Pickleball is a fun sport that is growing in popularity all over the world. more and more people are playing it every day, and it’s easy to see why! This sport is a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, so it’s no wonder so many people love it. Plus, the rules are simple and it’s easy to learn. But one of the most common questions people have about pickleball is “what kind of ball is used in pickleball?”
What Kind of Ball Was Used When Pickleball Was Invented?
The game of pickleball was invented in the 1960s, and at that time, it is said they initially used a badminton shuttlecock. Eventually, they graduated to using a Wiffle ball because they were easy to find and cheap. Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum created the game. However, as the sport grew in popularity, people began to realize that a Wiffle ball was not the ideal pickleball. They were too light and didn’t have enough bounce.
They were looking for a summer activity that their families could enjoy together and came up with what we now know as pickleball.
No Tennis Balls
Remember, although there are aspects of tennis and Pickleball that are similar, you should never use tennis balls for Pickleball in either indoor or outdoor play. A pickleball paddle is simply not designed to hit a tennis ball. Pickleball balls are totally different from tennis balls, so never try to interchange the two. Let’s take a look at what kind of ball is used in pickleball?
Does Pickleball Use a Wiffle Ball?
No, a regular Wiffle Ball is not used in pickleball. While a regular Wiffle Ball may look similar to a pickleball, there are some important differences. First of all, regular Wiffle Balls are not specifically designed for pickleball play. This means that they may not have the same perforations or be made of the same type of plastic. Although the ball used in Pickleball is similar in style to the Wiffle ball, it is not a Wiffle ball. We will see that the size and makeup of the pickleball are different than the original Wiffle ball.
Regular Wiffle Balls are not necessarily the same size as pickleball balls. So while you may be able to use a regular Wiffle Ball in a game of pickleball, it’s not ideal and you will likely have a better experience if you use an official pickleball ball.
You will have a different type of bounce and not have the most pleasurable playing experience if you try to substitute a regular Wiffle ball instead of a quality pickleball for indoor play or outdoor play.
So what kind of ball is used in pickleball now? The answer is a special type of ball that is larger than a regular Wiffle ball and has more bounce. These balls are made specifically for pickleball.
Not a Wiffle ball, but Similar
The ball used in pickleball is very similar to a Wiffle Ball. It’s made of hollow plastic and has 26–40 circular holes in it. This type of ball was originally used because it was less likely to break windows than a regular tennis ball. ThePickleball Association says that the balls are “specifically designed for Pickleball play” and are manufactured by several different companies.
So why is this type of ball used in pickleball? The answer is simple: because it’s the best type of ball for the game! The perforations make the ball less bouncy than a regular tennis ball, which makes it easier to control. Plus, the hollow plastic construction makes the ball lighter and slower-moving, which is perfect for pickleball. Let’s continue our discussion on what kind of ball is used in pickleball.
Is a Pickleball Larger Than a Wiffle ball??
The answer to this question is, yes. A pickleball is slightly larger. The dimensions of a pickleball are as follows: the diameter is two and one-quarter inches (compared to the two and one-eighth inch diameter of a Wiffle ball) and the weight is twenty-seven grams (compared to the eighteen grams of a Wiffle ball).
What companies Manufacture Pickleballs?
First of all, the Wiffle Ball company does not produce pickleballs, but there are several companies that are pickleball manufacturers. Some of these companies include Jugs Sports and Onix. You can purchase pickleballs from any of these companies, from your local sporting goods store, or you can get some great quality pickleballs very quickly from Amazon.
Why Are There Various Colors Of Pickleballs?
The color of a pickleball does not affect the gameplay, it is simply for player preference. Some companies will produce different color balls for certain events or tournaments. The most popular color seems to be yellow, but green and white are also common colors for pickleballs.
How Long Do Pickleballs Last?
Pickleballs can last anywhere from a few games to a few months depending on how often you play and what surface you are playing on. If you are playing on an indoor court, your ball will last longer than if you were playing on an outdoor concrete court. One thing to keep in mind is that if you are playing with a softer ball, it will wear down faster than a harder ball.
What Is the Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Pickleballs?
There are great choices for pickleballs for both indoor and outdoor play. The main difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball is because of the type of surface they are played on and weather conditions. Indoor pickleball balls are lighter and softer than their outdoor counterparts, weighing approximately 0.8 ounces each. When the game is played indoors where the conditions are more consistent and not subject to mother nature’s mood swings, an indoor ball can be preferred.
Outdoor Pickleballs
It’s all about elements with outdoor balls. Pickleball’s dynamics are shifted by irregular wind patterns, fluctuating weather, and uneven surfaces on which play occurs. As a result, outdoor pickleball needs a ball that is specifically engineered to react to and alleviate these basic forces, ensuring that they do not destroy the game.
Outdoor pickleball balls are more firm than their indoor counterparts, coming in at a weight of over 0.9 ounces. These balls are a bit more durable with less likelihood of easy wear and tear. However you should probably limit the number of outdoor matches with these balls since the conditions of the surface and the weather itself may cause the outdoor pickleball balls to deteriorate more quickly.
Indoor Pickleball Balls
Indoor pickleball balls are smaller and softer than those used in outdoor pickleball and they weigh in the neighborhood 0.8 ounces. They are designed for groups that would rather play the game indoors, where the weather is more constant and unpredictable.
Indoor pickleballs are typically made of harder plastic than outdoor pickleballs. The reason for this is that outdoor surfaces are usually rougher than indoor surfaces, so the softer balls will not wear down as quickly.
While indoor pickleball balls are not exposed to the elements, they do have a few more, albeit larger, holes than outdoor pickleball balls.
Fewer holes improve overall airflow and control, predictable rebounds, and accurate trajectories in indoor settings. You can actually end up with much longer rallies because of the texture and makeup of these balls designed for indoor play. Playing indoors can be quite different than outdoor play and the balls designed for indoor play are best if you choose indoor pickleball.
One downside is that pickleball indoor ball can be a bit harder to slam the power shots than the typical outdoor pickleballs. However, the increased drag these types of pickleball balls boast makes them harder to slam or hit power shots with.
Outdoor balls are used when playing on an outdoor playing surface including grass, asphalt, or concrete. An outdoor ball can be helpful on a windy day or if you are playing on a court that is not well-maintained.
What Happens if I Play with the Wrong Ball?
If you play with the wrong ball, it can affect your game in a number of ways. For example, if you use a ball that is too hard, it will bounce higher and move faster, making it more difficult to control. On the other hand, if you use a ball that is too soft, it will not bounce as high and will not move as fast, making it easier to control. In either case, using the wrong type of ball can make your game less enjoyable.
Try your best to have indoor balls and outdoor balls available when you decide you want to play pickleball on a regular basis.
For tournament play, you would want to be playing with the highest quality pickleballs such as the Durafast 40. Pickleball tournaments can be extremely competitive and only the best pickleball equipment is acceptable.
What is The Official Pickleball
The Franklin X-40 is the official pickleball of USA Pickleball and the US Open Pickleball Championships. It’s a high-end ball that performs well on any outdoor surface. It has 40 accurately drilled holes to provide a level flight pattern.
Other Top Pickleballs From Which To Choose
Onix Pickleball Ball
Sports Illustrated recently claimed the Onix Pickleball as the best overall ball. It is a fine ball for the average player. However, it is not approved for tournament play.
Finding the correct pickleball ball that is certified to compete on the big stage is important for serious pickleball players. These balls are produced by Day 1 and meet all those criteria, with 40 precision holes to produce uniform flight and rebound.
The bright neon hue of the balls will make seeing in the field a lot easier. To preserve the pickleball ball for years to come, it is constructed of high-quality resin.
If you play pickleball often or are worried about losing your balls, this Franklin Sports 12-pack is one of the most cost-effective choices in our selection. With the 12 pack, you get the best unit price per ball since other brands usually offer three or six per pack.
These balls are USAPA certified for professional players and are constructed using rotational molding, which helps to keep them from shattering. Pickleball balls come in three bright hues for easy viewing.
Jugs pickleballs are normally suggested for indoor play but can be used outdoors. The Jugs ball is more rubberized, a bit softer and actually serves very well for beginners.
The bright green color serves to make the ball seen very well. The drawback is that these balls are not sanctioned by USAPA/IFP for play in official tournaments but are perfect for recreational games among friends.
Pickleballs that Are for Sanctioned Tournament Play
Well, there is quite a broad answer to that question. The United States Pickleball/IFP has more than 50 pickleballs that are approved balls for use in tournaments.
Where Can I Purchase a Pickleball Ball?
Now that you know all about the history and origins of the pickleball, you’re probably wondering where you can purchase one. The good news is that pickleballs are widely available and can be purchased from many different retailers. You can also find them online from pages like these on Amazon.
Play Some Pickleball!
So there you have it! Now you know everything there is to know about the history and dimensions of the pickleball! Go out and enjoy this wonderful sport!
So, there you have it! The next time you are on the pickleball court, remember that you are playing with a slightly larger ball than what is used in Wiffle ball. And, if someone asks you what kind of ball is used in pickleball, you can impress them with your knowledge! Thanks for reading!
Why Should I Start Playing Pickleball, anyway?
Pickleball is a great way to stay active, whether you are young or old. It is also a relatively easy sport to learn and can be played either competitively or recreationally. If you are looking for a fun and challenging way to get exercise, pickleball is definitely the sport for you!
Pickleball is a great way to stay active, whether you are young or old. It is also a relatively easy sport to learn and can be played either competitively or recreationally.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a paddle and give pickleball a try! You won’t regret it. Thanks for reading!
Do you have any questions about pickleball? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check out our other articles about this great sport. Happy playing!
