Pickleball’s rapid growth in Singapore has brought more players onto neighbourhood courts — and with that, renewed conversations around noise, shared spaces, and considerate play. In recent months, so-called “silent pickleballs”, typically made from high-density foam, have entered the spotlight as a potential solution.
The topic gained national attention when residents in Mountbatten began trialling foam pickleballs to reduce noise, an initiative covered by both CNA and The Straits Times. At Pickleball Corner Singapore, we were invited to share the retail perspective on silent pickleballs — how they are used, who they are for, and where their limitations lie.
Why Silent Pickleballs Entered the Conversation
At a community try-out event at Mountbatten Community Club, more than 120 residents tested foam pickleballs designed to significantly reduce the sharp “pop” sound associated with standard plastic balls. Measurements show that foam balls can reduce noise to around 60 decibels, comparable to normal conversation, versus 70–80 decibels for traditional pickleballs.
Mountbatten MP Gho Sze Kee described the initiative as a way to promote a “give-and-take” approach to shared spaces, especially as pickleball is increasingly played near residential areas. Residents interviewed expressed broad support, particularly those working from home or on night shifts, who are more sensitive to daytime noise.
The initiative highlights a key challenge facing pickleball globally: how to balance accessibility and growth with respect for surrounding communities.
What CNA Asked Us: The Retail Perspective
In our conversation with CNA, we shared insights from the retail side of the sport. Silent pickleballs do have a place, but it is important to understand what they are designed for — and what they are not.
From a sales and usage standpoint, silent pickleballs currently represent a small but growing niche of the overall pickleball ball market. Most customers purchasing foam balls are looking for:
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Home practice solutions
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Indoor or shared-space training
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Noise-sensitive environments such as condos, garages, or community halls
They are not typically used for competitive play, leagues, or tournaments, and this distinction matters.
How Silent Pickleballs Play Differently
Foam pickleballs behave very differently from standard plastic balls. While players at Mountbatten welcomed the quieter experience, coaches and experienced players have pointed out important trade-offs.
Silent pickleballs generally:
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Have less speed
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Produce less spin
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Offer a softer, less predictable rebound
In fast rallies or kitchen exchanges, these differences can alter timing and shot selection. This is why silent balls are not approved for competition and why professional players caution against using them as a full replacement for standard balls.
In short: they are excellent training tools, but not performance equivalents.
Our Recommendation: Use the Right Ball for the Right Purpose
At Pickleball Corner Singapore, we strongly believe in context-based solutions rather than blanket rules. Silent pickleballs are a smart option for:
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Technique work
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Wall drills
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Beginner practice
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Noise-restricted locations
For this purpose, products like the CRBN Quiet Pickleballs are ideal. They are designed specifically for repetition, control, and quiet play, making them perfect for indoor training or shared spaces.
However, for open play, leagues, DUPR events, and tournaments, standard pickleballs remain essential to preserve fairness, safety, and skill transfer.
Looking Ahead: A Balanced Path Forward
The Mountbatten trial — including a planned silent pickleball tournament — shows how communities can explore creative compromises without restricting access to sport. As pickleball continues to grow in Singapore, these conversations will become more common.
Silent pickleballs are not a replacement for the game as we know it — but they are a valuable addition to the ecosystem when used correctly.
As retailers, players, and community members, our goal should be the same:
Grow the sport responsibly, respectfully, and sustainably.
