Pickleball Balls

Pickleball Balls: frequently asked questions

What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball balls?

Indoor balls are softer and lighter, with about 26 larger holes, which slows them down and suits smooth sports-hall floors. Outdoor balls are harder, with around 40 smaller holes, so they resist wind and cope with rough surfaces. Using an outdoor ball indoors makes rallies fast and skiddy; an indoor ball outdoors tends to float in the breeze and wear quickly.

Why do pickleball balls crack?

Outdoor balls are made from hard plastic and take repeated impacts on abrasive courts. In cold weather the plastic becomes more brittle, so cracks are more likely in winter. Rotate balls during a session, store them indoors rather than in a cold car, and retire any ball that goes soft, out of round or split along the seam.

What makes a pickleball ball tournament-approved?

Sanctioned events require balls that meet the governing body's specification for size, weight, bounce and hardness. Under USA Pickleball rules, a ball must measure 2.87–2.97 inches (about 73–75 mm) across and weigh 22.1–26.5 g, with 26 to 40 holes. Approved balls appear on the USA Pickleball equipment list; check your event's rules before buying in bulk.

What colour pickleball is easiest to see?

Choose a colour that contrasts with the court and its surroundings. Optic yellow and neon green stand out on blue, green and grey surfaces and under most hall lighting, while orange can be easier to pick out on pale floors or against autumn leaves. At a club, agree on one colour so everyone on adjacent courts can tell whose ball is whose.

Sources: usapickleball.org · equipment.usapickleball.org