Imagine stepping onto a court designed to unite the dynamic worlds of pickleball and padel—a space where the fast-paced play of one meets the tactical finesse of the other. This innovative approach allows enthusiasts to enjoy both sports without compromise, providing versatility for athletes, clubs, and communities.
In the San Antonio and Dallas/Fort Worth areas, Grand Slam’s clients often opt for a court that combines pickleball with half-court basketball. Because padel (like pickleball) requires a smaller court, about 1/3 the size of a regulation tennis court, the combination of padel with pickleball provides a unique court for those who love racquet sports. A basketball goal could provide a third sport for play.
What is Padel?
Padel is a rapidly growing racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, played on an enclosed court with glass walls and a perforated paddle. The game is typically played in doubles, and its rules encourage long rallies and teamwork, emphasizing strategic positioning and quick reflexes.
Originating in Mexico in the late 1960s, padel has gained immense popularity across Europe and Latin America, with its engaging format making it accessible to players of all skill levels. Unlike tennis, serving is underhand, and the walls are in play, creating exciting opportunities for creative shots and tactical maneuvers.
Like pickleball, it is easy to learn to play padel at a beginner level, but more experienced players will enjoy the speed and strategy involved in higher levels of play.
What is Required for a Combination Padel/Pickleball court?
The fusion of these two sports on a single court is more than a matter of convenience; it’s an invitation to embrace new challenges and broaden athletic horizons.
A padel court is 32.8 feet by 65.6 feet. A pickleball court, typically 22 feet by 44 feet, will easily fit inside the padel court. Padel courts are enclosed with glass walls, while pickleball courts are open with a no-volley zone (the “kitchen”). Adjustable net systems are available to accommodate both sports.
Facility designers are responding to this growing demand by integrating flexible features—walls sturdy enough for padel, open enough for pickleball, surfaces calibrated for both sports—to create an environment where experimentation and fun are paramount. A year ago, the prestigious West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills, New York opened the world’s first-ever dual pickleball/padel court for play.
Experience Padel in Person
Pick & Padel is a nearby destination for San Antonians interested in seeing, and perhaps experiencing, padel play. Located at 30251 Leroy Scheel Rd. in Bulverde, the facility has three pickleball courts and three padel courts. They offer court rentals, clinics, and coaching. In The Dallas/Fort Worth area, check out the North Texas Racquet Club in Frisco (6545 All Stars Avenue). The club has 7 tennis courts, 4 padel courts, and 6 pickleball courts, all of which are lighted for nighttime play.
For a virtual visit to Bulverde’s Pick & Padel, view this video:
When you are ready to get a quote on your new court, give us a call at 210-496-3399 (San Antonio office) or 214-651-4232 (North Texas office). We will visit your site and give you a customized quote.