Padel is an extremely dynamic sport where quick reflexes and the ability to track the ball’s trajectory can determine the outcome of a match. In this context, every element of the court must be carefully designed to ensure a seamless, distraction-free playing experience.
Among the essential features of a padel court, lighting plays a crucial role. Proper lighting allows players to maintain focus without straining their eyes, thereby improving the precision of their movements and reducing the risk of injury.
Investing in a quality lighting system not only elevates the standard of the court but is also essential for adhering to regulations that ensure safety and visibility on the court.
But what are the main elements of a good lighting system? What parameters should be met to ensure optimal performance?
Padel court lighting: what the regulations say
Padel court lighting must comply with specific regulations to guarantee optimal playing conditions. The primary standard to refer to is UNE-EN 12193, which sets the lighting requirements for sports facilities and considers two fundamental aspects: the amount of light (measured in lux, i.e., the illumination level) and the quality of the light (uniformity and glare reduction).
Padel court lighting is then categorized into three different classes, depending on the type of use and the specific needs of the court:
- Class I: Ideal for courts used for high-level competitions, such as national or international tournaments, often with a significant number of spectators.
- Class II: Used for medium-level competitions, such as regional matches or professional training sessions.
- Class III: Designed for courts dedicated to amateur, recreational activities, or training.
Below is a summary table with the optimal lighting and uniformity values for each class of padel court.
| Class | Indoor Court | Outdoor Court | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lux | Uniformity | Lux | Uniformity | |
| I | 750 | 0.7 | 500 | 0.7 |
| II | 500 | 0.7 | 300 | 0.7 |
| III | 300 | 0.5 | 200 | 0.6 |
Where to position lights on a padel court?
The lights on a padel court must be strategically placed to ensure constant visibility and minimize glare, especially during shots like the lob or smash, where players need to look up to follow the ball’s trajectory. Typically, lights are installed on towers at the four corners of the court or along the longer sides, at a height of at least 6 meters. This height ensures that the light is evenly distributed without interfering with the players’ vision. For indoor courts located within tents or pavilions, a lighting system can be designed to be mounted directly on the ceiling.
How much does it cost to light a padel court?
The cost of lighting a padel court depends on various factors, including the type of lighting technology chosen, the number of projectors needed, and the maintenance required.
- Lighting technology: LED solutions are more expensive than traditional lights like halogen or fluorescent lamps but are more cost-effective in the long term. LED lights consume less energy and have a much longer lifespan, thereby reducing operational costs over time.
- Number of projectors: A standard padel court typically requires 4 to 8 projectors, depending on the power and quality of the chosen devices.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance of padel courts and their lighting systems is essential for extending the lifespan of the structures. Although LEDs require less maintenance than traditional lights, it is important to periodically check that the devices are clean and functioning properly.
Favaretti lighting systems
Choosing the right lighting system for a padel court can seem complex, given the variety of factors to consider, such as the required brightness level, uniform light distribution, and energy efficiency.
Favaretti Padel designs and builds complete padel courts, offering modern solutions with integrated LED lighting systems that comply with the regulations set by the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation. The LED lights used in Favaretti’s courts ensure uniform visibility across the entire playing area, enhancing the gaming experience both day and night.
Favaretti also offers solutions for padel court covers that protect the structures from weather elements, allowing play throughout the year, regardless of the weather conditions. The LED systems in these covered courts are designed to minimize glare and ensure optimal lighting, maintaining high levels of energy efficiency and durability.