The rules of Pickleball are essential for any player to understand when joining this sport. Like many other sports, Pickleball has its own set of regulations to ensure fairness and consistency during both practice and competition. In this article, Olaben will share the fundamental Pickleball rules in detail, making it easier for you to get started and feel confident with this exciting sport.
1. Court and Equipment in Pickleball Rules
1.1 Pickleball Court
According to the rules of Pickleball, the standard international court measures 13.4 m (44 feet) in length and 6.1 m (20 feet) in width. The net stretches across the center with a height of 34 inches (about 86.4 cm) in the middle and 36 inches (about 91.4 cm) at both ends.
The court is divided into two halves by the net, each side measuring 3.05 m wide, with a special area called the Non-Volley Zone (also known as the “kitchen”) that extends 2.13 m from the net. Players are not allowed to hit a volley within this zone unless the ball has already bounced, ensuring strategy and fairness in play.
1.2 Pickleball Ball
The Pickleball ball is made of plastic, about 7.6 cm in diameter, and designed with multiple holes on its surface. The ball is lightweight and highly responsive, providing consistent flight and easy control during matches—one of the defining features of the sport.
You can explore official Pickleball accessories at Olaben, offering a wide range of products tailored for modern sports enthusiasts.
1.3 Pickleball Paddle
Pickleball paddles are specially designed for competition, typically made of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or composite materials. With an average weight between 200–250 grams, they are lightweight for agility yet sturdy enough to deliver powerful and accurate shots.
Today, Pickleball paddles come in a variety of models, technologies, and price ranges. Players can choose one that best suits their playing style or training goals. At Olaben, you can easily find high-quality Pickleball paddles along with other equipment to elevate your training and match experience.
2. Pickleball Serving Rules
In the Pickleball serving rules, the server must serve from the baseline, hitting the ball diagonally across the court so that it clears the net and the Non-Volley Zone. If the ball lands outside the boundary lines or within the kitchen, the serve is considered a fault.
Additionally, the rules state that the receiver must let the ball bounce once before returning it. After that, the serving team must also allow the ball to bounce once before hitting it back. This “two-bounce rule” ensures balance in the game and prevents the serving side from gaining an immediate advantage.
3. Scoring and Winning
According to the rules of Pickleball, a game is played to 11 points, but a team must win by at least 2 points. If the score is tied at 10-10, play continues until one side leads by 2 points, adding intensity and fairness to the match.
4. Common Faults in Pickleball
Typical faults include serving incorrectly, hitting the ball out of bounds, volleying from within the Non-Volley Zone, or failing to clear the net. When a fault occurs, the opposing team gains the serve and the chance to score.
5. The Non-Volley Zone
The Non-Volley Zone comes with strict regulations under the rules of Pickleball. Players may not step into this area when performing a volley, even if attempting a difficult save. Entry is only allowed if the opponent’s shot lands in the zone and bounces up, in which case the ball can be played.
6. Faulty Serves and Rotation
If the server makes a fault, the serve is passed to their partner without losing a point. If both teammates commit service faults, the serve goes to the opposing team. However, points can only be scored by the serving side, so the receiving team does not gain points from a faulty serve.
Play Pickleball Better with Olaben
To fully enjoy Pickleball, it’s not just about mastering the rules—it’s also about choosing the right pickleball women’s outfit and accessories. At Olaben, you’ll find everything you need for training and competition—from Pickleball paddles and balls to specialized Pickleball accessories.
In addition, Olaben offers a premium activewear ecosystem to keep you confident on the court:
- Women’s leggings with maximum stretch, perfect for every Pickleball move.
- Women’s shorts designed for comfort and mobility.
- Women’s sports skirts combining femininity with performance.
- Women’s sports bras for secure support and breathability.
- Women’s crop tops stylish and versatile for on and off the court.
- Women’s tank tops lightweight, breathable, and perfect for movement.
With Olaben, your pickleball women’s outfit combines cutting-edge performance technology and fashion-forward design—helping you play your best while expressing your unique style.
Visit Olaben Store for an in-person experience
You can try on the latest designs and receive personalized advice from the Olaben team at our showrooms:
Ho Chi Minh City
- Flagship Store: 1M, Street 10, Thao Dien, District 2 (Thu Duc) – Hotline: 092.828.2088
- Nguyen Trai: 35 Nguyen Trai, Ben Thanh, District 1 – Hotline: 036.428.2088
Hanoi
- Vincom Times City: 458 Minh Khai, Vinh Phu, Hai Ba Trung – Hotline: 037.928.2088
- 263 Pho Hue, Hai Ba Trung
