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You're not alone if you plan on picking up pickleball paddles for this summer’s sport. This sport is rising in popularity very quickly.
And if you’re looking for the best pickleball ball to use in your games, you’ve come to the right place!
Keep reading as we break down how to choose the right pickleball balls. And at the end, we list our best pickleball ball recommendations.
Choosing a pickleball involves looking at the material, weight, size, bounce, and other elements. There’s plenty of variety on the table, and each option offers certain benefits and drawbacks.
Here’s all you should consider while shopping for a new ball.
(And if it’s a pickleball paddle you’re looking for, check out our list of pickleball paddles under $100.)
The material of the ball can affect your game. It also dictates what type of pickleball court will suit your game best.
Pickleballs are made with composite, graphite, plastic, or soft foam.
Composite or graphite balls are the best choices for outdoor courts. They offer more control and precision and are highly durable. Advanced players prefer them for delivering complex shots and angled serves.
Plastic and soft foam balls are best for indoor hardwood courts, where they can bounce better.
Beginners will find plastic or soft foam more to their liking due to their lower bounce. These are easier to control for inexperienced pickleball players.
The material also influences how much noise your ball makes when hit.
Durable balls can last through many games without losing shape, quality, or bounce. Choose material that resists easy wear and tear, such as composite or graphite.
Plastic balls are the least durable pickleballs.
The USA Pickleball Equipment Standard requires pickleball balls to weigh between 0.78 and 0.935 ounces.
The weight of the ball affects its trajectory and bounce. Heavier balls are the best as they offer a better bounce, flight, and trajectory. But they can prove more challenging to hit and require more force.
A lightweight ball limits the stress on your hands. But it’s not ideal for windy environments or outdoor games.
Bounciness is another factor that affects the performance of the ball. Use the right ball for the right surface type to ensure the best bounce.
Players need to see the pickleball to track it and respond in time. Choose a bright and visible ball on sunny days outdoors and under bright lights indoors.
Ready to choose the best pickleball for you? Here are our top picks for outdoor and indoor pickleball balls:
The Onix Pure 2 is the best outdoor pickleball ball for beginners. They are heavy and have a good bounce. They feature advanced welding that ensures good balance and prevents splitting.
The balls have smaller holes, so they fare well in windy or damp weather conditions.
While they don’t have USA Pickleball approval, they are durable enough to get you through many practice sessions and games.
Franklin X-40 outdoor pickleball balls undergo rigorous testing and are USAPA approved. They’re also the official US Open balls.
They have 40 precision-drilled holes and no seams, ensuring a balanced flight pattern and a tight and reliable spin.
They come in bright colors that provide superior visibility. However, they’re quite loud and unsuitable for cold weather conditions.
Given the superior quality, these are a great deal for this price range.
Specs:
ONIX DuraFast pickleball balls are the best choice for players who switch between outdoor and indoor courts. They are also the official ball used in PPA tournaments.
These are USAPA and IFP approved for tournament play and are a one-piece product. They have a straight trajectory with consistent flight, speed, and bounce.
Specs:
Developed for the competitive player, this outdoor pickleball gives you a durable, long-lasting ball, designed to give you a consistent bounce every time.
The SLK by Selkirk Competition comes in bright neon for increased visibility and a uniquely engineered hole pattern with proper weight distribution.
Specs:
How well you care for pickleball balls determines how long they last.
Store the balls somewhere cool and dry when not in use. Keep them away from moisture and limit exposure to direct sunlight. Ensure the temperature is consistent in the storage area.
Clean the balls after each game and place them in a mesh bag to prevent dust build-up.
If dirty, put them in warm water and mild soap and rinse them with your hands or a soft cloth.
Whether you play pickleball indoors or outdoors, there’s a ball right for you.
If you’re still learning pickleball, a durable and heavy one, such as the Onix Pure 2, will work best. While the USAPA-approved Franklin X-40 is a good choice for those trying to perfect their serving technique.
We hope this guide helps you find the right ball for your game!
You need around six to 12 pickleball balls for outdoor games and three to six for indoor games.
Yes, but it isn’t advisable.
Using indoor pickleball balls outside damages the ball and results in poor performance.
You should replace pickleball balls every five to ten games or when you notice cracks or loss in bounce.
The holes in pickleball balls help them travel through the air with minimal deflection.
