Pickleball is quite a unique sport and it is sort of like a mix between tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It might look like an easy sport to play at first glance, but it requires a lot more technique and strategy than you might think!
If you have heard of pickleball before but you don’t really know much about it, you might be asking yourself “what kind of ball is used in pickleball?”
Well, the answer to that question actually comes in two parts, and it really depends on where you are playing it! We are going to go over everything you need to know about the balls used in pickleball, and by the time you have finished reading, you will have a much better understanding of it!
What Kind Of Ball Is Used In Pickleball?
As already mentioned, the type of ball used to play pickleball really depends on where you are playing the game.
You can play pickleball indoors or outdoors, so there are two different kinds of balls you can use, and they are appropriately named “indoor pickleballs” and “outdoor pickleballs”.
There are some distinct differences between both the indoor and outdoor types of pickleball and we will go over them in greater detail so you can have a better understanding of both.
Indoor Pickleball
Let’s discuss the indoor pickleball first.
These balls are specifically designed for pickleball games that are held anywhere indoors, specifically on pickleball courts. These balls are a lot lighter and softer than outdoor pickleballs, and they will not damage the surface of indoor courts.
There are lots of key features of the indoor pickleball, so here’s a list of some of the most distinct features:
They are softer and lighter than outdoor pickleballs.
They have fewer holes. The total is 26. The holes for indoor pickleballs are also slightly larger.
These balls have a very high bounce, giving the player more control when they serve.
The material for indoor pickleballs is a lot lighter because the material can adapt to the indoor surface a lot better.
Indoor pickleballs are best used in indoor settings, some of which include wooden gym floors and smooth indoor courts.
Because the indoor pickleball is so lightweight, this means that it can be quite difficult for it to generate power.
The indoor version of the pickleball isn’t as durable, and it will develop cracks over time and it will become softer over time. This means that it needs to be replaced a lot more frequently.
Outdoor Pickleball
Now, let’s take a closer look at outdoor pickleballs. They are similar to indoor pickleballs, but they have quite a few distinct characteristics that are obvious once you see them.
As the name would suggest, outdoor pickleballs are designed for outdoor use and surfaces. It is advised that you never use outdoor pickleballs inside because they can damage surfaces and they will put your indoor game at a disadvantage.
Here are some of the key features of outdoor pickleballs:
They are much heavier and more durable.
Outdoor pickles have more holes, with the total number of balls being 40. The holes for the outdoor pickleballs are also much smaller.
These types of balls have much more speed and pop, and they can actually be quite loud when they impact the paddle or floor.
Because the outdoor pickleball is heavier, this actually allows you to gain more power in every hit. You can have much faster and more intense games when you use outdoor balls.
Outdoor pickleballs have much better wind resistance because of the extra holes.
The outdoor balls are not designed for smooth surfaces.
These balls tend to crack a lot more frequently than indoor ones.
Differences Between Indoor And Outdoor Pickleballs
While both the indoor and outdoor pickleballs are quite similar, you can probably guess by now that they are quite different and these differences are what makes them appropriate for their uses. Here’s a brief comparison of both kinds of the ball:
Indoor pickleballs have larger holes, while outdoor pickleballs have smaller holes.
Indoor pickleballs have 26 holes, while outdoor pickleballs have 40.
Indoor pickleballs are lighter and softer, while outdoor pickleballs are harder and faster.
Indoor pickleballs are easier to control than outdoor pickleballs.
Indoor pickleballs are usually white, yellow, and lime green in color, while outdoor pickleballs are usually white or orange.
Indoor pickleballs do not really have any wind resistance, while outdoor pickleballs are designed to be wind resistant.
Indoor pickleballs don’t crack as frequently as outdoor pickleballs.
Indoor pickleballs are not as durable as outdoor pickleballs.
Indoor pickleballs are designed for smooth surfaces, while outdoor pickleballs are not.
As you can see, there are quite a few differences between the two styles of pickleballs, and they are quite obvious, especially when you are looking directly at them. Even if you are new to pickleball, you will be able to pick up on the differences quite easily.
Can Pickleball Be Played With A Tennis Ball?
It is not advised to play pickleball with a tennis ball. Pickleballs are specifically designed for the sport, whereas tennis balls will not hit and move in the same optimal way.
If you don’t have any pickleball balls available, it’s in your best interest to wait until you can get hold of some more in order for you to play properly.
Conclusion
So now you know there are two different kinds of pickleball: one for outdoor use and one for indoor use. It is strongly recommended that you use the appropriate type of pickleball in the right setting, so never use an outdoor pickleball inside!
Even if you are new to pickleball, the differences between the two kinds of pickleballs are really obvious and you will be able to familiarize yourself with both of them really quickly.
Have a go at using both kinds of pickleballs when you get the chance to see how they affect your playstyle!
Pickleball has been played for decades, and it is a great way to let off some steam, engage in friendly competition, and improve your fitness levels.
Hi, my name is Joe Polls and my family and I are keen pickleball players. My parents actually met on a pickleball court, and the rest is history.
I have always loved pickleball, no matter how many times I hear that it’s not a real sport. It has helped me get through some challenging times in my life - whether that be a breakup, finals, or even bereavement. The reason I made my website is so that I can teach more people about the wonders of pickleball, and maybe even get them interested in playing.
Pickleball could always use more players, so what are you waiting for?
Please, enjoy my website and I hope it teaches you something of use. Who knows, maybe I’ll catch you out on the court one day!
