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Shooting hoops can be even more enjoyable with the right basketball. Whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, and no matter your skill level, the right ball can enhance your game. Factors such as grip, bounce, and durability play a pivotal role in determining how a ball functions.
To find the best basketballs, we first consulted with basketball coaches to gain a deeper understanding of the key features to look for when shopping for a high-quality basketball. Then, we researched dozens of options from top, trusted sports brands, including Wilson, Spalding, Champion, and more. We searched for basketballs that cater to a range of budgets, skill sets, and various uses. We evaluated each basketball based on its material, durability, grip, diameter, and design to find the top options on the market.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Basketballs
Not all basketballs are made for the same purpose. Basketballs typically fall into one of three categories based on their design and materials.
- Indoor Basketballs: Balls designed exclusively for indoor use are usually made with real or composite leather. An indoor ball is usually a little softer and grippier, but generally less durable when used on harsher outdoor surfaces.
- Outdoor Basketballs: Outdoor balls are typically made of rubber and are more durable and resilient. These balls are designed to handle concrete, dirt, and various weather conditions. They’re often bouncier and have a harder feel than their indoor counterparts.
- Indoor-Outdoor Basketballs: Many basketballs are versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use. Indoor-outdoor basketballs feature designs and materials suitable for both outdoor and indoor play, such as rubber construction, which means most outdoor basketballs can be used indoors; however, the reverse may not be true.
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Pebbled texture wicks away sweat
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Maintains air pressure over time
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Wide channels for finger placement provides consistent control
Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Composite leather
Who It’s For
Best for players looking for a trusted-brand basketball that’s versatile and easy to use both indoors and outdoors.
Why We Love It
Our top overall pick, Wilson’s NBA Authentic Indoor Outdoor Basketball, is an easy choice for its versatility and trusted credibility, as Wilson is the NBA’s official basketball brand. We love that this basketball is suitable for both indoor and outdoor play, thanks to its durable cover and composite rubber bladder. The air bladder features an inflation retention lining, allowing it to maintain air pressure for a longer period of time.
The pebbled outer cover is durable, even on rough concrete, and provides a nice texture for grip. It also wicks away sweat and moisture for a consistent feel and good control. The wide seams and channels wrapping around the ball are designed to help maximize grip, making it easy to position your fingers for consistent control when dribbling, passing, and shooting some hoops.
Potential Flaws
- While this ball is designed for both indoor and outdoor play, some players report that it lasts longer if stored solely indoors.
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Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 23, 27.5, 28.5, 29.5, or 35 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for all-level players who want a budget-friendly basketball for indoor and outdoor use.
Why We Love It
Champion Sports’ Pro Style Basketball features a rugged construction that withstands rigorous use at a budget-friendly price point. It features a rubber composite cover that withstands hardwood and pavement, making this ball suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. We appreciate the two-layer internal bladder, which prevents air from leaking and maintains proper inflation for reliable bounces, dribbles, and shots.
We love the five different colors and sizes this basketball comes in, so you can get just the right size and style for your needs. All these options make this a great ball for both adults and kids. And Champion Sports is a trusted brand with a reliable reputation, so you know you’re getting a good value with this ball.
Potential Flaws
- This ball comes deflated so you’ll need to have your own pump to inflate it.
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National High School Federation-endorsed
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Available in several colors and sizes
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Cushioned core provides a comfier and softer feel
Key Specs
Use: Indoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Microfiber composite
Who It’s For
Best for players who want a high-quality, indoor-only basketball for court games and competitive leagues.
Why We Love It
Wilson’s Evolution Basketball is the top indoor ball nationwide, trusted by coaches and players alike, making it an easy choice for our best indoor selection. This basketball features exceptional grip and durability, providing a great player-friendly feel. The microfiber cover, featuring a pebbled texture, wicks away sweat and moisture, enhancing ball control. Even the channels are textured to provide a good grip and improved handling.
This basketball features a cushioned core that provides a softer touch than other options, allowing for a more comfortable and easier grip. We love that it’s also endorsed by the National Federation of State High School Associations. And we appreciate that this trustworthy and professionally backed option is available in several colors and sizes.
Potential Flaws
- This basketball is one of the pricier options on our list, so we wish it were a little more versatile and able to be used outdoors. Still, if you’re a competitive indoor player, this choice is hard to beat.
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Key Specs
Use: Outdoor | Diameter: 28.5 or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for outdoor basketball players who want a uniquely designed multi-color basketball with serious durability.
Why We Love It
Featuring a tough cover designed explicitly for rigorous play, Spalding’s Marble Series Basketball provides a durable yet comfy feel, earning it our top spot for the best outdoor basketball. Not only can the durable rubber material handle asphalt and concrete, but its deep channels deliver a reliable grip for optimal control.
Adding to the fun of outdoor basketball, this ball departs from conventional looks with a distinctive marble print that varies from ball to ball, adding a stylish flair and unique character. Additionally, we appreciate that this ball comes pre-filled, allowing you to hit the basketball court immediately.
Potential Flaws
- Although the ball comes inflated, some players find that you need to add additional air before serious play.
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Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5 or 28.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for kids and beginners who want a durable basketball complete with markings to ensure proper hand positioning during the training process.
Why We Love It
Baden’s SkilCoach Basketball is specifically designed to help children and beginner-level players with their game skills. The ball’s surface features two vibrant red handprint outlines to guide players through proper hand placement. We also love that this ball is designed to accommodate both right- and left-handed dominant players.
On the inside, a wound core ensures good air retention throughout use, providing a consistent bounce ideal for beginner players. Its durable pebbled exterior provides a solid grip and a softer hand feel, which younger players will appreciate. Plus, we love that this budget-friendly basketball can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Potential Flaws
- With frequent use, the hand markings on this basketball may fade over time.
- The ball may deflate with rigorous use, so it’s a good idea to keep a pump handy.
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Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for younger players, beginners, and casual pick-up players who want to add some fun to the basketball court with a basketball that comes in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns.
Why We Love It
With multiple color patterns and designs, Chance’s Premium Design Basketball adds some fun and flair to your game. We love that it comes in an array of vibrant colors and patterns that we think younger and beginner players will especially appreciate.
Beyond its eye-catching design, this basketball features premium rubber that’s durable enough for both indoor and outdoor play. Meanwhile, a pebble pattern and deep channels promote better grip and control. Additionally, it’s available in 27.5-, 28.5-, and 29.5-inch options and features a butyl bladder for optimal air retention.
Potential Flaws
- This ball comes deflated and will require a pump.
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Key Specs
Use: Outdoor | Diameter: 7.75 or 8 inches | Materials: Not listed
Who It’s For
Best for anyone, including kids, who want to take their game to the pool.
Why We Love It
When it comes to pool basketball, it’s no surprise that anti-slip materials are crucial for the ball you choose. We like Dunnrite’s Water Basketball because it features a dimpled texture specifically designed to enhance grip when your hands are wet. Plus, the ball itself is completely waterproof.
This basketball is a smaller size than most, making it ideal for young children to participate in a fun family game. We love that it’s available in multiple sizes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your needs. Additionally, we love its playful blue and white pattern.
Potential Flaws
- This basketball doesn’t come inflated, so you will need a pump to get started.
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Durable enough for both indoor and outdoor play
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15% lighter than traditional balls
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Textured surface enhances control and grip
Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5 inches | Materials: Composite
Who It’s For
Best for young children starting out on their basketball journey for the first time.
Why We Love It
Available in a youth size 5, measuring 27.5 inches in diameter, Spalding’s Youth Basketball is one of the smallest options on our list (besides the pool basketball). It’s also 15% lighter than most basketballs, helping small hands get accommodated to gripping and proper handling. We love this option for younger children just getting started with their basketball game.
A composite cover makes this basketball durable enough for both indoor and outdoor play, while the textured surface provides added grip and control. Plus, it comes in several kid-friendly colors and patterns to meet every small player’s personal preference. It also arrives pre-filled with air, which is always a plus for immediate fun.
Potential Flaws
- For those who have played with a heavier basketball, its lighter feel may take some time to get used to.
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Available in several sizes and color options
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Great air retention
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Tacky, pebbled exterior provides excellent grip
Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for older children, ages 9 and up, who are easing into a full-sized basketball.
Why We Love It
Available in sizes 5, 6, and 7 (27.5, 28.5, and 29.5 inches), Wilson’s NCAA Killer Crossover Basketball is a solid choice for older children advancing in the sport. Structurally, this basketball features an internal rubber construction with an inflation-retention lining for exceptional durability and reliability.
Its tacky, pebbled grip and deep channels ensure optimal control on the court, regardless of skill level. We also love that the ball comes in several color options, adding a fun element for kids (even as they grow older).
Potential Flaws
- Though it comes inflated, you may need to add some extra air before you start playing.
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Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for players looking for a highly durable basketball that can easily handle both indoor and outdoor play.
Why We Love It
Crafted with top-quality rubber and a robust polyester winding, Franklin Sports’ Grip-Rite Basketball is designed to endure rigorous outdoor use. Beyond its durability, this ball features deep channeling for enhanced grip and control on asphalt, hardwood floors, and other surfaces.
We love that it’s available in vibrant color combinations so you can find the perfect style for your needs. In addition to its various style and size options, we love its high-quality design, which is suitable for both adults and younger players and is built to last.
Potential Flaws
- Some players note that this ball doesn’t offer as much bounce as other options.
What to Look for When Shopping for Basketballs
- Diameter: The diameter of a basketball typically varies based on age and skill level. When selecting a basketball for a young child just starting out, opt for a small ball with a diameter of about 27.5 inches. For adults, the most common sizes are 27.5, 28.5, and 29.5 inches in diameter. Men’s collegiate and NBA players use a 29.5-inch ball, while the standard size for women’s collegiate and WNBA play is 28.5 inches.
- Design: Consider where you’ll be playing (indoors or outdoors) so you select an option made with appropriate materials. Rubber balls, which are lighter and more durable than their leather counterparts, prove to be a superior choice for outdoor use, says basketball coach Greg Kot. Conversely, for competitive indoor games, leather balls are highly recommended, he adds. If you’re playing in the pool, opt for a waterproof option. Consider basketballs that incorporate channeling—strategically placed grooves on the surface that improve grip. In some cases, certain options may also include markings to assist beginner players with proper hand positioning.
- Bounce: Look for a ball with a solid and consistent bounce. The bounce is determined by the inflation level and the amount of force a player exerts, says basketball coach Keith Miniscalco, adding that bounce consistency is important for control. It’s always a good idea to test out a few dribbles and passes before serious gameplay to ensure the ball delivers a satisfying bounce.
Michelle Parente
How We Selected the Best Basketballs
To find the best basketballs, we researched dozens of top options and carefully reviewed product specifications. We also take into account what we learned from our basketball experts. When selecting the best basketballs, we evaluate each option based on the following key categories.
- Materials: We include balls crafted from various materials to accommodate both indoor and outdoor play for players of all levels. However, most of the options on our list are comprised of rubber and composite leather, the top choices for high-quality basketballs.
- Size: We carefully inspect each basketball’s size to ensure options are available for players of all ages and skill levels. Considering regulation sizing, we also prioritize collegiate- and professional-level basketballs.
- Grip: Finding a ball with a good grip is essential for developing strength, accuracy, and proper form during passing and shooting, says Miniscalco. We consider grip by using player reviews and examining each option’s channeling and texture. Do the reviews indicate that the ball maintains its grip well, even after prolonged outdoor use? We want to ensure that the basketballs are not only durable but also maintain their integrity, regardless of the circumstances.
- Durability: Since the basketballs on our list are designed for personal use, we prioritize options that can endure extensive play in various environments. We conduct thorough research to identify options that can meet the demands of both indoor and outdoor settings.
Our Experts
We reached out to experts at each stage of our research and reporting process. Our expert basketball coaches highlighted key features that distinguish various basketballs, helping us understand what to look for when purchasing a high-quality basketball. While our final selections are independent, these experts served as a guiding force in our decision-making process.
- Greg Kot, former co-owner and basketball coach at Over the Edge travel basketball organization
- Keith Miniscalco, owner and basketball coach at Over the Edge travel basketball organization
Frequently Asked Questions
What basketball do the pros use?
The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) use Wilson basketballs. The National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) and the International Basketball Federation both use Molten basketballs.
Why are some basketballs more expensive?
Basketballs vary in price due to their materials, whether they’re made for indoor or outdoor use, brand name, and overall quality. Indoor leather basketballs for serious and professional players tend to cost more than rubber or synthetic options made for outdoor use or for beginner players.
How heavy should my basketball be?
Basketballs vary in weight and can be anywhere from 10 ounces up to 22 ounces. Younger players should pick a basketball that weighs 10 to 16 ounces. Adults can opt for options that weigh 20 or 22 ounces.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, has worked at Verywell Fit since 2022 and is currently a writer for the brand. As a certified exercise physiologist and avid runner, she specializes in testing fitness and recovery gear, including walking sandals, ankle support shoes, massage guns, and more. She uses her fitness experience and expertise to recommend only the best products to Verywell Fit readers. For this article, she spoke with basketball coaches to gain a deeper understanding of the features to look for in high-quality basketballs.
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