Curious about balls? Read on to learn about the best balls in pickleball.
When it comes to pickleball, the ball you use can greatly impact the game and your own play. Each ball has a different bounce, spin, and feel off the paddle.
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And nowadays there are plenty of ball manufacturers. But not all pickleballs are the same. Some play poorly. Some crack quickly. Some play well, but crack quickly. There is no perfect ball, but we will outline the best options for you and simplify the choice.
Click this link for a quick overview of the best pickleballs on Amazon. Also, view all current ball deals on Pickleball Central today. Otherwise, read on!
Most Popular Pickleballs
The Dura ball is a favorite of those who have played for years, back before the Franklin ball even existed. It is still the gold standard of pickleball for competitive play.
But even with this track record, it may not be the ideal ball for you personally, as there are now many great options. Here is an outline of the Dura, as well as some of the most trusted balls in pickleball. Other balls can be a great fit for newer, avid players.
The Dura Fast 40 is a top choice of top players.
It is known for its zip and for being difficult to control, making it a great option for players who hit hard and are looking for a fun game full of mayhem.
However, players say that the Dura pickleball breaks easily, especially in the cold.
Despite this, many competitive players continue to prefer the Dura ball for its consistent performance and playability during intense games. It has been around for a long time, and will continue to stick around because many players find it to be the best experience.
The Oso Fury is a newer option on the market, and is gaining popularity fast.
This ball is known for its durability and consistent flight, and many players have reported that it doesn't break as often as the Dura ball.
So much so, that some advanced players are willing to switch over, even if it means adjusting to the feel of a slightly different ball.
It's worth noting that the Oso ball is not yet used on any professional tour stops.
Many veteran players are now willing to train with the Oso ball anyways because it is close enough to the Dura but allegedly cracks way less often.
This makes it a great Dura alternative. Oso balls may not be the cheapest, but if they do last longer, you will end up paying less overall. Oso balls have potential to last many sessions.
The Franklin X-40 pickleball is another top choice among players.
This ball is known for its softer feel, and is almost a hybrid between the rigidity of the Dura and the softness of a novice ball.
You could think of it as the best of all worlds, a good balance, which is why this ball has taken the game by storm and is a fixture in many sanctioned events.
The Franklin tends to go "mushy" instead of cracking. This means you will have to use your judgement to decide when the ball is done, because it won't always break. It might just get soft. Players may find this ball has a longer lifespan than the Dura, with a similar feel.
The Franklin ball is also made by a reputable company. Those in cold weather say the Franklin ball is absolutely perfect. Consider the Franklin for its reliability.
The Onix Fuse Indoor Pickleball is a high-quality ball designed for use on indoor courts.
The ball is also made from a durable rubber material that holds up well to repeated use, making it a great option for players of all skill levels.
One thing that sets the Onix Fuse pickleball apart from other indoor balls is its unique, low-bounce design. It is not a lively ball. Great for slick floors and novice players.
This makes it perfect for players looking for a controlled, precise game involving more finesse than brute force. Overall, the Onix Fuse Indoor Pickleball is a top-quality ball that offers great performance and gets rave reviews from folks who play indoor.
The Dura, Franklin, Oso, and Onix Fuse are all quality pickleballs.
The Dura ball is the gold standard, a crazy and fun ball, but it does crack.
The Oso ball is newer and is less likely to break, but plays a bit slower and softer.
The Franklin ball is like a hybrid of all balls, but some folks find it on the slower side.
The Onix Fuse ball reigns supreme indoors. Playable outdoors too for newer players!
There you have it. Each has pros and cons. But these four balls dominate the ball market. View all current ball deals on Pickleball Central today.
You really cannot go wrong with any of these, however they are different enough that you might like one over the others. Bottom line is, judge for yourself!
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