What You Need to Play Sepak Takraw – Essential Gear & Tips
Whether you’re new to Sepak Takraw or chasing professional-level play, the right equipment makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. The Ball
The star of the sport, the Sepak Takraw ball, is made from either woven rattan or modern synthetic fibers. It has 12 holes and 20 intersections, giving it its signature pattern and unique flight.
- Size & Weight: For men’s play, the circumference is 42–44 cm and the weight is 170–180 g. For women, it’s 43–45 cm and 150–160 g.
- Color: Balls can be single or multi-colored, but the shades are chosen to make the ball easy to see during play.
- Competition Standards: Official tournaments require ISTAF-approved balls, which are built to strict specifications for consistency and durability.
2. The Net
Sepak Takraw uses a net similar to volleyball, but with slightly different proportions.
- Construction: Nylon or cord mesh, with small, even openings.
- Dimensions: The net is about 0.7 m wide and at least 6.1 m long. The height is 1.52 m in the center for men (1.55 m at the posts) and 1.42 m in the center for women (1.45 m at the posts).
3. The Court Setup
While you can play informally on any open space, official matches are played on a court the same size as a doubles badminton court – 13.4 m long and 6.1 m wide.
- Service Circles: Quarter circles with a radius of 0.9 m are marked in each corner of the court.
- Center & Boundary Lines: Clearly painted lines define where players can serve and where the ball must land.
4. Shoes & Protective Gear
Speed and agility are everything in Sepak Takraw, so players rely on gear that keeps them light on their feet and safe from injury.
- Shoes: Lightweight, flat-soled shoes with excellent grip are ideal for fast movement and stable landings.
- Protection: Ankle guards, knee braces, and compression sleeves help prevent injuries during high jumps and rapid turns. Headbands and wristbands are also common to manage sweat and improve grip.