What’s the Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Pickleball?

With the rhythmic thud of paddles beginning to echo across courts worldwide, pickleball enthusiasts face a major decision: indoor or outdoor pickleball? In this article, we’ll serve up insights to help you decide between the controlled environment of indoor courts and the natural allure of outdoor play.

Indoor pickleball is played inside on a court with a smooth, hard surface. It’s typically played on a dedicated pickleball court, a basketball court, or a hybrid court. These types of courts put less stress on your joints than outdoor courts made of concrete or asphalt.

Playing indoors allows players to practice their skills in a controlled environment without weather interruption or interference, making it great for beginners or anyone looking to perfect their game. Because playing indoors protects players from changing weather conditions, it also makes pickleball a year-round sport.

Indoor pickleball facilities typically have amenities that improve the playing experience, such as climate control systems, ample lighting, equipment rental, spectator seating, and more. These amenities keep players comfortable so they can focus on improving their skills, strategies, and techniques.

Outdoor pickleball is played on many different types of surfaces, such as concrete, asphalt, or dedicated outdoor pickleball courts with acrylic or rubber coatings. Weather and environmental elements, like wind, sun glare, and uneven surfaces, make the game more difficult by forcing players to adapt their techniques.

Weather greatly impacts how you play. If it’s cold, you’ll need to wear more layers, which may restrict movement. If it’s hot, your energy will be depleted faster. On bright, sunny days, you may have more trouble tracking the ball when in play, which impacts your overall performance.

One of the biggest considerations in outdoor pickleball is the wind. Because pickleball balls are lightweight, the wind can change their speed and direction. It can be difficult for beginners to hone their skills with that added factor.

While indoor and outdoor pickleball share many features, there are a few things that set them apart from each other, such as the pickleball balls, community, maintenance, accessibility, and clothing. Be sure to consider these factors when deciding to pursue one or the other.

At first glance, indoor and outdoor pickleball balls look very similar. However, they have five main differences that can help you differentiate between them

• Number of Holes: Indoor balls have 26 holes, while outdoor balls have 40 holes.

• Hole Diameter: Indoor balls have larger holes than outdoor balls.

• Weight: Indoor balls are lighter than outdoor balls.

• Hardness: Indoor balls are made of softer materials to reduce bounce, while outdoor balls are made of harder materials to increase bounce.

• Durability: Indoor balls tend to last longer than outdoor balls because they are softer and endure less harsh conditions.

Both indoor and outdoor pickleball can be great for socializing and community building, but each offers a unique atmosphere.

Indoor pickleball facilities build community through healthy competition. They host leagues, regular tournaments, and events that all members can watch or participate in. Because indoor courts protect players from unpredictable weather conditions, they attract players of all ages, abilities, and skill levels. This can make finding the perfect teammate or opponent easier.

Outdoor pickleball courts tend to be more casual and flexible. While they are used for tournaments and events, they can also be used for last-minute games with friends. Most outdoor courts don’t require players to be members to use their facilities. Because it’s less organized, it can be more difficult to find other pickleball enthusiasts to play with.

Indoor pickleball courts must undergo regular maintenance to stay in good condition. They require continuous cleaning to remove dirt and debris that may affect performance and may need to be repainted occasionally. Some amenities, like bathrooms, require daily maintenance to keep them in clean, working condition.

Outdoor pickleball courts must also be maintained, but typically have less routine maintenance schedules. Facilities regularly remove debris that may impact gameplay, and courts are power-washed occasionally to remove stubborn, built-up dirt. Outdoor courts may not be as well-maintained as indoor courts, which can add more difficulty to gameplay.

Because of their amenities, daily maintenance, and controlled environment, indoor pickleball courts are more accessible to players of varying abilities and skill levels. They keep players comfortable all year and allow them to focus on the game.

However, indoor courts often come with membership fees and requirements that may not make them ideal for those deciding whether the game is for them or for individuals with budgetary restrictions. Outdoor pickleball courts are typically free to use, making them great for players who are still testing the waters

On the other hand, outdoor courts are exposed to harsh weather conditions year-round, making them more prone to damage, like cracks and holes, which could lead to injury. These conditions prevent players from using the courts during bad weather and may limit who can safely use them. Outdoor courts may be less available in regions that regularly experience harsh weather.

The pickleball clothing players need varies between indoor and outdoor courts. Because indoor pickleball courts are climate-controlled, players have more flexibility when it comes to choosing the outfits they play in. However, players who choose outdoor courts must dress according to weather conditions to stay comfortable. Tennis clothing is great for outdoor pickleball.

Whether you play pickleball indoors or outdoors, it’s important to wear the right shoes to provide stability and reduce the risk of injuries. Indoor players should look for lightweight, cushioned shoes with outsoles designed to provide traction on smooth surfaces. Outdoor players should look for shoes with outsoles with deeper treads for better grip on rougher surfaces.

Overall, indoor and outdoor pickleball are both fun forms of exercise with their own benefits. When choosing between the two, be sure to consider your skill level, playing preferences, and the weather. If you’re ready to hit the court, check out the selection of pickleball equipment available at Academy Sports + Outdoors!