The Best Volleyball for Your Next Game

When all you need is a ball, net, and some friends, it isn’t surprising that volleyball has interested athletes of all ages. Volleyball is a fun way to not only get exercise but to spend time with family and friends. The simple rules of the recreational game are inviting to players of all kinds, and the high-intensity play of professional players is thrilling to watch. Whether you are just learning to serve or playing at the Olympic level, there is a volleyball for your next game. Here are some great volleyballs we recommend.

Choosing a Volleyball That’s Right for You

Here are the things you’ll want to look into:

• Material: Leather balls are best for advanced players because of their durability under extended, intense play. Synthetic leather may not last as long but is much more budget-friendly. Blends of fabric increase longevity and comfort.
• Size: Adult volleyballs should measure around 26 inches in circumference, while youth balls are typically 25 inches in circumference. Young players will find that smaller sizes are easier to control. As long as you can palm the volleyball with relative ease, the size should function well for your game.
• Stitching: Outdoor balls can handle the dirt and grime without peeling due to their extra stitching. Indoor volleyballs are molded together, which results in a comfortable grip, but the fabric will peel if used in the incorrect environment.
• Cushion: The hard surface of an indoor court requires a stiffer ball with a higher psi. This results in a heavier ball that moves with more power. Outdoor volleyballs are less stiff as a result of the soft ground. Young players or adults with sensitive skin should consider balls with extra sponge cushioning built into the ball.

Best Indoor: Mikasa MVA200

This volleyball may seem like it has a high price tag, but it is for good reason. As the official game ball for the Beijing, London, and Rio indoor Olympic games, this ball was created for optimal performance. The eight-panel swirl design is unconventional, but it provides more contact area than a standard ball, which allows for more control. This ball is durable without being too stiff due to the cemented panel seams that allow air to pass through the material. The textured microfiber surface reduces resistance, creating a smooth path through the air with each pass.

Best Outdoor: Runleaps Volleyball

The Runleaps Volleyball is ideal for outdoor recreational players, whether the court of choice is grass, sand, or water. The volleyball is made of polyurethane, which gives the ball the durability to last through hours and hours of outdoor play. It is designed with an embedded valve that keeps the ball airtight while avoiding any discomfort during use. All five colors come in a size 5, making it good for players of all ages and styles.

Best for Young Players: Tachikara Volley-Lite

This specially made volleyball will help transform young players from novices to experts in no time. It is soft to the touch and durable due to the Tachikara Volley-Lite’s sensi-tech synthetic cover. Kids won’t feel weighed down during play with the lightweight design that is easy to handle. And with 11 color options, every player will feel like this ball was made for them.

Best for Budget: Wilson Soft Play Volleyball

Your family and friends will love playing with the budget-friendly Wilson Soft Play Volleyball. The standard size provides both young players and adults with a fun experience, while the sponge-backed synthetic leather protects sensitive skin. The butyl rubber bladder retains air longer for extended playtime that won’t be interrupted by the need to reinflate. Each colorful option features 18 machine-sewn panels that reinforce the ball’s structure.