What specific types of wiffle balls are best for different conditions. Pickleball is an fast paced sport that requires a unique type of ball to slow the action down. Enter: the whiffle ball. A truly wholly ball unlike any other in sports – perhaps we can call it a “holy” ball. Unlike traditional wiffle balls, pickleball whiffle balls are specifically designed to meet the demands of this sport. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of pickleball whiffle balls and their best uses:
What’s the Diff Between Indoor and Outdoor balls?
Outdoor balls make me think about going commando, but I have the mind of a thirteen-year-old who just discovered puns. On a deadly serious note: why do we even need two types of balls? Well, the surface that the ball is bouncing on is its main contact with the outside world. Aside from your hand, the paddle, the sweaty innards of your pockets, and maybe an opponent’s grille, the ground is really the only thing a ball touches. As such, what your balls touch should undoubtedly shape them.
Indoor pickleballs are typically lighter and have larger holes, while outdoor pickleballs are heavier and have smaller holes. Why, you ask? Well, indoor pickleballs are designed to move more slowly through the air, as they don’t have to contend with wind or other outdoor factors. Outdoor pickleballs, on the other hand, need to be heavier to withstand the elements and smaller to avoid getting blown off course.
Now, when it comes to playing with indoor and outdoor pickleballs, there are some key differences. Indoor pickleballs tend to bounce lower and move more slowly, while outdoor pickleballs bounce higher and move faster. So if you’re used to playing with one type of ball and switch to the other, you may need to adjust your game accordingly.
But here’s the real difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs: indoor pickleballs are usually found indoors, while outdoor pickleballs are usually found outdoors. Shocking, I know! So if you’re playing pickleball at an indoor court, make sure you’re using indoor balls, and if you’re playing outside, make sure you’re using outdoor balls. Otherwise, you might find yourself in a bit of a pickle (pun intended).
So there you have it, the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs. Now get out there and show off your newly acquired knowledge on the court!
The Four Most Common Types of Spherical Gherkins
Official PickleballsThese balls mean bidness
The official pickleball is the most commonly used ball in pickleball tournaments and competitive play. It is made from a high-density polymer and has between 26-40 small holes. This ball is designed to provide a true and consistent bounce, making it ideal for outdoor play, especially on calm days. It’s a harder, faster ball. Dura, Top and Onix are topsellers in this category. These are best used outdoors.
Indoor ballsUse your indoor voice when playing with these balls
Indoor pickleball is a softer version of the official pickleball, designed for indoor play. Think converted basketball or volleyball courts versus tennis court asphalt. It is made from a low-density polymer and has fewer holes, which makes it easier to control and less likely to cause damage to walls or furniture. Indoor pickleballs are ideal for players of all skill levels and are best used in calm indoor conditions. It’s worth noting that getting hit with this ball generally hurts less than an outdoor ball, so select accordingly if comfort is important.
Training BallsFor getting better without breaking the bank
Training pickleball is designed to help players improve their skills, specifically their hand-eye coordination and reaction time. These balls are often lighter and softer than the official pickleball, making them easier to hit and control. Training pickleballs are great for indoor play, or outdoor play without wind. They can be used by players of all skill levels.
Slo-pitchNice and slow. Great for longer points and endurance training.
Slo-Pitch pickleballs are designed for players who want a slower-paced game. These balls have fewer holes, making them slower-moving than the official pickleball. Slo-Pitch pickleball is best used for indoor play, in calm conditions, and for players who prefer a more relaxed game.
The type of pickleball whiffle ball you choose will depend on the type of play you prefer, the conditions you are playing in, and your skill level. Whether you are a seasoned player or just starting out, there is a pickleball whiffle ball that will suit your needs and provide hours of entertainment. The Pickleballologist recommends these for value and quality:
Expert Picks for Outdoor balls
For more in-depth reviews, see our complete guide to outdoor pickleballs.
I hail from the picturesque landscapes of Denver, Colorado, where the pickleball scene is as vibrant as our city's sunsets. The game has changed my life in ways I never thought a sport could. You see, before I got hooked, my closest encounter with a racket was a fly swatter.
As far as my coaching credentials go, well, it's a classic underdog story. I was once the guy who couldn't tell a pickleball paddle from a pizza peel, and now I'm proudly sporting the title of Master Teaching Professional from the IPTPA. If that doesn't give hope to all my fellow klutzes, I don't know what will!
My love for pickleball goes far beyond the court. I run the In2Pickle YouTube channel, which is a blend of pickleball tactics, bloopers (mostly mine), and heartfelt stories from players whose lives have been touched by the sport. If you're more into listening than watching, you can catch me chatting about everything pickleball-related on my Pickleball Therapy podcast. And if that isn't enough, I've also penned a book titled "Play Pickleball", where I share everything from basic rules to advanced strategies, and of course, anecdotes of my own hilarious mishaps.
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