Pickleball is a fast-paced game that's growing in popularity across the country. If you're interested in giving this fun sport a try, you'll need to find the best pickleball balls for your setup. Pickleball balls are available in multiple sizes and materials, so it's important to have an idea of what works best for you before shopping.
The type of best outdoor pickleball ball that's right for you largely depends on your playing style, but there are some factors to keep in mind regardless. For example, if you're purchasing a set of pickleball balls for children, it's vital to select something that feels comfortable and won't hurt them if it hits them on accident. Meanwhile, experienced players may want to invest in a more durable ball with extra bounce control if they plan on practicing lots at home or traveling often with their gear.
If you don't know where to start with finding the right pickleball ball model, we can help! Our list includes our favorite models from brands such as Pika and Spikit as well as recommendations based on budget and desired materials.
We hope you find your next favorite thing from the list below! Each product was independently selected by our editors. ConsistentReviews may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). We hope you find your next favorite thing!
How We Choose
Pickleball is a fast-growing sport played with wooden paddles and plastic balls. It's similar to tennis, but the court is smaller (36 by 18 feet) and there are no winners or losers—just players who win more points than their opponents.
There are many different brands of top pickleball balls on the market today, so finding one that suits your needs can be a challenge. That's why we've done all the hard work for you! In this article, you'll find our picks for the best outdoor pickleball balls available today.
Franklin Sports Outdoor Pickleballs - X-40 Pickleball Balls
The X-40 Performance Pickleball is a premium quality ball that will play well on any outdoor surface
Why We Love It
The Franklin X-40 outdoor pickleball is a high-quality ball that's designed for tournament play. It features 40 precision-drilled holes to provide a consistent flight and spin, making it perfect for competitive matches.
What You Should Know
The no-seam one-piece construction ensures the balls hold their shape over time, resisting dents and cracking on outdoor courts. The 12-pack includes (12) balls so you can have all the pickleballs you need on hand for matches and training.
Overall, this is a great option if you're looking to get into serious pickleball play. With their durability and precise design, these balls will last through multiple seasons of play without any issues!
JoncAye Light Pickle-Ball-Paddle-Set with 4 Outdoor Indoor Balls
Proprietary Polymer Honeycomb Core to Cushion Each Hit
Why We Love It
The JoncAye Pickleball Paddle Set is a great option for beginners looking to get into the sport. The paddle set comes with four paddles, which is more than enough to play with friends and family.
What You Should Know
The fiberglass construction makes it lightweight and durable, so you won't have to worry about your arm getting tired during those long rallies. The paddle's honeycomb core helps reduce racket noise, which means you can enjoy this popular game without disturbing others around you.
The cushioned grip provides a secure hold on the ball while still giving the right ball good control over it - perfect for hitting that winning shot!
Niupipo Pickleball Paddle, USAPA Approved Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddle/Paddles Set,
USAPA Approve for Victory
Why We Love It
The Niupipo USAPA Pro set is a great pickleball paddle for beginners or pros. It's made of a lightweight graphite-carbon fiber composite, which makes it comfortable to use and strong enough to last through many games.
What You Should Know
The handle has four finger grooves that provide excellent grip, while the honeycomb core provides good shock absorption and responsiveness. The cushioned paddle also offers 4.72 inches of effective grip length, making it suitable for both right-handed and left-handed players.
Its perforated, sweat-absorbing material allows you to keep your hands dry during play without having to worry about damaging the paddle - an important consideration when playing in the heat or rain. The Niupipo USAPA Pro set comes with 1 bag and 4 balls so you can start playing right away, and its light weight makes it easy to move from court to court without worrying about fatigue setting in during long matches.
Tourna Strike Outdoor Pickleballs (12 Pack) - USAPA Approved
The Tourna Strike Outdoor Pickleball is ideal for outdoor play or outdoor court surfaces
Why We Love It
The Tourna Strike Outdoor Pickleball is a great option for anyone looking to play pickleball in the great outdoors. This ball comes with 40 small holes designed to minimize wind interference and create a balanced and straight flight pattern, making it ideal for use on outdoor court surfaces.
What You Should Know
The consistent bounce out of this ball is lively, with mid-range hardness for an all-around true feel. The USAPA-approved construction ensures that these balls meet the specifications required for sanctioned tournament play, so you know they'll hold their shape in the heat of competition.
They come packaged in a reusable mesh bag that can be used over and over again, so you don't have to worry about replacing them after every use. With its versatile design and durability, this is one pickleball set that will last through any weather or activity!
Amicoson Pickleball Paddles - Pickleball Set of 4 Paddles, Indoor & Outdoor Pickleball Balls
Premium Grip for Maximum Comfort and Playability
Why We Love It
The Amicoson Pickleball paddles are a great choice for beginners and families. They have a comfortable grip and sturdy construction that will last for years of play. The paddle set comes with 4 paddles, 8 balls, and a carrying bag for easy storage.
What You Should Know
The paddle set is lightweight compared to other wooden paddles, which makes it easier to control and swing with precision. It features an ergonomic cushion grip that provides comfort while still allowing you to handle the paddle with ease. The large spot on these paddles means there's plenty of surface area to catch the ball so your shots won't go astray.
These pickleball paddles are perfect for beginners or families looking to get into the game together. They're also excellent for those who want to improve their game without investing in expensive equipment upfront.
Franklin Sports X-26 Performance Indoor Pickleballs
USAPA Approved for Indoor Tournament Pickleball Play
Why We Love It
The Franklin Sports Indoor Pickleball Balls are a great option for anyone looking to play indoors. These balls feature 26 holes that provide a balanced and accurate flight pattern for tournament balls, making them perfect for indoor play.
What You Should Know
The USAPA-approved size means these balls will work well at tournaments too, so you can take your game to the next level. They are made from EVA construction which ensures superb flight pattern and superior balance. The Franklin Sports Indoor Pickleballs come packaged in a sleek tube that can be used for storage when not in use, making it easy to transport and store your new set of pickleballs when needed.
Overall, these Franklin Sports Indoor Pickleballs are a great choice for anyone looking to play indoors or on the go. They're affordable and effective - what more could you ask for?
Dura Fast 40 Pickleballs | Outdoor Pickleball Balls
Official Outdoor Pickleballs
Why We Love It
The Dura Pickleballs are a great choice for anyone looking to play pickleball in the great outdoors. These durable balls have been designed specifically for outdoor use, with thick walls to help them stand up to the elements and rough play.
What You Should Know
They're also approved by USAPA/IFP for official tournament ball of play, so you can feel confident that these will hold their own on any court. The two different hole sizes and hole configuration help make the ball more aerodynamic, which helps it fly straighter and further.
The durability of these balls is excellent too – they've been tested extensively in both hot and cold weather conditions, with 3-10 games being expected from most balls in each pack before showing signs of wear. Overall, we highly recommend these balls if you want a durable option that can take some abuse and still perform well on the court.
VINSGUIR USAPA Approved Pickle Ball Paddle Set of 2 with 4 Pickleball Balls and Bag
Compliment Winning Cool Design
Why We Love It
The Vinsguir USAPA-approved paddle set is a great choice for beginners who want to get started in pickleball. The paddle set comes with 2 paddles, 2 outdoor and indoor balls, plus a carrying bag.
What You Should Know
The paddles are made of fiberglass and have polypropylene cores that provide good power while being lightweight. The honeycomb core provides a nice "pop" when you strike the ball, making it easy to feel confident when playing your first game.
The handle on the paddle is designed to be comfortable and easy to grip, which makes it easier for you to hit consistent shots without straining your hand or wrist muscles. This makes it perfect for beginners who want an affordable option that will allow them to play regularly without hurting their hands or wrists from overuse.
VIAHART Surfminton Classic Beach Tennis Wooden Paddle Game Set
Paddles are Water-Resistant but not Waterproof
Why We Love It
The VIAHART Surfminton Classic Beach Tennis Wooden Paddle Game Set is a great option for people who want to play paddle tennis without spending too much money. This game set comes with four balls, two wooden paddles, and a mesh bag that can be used over and over again.
What You Should Know
The wood used in the construction of this game set is high quality, making it durable and long-lasting. The paint used on the paddles is also resistant to water, so you won't have to worry about your paddle getting wet during playtime.
The balls included in the package are made from plastic which means they're lightweight and easy to carry around - perfect for when you're out on the beach or at a park somewhere. Overall, this VIAHART Surfminton Classic Beach Tennis Wooden Paddle Game Set is a great option for people who want to play paddle tennis but don't want to spend too much money doing so.
Best Outdoor Pickleball Balls FAQs
You've decided to give pickleball a try, but you're not sure which balls are best for your needs.
It can be hard to know where to start when looking for the perfect outdoor or indoor pickleball ball. There are so many different brands and types of balls out there it can be tough to figure out what's the best choice for you.
Our team has done the legwork and found some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about picking out the perfect ball for your next round of pickleball. With this information, you'll be able to make an informed decision on which ball is right for you!
What Pickleballs Are Used In Outdoor Tournaments?
Generally speaking, the type of pickleball balls used in tournaments depends on the location and purpose. Indoor games are played with a special type of indoor ball specifically designed for this environment, while some outdoor tournaments use regular tennis balls.
Indoor pickleball is played with balls that bounce less to reduce injury risks and ensure playability on hard surfaces such as gym floors. These Balls made specifically for indoor play are generally smaller and have a harder rubber shell compared to standard tennis balls. This makes them more durable when playing in high-volume situations like clinics or senior centers, but also means they can be difficult to play outside unless it's very cold out. The specially-made rubber shell also reduces the risk of bounces skipping off gym floors, allowing for longer rallies compared to regular tennis balls which tend to skid more frequently on hard flooring materials.
Regular pickleballs are used outdoors by many communities that have outdoor balls and don't have access to indoor facilities, including parks across many parts of North America where the sport has become popular over recent years. Regular balls can technically be used indoors if you want a faster game without all the bouncing involved in regular hard-court play, but we wouldn't recommend it unless there's no other option!
How Do I Choose Pickleball Balls?
Pickleball balls come in different sizes, so you'll want to choose the size that works best for your play style and player ability. Balls range from 1.5 inches to 2.25 inches in diameter, and while most tournaments are played with 2-inch balls, recreational players often prefer the smaller size because they're easier to handle and take less time to rebound off the court's surface.
Some pickleball ball sets include single-, double-, and even three-balls, but we recommend buying at least one extra ball so you have a replacement on hand when play gets heavy or your dog starts fetching your ball away from the net. While some pickleball courts feature floodlights for evening play, it's still a good idea to invest in a pack of highlighters – or better yet, colored pickleball – so you can distinguish yours from other pickleball players.
What Is Outdoor Pickleball Ball?
Pickleball balls are specifically designed for the game of pickleball, and they differ from other types of volleyball in several ways. For starters, pickleballs are made with a special rubber shell that is less bouncy than regular rubber balls; this makes for a slower-moving ball that's easier to handle. Most pickleballs also have holes in their centers to allow for better air circulation, which helps them move more predictably through the air.
In addition to the fact that these balls are specially designed for the sport, one of the primary differences between pickleball and other volleyballs is size. Pickleball balls measure 2 inches in diameter – far smaller than standard volleyball balls at 3 inches – and this difference has an impact on gameplay. Smaller balls make it easier for beginning players to learn how to serve as well as how to play defense and block shots; however, they also mean faster play due to less momentum being required by each player.
How Many Holes Are In Outdoor Pickleballs?
Most pickleball are manufactured with a number of holes six, but they can also be found with an eight-hole design. This makes it possible to play games with teams of two, three, or four players. The balls themselves are hollow and have a rubber core that helps them absorb impact when they're struck by the pickleball paddle.
What Brand Of Pickleball Is Used In Most Tournaments?
The sport of pickleball is still fairly new, and as such there are a number of different brands that make pickleball equipment. Some manufacturers have been in the game a little longer than others, and they're certainly more popular. For example, classic brands like Pickle-Ball Inc. (which makes the official ball), Hillerich & Bradsby (the official paddle), and Baden Sports (the official court) are all well established, but other companies like JAXSport, Puma, and Speedwell also produce high-quality products that you'll see on many tournament courts.
There are advantages to using any brand when playing pickleball. The same rules apply regardless of what type of ball you use - provided it's approved by USA Pickleball (the governing body for the sport in North America). But some players find certain balls easier to control due to their size or materials used. Likewise, different types of paddles work best for particular players based on their skill level or physical build. The choice is yours!
Do All Outdoor Pickleballs Have The Same Specs?
While there are some similarities, pickleball balls come in different sizes and weights. Generally speaking, the heavier a ball is, the slower it's going to be – which can be an advantage if you're playing with a more experienced opponent. On the other hand, a lighter pickleball may give you more control on the court. Make sure you choose a ball that feels right for your skill level and ability.
Most outdoor pickleballs are made from rubber so they're water-resistant, but we still recommend storing them in an airtight container or zip-up bag when not in use to prolong their lifespan.
What Sport Is Closest To Pickleball?
Pickleball is often compared to tennis since it's a court-based sport played with a ball and two or four players. However, pickleball is much more similar to badminton in that the emphasis is on speed and quickness rather than accuracy. It's also important to note that pickleball has one less player than both tennis and badminton, which means there are fewer players on the court at any given time.
Because of its similarities with other games, it can be difficult to explain what exactly pickleball is if you've never played it before. For a clearer comparison, think about golf – yes, we're mixing sports again – but without the clubs and balls in play at once. Just like in golf, you're trying to sink something (a ball) into something else (a hole), but unlike golf, you only have one shot for each turn.
The best way to answer this question is to look at the similarities and differences in each sport. Pickleball is similar to tennis because it's played on a court with a net, there are two or four players, and you use rackets to hit the ball. However, there are several differences between pickleball and tennis.
The court size is significantly smaller for pickleball compared to tennis. The court size for pickleball is 9 by 3 versus 27 by 9 for tennis. The smaller court size means less running back and forth which makes the game easier for older people who may have mobility issues playing other sports like tennis. Another major difference between pickleball and tennis is that the ball can be played off the wall as well as off of the player's racket or paddle when it comes back over the net. This adds another dimension of strategy to pickleball since you don't always have to return serve with your own racket or paddle but can play off the wall instead if it makes sense strategically based on where all of your opponents are positioned on the court relative to where you're standing at any given time during play.
Where Are Onix Pickleballs Made?
All Onix pickleball is made in China. They are constructed with a non-PVC plastic shell, and we've tested them out extensively to confirm they offer similar performance to the more expensive balls made of PVC.
Pickleballs used to be made in the U.S., but many of the major brands now make them overseas, such as in China and Vietnam. This helps keep costs down for players and also keeps pickleball affordable as a sport for schools. Onix makes pickleball in both Mexico and China, but only Mexico-made pickleball is approved by the U.S. Pickleball Association (USPA). We talked with representatives from Onix and they confirmed all their pickleballs meet USPA standards, so it doesn't matter which country your Onix balls are made in — you can feel confident they'll work well during play!
How Many Types Of Pickleballs Are There?
There are primarily three types of pickleball available: indoor or outdoor balls, and transition balls.
Indoor Pickleballs: These balls are designed for indoor use on gymnasium floors or similar indoor surfaces only. They are constructed with larger holes and are lighter in weight compared to outdoor balls. The lighter weight helps to reduce the impact on indoor floors.
Outdoor Pickleballs: Outdoor pickleballs are specifically designed for outdoor play. They are made of a harder plastic material to withstand rougher outdoor surfaces like asphalt or concrete. Outdoor balls have smaller holes and are slightly heavier to counteract the effects of wind.
Transition Pickleballs: Transition balls are a hybrid option that can be used for both indoor and outdoor play. They are designed to provide a balance between the characteristics of indoor and outdoor balls. Transition balls typically have a slightly softer composition than outdoor balls and may have larger holes than indoor balls.
Each type of pickleball is tailored to suit the specific playing conditions and provides players with a different experience based on where the game is being played.
Is There A Quiet Pickleball?
Not really. These are the official rules of pickleball as set by the sport's governing body: The ball must be played below the knee when standing in the service zone and at waist level anywhere else on the court. For consistency, many players choose to play their pickleball at chest or head height. However, it's important to note that any contact with a player's hand or forearm counts as a point unless they're blocking their face or eyes from an incoming ball; even then, no penalty is awarded if they hit their opponent while doing so!
While some companies do make softer balls intended for indoor use, it's important not to confuse these with beach pickleball which is significantly harder – often more similar to a ping pong ball in feel.
May we say in conclusion...👍
The best outdoor pickleball balls are made from high-quality materials and provide optimal performance for any type of player. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, and designs so you can find one that fits your preference. Whether you're a beginner or a more experienced player, there is an option out there that will suit your needs perfectly. Make sure to read reviews before buying so you can be sure to get the best value for your money. With proper care and maintenance, these balls can last for many hours of playtime without showing signs of wear or tear. Investing in an outdoor-friendly pickleball will allow you to enjoy this sport even more with family and friends!
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