Updated: May 27, 2023
When it comes to pickleballs, a few brands have dominated the market for years (view all current ball deals on Pickleball Central today).
However, a new brand has emerged on the scene as an industry giant. Meet Oso, the pickleball brand that's shaking up the game and quickly gaining a loyal following.
Despite being a newcomer, Oso's high-quality, durable balls are making waves on the pickleball scene and becoming very popular with players.
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It does not crack easily. Even in the cold. Even when bangers use it.
The pros love it. But might you like it too? When assessing the quality of a pickleball ball, there are several qualities that you as a consumer should consider.
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One of the most important qualities of a good pickleball ball is its durability.
A high-quality ball should be able to withstand repeated use without cracking or breaking.
The Oso has myriad reviews commending its long-lasting nature. This makes it great for players who bang a lot, who play in the cold, or who just don't want to break balls as quickly.
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The bounce of a pickleball ball is another important factor to consider. A good ball should have a consistent and predictable bounce that is not too high or too low.
Some balls can go dead, like an old Franklin. While an Oso is slightly less zippy than a fresh Dura, it is close. Enough that most players will not notice a difference.
It is fair to say that the Oso ball plays "like" the Dura. Almost all players would barely tell.
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The spin of the ball can also affect its performance. A ball with a good spin can be easier to control and can make it harder for opponents to return.
The Oso ball plays close to the two major players in this regard.
You can impart significant spin onto an Oso, and it will bounce close to how a Dura would.
Because the Dura is the gold standard for advanced play, it's fair to compare any other ball's performance to the Dura. The Oso feels close to the Dura in spin, making it a fun ball!
The visibility of the ball is important, particularly for players who play in low-light conditions. A ball that is easy to see can help players to track its movement and make better shots.
The Oso ball is quite vibrant. A nice blend between yellow and a neon green.
It's perfect for those who have trouble seeing most balls, like a used Franklin.
The Oso ball is slightly more green and illuminant. Great for night play or play when it's cloudy. Great for older folks who have a bit of trouble seeing the ball.
The weight of the ball can also impact its performance. A ball that is too heavy or too light can affect how it moves and how it responds to shots.
The Oso ball weighs 0.91 ounces, compared to Franklin and Dura weighing 0.93.
It's a negligible difference. Most folks will not be able to tell.
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A good quality ball should be manufactured with the same qualities each time.
This ensures that all balls are the same and players can expect the same thing each time.
Players have reported that the Oso ball lacks the bad molding marks that other brands have. This refers to the middle line that protrudes out due to rapid cooling processes.
Oso balls seem to be manufactured well with no issues with consistency.
Some folks report that the balls do get oblong after some play. This is a product of the ball "bending, but not breaking" instead of cracking, and is a price to pay for durability.
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The reputation of a ball brand is worth considering. A well-established and reputable brand is more likely to produce a high-quality ball that meets the needs of players.
Oso is a new player on the market. So it's fair to be a bit skeptical.
But go try it. You can see on the forums that a lot of pros are switching to Oso.
Oso only make balls, which gives it reasonable credibility. Some paddle brands like Selkirk and Gearbox have tried making balls too, but they haven't quite caught on.
Just the same plasticky stuff the Dura and Franklin are made of: A "proprietary blend of high-quality materials" that are designed to provide elite durability.
The main takeaway is that they crack less often!
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Yes, the Oso pickleball is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, making it a versatile choice for players.
It's probably best suited for outdoor, gritty surfaces, but indoor works too.
Oso pickleballs come in a set of six balls, which is the standard quantity for most pickleball ball sets. However, they let you order quantities of 12, 24, 50, and 100 too.
Slight discounts on a per-ball basis if you buy in more bulk.
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The standard size of an Oso pickleball is 2.9 inches in diameter and weighs 0.91 ounces, which is consistent with the USAPA's guidelines for pickleball ball size and weight.
Oso pickleballs are designed to last longer than other pickleballs on the market. However, the exact lifespan of the ball will depend on how frequently it is used and the conditions of play.
Novice and intermediate players should be able to play full sessions with an Oso ball.
The Oso pickleball is suitable for players of all skill levels. A true beginner could also look at other options, such as an Onix Pure 2, which are more forgiving and easy to control.
But the vast majority of players would love the feel of the Oso ball.
The Oso ball is available in vibrant colors that provide excellent visibility, making it easy to track the ball during play. They even have one that glows in the dark!
The Oso pickleball is approved by the USAPA for use in official tournaments.
The Oso pickleball has quickly become a rising star in the world of pickleball.
Its quality, durability, and versatility have made it a top choice for players of all skill levels, challenging the long-standing dominance of industry giants.
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From its sturdy blend of materials to vibrant colors and USAPA approval, the Oso pickleball offers everything a player could want and more.
So, whether you're just starting out or are a longtime player, give the Oso pickleball a try and see the difference for yourself. Your game (and your opponents) will thank you!
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