. This is because platform tennis is commonly played outdoors year-round, including in winter. Pickleball shoes, however, are designed for indoor or outdoor play on hard courts and prioritize breathability and support for lateral movements.
Can platform tennis be played in any weather conditions?
Yes, platform tennis is designed to be played in various weather conditions, including cold weather. The spongy rubber ball and textured court surface provide good traction, making it suitable for play in diverse environments. Pickleball, on the other hand, is typically played in dry or cool weather.
Is platform tennis the same as pickleball?
No, platform tennis and pickleball are distinct sports. While both use paddles and have similar court sizes, they differ in equipment, court surfaces, and rules. Platform tennis features more physical play and strategic elements compared to pickleball’s fast-paced nature.
