Pickleball uses a round, perforated plastic ball, about the size of a baseball. The balls have a smooth surface, with between 26 and 40 holes that must be evenly spaced. There are both outdoor pickleballs and indoor pickleballs, with the outdoor balls being slightly heavier than the indoor balls for better use in the wind.
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 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.
Characteristics 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
The decision on what ball is ultimately used is up to the tournament organizer.
Indoor Vs. Outdoor Pickleballs
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?
1. Indoor Pickleballs
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.
2. Outdoor Pickleballs
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 Onix Dura Fast 40 is the ball of choice in most pickleball tournaments.
- Outdoor play
- .881 ounces
- 40 holes
- USAPA-Approved
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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:
- Outdoor play
- 26.3 grams
- 40 holes
- USAPA-Approved
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- Outdoor play
- 26 grams
- 40 holes
- USAPA-Approved
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- Indoor play
- 26 grams
- 26 holes
- USAPA-Approved
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- Indoor play
- .85 ounces
- 26 hloes
- USAPA-Approved
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- 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.
- Franklin X-40: The X-40 offer durability and consistency for outdoor play, with precision-drilled holes for true flight.
- 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.
- 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.
| 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. balls used in 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 |
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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.
