The term “standard height volleyball net” refers to the official, regulation heights prescribed for volleyball competitions at various levels, including international, collegiate, high school, and recreational play. By understanding the standard heights for men’s, women’s, and coed volleyball, players and coaches can ensure consistency in training, tournament organization, and equipment setup.

According to the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), the governing body for international volleyball, the standard net height for men’s competition is 2.43 meters (7 feet 11 5/8 inches), while the standard height for women’s competition is 2.24 meters (7 feet 4 1/8 inches). These heights apply to indoor and beach volleyball alike. In the United States, USA Volleyball (USAV) follows these same specifications for national and international tournaments, high school, and college play. When organizing a sanctioned event, officials measure the net height from the playing surface at the center point of the net, ensuring it conforms exactly to the 2.43- or 2.24-meter standard.

For middle school and youth leagues, the standard height may be adjusted to facilitate skill development. Many boys’ middle school programs use a net set at 2.24 meters (7 feet 4 1/8 inches), which is closer to the high school standard for girls. Girls’ middle school leagues often set the net at 2.13 meters (7 feet), four inches lower than the high school women’s standard. Lowering the net by four inches or more encourages younger players to practice proper technique—such as approach footwork, timing, and arm swing—without struggling to clear an adult-height net. As players advance to high school, they transition smoothly to the official standard of 2.43 meters for boys and 2.24 meters for girls.

Beach volleyball uses the same standard heights: 2.43 meters for men and 2.24 meters for women. However, some junior beach volleyball circuits lower the net by a few inches—around 2.2 meters (7 feet 2 5/8 inches) for boys under age 14 and 2.1 meters (6 feet 10 5/8 inches) for girls under age 14—to reflect the developmental stage of younger athletes. Always verify local league regulations prior to a sanctioned beach tournament, as net heights can vary based on age group or regional preferences.

A regulation volleyball net should span 9.5 to 10 meters (31 feet 2 inches to 32 feet 10 inches) in width, covering the entire court width of 9 meters with slight overhangs on each side. The net height must be measured using a certified tape or net gauge, and net antennas—two fiberglass rods extending at least 80 centimeters above the net—should be positioned directly over the sidelines. These antennas define the vertical plane of the court, signaling whether a ball is in or out when crossing the net. Net tension is also critical: the net must be taut enough that there is no significant sag when a ball makes contact. Loose nets can lead to unpredictable rebounds and unfair play.

In recreational or backyard volleyball settings, players sometimes use adjustable net systems that accommodate both men’s and women’s heights. These portable systems feature telescoping poles that allow easy transition between 2.43 meters and 2.24 meters. Coaches working with coed teams may set the net at 2.35 meters (7 feet 8 5/8 inches), a compromise height designed to balance competition between male and female participants. However, this practice is typically limited to informal or intramural play.

Understanding and adhering to the standard height volleyball net regulations is essential for consistent training and fair competition. Whether training young athletes in a school gym, organizing a collegiate match, or hosting a beach volleyball tournament, setting the net at the correct standard height—2.43 meters for men and 2.24 meters for women—ensures that players can develop proper technique and compete on a level playing field.