How Players and Residents Can Co-Exists Among Pickleball Noise
Pickleball’s popularity is on the rise, but the noise it produces can be a concern in some communities. Although pickleball enthusiasts enjoy the popping sound that the ball makes when it hits the racket or bounces off a wall, some residents are considering legal action. It’s time to take action to make pickleball quieter.
Finding Solutions for Pickleball Noise
Pickleball players and manufacturers are working to address the noise problem. Without a solution, pickleball players could face the threat of being run out of town or having their game banned. The future of this popular sport depends on finding ways to make it less noisy.
The Problem with Pickleball Noise
As the popularity of the game grows, more pickleball courts are being built in residential areas. Once-quiet tennis courts are being converted, and up to four pickleball courts can be accommodated in the space of one tennis court. The courts are often busy throughout the day, and the resulting noise is disturbing to some residents.
The higher pitch of the pickleball sound compared to tennis and the increased concentration of players and accompanying noise are some of the problems associated with pickleball noise. Here are some ways to address them:
1. Pickleball Has a Higher Pitch Then Tennis
Although pickleball makes a sound with a similar decibel range to tennis, it is at a much higher pitch. The sound is not harmful to human ears, but it is more noticeable and disturbing. It makes some people irritable and has been known to cause headaches.
2. There’s a Heavier Concentration of Players
Due to the increasing popularity of pickleball, courts are being built everywhere to meet the demand. Those who live near eight mostly empty tennis courts now live near four times as many pickleball courts, filled at all hours of the day and night with people playing the game. Some residents have to endure pickleball noise from early morning until late at night.
3. Pickleball Produces an Increased Decibel of Sound
While the pickleball itself is not louder than a tennis ball, the game creates additional noise, including conversations and grunting sounds from players. The popping noise that pickleball makes is repetitive and annoying to some. The accompanying conversation is at the same decibel level as someone talking to you and saying the same thing repeatedly. Some residents find it maddening.
Pickleball Noise: Finding Solutions to Protect the Future of the Game
Pickleball, the rapidly growing sport, is facing a serious threat – noise. The noise generated during a game can lead to disputes and even lawsuits. Therefore, players and manufacturers must take measures to reduce pickleball noise to protect the future of the game.
Lawsuits Over Pickleball Noise
There have been instances where pickleball noise has led to legal disputes. A couple in South Carolina sued after purchasing a custom-made home near a golf course, only to be disturbed by the noise and strobe lighting from a nearby pickleball court. The couple sued for injunctive relief and damages.
Manufacturers Offering Quieter Solutions
Fortunately, manufacturers are finding ways to reduce pickleball noise. One solution is quieter pickleball paddles. The Sun City Grand Pickleball Courts in Surprise, AZ, tested various paddles and came up with a list of approved, quieter options. Pickleball Insiders also provides a list of the best quiet pickleball paddles. It’s important to choose a paddle that fits your playing style, weight, and grip. Once you’ve found a paddle that meets those requirements, cross-reference it with the list of quiet paddles.
Some excellent ones that Pickleball Insiders recommends include:
- The Patriot Pickleball Sniper Paddle – With its polypropylene core, this is a much quieter paddle that’s lightweight and yet generates a lot of power.
- Graphite Onix Z5 Paddle – This paddle has carbon fiber materials and a comfortable grip. It’s a durable paddle, although its finish wears out pretty quickly.
- Onix Evoke Pro Paddle – With its polypropylene core and composite face, you’ll be able to spin and play for speed. This paddle enables you to make precise shots.
Pickleballs made of foam are another solution to help make pickleball quieter. While they can’t be played in an actual game, you can use them for practice and warmup. The Gamma Revolution Warm Up balls have a great bounce and are good for beginners and for warming up.
Also, use indoor pickleballs in every game. While outdoor pickleballs are less susceptible to wind, indoor pickleballs are lighter and softer and will be less annoying to nearby neighbors.
Sound-Muting Fencing Solutions
Another solution is to install soundproofing material around a pickleball court. Acoustifence is an elastic acoustical material filled with heavy minerals. It reduces pickleball noise by 50% by reflecting the noise, preventing it from traveling past the barrier. While it’s a practical solution for new pickleball courts, it may be cost-prohibitive for other areas.
Adapting to Protect Pickleball
Pickleball enthusiasts and equipment manufacturers must adapt to protect the future of the game. Finding ways to make ultra-quiet pickleball paddles and pickleballs is necessary. In the meantime, using quieter paddles and indoor pickleballs for regular games and foam balls for practice is a way to reduce pickleball noise. By taking these measures, players can ensure that pickleball will continue to be a beloved sport for years to come.
How You Can Reduce Pickleball Noise
It shouldn’t be long before pickleball enthusiasts and equipment manufacturers find a way to make ultra-quiet pickleball paddles and pickleballs. In the meantime, do your part by purchasing a quieter paddle and using indoor pickleballs for regular games and foam balls for practice.
