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. Not all basketballs are crafted with the same purpose in mind. Depending on their design and materials, they fall into one of three categories: Our Top Picks Best Indoor: Best for Training: Best for Water Basketball: Dunnrite Products Pool/Water Basketball at Walmart (See Price) Best for Young Kids: Spalding Rookie Gear Youth Indoor-Outdoor Basketball at Amazon ($23) Best for Older Kids: In This Article Indoor vs. Outdoor Basketballs Our Picks What to Look For How We Selected Our Experts Why Trust Verywell Fit Pros Pebbled texture for sweat wicking Indoor and outdoor Inflation retention lining Cons Slightly thinner than others Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5 inches | Materials: Composite leather Best if you want a top, trusted ball that can withstand indoor and outdoor use. 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. Pros Available in several colors and sizes Indoor and outdoor Great air retention Cons Requires inflation Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 23, 27.5, 28.5, 29.5, or 35 inches | Materials: Rubber Best for all-level players on a budget who play inside and outside. 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. Pros Soft cover Available in several colors and sizes Excellent grip Cons Only suitable for indoor usage Use: Indoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Microfiber composite Best for serious players seeking an indoor-only basketball for court games and competitive leagues. 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. Pros Unique design Comes inflated Deep channels for maximum grip Cons May need additional inflation Use: Outdoor | Diameter: 28.5 or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber Best for outdoor basketball players looking to add fun and flair to the court. 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. Pros Wound core Teaches hand placement Indoor and outdoor Cons May wear down over time May require additional inflation Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5 or 28.5 inches | Materials: Rubber Best for children and beginners who are learning the fundamentals of shooting hand position. 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. Pros Available in several colors and sizes Deep channels for maximum grip Great air retention Cons Requires inflation Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber 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. 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. Pros Available in several sizes Waterproof Dimpled texture enhances grip Cons Requires inflation Use: Outdoor | Diameter: 7.75 or 8 inches | Materials: Not listed Best for families with kids of every age who want to take their game to the pool. 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. Pros Indoor and outdoor 15% lighter than traditional balls Enhances control Cons Costly for size Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5 inches | Materials: Composite Best for young children starting on their basketball journey for the first time. 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. Pros Available in several sizes Great air retention Excellent grip Cons May require additional inflation Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber Best for older children, ages 9 and up, who are easing into a full-sized ball. 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). Pros Durable Deep channels for grip Fun colors Cons Not as much bounce as other options Use: Indoor-outdoor | Diameter: 27.5, 28.5, or 29.5 inches | Materials: Rubber Best if you play a lot of outdoor basketball. 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. 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: 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. 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. Indoor vs. Outdoor Basketballs
Best Overall
Wilson NBA Authentic Series Basketball
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Best Outdoor
Spalding Marble Series Outdoor Basketball
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Best for Training
Baden SkilCoach Shooter's Rubber Basketball
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Best for Young Kids
Spalding Rookie Gear Youth Indoor-Outdoor Basketball
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Best for Older Kids
Wilson NCAA Killer Crossover Basketball
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Most Durable
Franklin Sports Grip-Rite 1000 Basketball
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What to Look for When Shopping for Basketballs
How We Selected the Best Basketballs
Our Experts
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