What Kind of Ball Is Used in Pickleball? A Complete Guide for Players

What Kind of Ball Is Used in Pickleball? A Complete Guide for Players

You’ve got the paddle. You’ve found the court. Now here comes a surprisingly important question: what kind of ball is used in pickleball?

Unlike tennis or ping-pong, pickleball uses a very specific type of plastic ball—one that’s lightweight, hollow, and full of holes. And not just any ball will do. The type of ball you use can dramatically change the speed, bounce, and feel of your game.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about pickleball balls—so you can pick the perfect one, every time.

What Is a Pickleball Made Of?

A standard pickleball is made from durable plastic. It’s:

  • Hollow inside

  • Smooth on the outside

  • Dotted with holes (26 to 40 depending on type)

It’s similar to a wiffle ball but designed for serious gameplay.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Pickleballs

The biggest division in ball types is between indoor and outdoor pickleballs.

Indoor Pickleballs:

  • Have fewer holes (usually 26)

  • Are softer and slightly lighter

  • Designed for smooth gym surfaces

  • Have more control, less speed

Outdoor Pickleballs:

  • Have more holes (usually 40)

  • Are harder and more durable

  • Made to resist wind and wear on asphalt or concrete

  • Play faster and bounce higher

You’ll feel the difference immediately. Outdoor balls pop off the paddle, while indoor balls allow for more finesse.

How to Tell Them Apart

Here’s how to quickly identify which type you’re holding:

  • Count the holes: 26 = indoor, 40 = outdoor

  • Feel the texture: Indoor = soft & flexible, Outdoor = rigid & firm

  • Weight test: Outdoor balls are a touch heavier

Want to add grip and style while handling either type? Check out our Jet Black Paddle Band to keep control and elevate your setup.

Popular Ball Brands and Models

Some of the most trusted pickleball ball brands include:

  • Dura Fast 40: Known for tournament-level speed and bounce

  • ONIX Fuse: Popular in rec leagues and clubs

  • Franklin X-40: Balanced for outdoor play, widely used

  • Jugs: A favorite for indoor players due to its softer feel

Try a few to see what feels right. Some players swear by one brand—others mix it up.

When to Replace a Pickleball

Pickleballs don’t last forever. You’ll know it’s time to swap when:

  • It cracks or splits (common with outdoor balls)

  • It gets squishy or dented

  • It wobbles or bounces oddly

  • The color fades, making it hard to see

A pro tip: keep a few extras in your bag so you're never stuck.

Color Matters Too

Pickleballs come in bright colors for visibility. The most common:

  • Yellow: Great for most court conditions

  • Orange: High contrast indoors

  • White: Works well on darker surfaces

Choose a color that pops against your court’s surface and lighting.

What Ball Is Used in Pickleball Tournaments?

Many tournaments specify the Dura Fast 40 for outdoor events and ONIX Fuse Indoor for indoor matches. These models:

  • Are approved by USA Pickleball

  • Meet diameter and weight standards

  • Offer consistency for competitive play

If you're practicing for tournaments, play with what they use.

How the Ball Affects Your Strategy

Believe it or not, the ball you use influences your whole game:

  • Indoor balls encourage dinking and placement

  • Outdoor balls favor quicker reflexes and harder drives

Choose your ball based on what skills you're working on—or what your local courts demand.

Combine Ball Performance with Custom Control

Your paddle’s grip matters just as much as your ball. Add a Jet Black Paddle Band for improved feel and control in any setting.

Want to match your style? Customize your paddle band at CustomPickleballBands.com with your name, phrase, or color of choice.

Extra Tips for Ball Maintenance

  • Store balls in a dry, cool place (especially outdoors)

  • Don’t leave them in a hot car

  • Use separate bags for indoor and outdoor balls

  • Label your balls if you play with others often

Want more practical advice like this? Our Pickleball Blog shares gear guides, strategy tips, and community updates every week.

Final Word: Know Your Ball

So what kind of ball is used in pickleball? The answer depends on where you play, how you play, and who you're playing with.

Knowing the difference between indoor and outdoor balls—and choosing the right one—makes your game more fun, more consistent, and more competitive.

Start strong by pairing your perfect ball with a customized paddle band from CustomPickleballBands.com. Performance and personality? That’s how you dominate the court.

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