Volleyball can be played more casually at the beach, competitively in gyms, or in an organised setting, such as school or community leaguesVolleyball is more popular than it has ever been before. To truly enjoy the game and play at your best, it all comes down to the equipment you use. It is easy to see that, from the Net that defines the court for you to the protective gear that keeps players safe, the quality of volleyball equipment matters, both for safety and maximum performance.
In this guide, we will discuss two of the simplest volleyball playing equipment or team accessories: the volleyball nets and the volleyball knee pads. Knowing what to consider will not only help you make a prudent purchase, but it will also enable you to make the most of the game.
Why is it Important to Be Caring About the Quality of Equipment in Volleyball?
Before discussing these items in more detail, it’s worth reflecting on why quality equipment matters:
- Game Consistency: Quality equipment, which can be depended upon to function correctly, creates consistency in play and avoids stoppages in play due to faulty gear.
- Injury Reduction: Quality gear can help reduce the incidence of common volleyball-related injuries caused by equipment-related failure.
- Enhance Enjoyment: High-quality equipment will enhance enjoyment and increase awareness of your thoughts and actions, ultimately leading to a greater enjoyment of the game.
How to Pick the Best Volleyball Nets
The volleyball net is the focal point of a volleyball court, so when installing it, consider its location and style.
Types of Volleyball Nets
- Indoor Nets: Using light, durable materials in a regulated environment
- Outdoor Nets: They are typically heavy, robust, weather-resistant and can withstand wind and sun
What to Consider
- Regulation size: In case you are playing at the competitive level, then you need a net with official (officially recognised) size (9.5 to 10 meters in width and 1 meter in height).
- Adjustable height: Depending on the type of volleyball you want to play (men, women, junior), some volleyball nets will allow you to change the height.
- Portability: Look for volleyball nets with carrying bags and easy setup options, especially for the beach or parks.
- Weather-resistant: UV-treated and rust-proof materials are recommended for their outdoor longevity.
Recommended Uses
- Home: Your best option is an easy-to-use, lightweight, adjustable-height net for quick and easy installation.
- Schools/Clubs: You will want a durable, regulation-sized net that can withstand constant use and makes setup easier.
- Professional: You will want a professionally constructed net with high-quality standards, as it will be used for official matches.
The Net is not Everything – Other Essentials for Volleyball
A volleyball net is also a significant aspect of volleyball in your town, although some other items that volleyball players will enjoy are:
- Balls: The type of volleyball you would use will rely on the type of surface (indoor/outdoor), type of material, size and whether you intend to buy several balls or not.
Knee Pads in Volleyball are Necessary
Volleyball involves a lot of jumping, diving, and sliding. To assist in reducing bruises, scrapes, and crash injuries to your knees, you must have decent volleyball knee pads.
What are the reasons why I should wear knee pads?
- Padding: You would like to have something protective as well as fit enough to move. During volleyball, thicker knee pads have more cushioning, although they are less mobile.
- Material and Breathability: Seek moisture-wicking fabrics to keep your knees dry and comfortable.
- Fit and Flexibility: The knee pads are designed to fit snugly without being too tight. Knee pads of high-quality smoothness will be flexible, allowing for a convenient range of movement.
- Durability: Look for stitch reinforcements and wear-resistant fabric.
Top Maintenance Tips
- Prevent odours and bacterial growth by washing them regularly.
- Check your knee pads for worn-out padding. You should replace knee pads if the cushioning is compromised.
- Store them in a dry area to prevent mould and mildew buildup.
Caring for your volleyball equipment means that you can count on it to perform for many seasons to come.
Continue below for a review of the steps to care for volleyball nets and volleyball knee pads.
Volleyball Sets
- Periodic Cleaning. Use warm water and soap to remove any dirt or debris with a slow wash.
- Store Correctly. Keep nets folded dry in storage bags when not in use.
- Check for Damage. Make minor repairs to minor tears immediately to prevent more significant problems down the road.
Volleyball Knee Pads
- Washing. Follow the manufacturer’s directions, and you’ll likely be hand-washing or placing the knee pads on a gentle cycle.
- Drying. Before storing, ensure the knee pads are completely air-dried.
- Check for Stretch. If you notice any of the straps or the material lose their stretch, it’s time to replace the knee pads.
Buying Good Quality Volleyball Nets and Volleyball Knee Pads
Buying gear can be done in many ways:
- Sporting Goods/Specialised: In a store, you get to touch and feel the knee pads and watch the Net over the Net.
- Online: Websites have simplified the shopping process and offer more choices, with customer reviews of the products.
- Buy in bulk: Many schools and clubs offer discounts for purchasing in bulk.
Always ensure that you have read the product specification, returns policy, and warranty details before purchasing the product so that you can make an informed decision.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s the installation of their first volleyball court or an upgrade and replacement of old, worn equipment, a decent volleyball net and pain-free, protective volleyball knee pads make all the difference. Good volleyball gear improves your game but also makes you feel good about it.
