What to Look for in a Good Volleyball

Volleyball is a fun and relatively easy sport to pick up, but choosing the right equipment is still important if you want to play volleyball at your best. When looking for a volleyball, there are three main factors to consider: size, material, and grip. The size of a volleyball should be appropriate for the age and skill level of the player; for example, children or beginners may do better with a smaller ball.

The material of the ball is also important; indoor and outdoor volleyballs use different materials.  Indoor volleyballs are typically made of leather or synthetic leather, while volleyballs for outdoor use are usually made from rubber. Finally, the grip of the ball is something to consider, as a good grip will help you control the ball more easily. Ultimately, the best volleyball for you is the one that feels comfortable and allows you to play your best game.

How to Choose the Right Volleyball for You

A quality volleyball is an essential part of the game. It needs to be the right size, weight and feel for you. If it's too big, it will be difficult to control. If it's too small, it will not have the power you need. The weight of the volleyball should be appropriate for the level you are playing at. A volleyball that is too light will not have enough power, while a volleyball that is too heavy will be difficult to control.

The feel of the volleyball is also important. It should be comfortable to hold and should not slip out of your hand when you are trying to hit it. When choosing a volleyball, it is important to consider all of these factors in order to find the one that is right for you.

The Benefits of Using a Good Volleyball

A volleyball is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment an athlete can have. Not only can it be used for playing volleyball, but it can also be used for practicing other sports such as football and basketball. In addition, a volleyball can be a great tool for conditioning and strength training. Volleyballs are specifically designed to be lightweight and easy to grip, making them ideal for athletes of all ages and skill levels. Additionally, the soft surface of a volleyball helps to absorb impact and reduce the risk of injury. With so many benefits, it's no wonder that volleyball is one of the most popular sports in the world.

Reviews of the Best Volleyballs on the Market

Volleyball is a fun, challenging sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you play volleyball at the beach or at an indoor court, it's important to have a volleyball that suits your needs. With so many different volleyballs on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is the best for you. To help you make your decision, here are reviews of some of the best volleyballs on the market. From budget-friendly options to high-end models, there's sure to be a volleyball that's perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Start shopping for your new volleyball today!

#5: Score - 8.1 / 10

Runleaps Waterproof Indoor - Outdoor Volleyball 

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Specifications:  Runleaps Waterproof Indoor - Outdoor

Cover:  Stiched Polyurethane
Bladder: Polyurethane / Rubber
Circumference: 25.8 inches / 8.2 inches diameter
Weight: 9.5 ounces
Package Dimensions: ‎10.38 x 8.8 x 3.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 9.9 ounces
Item model number: Runleaps Official Size 5
Warranty:  1 Year
Brand:  Runleaps

Why We Love It

Looking for a great volleyball that won't break the bank? Look no further than the Runleaps Indoor Outdoor Volleyball. This affordable volleyball is perfect for casual players and beginners, but don't let the price tag fool you - it's made of high-quality materials and features exquisite workmanship.

The surface of the volleyball is made of superior polyurethane, which is durable and peel-resistant. It's also lightweight and is a full sized volleyball, making it ideal for people of all ages. Plus, it bounces well and has a great feel and texture. Whether you're using it for practice or competition, the Runleaps Volleyball is sure to give you hours of enjoyment.

What You Should Know

The Runleaps Waterproof Indoor - Outdoor Volleyball is a great choice for those looking for a durable and affordable option. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before purchasing. Firstly, the volleyball arrives deflated, so be sure to buy an air pump if you don't already have one. Secondly, it doesn't come in a retail box, which may not make the best first impression if you're giving it as a gift. However, these are small drawbacks compared to the overall quality of the product. The Runleaps Waterproof Indoor - Outdoor Volleyball is a great choice for those looking for a durable and affordable option.

#4: Score - 8.4 / 10

Molten V5M5000-FIVB Volleyball

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Specifications:  Molten V5M5000-FIVB

Cover:  Premium Micro Fiber Composite Cover
Bladder: Polyurethane / Rubber
Circumference: 25.5 to 26.3 inches / 8.2 inches diameter
Weight: 8.1 ounces
Package Dimensions: ‎1‎9.84 x 9.45 x 2.8 inches
Shipping Weight: 10.2 ounces
Item model number: V5M5000-FIVB
Warranty:  2 Years

Why We Love It

The Molten FLISTATEC V5M5000 is a top-of-the-line volleyball that is perfect for both indoor and outdoor play. With its microfiber composite cover, this volleyball is easy to handle and set, and its superior grip means that it will perform well even in the most challenging environments. The slightly smaller size of the V5M5000 makes it easier to control, and the added area for contact gives you the ability to create more spin on both attacks and serves. This volleyball is built to last and will give you the competitive edge you need to take your game to the next level.

What You Should Know

Molten's FLISTATEC V5M5000 volleyball is definitely on the high end when it comes to price, but you definitely get what you pay for. The cover is very easy to clean and the colors return well by just wiping with soap and water. The ball is sure to last you at least a year of heavy usage, so it is absolutely worth the investment. It tends to run a bit heavier than some other volleyball balls we tested, which in turn has an impact on digging as it may lead to increased soreness. It is also less "bouncy" than some other balls, which some people do not like but it allows the player more control. All in all, the Molten FLISTATEC V5M5000 is a great investment for any serious volleyball player.

#3: Score - 8.9 / 10

WILSON AVP OPTX Game Volleyball

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Specifications: WILSON AVP OPTX

Cover: Woven-Fiber v100 Composite
Bladder: Game Ball
Construction: Single Unit Construction
Circumference: 25.4 inches
Weight: 9.1 ounces
Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 9.1 x 9 inches
Shipping Weight: 16 ounces
Item model number: AVP OPTX
Warranty: 1 Year
Brand: Wilson

Why We Love It

If you’re looking for an excellent volleyball ball for outdoor and beach volleyball, then the Wilson OPTX is the volleyball for you.  The OPTX was designed specifically for the beach game and its players, setting the standard for what a beach volleyball should look and feel like.  It is the official game ball of the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP), so it's used by professional athletes.

Its vibrant color palette and Optic Flow graphics allow for better ball tracking in the outdoor setting, especially when it's overcast.   It uses color variance to allow easier spin detection, so you can read and react to where the game is going.   The contrast of the colors will allow you to see every spin.

It’s also water impermeable, weather resistant and recommended for outdoors including beaches, grass, and even pavement.  The leather cover is high quality, and its strong grippy texture is very durable and repels water and sand well and has a soft feel even when receiving hard hits.  It’s very easy to control the ball with its soft texture.

What You Should Know

WILSON AVP OPTX Game Volleyball is more expensive than many of the volleyballs tested but worth it if you’re an avid beach volleyball player.   It is the official ball of the AVP so you play what the pros play and own the beach with the WILSON AVP OPTX Game Volleyball - The Choice of Champions!!

#2: Score - 9.3 / 10

Tachikara SV-18S Composite Leather Volleyball

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Specifications: Tachikara SV-18S Institutional Quality Composite Leather

Cover: Micro-Fiber Composite Leather Cover
Bladder Type:  Butyl Bladder
Construction: Single Unit Construction
Circumference: 25.6 – 26.4 inches /65.02 – 67.06 cm
Weight: 9.4 ounces
Product Dimensions: 9 x 9 x 9 inches
Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
Item model number: SV-18S-BKW
Brand: Tachikara

Why We Love It

Looking for a high-quality volleyball that won't break the bank? Look no further than the Tachikara SV-18S-BKW Volleyball! This volleyball ball is perfect for outdoor as well as indoor use, thanks to its soft, durable leather construction. It features a cotton reinforcement that provides a soft, consistent touch while remaining durable. The ball's outer soft shell is extremely sturdy, making it perfect for heavy duty use. It also bounces beautifully and the leather is satisfying to the touch.

It's perfect for practicing volleyball skills since it's not rock hard like other volleyballs. The shape is a very precise, perfectly rounded ball. It’s also weather resistant - it can be used outdoors and it doesn't lose its shape or appear worn out. It's easy to track in the air, very reliable for serving, and withstands power hitters with killer spikes.  With its great balance of quality and price, the Tachikara SV-18S-BKW Volleyball is the perfect choice for any serious player.

What You Should Know

Tachikara SV-18S-BKW Volleyball is one of the best values on the market. It's an excellent choice for those who want to play their most competitive matches without the price tag. The ball arrives deflated, so be sure to have a quality air pump on hand. Tachikara balls are also known for their durability, so you can expect this volleyball ball to last for many games to come. However, keep in mind that it may need to be refilled with air every few weeks due to its tendency to lose air over time. This ball can be used both indoors and outdoors, but it may become waterlogged if it gets wet. Overall, the Tachikara SV-18S-BKW Volleyball is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and durable volleyball.

#1: Score 9.6 / 10

Tachikara Sensi-Tec® Composite SV-5WSC Volleyball

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Specifications:  Tachikara Sensi-Tec Volleyball

Playing Surface: Indoor
Cover: Sensi-Tec®
Construction: Loose Bladder Construction (LBC®)
Bladder: Butyl
Size: Official Standard Size
Circumference: 25.6 to 26.4 inches or 65.02 cm to 67.06 cm
Weight: 9.1 – 9.8 oz./257.98 – 277.83 g
Product Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 10 inches
Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
Item model number: SV-5WSC-TWB
Brand: Tachikara

Why We Love It

Tachikara Sensi-Tec Composite SV-5WSC Volleyball is one of longest lasting and best quality of any of the brands we've tested. It has great durability so it's perfect to use both indoors and outdoors.  It has just the right amount of padding to not bruise your forearms when bumping, it's super comfortable, and doesn't require frequent air refill.  It's a perfect volleyball for beginner, intermediate, and advanced players.

The color options are impressive. This volleyball ball is lightweight, grippy, and sets and passes well. It has a good grip feel to it, not slippery like other balls so it allows good control, especially for setters.

Hitters love this ball because of the control you have, especially when adding a top or side spin.  It has incredible surface texture, striking the perfect balance between having enough grip and too much friction.  It is the best volleyball available on Amazon right now and you can likely find one of the many different colors on sale.  There are so many bright colors to choose from!

What You Should Know

Tachikara Sensi-Tec Composite SV-5WSC Volleyballs are the way to go if you're looking for a good quality, affordable volleyball. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you're sure to find one that suits your style. And if you're not picky about colors, you can always find one on sale.  Here's a tip:  slightly under inflate the Tachikara volleyball for a softer ball that will still bounce well.  If you want to get more power out of it, just increase the air pressure a bit. You'll need your own air pump to fill it once it arrives.  If you're looking for a good quality, affordable volleyball, Tachikara Sensi-Tec is the way to go.

Best Volleyball Balls FAQs

What Are the Volleyballs Made of?

Volleyballs can be made of leather, rubber, or a synthetic material.  Leather volleyballs are the most popular type and have the best feel. They last longer than rubber volleyballs, but they're also more expensive. Rubber volleyballs are less expensive and tend to bounce higher than leather volleyballs, but they don't have as good a feel. Synthetic volleyballs usually last longer than rubber volleyballs and are cheaper than leather volleyballs, but they don't bounce as high or have as good a feel.

Are all Volleyballs the Same Size?

Volleyballs usually come in two sizes: youth and adult. The youth ball has a circumference of around 25 to 26 inches, while the adult volleyball has a circumference measuring 25.5 to 26.5 inches.

What is the size of an Indoor Volleyball Ball?

A regulation indoor volleyball should be around 8 inches in diameter and weigh 9.5-10.5 oz. The ball's inside pressure should be 4.26-4.61 psi.

What is the Size of a Beach Volleyball?

A regulation indoor volleyball should be between 8 and 8.5 inches in diameter and weigh 9-10 oz. The ball's inside pressure should be 2.5-3.2 psi.

What's the biggest difference between beach and indoor Volleyballs?

Indoor balls are heavier, allowing them to move faster and harder. Beach volleyballs are softer, lighter, and slightly bigger. With 4 fewer players per side on the beach, that bigger, floatier ball allows for those players to close distances and make the crazy diving plays.  The surface of the ball is also designed to grip sand well, which makes it easier to control. Beach Volleyballs are also usually brightly colored and have interesting designs on them so they can be easily spotted on the ground.

What is the official size of a volleyball - 4 or 5?

Size 4 balls that are between 7 to 8 inches in diameter are used for training, while size 5 balls, the official volleyballs used for matches, measure between 8 and 9 inches.  It's mainly to protect young volleyball players.  Children aged six to nine need a ball weighing between 7 and 8 ounces.  Volleyballs for ten to fourteen-year-olds weigh between 8 and 9 ounces.  Children aged fiftteen or over are advised to use an official ball, weighing between 9 to 10 ounces.

What is the Volleyball Bladder?

The bladder of a volleyball ball is the inside that allows the ball to be filled with air. Without a proper bladder, a volleyball ball will have inconsistent “bounce” and therefore become hard to control.

What is the Outer Shell of a Volleyball Made of?

The outer shell of a volleyball ball is incredibly important. A durable design not only impacts things like grip and cushion, but it can also alter the volleyball’s flightpath. Most volleyball balls are made of a synthetic leather material, which is a man-made material that is designed to look and feel like natural leather. Some higher-end balls are made of genuine leather, while others are made of other materials such as rubber or plastic. But regardless of what material the ball is made of, the outer shell is essential for peak performance. So next time you’re on the court, make sure you give your ball a good pat – it deserves it.

Indoor volleyball is the most popular and widely recognized. Indoor volleyball is popular with both males and females and is professionally played in most of the world. The United States has earned Olympic medals for its Men's and Women's Volleyball team.

Is a volleyball hard or soft?

Indoor volleyballs are made of leather and are heavier than outdoor balls. Indoor volleyball is a game of power and the heavier balls move quicker and can be hit harder. Beach volleyballs are softer, lighter and a bit bigger than indoor balls.

How much does a quality volleyball cost?

An official competition volleyball can cost anywhere from $20 to under $100, depending on the quality of the volleyball, and its materials. There are many great genuine leather regulation volleyball for under $50.

What kind of volleyball should a beginner buy?

Size 4 balls that are between 7 and 8 inches in diameter are used for training, while size 5 balls, the official volleyballs used for matches, measure between 8 and 9 inches.

What does FIVB Stand For?

The FIVB is the governing body responsible for all forms of Volleyball on a global level. Working closely with national federations and private enterprises the FIVB aims to develop Volleyball as a major world media and entertainment sport through world-class planning and organisation of competitions, marketing and development activities. The FIVB is part of the Olympic Movement, contributing to the success of the Olympic Games.

What is the Official Volleyball Size for the NCAA?

The official volleyball size for the NCAA is 9 inches in diameter and 26.5 inches in circumference.

The Best Volleyball For You

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, choosing the right volleyball is important. In this post, we’ve outlined what to look for in a great volleyball and shared reviews of some of the best volleyballs on the market. We hope that this information will help you choose the perfect ball for your needs and improve your skills on the court. What’s your favorite volleyball?  Let us know in the comments below!

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