Mountbatten trials foam silent pickleball to cut court noise

A crowd of roughly 120 residents turned out at Mountbatten Community Club on Jan. 11 to test a low-noise alternative to the sharp "pop" of regulation pickleballs. Organised by community leaders and led by MP Gho Sze Kee, the tryout introduced high-density foam balls designed to bring on-court sound down to roughly conversation levels, addressing repeated noise complaints from nearby HDB estates.

The change matters because the familiar "pop" of perforated plastic balls can register around 70–80 dB, a level that has stirred friction between players and neighbours in dense housing areas. Foam balls tested at the event measured near 60 dB, a significant drop that makes recreational play less likely to disturb surrounding flats. Organisers framed the trial as a practical mitigation tool alongside existing measures such as reduced court hours and advisory notices.

Players found the foam balls quieter but noticeably different on court. High-density foam reduces impact noise but alters both bounce and speed, making these balls a better fit for community and quiet-zone play than for competition. Because they behave differently, clubs and casual players who adopt foam balls will need to adjust serving rhythms, footwork approaches, and shot selection during rallies and dinking around the kitchen.

MP Gho Sze Kee announced that a silent-pickleball tournament will be held in the coming months to promote considerate play and wider use of foam equipment. That event will be the first organised test of whether quieter balls can be integrated into regular programming without undermining recreational enjoyment. For centres managing neighboring noise concerns, the tournament offers a live case study of equipment change combined with scheduling and advisory strategies.

For local organisers, the practical takeaway is straightforward: foam balls reduce noise and can ease neighbour tensions, but they are not a drop-in replacement for regulation balls. Expect slower rallies and different ball trajectories, and plan introductory sessions to acclimate players. Community clubs should consider trial sessions, adjust court signage and booking slots to promote quieter play windows, and communicate clearly with nearby residents about any pilot changes.

The takeaway? Swapping the pop for a softer serve can cool community tensions while keeping people on court. Our two cents? Run a few foam-only sessions, let players relearn timing away from competition pressure, and use the quieter balls during evening slots to keep the kitchen friendly for everyone.