The Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Pickleballs
You can’t have a pickleball game without a pickleball ball. Similar to a wiffleball in design, pickleballs are made from plastic with holes that have been cut out on all sides. Pickleballs are a solid color and are most often seen in neon green, yellow, or pink, which helps them stand out in any environment so you can keep your eye on the ball while playing. Two main types of pickleball balls exist; indoor pickleball balls and outdoor pickleball balls, and both have advantages.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Pickleballs
There are several key differences between indoor and outdoor pickleball balls.
Durability: Outdoor balls are more durable because they are made from harder plastic
Hardness: The hard plastic of outdoor pickleball balls allows for more bounce
Hole diameter: Indoor pickleball balls have larger holes which slow gameplay, while outdoor balls have smaller holes for faster shots
Number of holes: Indoor pickleball balls have fewer holes than outdoor pickleball balls
Wear and tear: Outdoor balls will crack over time, while the softer plastic of indoor balls will become too soft
Weight: Outdoor pickleball balls weigh more, which allows for harder, faster shots
Why Do Indoor Pickleballs Have Larger Holes?
The slightly larger holes in indoor pickleball balls allow more air to pass through the ball, slightly slowing the trajectory and speed while allowing for softer, more controlled hits.
How Many Holes Does an Indoor Pickleball Have?
Most indoor pickleball balls have 26 holes, while outdoor pickleball balls have 40.
What are the Benefits of Using an Indoor Pickleball?
Allows for longer rallies due to fewer holes
Certain shots, such as dinks, are easier to perform
Made specifically to perform well on indoor surfaces
Slower gameplay that may benefit beginners
Smooth plastic is great for performing drills
Softer materials allow for better control of the ball
Can Indoor Pickleballs be Used on Outdoor Pickleball Courts?
It is best to use outdoor pickleball balls outside. While indoor pickleball balls can be used outdoors, they don’t have the same wind resistance and may be easier to hit out of bounds. Controlling shots with your pickleball paddle may be more challenging when you don’t use the right ball for the outdoor playing surface. Additionally, indoor pickleball balls miss the harder plastic surface of outdoor pickleball balls and will have a shorter lifespan and durability.
Official USA Pickleball Ball Guidelines
USA Pickleball (USAPA) is the governing body for official tournaments for pickleball players in the United States. Whether you are playing on indoor pickleball courts or outdoor courts, the type of ball you use should be approved for use on the type of court surface it is meant for, whether indoor play or outdoor play.
According to the official equipment guidelines for USA Pickleball, for a pickleball ball to be added to the approved ball list, it must have the following features:
Have a bounce of 30 - 34 inches
Have a diameter between 2.874 and 2.972 inches
Have a uniform color and non-textured surface
Minimum of 26 to a maximum of 40 circular holes
Pass a pressure test using the Durometer D scale
Weigh between .78 and .935 ounces
How Do You Find the Right Pickleball?
Finding the right pickleball ball comes with a bit of trial and error. If you play in tournaments, you will want to ensure you are using a tournament-approved pickleball ball that is made for the surface type that you will be playing on in the tournament.
If you are a casual player, the best pickleball ball may be one that allows you to enjoy the longest rallies. Remember, there are many types of pickleball balls, and they aren’t expensive, so try a few until you find one that you enjoy playing with!
