As padel continues its global expansion, clubs in warmer regions are adapting to a simple truth: some of the best matches happen after the sun goes down.
From southern Spain to the Middle East and coastal cities across the Mediterranean, summer temperatures often make daytime play uncomfortable — or even unsafe. That’s why night play is becoming a central part of club strategy and player experience.
And at the heart of that shift?
Lighting design.
Why lighting matters for night padel
Padel is a fast-paced sport that depends on clear visibility, rapid ball tracking, and player comfort. Poor lighting doesn’t just reduce the enjoyment of the game — it can increase risk of injury and compromise court performance.
For clubs in hot climates, proper lighting is essential for:
✔ Extending hours of operation into cooler evening periods
✔ Maximizing court revenue during peak summer months
✔ Improving visibility for both players and spectators
✔ Enhancing the overall atmosphere and aesthetics of the facility
Whether it’s an outdoor court in Málaga or a canopy-covered facility in Cyprus, the right lighting system makes the difference between a good court and a great one.
The components of great padel court lighting
At Portico Sport, we work closely with club owners and developers to select and install high-performance lighting systems designed specifically for padel. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Uniform LED lighting
Advanced LED systems deliver even light distribution, eliminating shadows and hotspots. LEDs also reduce energy consumption and require less maintenance — ideal for clubs running long evening hours.
2. Anti-glare fixtures
Minimizing glare is critical for player performance. Anti-glare optics reduce distraction and eye strain, especially in high-speed exchanges under direct lights.
3. Correct light temperature
A color temperature of 4000K–5000K is optimal for night padel. It provides bright, natural-looking visibility without overexposing the court or creating harsh contrasts.
4. Strategic pole positioning
Lights must be placed outside the court frame, at a minimum height of 6–8 meters, to avoid interfering with lobs, smashes, and visibility. Pole layout should ensure even coverage on all sides.
Indoor and covered courts: Lighting still matters
While many night matches happen outdoors, indoor and canopy-covered courts are increasingly popular in hot regions. In these environments, lighting needs are just as critical — especially for summer play.
Well-lit covered courts offer:
✔ Consistent lighting, regardless of external conditions
✔ Cooler playing environments through ventilated roofing + shade
✔ Greater scheduling flexibility, supporting both daytime and evening matches
At Portico Sport, our canopy court structures are designed with integrated lighting setups that match international tournament specs and keep clubs operational in all conditions.
Lighting up the night: Real-world examples
We’ve helped deliver night-ready padel courts across Europe and beyond, including:
✔ Marbella and Costa Blanca, where clubs maximize revenue through extended evening play during summer
✔ Greek islands like Rhodes, where courts are often unplayable under midday heat but thrive at night
✔ South Italy (Puglia, Calabria), where covered courts with LED lighting offer cooler alternatives to traditional indoor halls
In each case, smart lighting design has been key to extending playing time, improving the player experience, and increasing ROI for clubs.
Conclusion: Light up your courts, boost your club
For padel clubs and investors in warm-weather regions, court lighting is not a luxury — it’s a strategic investment.
With the right system in place, your club can:
- Serve more players
- Operate longer hours
- Improve safety and visibility
- Create a standout atmosphere — even after sunset
At Portico Sport, we provide integrated lighting solutions with every court — whether it’s outdoor, indoor, or under canopy — to ensure your venue is ready for night play and summer heat.
👉 Ready to upgrade your courts for night play?
Contact our team to explore customized lighting solutions that match your location, structure, and performance goals.
Let’s make summer padel shine.
