Just like many sports, the ball is the center of pickleball. While there are many pickleball balls, they all aren’t equally good.
There are different types of pickleball balls for different situations. And whether you are a beginner or an expert in this game, you want to ensure that you get the suitable pickleball balls to take your game and skills to the next level.
Below is a guide to picking the right ball for different game situations.
- Indoor Pickleball Balls
Indoor pickleball involves playing the game in a sheltered space, like a building. While anyone can play indoor pickleball, many people who play the game are casual players or beginners. As such, you need light and soft pickleball balls with few and large holes. The large holes are suitable for more accurate bounce shots on the surfaces.
Generally, pick an adequate pickleball ball that is soft, light, and less bouncy to give you more control and help you fire more powerful shots.
- Pickleball Balls for Large Groups
In most cases, a pickleball game involving many players is often for tournaments. Regardless, you need durable and highly resistant balls to withstand the hitting and bashing from the paddles. The balls should also be able to withstand weather conditions.
Ultimately, select a durable ball that can withstand intensive and challenging games, is more robust than the average ball, and comes in large quantities.
- Outdoor Pickleball Balls
Outdoor pickleball games are the opposite of indoor pickleball games. As the name implies, it involves playing the game in an open space. Outdoor pickleball games require high-quality and durable balls with smaller and more holes. More holes in the ball give it more weight and make it more resistant to the wind while playing.
If you want to go the extra mile to get the best outdoor pickleball ball, opt for one that is durable, robust, USAPA-approved, and has excellent overall performance. Also, select one that comes in several quantities–100, 12, or 3 to allow you an array of choices. Ultimately, opt for an outdoor pickleball ball that is strong, has a smooth surface, and has many holes.
- Outdoor and Indoor Pickleball Balls
Some players enjoy playing ball inside and outside. In this case, you can opt for balls catering to both games. For instance, some pickleball ball packs contain six packs—3 for indoor and 3 for outdoor games. In general, you should purchase a set that comes with 12 balls to have a sufficient amount for your game.
The bottom line is that you want to be able to play pickleball with the right ball for each game type as it will make your game fun, easy, and consistent.