The best nets are made of braided net cord and typically have double the mesh at the top six rows, side pockets for hickory or fiberglass dowels (that help hold the net taut) and vinyl-coated steel cables. Braided nets are better than twisted because they're stronger and absorb more energy, so when a ball hits the net it drops closer to the net instead of rebounding off of it. Polyethylene makes a good net material because it is resistant to fading from UV radiation and weathers well.

Headbands are usually vinyl or polyester duck, often with double layers and four rows of lock stitching to hold the layers together. The type of court surface as well as personal preference dictates which headband is appropriate. Nets with polyester duck headbands are better for hard courts than for soft courts, where surface material can easily stick to and stain the fabric. Vinyl headbands are more common on soft courts because they're easier to clean and more dirt resistant. However, balls can tend to skid off vinyl headbands wildly, which is less likely with a duck headband because the duck material absorbs the ball's energy and doesn't speed up the ball.

Wilson pro model tennis nets feature:

• Net body of braided solid core polyethylene, 41'-9" long x 42" high
• Headbands lock-stitched with four rows of white polyester thread; bottom edges are turned under to provide a smooth finish
• Headbands are UV- and mildew-resistant to protect against the elements
• 18 oz. vinyl side and bottom bands lock-stitched with two rows of black polyester thread; side bands are turned under on all of our Pro model nets
• 47' cable coated to ¼" with 3,700-lb. breaking strength
• Side pockets with ½" dowels
• Warranties

ANATOMY OF THE WILSON TIDYFIT ROYALE NET

• Headband: 1 layer of 23 oz. vinyl-coated polyester with 1 inner layer of 28 oz. vinyl-coated poly lockstitched with 4 rows of white polyester thread; bottom edges turned under
• Tapered Fit: 42" high at posts, 36" high at center strap
• Cable: 3/16" coated to ¼" with white vinyl and a 3,700 lb. breaking strength
• Bottom Band: Abrasion-resistant black 18 oz. vinyl-coated polyester lockstitched with 2 rows of black polyester thread; edges turned under
• Net Body: 3 mm braided polyethylene of 1-¾ mesh; hand-knotted double top six rows
• Side Band: 18 oz. vinyl-coated polyester lockstitched with 2 rows of black polyester thread, with side pockets; edges turned under
• Side Dowels: 39" long, ½" thick fiberglass
• Grommets: Brass spur grommets, 7 on each end (2 in headband, 5 in sideband)
• Lacing Cord: 30' of 3 mm black braided polyethylene