What Is a Pickleball? (the Ball Itself)
A pickleball is a hard, hollow polymer (rigid plastic) ball perforated with round holes, roughly the same size as a baseball but significantly lighter. The holes reduce air resistance and shape the ball's distinctive flight characteristics, which is a major part of what makes pickleball feel different from tennis, paddle tennis, or any other racquet sport.
Construction and Materials
Pickleballs are typically made from a durable plastic polymer, most commonly a variation of polyethylene. The seamless one-piece construction is molded with evenly spaced circular holes around the entire surface. The exact number, size, and arrangement of holes differs between indoor and outdoor balls, which is the primary engineering distinction between the two types.
Specifications
- Diameter: Approximately 2.87–2.97 inches, per USA Pickleball specifications.
- Weight: Approximately 0.78–0.935 ounces.
- Color: Must be a single uniform color for sanctioned play, with no texturing on the surface.
- Bounce: Specific bounce height requirements apply for USA Pickleball-approved balls used in sanctioned competition.
For sanctioned tournament play, the ball must appear on USA Pickleball's official approved ball list. For recreational and casual play, any quality ball from a major manufacturer that matches your playing surface (indoor or outdoor) will work fine — you don't need an approved ball for everyday games. Pickleball Central carries approved balls from all major brands for both indoor and outdoor play.
Why the Holes Matter
The perforations aren't just for weight reduction — they fundamentally shape how the ball moves through the air. The holes create drag that slows the ball compared to a solid plastic ball of the same size, which is part of why pickleball rallies can be sustained at a controlled pace even at the net, unlike the much faster ball speeds in tennis. The number and placement of holes also affects spin response, which is why indoor and outdoor balls behave differently when players try to apply spin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between an indoor and outdoor pickleball?
Indoor balls typically have 26 larger holes and are lighter and softer, designed for smooth gym floors. Outdoor balls have 40 smaller holes and are heavier and harder, built to handle wind and rougher surfaces like asphalt or concrete.
Can a pickleball be reused after it cracks?
No — once a pickleball develops a visible crack, it should be replaced. A cracked ball bounces inconsistently and can affect both play quality and, in some cases, present a minor safety concern if pieces begin to break off during play.
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