Are Outdoor Volleyballs Worth It?
Estimated Read Time: 1 min read
Intro:
With so many volleyball options available, do you really need a separate ball for outdoor play? We tested indoor balls vs. outdoor balls in various conditions to find the truth.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Indoor Balls | Outdoor Balls |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Leather/composite | Waterproof composite |
| Size | Smaller (65-67cm) | Larger (68-70cm) |
| Pressure | Higher (4.3-4.6 psi) | Lower (3.5-4.0 psi) |
| Weight | Heavier (260-280g) | Lighter (240-260g) |
Performance Tests:
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Wind Resistance:
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Outdoor balls (Wilson AVP) stayed on course in 15mph winds
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Indoor balls (Mikasa MVA200) veered unpredictably
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Wet Conditions:
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Outdoor balls maintained grip when wet
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Indoor balls became slippery and heavy
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Sand vs. Hard Court:
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Outdoor balls bounced true on sand
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Indoor balls bounced erratically on uneven surfaces
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When to Invest in an Outdoor Ball:
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If you play 30%+ of your games outside
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For beach tournaments or grass leagues
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If you frequently play in humid/wet conditions
Best Value Pick: Wilson Optx AVP Beach Volleyball ($45) – lasts 2 seasons with proper care
Maintenance Tip: “Rinse outdoor balls with fresh water after beach use to prevent corrosion.”
Final Thought: Casual players can get by with one ball, but serious outdoor competitors need the right tool for the job.