Outdoor vs. Indoor Pickleball Balls: What’s the Difference?

If you’re new to pickleball, you might be surprised to learn that there are different balls for indoor and outdoor play. While they might look similar at first glance, indoor and outdoor pickleball balls are designed differently to suit their playing environments (think wind!). Here’s what you need to know when choosing the right ball for your game. (You will notice during our lessons we ensure we are using the right balls for indoor and the right balls for outdoor!)

1. The Hole Difference: Size & Number Matter

One of the most noticeable differences between indoor and outdoor pickleball balls is the size and number of holes.

• Outdoor balls have smaller holes and usually around 40 holes in total. This design helps them stay stable in windy conditions and reduces how much the ball gets affected by outdoor elements.

• Indoor balls have larger holes and typically around 26 holes. The bigger holes make them lighter and easier to control on smooth indoor courts, where there’s no wind interference.

2. Material & Durability

• Outdoor balls are made of harder plastic to withstand rougher playing surfaces like asphalt or concrete. They’re more durable but can crack over time due to repeated hard impacts.

• Indoor balls are softer and slightly lighter, making them quieter and easier to control. However, they wear out faster on outdoor surfaces.

3. Bounce & Speed

• Outdoor balls bounce higher and travel faster because they’re harder and heavier. This makes outdoor games quicker and more challenging.

• Indoor balls have a softer bounce and a slightly slower pace, which allows for longer rallies and more control-based play.

4. Which One Should You Use?

If you’re playing outdoors, go with outdoor balls—they handle wind better and last longer on rougher courts. If you’re playing indoors, indoor balls will give you better control and a softer feel.

Some players like to practice with both, as the feel of the game can be quite different! We strongly recommend that you practice with both types of balls as, especially in tournaments, you will come across different ball types and brands (each ball brand has its own unique feel as well!)

Looking to improve your game? Join our pickleball coaching lessons in Auckland and learn how to master both indoor and outdoor play!

Your next read: What do look out for when choosing a pickleball paddle.

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