Padel players track the ball towards the glass, turn quickly and look upward during lobs. A court that looks evenly lit from outside can feel very different from the back corner. Include the player’s view when reviewing a lighting proposal and checking the finished installation.
Separate direct glare from reflections
Direct glare comes from a bright source in the line of sight. A reflection appears in another surface, such as glass. Record where the problem is seen and which direction the player faces rather than describing the whole court simply as “too bright”. This helps the designer investigate the relevant fixture, angle or neighbouring light source.
Review the complete surroundings
Supply photos of the enclosure, nearby courts, buildings and any illuminated signs. Identify which lights operate during evening sessions. The LTA padel construction guidance asks lighting designs to show fixture tilt angles to help assess potential glare towards neighbouring properties. Those angles also belong in the installation records, so the intended design can be checked against the finished work.
Use a practical playing-view checklist
- Stand at both baselines and in each back corner at normal player eye height.
- Check upward views used when following a lob, without deliberately staring into the fixtures.
- Review the view towards side and back glass from both halves.
- Compare the court with adjacent court lighting on and off, where this can be done safely.
- Record the location, direction and operating setting for any problem.
Correct the cause, then reassess performance
Ask the lighting specialist to investigate aiming, optics, placement or suitable shielding. Do not fit improvised shades or change mounting angles yourself. An adjustment intended to reduce glare can also change illumination elsewhere. After changes, check the agreed lighting performance again rather than relying only on a visual impression.
Keep the sign-off evidence
Save the lighting plan, aiming schedule, test results and a short list of observations from players. A photograph is useful for locating an issue but is not a calibrated glare or lux measurement. No single product photograph can prove that a complete court will be glare-free.
Explore the PDL 230 and PDL 320, then share your enclosure layout and site photos. The right fixture choice should follow the court-specific design.