How to choose the right pickleballs?
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The choice of pickleballs is often underestimated, yet it can have a significant impact on playing comfort, durability, and performance.
Whether you are a casual player, club member or demanding amateur, it is useful to understand the differences between models, materials, indoor or outdoor use, budget level… This article guides you to buy the right pickleballs.
Why is choosing the right ball important?
Balls are not distinguished solely by their color or price; their design determines their speed, stability, and durability. A poor-quality or ill-suited ball can break within hours, bounce unevenly, or produce an annoying noise.
Conversely, a well-chosen ball ensures more enjoyable rallies, faster learning, and greater durability. This is essential for clubs, schools, or families who play regularly. In short, a suitable ball improves both performance and the enjoyment of the game .
A ball that is not well-suited to your environment or skill level can:
- wear out very quickly, crack or deform;
- lose momentum or cause irregularities;
- change the game speed, control or noise;
- influence your enjoyment and progress.
What are the differences between pickleballs depending on their use?
Indoors vs. Outdoors
Indoor balls
Indoor balls are made of softer plastic and have approximately 26 to 30 large holes . They are ideal for gymnasiums and smooth floors because they offer a more predictable bounce and a reduced sound.
This type of ball is particularly popular for beginners, as it allows for better control and limits the speed of rallies. It is also quite durable on non-abrasive surfaces.
Outdoor balls
Outdoor balls , on the other hand, have 40 small holes to better resist the wind and provide a stable trajectory. Their plastic is harder and denser, resulting in a faster and more dynamic game.
They are designed to withstand the impacts of outdoor concrete or resin courts, but their rigidity makes them slightly noisier and more prone to cracking after prolonged use. They are the standard ball for outdoor tournaments or clubs.
Silent or foam balls
Silent balls are an excellent alternative for noise-sensitive environments: schools, multipurpose rooms, condominiums, etc. Made of dense foam , they are lighter and significantly reduce the sound upon impact.
They also allow children and beginners to discover pickleball safely, with softer bounces and simplified control. They are an ideal choice for introductory sessions or family games indoors.
Indoor and outdoor balls are not the same:
- Outdoor balls often have more holes (≈ 40) , harder materials to withstand wind and abrasive surfaces.
- Indoor balls are softer , with fewer holes (~26-30) , for a controlled bounce on gym floor and less noise.
One player summed it up:
“For me the main difference is how the ball reacts to spin… With heavy spin the outdoor ball curves in the air…”
Therefore, adapt the ball to the surface and conditions (wind, smooth ground, etc.).
Materials, holes, noise and durability
The structure of a pickleball varies:
- The number of holes, the diameter of the holes, and the spacing all influence flight, speed, and stability.
- The type of plastic used (harder or softer) affects rebound, resistance to cracking, and noise.
- Silent or foam balls appear as an option for indoor use or noise-sensitive locations.
Level of play and frequency of use
- For beginners or recreational players: opt for more forgiving balls, good value for money.
- Regular players or competition: choose a reference ball, approved, high-performance.
- Intensive use or club use: durability, budget and compatibility with surface matter.
Our ball recommendations based on your needs
1. Premium Balls – Joola Primo Balls
👉 Discover the Joola Primo Balls
Joola Primo gliders represent the best for demanding players. Their high-density plastic guarantees exceptional durability and flight stability , even in strong winds.
They are designed for tournaments and intensive training, and their precise bounce improves the consistency of rallies.
Benefits :
- Optimal stability outdoors, even with crosswinds
- Superior durability and crack resistance
- Consistent rebound and reliable trajectory
2. Intermediate Balls – AMA Sport X-Ace Pickleballs
👉 See the AMA Sport X-Ace Pickleballs
The AMA Sport X-Ace shoes are an excellent compromise between performance and comfort. Designed to fit both indoors and outdoors, they offer very good durability at an affordable price.
They are perfectly suited to regular players looking for a reliable ball for training without sacrificing quality.
Benefits :
- Versatile: suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Good balance between control and power
- Perfect for clubs or weekly training sessions
3. Cheap Pickleballs – Durable 74mm Pickleballs
👉 Discover the Durable 74mm Balls
For beginners, schools or clubs that organize introductory sessions, these economical balls offer unbeatable value for money .
Their simple but solid structure allows for smooth learning, and they are durable enough for regular recreational use.
Benefits :
- Very attractive price
- Appropriate resistance for recreational training
- Ideal for equipping multiple sites on a small budget
4. Silent Balls – Foam Pickleball Balls
These dense foam balls offer a softer and much quieter game.
They are perfect for children, school sessions, or noisy indoor environments. Their soft feel also reduces the risk of injury during initial play.
Benefits :
- Silent, perfect for indoor use
- Safe for children and beginners
- Controlled rebound and reduced speed
How to choose the right balls?
Define your primary use
- If you are playing outdoors (hard court, wind, concrete/asphalt surface) → durable outdoor ball.
- If you are playing indoors (gymnasium, parquet floor, synthetic floor) → use a suitable indoor ball.
- If noise or neighbors are a concern → consider a silent or foam ball.
Check the technical specifications
- Number of holes (≈ 40 for exterior, ≈ 26 for interior).
- Weight and diameter conform to the standard (approximately 0.78-0.935 oz for standard balls)
- Approval (e.g., USA Pickleball list for competitions).
- Wear resistance, plastic material, reputable brand.
To fit your budget
- High-end balls: better durability, performance.
- Intermediate balls: a good compromise.
- Economy balls: for recreational use, initiation or occasional training.
- Specialized balls: silent, foam, very soft for indoor use.
Maintenance and replacement
- Store away from sunlight and extreme temperatures (plastic will deform).
- Replace when the ball loses its performance (bounce, hardness, shape).
- Clean after use to prolong its lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the same ball be used indoors and outdoors?
Technically yes, but be careful: performance will be lower if the ball is not adapted to the surface or conditions (wind, smooth ground, etc.).
What is the lifespan of a pickleball?
Varies depending on use, surface, and quality. High-end balls last longer, but as soon as a ball cracks, deforms, or loses its bounce, it must be replaced.
Is the number of holes (26 vs 40) still a relevant indicator?
Yes, that's a good indicator: about 26 holes for indoors, 40 smaller holes for outdoors.
Is noise a real deciding factor?
Yes, especially indoors or in apartment buildings. Softer or foam balls are recommended to reduce noise.
Is an economical ball sufficient for all uses?
For beginners and recreational use, yes. For serious use, club or regular outdoor field, a higher-performance ball is preferable.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pickleballs means selecting a ball suited to your playing surface, frequency of play, budget, and desired performance level. By considering the criteria described above, you'll make an informed choice and fully enjoy your game.
Discover and order now the models adapted to your needs in our shop: quality, performance and gaming pleasure guaranteed.
