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We Found the 10 Best Basketballs for Indoor and Outdoor Play
From indoor league games to outdoor pickup games, these balls will help you play your best
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Jack Byram is a freelance writer who covers all things wellness. As an exercise fanatic, he specializes in all things health and is constantly interviewing experts and researching topics like sleep to best help guide himself and others.
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Jonathan Valdez, RDN, CDCES, CPT is a New York City-based telehealth registered dietitian nutritionist and nutrition communications expert.
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Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.
Verywell Fit / David Hattan
Dribbling, shooting, and making that perfect swish come down to choosing the right ball. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, the basketball you choose can significantly impact your performance. And not all balls are created equal, says basketball coach Keith Miniscalco. Factors like grip, bounce, and durability play a pivotal role in how a ball functions.
To find the best basketballs on the market, we first spoke with experts to learn which key features players of all skill levels should look for. Then, we researched dozens of options from top, trusted sports brands. We evaluated each ball's material, durability, grip, diameter, and design. We also had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this article for accuracy, including the best way to evaluate indoor and outdoor basketballs.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Basketballs
Not all basketballs are crafted with the same purpose in mind. Depending on their design and materials, they fall into one of three categories:
- Indoor basketballs: Balls designed exclusively for indoor use are typically constructed from real or composite leather. This results in a grippier ball that feels nice to the touch, but these balls are generally less durable when exposed to the hasher conditions of outdoor play.
- Outdoor basketballs: Typically made from rubber, outdoor balls are more durable and resilient to handle harsher play on concrete and dirt and in various weather conditions. These basketballs are often bouncier than their indoor counterparts.
- Indoor-outdoor basketballs: Many basketballs are versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use. Importantly, indoor-outdoor basketballs typically feature designs that are suitable for outdoor play (like a rubber construction). This implies that most outdoor basketballs can be comfortably used indoors, but the reverse may not hold true.
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Pebbled texture for sweat wicking
Indoor and outdoor
Inflation retention lining
Slightly thinner than others
Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5 inches | Materials: Composite leather
Who It’s For
Best if you want a top, trusted ball that can withstand indoor and outdoor use.
Why We Love It
As the NBA's official ball, it is no surprise that Wilson’s NBA Authentic Indoor Outdoor Basketball is our top choice. What makes this product stand out, besides its professionally trusted credibility, is that it’s suitable for indoor and outdoor play. With an inflation retention lining, this ball can withstand the elements.
The composite leather lining not only feels nice but delivers reliable durability. Plus, the seams and channels that wrap this ball are designed with modern shooting in mind, offering maximum grip and control. And a micro-pebbled surface texture wicks away sweat for more consistency during playtime.
Potential Flaws
- This ball is designed for indoor and outdoor play but is thinner than balls exclusively built for outdoor use, so we recommend storing it inside between games for better durability.
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Available in several colors and sizes
Indoor and outdoor
Great air retention
Requires inflation
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 on a budget who play inside and outside.
Why We Love It
A cost-effective choice, Champion Sports’ Pro Style Basketball maintains performance comparable to more expensive alternatives. It boasts a rubber composite cover that effectively handles hardwood and pavement for indoor and outdoor play. Inside, a two-ply butyl bladder enhances air retention for reliable bounces, dribbles, and shots.
Another thing we love about this basketball is that it’s available in many different colors and sizes, so you can find the right fit for your style and skill. Fun color options like yellow, green, purple, and blue not only cater to personal preferences but also make this a great choice for adults and kids alike.
Potential Flaws
- The ball requires inflation, which can be a hassle if you don’t already have a pump.
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Soft cover
Available in several colors and sizes
Excellent grip
Only suitable for indoor usage
Key Specs
Use: Indoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Microfiber composite
Who It’s For
Best for serious players seeking an indoor-only basketball for court games and competitive leagues.
Why We Love It
With a microfiber composite cover and pebbled channels, Wilson’s Evolution Basketball offers a unique player-friendly feel that combines exceptional grip with reliable durability—making it the best indoor option on the market. While the pebbled texture enhances control and wicks away sweat, a cushioned core ensures a soft and comfy touch.
Holding its spot as the top indoor ball nationwide, it is also endorsed by the National Federation of of State High School Associations. And we love that this trustworthy and professionally backed option is available in several color and size options to support every type of indoor player.
Potential Flaws
- At its higher price point, we wish this ball was durable enough for outdoor play. Still, if you’re a competitive indoor player, this choice is hard to beat.
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Unique design
Comes inflated
Deep channels for maximum grip
May need additional inflation
Key Specs
Use: Outdoor | Diameter: 28.5 or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for outdoor basketball players looking to add fun and flair to the court.
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 outdoor basketball. Not only can the durable rubber material handle asphalt and concrete, but deep channels deliver a reliable grip for optimal control.
Adding to the fun of street basketball, this ball departs from conventional looks with a distinctive marble print that varies for each ball. It adds a stylish flair and unique character to the courts. Plus, we love that this ball comes pre-filled, letting you hit the courts 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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Wound core
Teaches hand placement
Indoor and outdoor
May wear down over time
May require additional inflation
Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5 or 28.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for children and beginners who are learning the fundamentals of shooting hand position.
Why We Love It
Baden’s SkilCoach Basketball is specifically designed to help children or beginner-level players with their game skills. The ball’s surface features two vibrant red handprint outlines to guide players through proper hand placement. On the inside, a wound core ensures air retention and allows for indoor and outdoor games.
We love that this ball is designed to accommodate both right- and left-handed dominant pitchers. Acquiring just one ball can be highly effective for an entire team, emphasizing practicality and value.
Potential Flaws
- Since this ball is designed for beginners, it may wear down after a few months of rigorous play. At that time, we recommend moving on to intermediate-level basketballs.
- The ball may deflate over time, so you may want to purchase a pump.
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Available in several colors and sizes
Deep channels for maximum grip
Great air retention
Requires inflation
Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best for young or beginners interested in the game, as well as casual pick-up players who want to add some fun to the court.
Why We Love It
With multiple color patterns and designs, Chance’s Premium Design Basketball adds some fun and flair to your game. It comes in an array of vibrant colors and patterns, including speckled green, orange camo, black multicolor, pink, and more.
Beyond its eye-catching designs, this ball features a premium rubber that’s durable enough for indoor and outdoor play. Meanwhile, a pebble pattern and deep channels promote better grip and control. Plus, it’s available in 27.5-, 28.5-, and 29.5-inch options and comes with a butyl bladder for maximum air retention.
Potential Flaws
- This ball comes deflated and will require a pump.
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Available in several sizes
Waterproof
Dimpled texture enhances grip
Requires inflation
Key Specs
Use: Outdoor | Diameter: 7.75 or 8 inches | Materials: Not listed
Who It’s For
Best for families with kids of every age 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.
Beyond its waterproofing, this basketball is a smaller size than most, making it ideal for young children to participate in a game of family fun. Available in both 7.75-inch and 8-inch options, even players with especially tiny hands can handle the ball. Plus, it sports a playful blue and white pattern, adding to its appeal.
Potential Flaws
- This basketball doesn’t come inflated, so you will need a pump to get started.
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Indoor and outdoor
15% lighter than traditional balls
Enhances control
Costly for size
Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5 inches | Materials: Composite
Who It’s For
Best for young children starting 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 balls, helping small hands get accommodated to gripping the ball. We love this option for younger children just getting started with their basketball game.
A composite cover makes this ball durable enough for indoor and outdoor play, while the textured surface adds 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 a small youth basketball, this option is quite pricey, but we think it’s worth the money for its indoor and outdoor versatility and durability.
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Available in several sizes
Great air retention
Excellent grip
May require additional inflation
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 ball.
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. The size 5 is suitable for kids aged 8 and under, the size 6 caters to ages 9 to 11, and the size 7 is ideal for ages 12 and up.
Structurally, this ball features an internal rubber construction with an inflation-retention lining for durability and reliability. Its tacky, peddled grip and deep channels ensure optimal control for any level on all courts. 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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Durable
Deep channels for grip
Fun colors
Not as much bounce as other options
Key Specs
Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber
Who It’s For
Best if you play a lot of outdoor basketball.
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 boasts deep channeling for enhanced grip and control on asphalt, hardwood floors, and more.
Available in vibrant color combinations like red and black, lime and black, and more, this basketball offers a fun flair. The several styles and size options also suit youth and adult players.
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
- Size: The appropriate size for a basketball typically varies based on age and skill level. When selecting a basketball for a young child just starting, opt for a small ball about 27.5 inches in diameter. 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.
- Materials: The outer surface of most basketballs is crafted from either rubber or composite leather. Rubber balls, being lighter and more durable than their leather counterparts, prove to be a superior choice for outdoor use, says Greg Kot, former co-owner and coach at Over the Edge travel basketball. Conversely, for competitive indoor games, leather balls are highly recommended, he adds.
- Grip: Finding a ball with a good grip is essential for strength, accuracy, and proper form during passing and shooting, Miniscalco says. It’s also important to help with control while dribbling. When shopping, look for balls that incorporate channeling—strategically placed grooves on the surface—as this significantly improves grip.
- Bounce: When shopping, you want to find 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 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.
- Durability: If you plan to use the ball mostly outdoors, go for one that's seriously tough—able to handle unforgiving surfaces like concrete and asphalt, and not fazed by dirt, rocks, or a bit of moisture. A rubber ball is the way to go for outdoor fun. Cheaper outdoor balls may break down sooner, so investing in one built to last is a good call.
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Michelle Parente
How We Selected the Best Basketballs
To find the best basketballs, we researched dozens of options and carefully reviewed product specifications. When narrowing down our list, we consider these key categories:
- Materials: We included balls crafted from various materials to accommodate both indoor and outdoor play for ballers 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: Next, we checked each ball's size, making sure to include options for players of all ages and skill levels. Considering regulation sizing, we also prioritized collegiate- and professional-level balls.
- Grip: We then consider grip by using player reviews and examining each option's channeling and texture. Do the reviews note that the ball maintains grip well even after continual outdoor usage? We wanted to ensure that the balls were not just durable but also maintained their integrity, no matter the circumstances.
- Durability: Since the balls on our list are designed for personal use, we prioritized options that could endure extensive play in various environments, conducting thorough research to identify choices capable of meeting the demands of both indoor and outdoor settings.
Our Experts
We engaged with experts at every stage of the research and recommendation process for this story. Both of these basketball coaches helped us better understand the distinctive features that set various basketballs apart. While our final selections are independent, these experts served as a guiding force in our decision-making process.
- Keith Miniscalco, basketball coach and owner of OTE Travel Basketball
- Greg Kot, former co-owner and coach at Over the Edge travel basketball
- Zach Leach, basketball coach and NBA skills trainer at Hoop Lab
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Jack Byram is a freelance writer specializing in health, wellness, and exercise-related products for Verywell Fit. He has written numerous articles covering home gym equipment, running sneakers, and more. As a former basketball player, he has played with and tested many different styles of basketballs, both in competitive and recreational settings, indoors and outdoors. His discerning insights into different materials, grips, and bounces, acquired through practical testing, contribute significantly to the depth and reliability of this article.
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