Whether you’re with a school, a rec center, or even a homeowner with space, there’s an indoor volleyball net for you. But how do you know which one is right for your needs? There are plenty of options available; however, they are neither universal in function nor equal in quality. Let’s go over the basics before you buy so that you can make an educated purchase.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of indoor volleyball nets, such as:

• Materials, Dimensions, and Setup
• Height and Regulations
• Tensioning

Indoor Volleyball Net – Materials, Dimensions, and Setup

First off, it’s important to realize that indoor and outdoor volleyball nets are different from one another. Though they share many similarities, indoor nets are specifically for indoor play. For example, indoor nets are usually light for easy portability and not focused on weather resistance, though they are still durable and built to last.

Materials

Typically, volleyball nets are made of polypropylene or nylon netting with a mesh size of 3.9” (10 cm). However, nets are made of all kinds of materials, so it’s important to take note of the product’s materials before buying. The following are some common net materials:

• Nylon – high-quality nylon lasts even in heat and rain
• Poly – also good for outdoors and is durable despite the weather
• Kevlar – very strong, long-lasting, and perfect for indoor use

Besides the net’s material, there are also many different materials for poles. When shopping for an indoor net system, look for lightweight poles. Certain features aid in portability of your system, such as wheels. Here are some common pole materials:

• Aluminum – sturdy, durable, and lightweight
• Steel – the most practical choice for competition-quality net tensioning, lightweight, good value for money
• Carbon Fiber – strong as steel while light as aluminum

While all of these materials make great net systems, it’s important to look for a net that works best for you and your space.

Dimensions and Setup

Volleyball nets are almost always 36 feet long from pole to pole. The court itself is generally 60 feet long with each side of the net split into 20 feet for the front row attackers and then 10 feet for the back row.

See the following diagram for more detail on how to set up a volleyball system:

Height and Regulations

The standard competition volleyball net height is 2.43m (7.97ft) tall for men and 2.24m (7.35ft) tall for women. Of course, there are variations to this rule based on factors such as age, ability, and type. For example, the net is lower for players who are 55 and older and then even lower for players ages 70 plus.

One important thing to keep in mind when shopping for an indoor volleyball system is that the net height is adjustable to welcome all levels of players. For example, the Stellar Recreational Net System includes an easy-to-read height indicator on its pole and, because of this feature, it is adjustable for volleyball,  pickleball, and tennis.

Tensioning

A properly tensioned net is key to a good volleyball game. The nets should be tight and even across the top and bottom, which can be achieved by tying knots yourself or buying a system that includes a net tensioning crank, such as the Galaxy Carbon Fiber Competition Volleyball Net System or the Astro Aluminum Competition Volleyball Net System. By choosing a system that includes a crank, tensioning the net becomes quick and easy.

As with all sports equipment, check your net frequently for wear and tear as well as tension.

Overall, before choosing an indoor volleyball net, understand what components are most important to you. Important factors to consider are material, portability, and quality. Of course, the most important aspect is that your team is safe and happy bumping, setting, and spiking with your new system!

Contact Us with your questions or quote requests. We’re always here and happy to help.