Whether you’re a beginner just getting started in the world of pickleball or a seasoned player looking to upgrade your gear, finding the right pickleball balls is essential to enhancing your game.
While paddles and nets may get more attention, the humble pickleball is arguably one of the most crucial components of your setup.
The right ball can affect your game’s speed, bounce, and control.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various places where you can purchase pickleball balls, both online and in-store, and compare the different types of pickleball balls now available based on material, purpose, and brand.
We’ll also cover the top brands to look for, pricing details, tips for selecting the right pickleball balls, and much more.
Table of Contents
Types of Pickleball Balls
Indoor vs Outdoor Balls
Material Considerations
How to Choose the Right Ball for Your Game
Best Places to Buy Pickleball Balls
Online Stores
Sporting Goods Stores
Specialty Pickleball Retailers
Big-Box Retailers
Top Brands for Pickleball Balls
Dura
Franklin
Onix
Gamma
Penn
Price Comparison: What Should You Expect to Pay?
Where to Find Pickleball Ball Deals and Discounts
Bulk Orders for Tournaments or Pickleball Clubs
International Buying Options
Final Thoughts on Purchasing Pickleball Balls
1. Types of Pickleball Balls
Before diving into where to purchase pickleball balls, it’s important to understand the different types of balls available.
Not all pickleball balls are created equal, and the kind you choose will directly impact your performance on the court.
Indoor vs Outdoor Balls
Pickleball balls are divided into two main categories: the ball type, indoor and outdoor balls.
The key differences between them include their construction, size of the holes, and how they react to different court surfaces.
Indoor Pickleball Balls: These balls are typically lighter and have larger holes. They are designed for smooth indoor courts, and their lighter weight makes them easier to control, but they can be more affected by wind or outdoor conditions.
Outdoor Pickleball Balls: Outdoor balls are heavier, have smaller holes, and are built to withstand wind and uneven outdoor surfaces. They tend to be more durable than indoor balls, as they are made to survive harsher conditions like UV light and abrasive surfaces.
Material Considerations
Most pickleball balls are made from durable plastic, but the type of plastic can vary.
While most brands focus on the hard plastic required for most balls outdoor pickleball balls, indoor pickleball balls are made with slightly softer materials to provide better bounce on gym floors.
How to Choose the Right Ball for Your Game
Choosing between indoor and outdoor balls depends on where you play the most. However, the ideal speed of play, bounce consistency, and durability are also crucial factors to consider.
If you frequently play in varied conditions, it’s advisable to own both indoor and outdoor balls.
2. Best Places to Buy Pickleball Balls
Now that you know the basics about the types of pickleball balls, let’s talk about where to buy them.
Whether you prefer shopping online or in-store, there are numerous options for getting your hands on high-quality pickleball balls.
Online Stores
Amazon is often the go-to platform for all things pickleball, offering a wide variety of brands and ball types, including indoor pickleball balls and outdoor pickleball balls.
Shopping on Amazon provides convenience with fast shipping options, detailed customer reviews, and frequently updated prices.
You can find almost every major brand on Amazon, and Prime members benefit from free two-day shipping.
PickleballCentral is one of the leading online retailers for pickleball gear.
They offer a wide variety of pickleball balls, including those for specific game needs such as tournament play or recreational use. PickleballCentral also provides bulk purchasing options, making it a great resource for clubs or tournament organizers.
DICK’S Sporting Goods: If you’re looking for a trusted online store with a large selection, DICK’S Sporting Goods is a good bet.
They carry popular pickleball ball brands and frequently offer deals on sports equipment, including seasonal discounts and free shipping promotions.
Sporting Goods Stores
If you prefer the tactile experience of shopping in-store, your local sporting goods store is a solid option.
Many sporting goods stores have expanded their pickleball sections due to the sport’s increasing popularity.
Local Sporting Goods Stores: Stores like Academy Sports + Outdoors and DICK’S Sporting Goods have pickleball sections that carry both indoor and outdoor balls from major brands like Franklin and Onix.
These stores typically offer a variety of brands, making them a convenient option for comparing different and outdoor pickleball balls in person.
Specialty Pickleball Retailers
If you’re looking for a retailer that focuses exclusively on pickleball, you might want to consider niche retailers like JustPaddles.com or Fromuth Pickleball.
These specialty stores often offer a more curated selection of pickleball balls, and some provide free shipping and discounts on larger orders.
Big-Box Retailers
Many large retail chains have started carrying pickleball gear as the sport grows in popularity. Walmart, Target, and even Costco now offer pickleball balls in their stores and online.
These big-box retailers are a great option if you’re looking for competitive pricing or simply need to get indoor pickleball balls outdoor put up some balls while doing other shopping.
3. Top Brands for Pickleball Balls
Let’s take a look at the most popular and reputable pickleball ball brands on the market. Each brand has its own characteristics that may appeal to different types of players.
Dura
The Dura Fast 40 is widely regarded as the gold standard for outdoor pickleball balls. Known for its durability, this ball is the official ball of several major tournaments.
While it’s an all outdoor pickleball ball, its slightly heavier weight and smaller holes make it ideal for playing in windy conditions.
Franklin
Franklin Sports X-40 pickleball balls are another popular choice, particularly for outdoor play. Franklin balls offer a consistent bounce and are widely available at most sporting goods stores.
They are known for durability and are often used in both recreational and competitive pickleball games.
Onix
Onix Pure 2 pickleball balls are well-known in the pickleball community for their high visibility and superior bounce control.
The Onix Pure 2 comes in every color and both indoor and outdoor varieties, making it a versatile option if you frequently play on different surfaces.
Gamma
Gamma Sports offers a wide range of pickleball equipment, including balls. Gamma’s pickleball balls are known for their precision and consistency, offering excellent control during play.
They are a great choice for those looking for premium indoor balls.
Penn
A household name in tennis, Penn has also ventured into the pickleball world.
Their pickleball balls are durable, affordable, and widely available, making them an excellent choice for recreational players.
4. Price Comparison: What Should You Expect to Pay?
The price of pickleball balls varies based on brand, material, and whether you’re purchasing in bulk. Here’s a general idea of the cost breakdown:
Single Ball: $3 to $4 for a standard pickleball ball
Three-Pack: $8 to $12
Six-Pack: $15 to $20
12-Pack or Bulk: $25 to $40
Buying in bulk is often more cost-effective if you’re playing frequently or organizing group games.
5. Where to Find Pickleball Ball Deals and Discounts
If you’re looking for where to buy pickleball balls to save money, several retailers offer frequent sales and discounts on pickleball balls. Here’s where to find the best deals:
Amazon: Check for flash sales and seasonal discounts, especially around holidays or during Amazon Prime Day.
PickleballCentral: Sign up for their newsletter to receive exclusive offers and discounts on pickleball balls and other gear.
DICK’S Sporting Goods: They often have seasonal sales or coupon codes you can apply to online orders.
Walmart/Target: Keep an eye on in-store deals and clearance sections.
6. Bulk Orders for Tournaments or Pickleball Clubs
If you run a pickleball club or are organizing a tournament, purchasing pickleball balls in bulk can be a smart financial move.
Many specialty retailers like PickleballCentral or Fromuth Pickleball offer discounted bulk orders, especially if you’re purchasing over a dozen balls at a time.
Buying in bulk is also a good idea if you play frequently, as you’ll always have fresh balls on hand. Plus, pickleball balls do wear out over time, especially when used for competitive outdoor play.
7. International Buying Options
If you’re an international pickleball player, finding the right pickleball balls may be more challenging, as not all retailers ship globally.
However, some online retailers like Amazon, PickleballCentral, and Fromuth Pickleball offer international shipping to many countries.
It’s also worth checking local sporting goods stores or online marketplaces in your region to find the best options.
8. Final Thoughts on Purchasing Pickleball Balls
Finding the right pickleball balls for your game is essential to ensuring you enjoy your time on the court, whether you’re playing recreationally or in tournaments.
Online retailers like Amazon and PickleballCentral offer convenience and selection, while sporting goods stores give you the opportunity to compare different brands in person.
Remember that factors such as ball type (indoor vs outdoor), material, durability, and brand reputation play a significant role in the quality of your game.
Take the time to test out different options to find the perfect pickleball ball for your needs, and consider purchasing in bulk if you’re a frequent player or running a pickleball club.
By understanding your options and knowing where to buy, you’ll be well-equipped to find and make the best purchasing decisions for your pickleball balls. Whether you choose to shop online, at your local sporting goods store, or through specialty retailers, there’s a perfect pickleball ball out there for every player.