What Kind of Ball Is Used In Pickleball?

Pickleball is played with a round, perforated plastic ball, roughly the size of a baseball. It features a smooth surface with 26 to 40 evenly spaced holes. Outdoor balls are slightly heavier, harder and have smaller holes, while indoor balls have larger holes.

There are official pickleball bodies such as USA Pickleball (ex USAPA), and the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) that have official rules about approved balls, pickleball paddles, and pickleball courts for official play – such as tournament play.

The original pickleball was actually a Wiffle ball

The original pickleball was, in fact, a Wiffle ball! The original iteration of pickleball was played on an old badminton court with ping pong paddles and a Wiffle ball.

Over time, the sport evolved and the ball evolved with it. But the ball used in pickleball still bears a resemblance to a Wiffle ball.

Design Requirements of a Pickleball

According to the USA Pickleball Equipment Standards Manual, to play pickleball you must have approved balls that conform to the official rules. The rules state:

• Material: A pickleball must be made of a durable material with a smooth surface and free from texturing (but are most often plastic)
• Size/Diameter: Pickleballs must be between 2.87 inches and 2.97 inches in diameter
• Weight: Pickleballs must be between 0.78 and 0.935 ounces
• Color: Official balls can be any color, but must be uniform. Typically, pickleballs are yellow, orange, or white
• Design: A USAPA-approved pickleball can have between 26 and 40 circular holes which are precisely and evenly spaced; these holes affect flight and bounce

Ultimately, it is up to the tournament organizer to decide which ball is used during official tournament play.

Pro Tip: Before attending a tournament, inquire which ball will be used. If you’re unfamiliar with how that ball performs off your paddle, sounds when being hit, or how well it lasts over time, order some of your own to get familiar with them.

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The most popular pickleball, and our team’s favorite, is the Franklin X40 outdoor pickleball. Known for its consistent feel and sound, the X40 is used by most clubs, organizations and tournaments. Plus, they’re sold at a reasonable price.

Indoor Vs. Outdoor Pickleballs: Differences & Similarities

Yes, there are differences between indoor and outdoor pickleballs, which will become apparent as you play more pickleball.

And although this may be obvious, there is also a difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball courts.

So, what are the differences between pickleball types?

Indoor Pickleballs Characteristics

Indoor pickleballs are designed with a softer plastic and feature larger holes. This unique construction lends these balls greater controllability and ease of spin, although they present more of a challenge when executing power smashes.

This softer and more responsive nature leads to longer rallies, adding an element of strategy and excitement to the game. Interestingly, some players opt to use indoor balls, even in outdoor use, because of the extended volleys and enhanced game control they offer.

Outdoor Pickleballs Characteristics

Outdoor pickleballs, on the other hand, are crafted to be heavier and harder. Their design incorporates more numerous, smaller holes, an adaptation to lessen the impact of wind on their trajectory, ensuring a more consistent play outdoors.

The hard nature of these balls makes them ideal for powerful smashes. However, this increased hardness and the rougher outdoor playing surfaces contribute to a reduced lifespan compared to their indoor play counterparts.

Additionally, outdoor balls tend to be louder upon impact, a characteristic influenced by their denser material.

Whether a player enjoys the strategic, controlled gameplay offered by indoor balls or the dynamic, power-centric style of outdoor play, understanding these variations is key to optimizing one’s performance and enjoyment of the game.

Indoor Pickleballs Vs. Outdoor Pickleballs Comparison Table

Aspect	Indoor Pickleballs	Outdoor Pickleballs
Material	Softer plastic	Harder plastic
Hole Size	Larger holes	Smaller holes
Hole Quantity	Fewer holes	More holes
Weight	Lighter	Heavier
Control	Easier to control and spin	Less control, more suited for power shots
Gameplay	Longer rallies due to easier control	Faster-paced, energy-driven gameplay
Bounce	Lower bounce	Higher bounce
Durability	More durable in indoor conditions	Shorter lifespan, especially on rough surfaces
Noise Level	Quieter	Louder
Wind Resistance	Less effective in windy conditions	Better performance in wind
Preferred Use	Ideal for smooth indoor surfaces	Suited for rougher, outdoor surfaces
Player Style	Favors strategic, precision-based play	Favors power players and fast-paced action

For more info on indoor and outdoor pickleballs, check out our top picks.

What ball is used in most pickleball tournaments?

The most commonly used ball at pickleball tournaments is the Franklin X-40.

Some alternative pickleballs are used at professional tournaments but the Franklin X-40 retains market share as the most used pickleball at clubs, communities, and amateur tournaments.

Next is the Onix Dura Fast 40 is the ball of choice in most pickleball tournaments.

As the name suggests, it is designed to last longer than many other pickleballs. It features 40 precisely drilled holes, which are optimized for outdoor play.

It offers a consistent bounce and a reliable playing experience, which is crucial in tournaments where precision and predictability are key.

What balls do they use on the PPA tour?

While the Onix Dura Fast 40 ball was the official pickleball of all PPA tour events throughout 2023, starting in 2024, Vulcan Sporting Goods Co. is the new supplier of the official PPA Pro Tour ball.

The Vulcan VPRO FLIGHT, stands out for its speed, responsiveness, durability, and exceptional tactile feedback.

Designed for aerodynamic efficiency, it ensures a steady flight, consistent bounce, and impressive spin capabilities.

Where can you buy pickleballs?

When looking to purchase pickleballs, there are several reputable brands and specific models that stand out for their quality and performance. You can find these balls at sporting goods stores, online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Pickleball Central.

Here are some top recommendations:

1. Onix Pure 2 Outdoor Ball: Widely regarded for outdoor play, the Onix Pure 2 has precise flight and durability. It’s a popular choice among players for its balance between hardness and softness.
2. Franklin X-40: The X-40 offer durability and consistency for outdoor play, with precision-drilled holes for true flight.
3. Franklin X-26: The X-26 indoor pickleball, crafted from high-quality EVA material for outstanding bounce and feel, features 26 beveled holes for true flight and balance, ensuring durability and prolonged play without the risk of early breakage.
4. Gamma Photon: The Gamma Photon comes with a durable two-piece construction, ensuring even bounce and easy control with its thicker build and super bright neon color for exceptional visibility against any background.

What is the difference between a pickleball and a Wiffle ball?

Wiffle balls and pickleballs are quite similar: they have an almost identical size and are made from the same material: light, durable plastic. However, there are a few differences.

Rather than the circular holes found on pickleballs, Wiffle balls have eight slots on either half of the ball (16 in total).

According to the official rules of Wiffle ball, the balls must be white – particularly during tournament play. In contrast, pickleball’s standard yellow / neon-yellow hue is commonly used during tournament play.

Curious what the best pickleball color is for any court? Click here.

Feature	Pickleball	Wiffle Ball
Purpose	Used in pickleball, a racket/paddle sport	Used in Wiffle ball, a variation of baseball
Size	Approx. 2.874 inches in diameter	Approx. 3.25 inches in diameter
Weight	About 0.78 to 0.935 ounces	Generally lighter than pickleballs
Material	Durable plastic for paddle impact and court play	Lighter, more flexible plastic
Hole Design	26 to 40 round, evenly spaced holes	8 oblong holes on one half
Bounce	Specific bounce height suitable for the sport	Minimal bounce, primarily for batting and pitching
Use	Different versions for indoor and outdoor play	Typically used casually, no specific environment

Pickleballs vs. Other Racquet Sports

Feature	Pickleballs	Tennis Balls	Racquetballs	Ping Pong Balls	Squash Balls
Size	Approx. 2.874 inches diameter	Approx. 2.57-2.70 inches diameter	Approx. 2.25 inches diameter	Approx. 1.57 inches diameter	Approx. 1.56 inches diameter
Weight	0.78 to 0.935 ounces	1.975 to 2.095 ounces	1.4 ounces	0.095 ounces	0.8 to 0.84 ounces
Material	Hard plastic with holes	Rubber covered with felt	Rubber, no covering	Celluloid or ABS plastic	Two-piece rubber compound
Bounce	Medium	High	High	High	Low
Hole Design	26 to 40 round holes	No holes	No holes	No holes	No holes
Court Type	Indoor/Outdoor courts	Grass, clay, hard tennis courts	Indoor courts	Indoor tables	Indoor courts
Durability	Moderate (varies by type)	Moderate (subject to wear)	High	Low (can crack easily)	High (subject to temperature)
Game Style	Strategic, both power and finesse	Power, spin, and endurance	Fast-paced, power-driven	Skill, spin, and finesse	Strategic, endurance-driven

Make sure also to check our articles on:

• Pickleball vs. tennis
• Pickleball vs. badminton
• Pickleball vs. table tennis
• Pickleball vs. squash

To Sum Up

Pickleball utilizes a unique ball specifically designed for the sport. Standard pickleballs are made of durable plastic and are characterized by their round shape with 26 to 40 evenly spaced holes.

These holes play a crucial role in the ball’s aerodynamics, influencing its flight and bounce.

There are two primary types of pickleballs: indoor and outdoor. Indoor balls are softer and have larger holes, offering enhanced control and a slower pace suitable for indoor courts.

Outdoor balls, in contrast, are heavier and harder with smaller, more numerous holes, making them ideal for outdoor play as they are less affected by wind and have a faster pace.

Each type of ball is tailored to provide the best playing experience in its respective environment, making pickleball a versatile and engaging sport for players of all skill levels.

Peruse our article here for our indoor and outdoor pickleball top picks.