Pickleball is an interesting and engaging sport that combines aspects of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It may be played both indoors and outdoors by players of all ages and skill levels on a court comparable to but smaller than a tennis court. But what kind of ball is used in pickleball? What distinguishes it from other balls used in sports? And what difference does it make in what sort of ball you use? In this article, I will answer these and other questions to help you in selecting the best ball for your game.
Why Are They Called Pickleballs?
The name “pickleball” may sound weird and funny, yet it has a straightforward origin. Pickleball was founded in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by three friends, according to the USA Pickleball, the sport’s official governing organization. They wanted to play badminton but couldn’t find a shuttlecock, so they made do with a wiffle ball, a wooden paddle, and a lowered net. They were having such much fun that they kept playing and improving the rules. This is how the sport grew in popularity over the years.
What Material Is A Pickleball Ball Made Of?
Pickleball balls are typically constructed of a plastic polymer with a hollow center. Except for identification markers, it has a smooth surface and uniform color. It may have a little ridge at the seam where the two parts of the mold are joined together, but this does not affect the ball’s flight characteristics.
The pickleball ball’s plastic construction makes it resilient, lightweight, and bouncy. It is very simple to clean and maintain. However, the plastic substance can be impacted by temperature variations, humidity, and sunshine, which can affect the shape, size, and performance of the ball. As a result, it is important to keep the balls dry and cool, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Are All Pickleballs The Same Size And Weight?
No, the size and weight of pickleballs vary depending on the type, brand, and quality of the ball. However, most balls adhere to certain broad guidelines and regulations.
The official governing organization for pickleball, USA Pickleball, states that a standard pickleball ball should weigh between 0.78 ounces (22 g) and 0.935 ounces (26.5 g) and have a diameter of between 2.874 inches (7.3 cm) and 2.972 inches (7.55 cm). The ball must also have 26 to 40 holes that are evenly positioned and of the same size.
The USA Pickleball Association also keeps a list of permitted balls for sanctioned competitions on its website. These balls have been tested and certified to fulfill the organization’s requirements and performance criteria.
Not all balls, however, are designed for competitive play. Some balls are designed for recreational or casual use, and they may come in a variety of sizes, weights, and hole designs. Although these balls are not ideal for tournaments, but they can be amusing and interesting for practice or fun.
The Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Pickleball
The type of ball used is one of the primary differences between indoor and outdoor pickleball. Indoor and outdoor balls have distinct properties that make them appropriate for various playing circumstances and places. Here are a few important distinctions between indoor and outdoor pickleball balls:
- Indoor balls are softer and lighter than outside tennis balls. They weigh around 0.8 ounces (22.7 grams) and are made of a softer plastic that is less loud and more forgiving on the paddle and floor. They also have bigger holes and fewer holes than outdoor balls, which typically have 26 holes. Indoor balls are more responsive to spin and control because of these characteristics, but they are also more subject to air resistance and drag.
- Outdoor balls are harder and heavier than indoor balls. They weigh around 0.9 ounces (25.5 grams) and have a harder plastic material that makes them more durable and less affected by wind. They also have smaller holes and more holes than indoor balls, usually 40 holes. These features make outdoor balls more stable and consistent in flight, but also more challenging to maneuver and place.
The ball you use is defined by your preferences, skill level, and playing style. Some players prefer indoor balls because they have a softer feel and more spin, while others prefer outdoor balls because they are quicker and have a higher bounce. Depending on the weather, court surface, and lighting circumstances, some players take indoor balls for outdoor play and vice versa. However, I suggest that you should use the proper ball for the right environment since this will improve your performance and pleasure in the game.
Onix, Dura, Franklin, Jugs, and Gamma are some of the most well-known and reputable brands of pickleball balls. These balls may be found online or at shops that offer pickleball equipment. You can also look at other players’ reviews and ratings to learn which balls they favor and why. The best approach to pick the perfect ball for you is to try them out and see how they feel and play. Experiment with several balls to find which ones best fit your game and style.
Pickleballs vs Balls Used in Other Racquet Sports
Pickleball balls are not the same as those used in other racquet sports like tennis, racquetball, or squash. They vary in size, weight, material, and design, which influences how they perform on the court. Let’s compare them to find out how they differ.
Pickleballs vs Tennis Balls
Tennis balls are composed of rubber and covered in felt. They have a diameter of around 2.7 inches and weigh about 2 ounces. On a tennis court, they are under pressure to bounce high and quickly. They are also intended to have a lot of spin, allowing players to manage the ball’s direction and speed.
Conversely, pickleballs are composed of plastic that has holes in it. Because they are not inflated, they bounce lower and slower than tennis balls. They also have less spin, making them more unpredictable and difficult to play with.
Pickleballs vs Racquetballs
Racquetballs, like tennis balls, are composed of rubber, although they are larger and lighter. They measure around 2.25 inches across and weigh about 1.4 ounces. They are likewise pressurized, although not to the same extent as tennis balls. They bounce incredibly high and fast on a racquetball court, which is smaller and surrounded by walls. Because pickleballs are made of plastic, they bounce very low, forcing players to use the net and the court to generate angles and strokes.
Pickleballs vs Squash Balls
Squash balls are the smallest and heaviest of the racquet sports balls. They are composed of rubber and are uncovered. They have a diameter of around 1.6 inches and weigh about 0.9 ounces. They are not pressurized, yet their bounce varies based on their color and dot. On a squash court, which is comparable to a racquetball court but with a higher and smaller front wall, they bounce very low and slowly.
Conclusion
Pickleballs are special balls used in the sport of pickleball, which mixes aspects of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. They are composed of plastic with perforations that modify their flight, bounce, and speed. They differ from the balls used in other racquet sports in terms of size, weight, material, and hole design.
The optimal ball for your game will be defined by your skill level, playing style, playing surface, weather circumstances, and personal taste. I hope my article has helped you understand more about pickleballs and addressed your concern.
FAQs
Pickleball is played using a perforated plastic ball, similar to a whiffle ball, with discrete holes that help to control its flight and bounce on the court.
Pickleball is played using a perforated plastic ball, also known as a wiffle ball, that has specifically placed holes for a controlled flight and bounce on the court.
In tournaments, the outdoor Dura Fast 40 pickleball is commonly used. This ball is well-known for its long-lasting durability and steady performance, and it is the preferred choice for competitive pickleball matches.