Hello Pickleball Friends,
Today I'd like to share my experience with the Joola Symmetry Pickleball Net. To be honest, I was skeptical at first due to the high price, as it costs CHF 339, almost twice as much as other portable nets. But as the saying goes: sometimes you get what you pay for.
Packaging and Weight
The packaging is robust, and the individual parts are well protected. The net weighs a considerable 13 kg. So it's not only more expensive but also 45% heavier than conventional nets (which are often around 9 kg).
Setup
We managed to set it up in just about 5 minutes with two people. The included instructions were helpful for the first setup, but after that, they're no longer necessary - it really couldn't be simpler. You don't need to pay attention to the pole numbering, which makes the setup much faster than with conventional nets. However, setting it up alone doesn't work; you need two people for this net!
Assemble poles > Spread out net > Insert pole > Assemble center section > Tension net edge
It's that simple.
Play / Net Edge
This is where the Joola Symmetry Net makes a decisive difference. Once tensioned, the net edge is extremely stable, unlike conventional nets with a center pole. The premium price for this net compared to conventional portable nets is definitely felt here.
If you look at the pictures, it's clear that the Symmetry net is self-tensioning and therefore doesn't have a pole in the middle of the court, like conventional nets. This allows it to adhere to the official pickleball net definitions (sideline height 91.44cm, center height 86cm). With conventional mobile nets that have a pole in the middle, the measurements are unfortunately never correct. For the exact net height definition, also check online with the Swiss Pickleball Association.
Extra feature: with this net, the balls roll under the net - we all like that, don't we?
Disassembly
Disassembling the Symmetry net is as effortless as setting it up, taking only about 2 minutes. The net fits comfortably into the included robust bag.
Use with Children
Please note that while the net is generally more stable for playing, it is not suitable for schools / children. Children often stand around the net, tug at the netting, and stick their fingers/hands through it. The net tends to go out of balance more quickly than conventional nets when used with children and needs to be adjusted more often.
All-Weather Capable, or Not?
The Symmetry net is largely rust-free, as the poles are made of a fiberglass composite rather than steel. The net should not be exposed to severe weather conditions for prolonged periods to avoid damage to the ropes, net, and poles. The net is no more wind-stable than other conventional portable nets.
Conclusion
The Joola Symmetry Pickleball Net is for those who are serious about playing pickleball. The price is worth it in that case, as the game is much more fun. However, for recreational use, i.e., in a purely hobby setting with family, etc., you don't need to dig so deep into your pockets; a conventional portable net will suffice.
Overall, Joola has created a real gem with the Symmetry net, which definitely adds value for players looking for something special. Personally, if I have the choice, I always play with a Symmetry net!
Sporty greetings,
Magnus
CEO, Pro Pickleball GmbH
Transparency Information: Pro Pickleball GmbH received a Joola Symmetry net from Joola. This article is based on an honest and objective review that I personally wrote.
