Volleyball is a popular sport that requires a specific type of ball for optimal play. A good volleyball should be durable, have a consistent flight path, and provide a good grip. When looking for the best indoor volleyball, it is important to consider the level of play, the type of surface it will be used on, and the budget.
For competitive play, a ball that meets the standards set by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) is recommended. These balls are made of high-quality materials and have a consistent weight and size. For recreational play, a less expensive ball may be sufficient.
The surface the ball will be used on is also an important factor to consider. Indoor volleyballs are typically made of leather or synthetic leather and are designed for use on smooth surfaces. Outdoor volleyballs, on the other hand, are made of rubber or synthetic materials and are designed for use on rough surfaces.
When purchasing a volleyball, it is also important to consider the budget. While high-end balls may provide better performance, they can also be more expensive. It is important to find a balance between quality and affordability.
After researching and testing several volleyballs, we have identified the best option for both competitive and recreational play. Our top pick provides a consistent flight path, good grip, and is durable enough to withstand frequent use.
The Top 8 Best Indoor Volleyball
We have put together a list of the best indoor volleyball on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered with our top picks. So, without further ado, here are the best volleyball balls that you can buy right now.
Tachikara Institutional Quality Composite Leather Volleyball
If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable volleyball, the Tachikara SV-18S institutional composite leather volleyball is a great choice.
Pros
- The ball is made of composite leather, making it soft and comfortable to handle.
- The Butyl bladder provides excellent durability, ensuring the ball will last for a long time.
- The ball comes in a range of team colors, making it easy to find one that matches your team’s colors.
Cons
- The ball is sold and shipped deflated, so you’ll need to purchase a pump separately.
- Some users have reported that the ball loses air over time, requiring frequent inflation.
- The ball may be too heavy for some players, especially beginners.
We’ve found the Tachikara SV-18S institutional composite leather volleyball to be a great option for both practice and casual games. The composite leather material provides a soft and consistent touch, making it comfortable to handle and pass. The Butyl bladder ensures that the ball is durable and long-lasting, even with frequent use.
One thing to keep in mind is that the ball is sold and shipped deflated, so you’ll need to purchase a pump separately. Additionally, some users have reported that the ball loses air over time, so you may need to inflate it more frequently than other balls.
Overall, we think the Tachikara SV-18S institutional composite leather volleyball is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable volleyball. Its soft touch and durability make it a great option for both practice and casual games.
Molten FLISTATEC Volleyball USAV Official
We highly recommend the Molten FLISTATEC Volleyball USAV Official – Red, White, Blue for serious volleyball players who are looking for top-of-the-line performance. This ball is the official volleyball of USA Volleyball and the NCAA Men’s Volleyball Championships, and is FIBA approved, making it a great choice for numerous collegiate conferences and programs across the nation.
Pros
- The FLISTATEC Flight Stability Technology provides enhanced flight stability and more accurate overhand passing and sets.
- The premium micro-fiber composite cover offers exceptional grip and control.
- The official size and weight make it a great choice for competitive play.
Cons
- Additional inflation may be required for optimal performance, and the ball pump is not included.
- The price is on the higher end for volleyball balls.
- Some users have reported difficulty inflating the ball.
We found that the Molten FLISTATEC Volleyball USAV Official – Red, White, Blue offers exceptional performance, with increased visibility and flight stability. The grip is excellent, providing athletes with the control and consistency they demand with every contact.
The ball is well-balanced and has a nice weight to it, making it easy to handle and play with. However, we did find that additional inflation was required to get the optimal performance from the ball, and the ball pump is not included, which may be an inconvenience for some users.
Overall, we believe that the Molten FLISTATEC Volleyball USAV Official – Red, White, Blue is a great investment for serious volleyball players who want a high-quality ball that will provide exceptional performance and durability.
Molten Premium Competition L2 Volleyball
We highly recommend the Molten Premium Competition L2 Volleyball for those looking for a durable and high-quality volleyball ball.
Pros
- The micro-fiber composite cover provides a soft and comfortable touch on the ball.
- The uni-bladder cotton wrapped construction ensures durability and longevity of the ball.
- The NFHS approval guarantees that the ball meets the standards of high school volleyball competitions.
Cons
- Additional inflation may be required for optimal performance, and the ball pump is not included in the package.
- The ball may be slightly heavier than other volleyball balls due to the uni-bladder cotton wrapped construction.
- The price point may be higher than other volleyball balls on the market.
Our team has used the Molten Premium Competition L2 Volleyball in both practice and competition settings and we have found it to be a reliable and high-quality option. The micro-fiber composite cover provides a soft and comfortable touch on the ball, making it easy to handle and control during gameplay. The uni-bladder cotton wrapped construction ensures durability and longevity of the ball, making it a worthwhile investment for those who play volleyball frequently.
The NFHS approval guarantees that the ball meets the standards of high school volleyball competitions, making it a great option for high school athletes. However, it is important to note that additional inflation may be required for optimal performance, and the ball pump is not included in the package. Additionally, the ball may be slightly heavier than other volleyball balls due to the uni-bladder cotton wrapped construction.
Overall, the Molten Premium Competition L2 Volleyball is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality and durable volleyball ball. While the price point may be higher than other volleyball balls on the market, the quality and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for serious volleyball players.
WILSON AVP Soft Play Volleyball
If you’re looking for a durable and soft volleyball for recreational play, the WILSON AVP Soft Play Volleyball is a great option.
Pros
- The sponge-backed synthetic leather cover creates a super-soft feel at every touch.
- The 18-panel, machine-sewn construction provides enhanced durability that lasts for hours upon hours of play.
- The butyl rubber bladder keeps the ball inflated for longer, reducing the need to re-inflate.
Cons
- The ball may be too soft for advanced players who prefer a firmer feel.
- The blue color may not be everyone’s preference.
- The ball may require some breaking in before it feels just right.
We had a chance to play with the WILSON AVP Soft Play Volleyball and were impressed with its soft feel and durability. The sponge-backed synthetic leather cover makes it easy on the forearms, while the 18-panel, machine-sewn construction ensures it can withstand hours of play.
One thing to note is that the ball may be too soft for advanced players who prefer a firmer feel. However, for recreational play, it’s a great option. The blue color may not be everyone’s preference, but it does make it easy to spot on the court or at the beach.
Overall, if you’re looking for a soft and durable volleyball for recreational play, the WILSON AVP Soft Play Volleyball is definitely worth considering.
Baden Match Point Volleyball
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable volleyball that can be played anywhere, then the Baden Match Point Volleyball is a great choice.
Pros
- The cushioned synthetic leather cover minimizes sting on young players’ arms.
- The ball is durable enough to take outdoors at the park or beach while playing with friends.
- Stitched with precision so the ball will hold up and maintain the same shape during rigorous play or training.
Cons
- The ball may get nicks in it when it hits a rough surface.
- It is not as soft as indoor leather.
- It is not suitable for professional players.
We recently had the chance to test out the Baden Match Point Volleyball and were impressed with its performance. The cushioned synthetic leather cover made it comfortable to play with, even for extended periods. We took it outside and played with it at the park and beach, and it held up well to the rough surfaces.
The ball is durable and well-stitched, which helps it maintain its shape even during rigorous play and training. However, we did notice that it is not as soft as indoor leather, which may be a concern for some players.
Overall, we think the Baden Match Point Volleyball is a great choice for recreational play, camps, picnics, and outdoor BBQs. It’s available in multiple colors, making it easy to find a fun color that matches your taste or team’s colors. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly volleyball that is both versatile and durable, this is a great option.
Mikasa V200W, Volleyball Official FIVB
If you’re looking for a high-quality indoor volleyball that meets international standards, the Mikasa V200W is a great choice.
Pros
- The Mikasa V200W is the official ball used in FIVB competitions, so you know you’re getting a high-quality product.
- The ball has a unique 18-panel design that provides excellent stability and control.
- The composite material used in the ball’s construction provides a great balance of durability and responsiveness.
Cons
- The ball is relatively expensive compared to other indoor volleyballs on the market.
- Some users have reported that the ball is harder than other indoor volleyballs, which may take some getting used to.
- The ball may not be suitable for outdoor play, as it is designed for indoor use only.
We’ve used the Mikasa V200W in a variety of settings, and we’ve been consistently impressed with its performance. The ball has a great feel to it, with a good grip that allows for precise control. The unique 18-panel design also helps to keep the ball stable in flight, which is especially important for setters and other players who need to make accurate passes.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Mikasa V200W is a relatively hard ball compared to other indoor volleyballs. This can take some getting used to, but once you adjust to the feel of the ball, you’ll appreciate the extra power and control it provides.
Overall, we highly recommend the Mikasa V200W to anyone looking for a high-quality indoor volleyball that meets international standards. It may be a bit expensive, but the performance and durability of the ball make it well worth the investment.
WILSON AVP Game Volleyballs
If you’re looking for a high-quality beach volleyball ball, the WILSON AVP Game Volleyball is a great option.
Pros
- The ball’s new visual design and construction offer the same signature performance as the original AVP game ball.
- Designed specifically for beach volleyball, the OPTX reimagines what a beach volleyball should look like.
- The ball is the official ball of the AVP and is an official size.
Cons
- The ball is on the expensive side.
- Some users have reported issues with the decals peeling off.
- The ball may not be suitable for indoor volleyball.
We had the chance to use the WILSON AVP Game Volleyball during a beach volleyball tournament, and we were impressed with its performance. The ball’s construction and design allowed for great control and accuracy during serves, spikes, and passes. The ball’s softness and light weight made it easy on the arms during extended play.
One thing to note is that the ball is on the expensive side, but we believe that the quality and performance of the ball justify the cost. Some users have reported issues with the decals peeling off, but we did not experience this problem during our use of the ball.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality beach volleyball ball that offers great performance, the WILSON AVP Game Volleyball is definitely worth considering.
Champion Sports Rubber Volleyball
We highly recommend the Champion Sports Rubber Volleyball for anyone looking for a high-quality ball for indoor and outdoor use.
Pros
- Provides consistent bounce and returns
- Durable rubber cover withstands use on various surfaces
- Official, regulation size and weight for competitive play
Cons
- May sting upon impact due to lack of padding
- Comes deflated, requiring the purchase of a separate pump
- Thin rubber cover may not be suitable for all players
As a volleyball enthusiast, we have found the Champion Sports Rubber Volleyball to be a reliable and well-made ball for both recreational play and competitive matches. The high-quality, nylon-wound butyl bladder provides exceptional air retention, ensuring consistent bounce and returns during every game and practice.
The durable rubber cover makes this ball suitable for use on various surfaces, including playgrounds and sports fields. However, the thin rubber cover may not provide enough padding for some players, resulting in stinging upon impact. Additionally, the ball is shipped deflated, so a separate pump must be purchased to inflate it to the desired level.
Overall, we believe the Champion Sports Rubber Volleyball is a great investment for anyone looking to hone their volleyball skills or enjoy a casual game with friends. Its official, regulation size and weight make it suitable for competitive play, while its durability and consistent performance make it a reliable choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
How to Choose the Right Volleyball Ball
When it comes to buying the best volleyball ball, there are several factors to consider. We have compiled a list of important features to help you make an informed decision.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the ball are crucial factors to consider when purchasing a volleyball ball. The standard size for a volleyball ball is 65-67 cm in circumference and weighs between 260-280 grams. It’s important to choose a ball that is the correct size and weight for your skill level and age group.
Material
Volleyball balls are typically made of either synthetic leather or composite leather. Synthetic leather is a more affordable option and is suitable for beginners or casual players. Composite leather, on the other hand, is more durable and provides better performance for more advanced players.
Indoor or Outdoor Use
It’s important to consider where the ball will be used. Indoor balls are designed to be used on indoor courts, while outdoor balls are designed for outdoor play on sand or grass. Outdoor balls are typically made of a more durable material to withstand the elements.
Additional Features
Some volleyball balls may have additional features such as a textured surface for better grip or a bladder made of butyl for better air retention. These features can enhance the ball’s performance and durability.
By considering these features, you can make an informed decision on which volleyball ball is best for your needs. Remember to choose a ball that is the correct size and weight for your skill level, made of a suitable material, and designed for the appropriate use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated volleyballs for outdoor play?
When it comes to outdoor play, volleyballs that are durable and can withstand different weather conditions are highly recommended. Some of the top-rated outdoor volleyballs include the Wilson AVP Official Beach Volleyball, Molten FLISTATEC Volleyball, and Mikasa VLS300 Beach Champ Volleyball.
Which volleyball is recommended for youth players?
For youth players, it’s important to choose a ball that is lightweight and easy to handle. The Tachikara SV5WM is a popular choice for youth players because of its soft composite cover and affordable price.
What is the preferred volleyball for high school competition?
The Molten V5M5000 is the preferred volleyball for high school competition. It has a microfiber composite cover that offers a great grip and is durable enough for regular use.
Which indoor volleyball is best for professional-level play?
The Mikasa MVA200 is the official ball of the FIVB and is widely used in professional-level play. It has a unique 8-panel design that provides a consistent and stable flight pattern.
What characteristics distinguish beginner volleyballs from advanced ones?
Beginner volleyballs are usually made with softer materials and have a larger size to make it easier to handle. Advanced volleyballs are made with higher-quality materials and have a smaller size to increase accuracy and control.
How do the models V200W and V300W volleyballs differ?
The V200W and V300W volleyballs are both high-quality indoor volleyballs made by Mikasa. The main difference is that the V300W has a slightly softer cover and a more advanced bladder system, which provides a better feel and control.
