10 Best Volleyballs for Indoor and Outdoor Play

10 Best Volleyballs Bowls (A Comprehensive Review for 2024)

As a passionate volleyball player, I understand the importance of using the right ball to advance my game. Whether I’m playing indoors or outdoors, the quality and performance of the volleyball can greatly impact my playing experience.

In this comprehensive review, I will share my insights on the 10 best volleyballs for both indoor and outdoor play.

I have personally tested these bowls and considered their features, durability, and overall performance.

From top-of-the-line match bowls to options suitable for youth players, I’ve got you covered with all the pros and cons of each volleyball.

Molten FLISTATEC V5M5000 FIVB Review

The Molten FLISTATEC V5M5000 FIVB is the best match ball for professional volleyball players. It combines innovative FLISTATEC design and technology to deliver unmatched performance on the court.

Price: US$84.99

Let’s explore its key features, pros, and cons to understand why it’s a top choice among volleyball enthusiasts.

Key Features

  1. Revolutionary FLISTATEC Design: The FLISTATEC technology ensures a stable flight path by minimizing air disturbance. The hexagonal outer cover optimizes airflow, providing exceptional stability and accuracy during gameplay.
  2. Durable Construction: Crafted with laminated PU leather, this ball offers exceptional durability and can withstand the rigors of intense matches without losing its performance.
  3. Reliable Air Retention: Equipped with a butyl bladder, the Molten FLISTATEC V5M5000 maintains excellent air retention, reducing the need for frequent inflation and ensuring consistent bounce and playability.

Pros

  • Revolutionary FLISTATEC design and technology for increase stability and accuracy
  • The hexagonal outer cover optimizes airflow, resulting in a more precise flight path
  • Laminated PU leather construction offers exceptional durability
  • FIVB-approved, ensuring high-quality performance in professional matches

Cons

  • Higher Price Point: Being a top-of-the-range match ball, the Molten FLISTATEC V5M5000 FIVB comes with a higher price tag. This may be a significant investment for casual players or those on a tight budget.
  • Potential Break-In Period: Some users have reported that the ball requires a brief break-in period to optimize its performance. However, once broken in, it offers exceptional playability and responsiveness.
Molten Super Touch IV58L Review

The Molten Super Touch volleyball is the official ball of the NCAA and USA Volleyball, making it the preferred choice for collegiate and elite players.

Crafted with premium Japanese leather and featuring a cotton-wrapped construction, this ball offers outstanding performance and durability.

Price: US$55.82

Let’s explore its key features:

Key Features

  1. NFHS Approved: Meets the standards set by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), ensuring suitability for high school competitions.
  2. Official Size and Weight: Designed to meet official size and weight requirements, it provides a consistent playing experience.
  3. Premium Japanese Leather Cover: The high-quality Japanese leather cover delivers a better feel and touch, enhancing precision during passes, sets, and hits.
  4. Uni-Bladder Cotton Wrapped Construction: Increased stability and responsiveness due to the uni-bladder construction with cotton wrapping, resulting in consistent bounce and optimal flight characteristics.

Pros

  • NFHS approved and the official ball of the USAV girls club volleyball National Championships
  • Premium Japanese leather cover for excellent durability and soft-touch texture
  • Uni-bladder cotton-wrapped construction for a great feel
  • Suitable for women’s volleyball at all levels, including coed league play

Cons

  • Some users may find the ball hard upon initial use, but a short break-in period resolves this issue, resulting in optimal playability.
  • Can feel slightly slippery initially
Tachikara SV5W Review

The Tachikara SV5W is a highly recommended volleyball ball for both beginners and elite-level players.

It holds the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) approval, making it an excellent choice for high school players.

Additionally, it carries the FIVB stamp of approval, further emphasizing its quality. Despite being less flashy than some other brands, Tachikara has a long-standing reputation in the volleyball ball market.

Price: US$55.01

Let’s take a look at its key features:

Key Features

  1. Specially woven cotton reinforcement panels for a soft and consistent touch.
  2. Impact-reducing air layer that buffers and evenly disperses initial force during digs passes, and spikes.
  3. Quad-carbon, isomer bladder internally suspended, enhancing air retention and durability.
  4. The volleyball features a supportive dual bladder system, providing better precise response and ensuring the ball maintains its true shape during flight.

Pros

  • Quality leather cover that provides a different grip compared to other brands.
  • Relatively lighter weight, reducing the strain on forearms during play.
  • Particularly beneficial for setters, as the ball tends to float rather than spin, resulting in fewer “double hits” during setting.
  • Forgiving nature of the ball when mishitting a float serve.

Cons

  • Requires a break-in period to overcome the slickness of the leather cover when exposed to sweat.
  • Some durability issues have been reported with other Tachikara volleyball bowls, including airflow problems, bladder bulges, and panel ripping. However, these issues may not be prevalent in the SV5W.
Mikasa MVA200 Review

The Mikasa MVA200 is a top-of-the-line volleyball that serves as the official ball for the Olympics and FIVB. Crafted with precision and specialized features, this ball is designed to optimize gameplay and elevate performance. Its unique swirl design with eight panels increases the contact area, resulting in improved gameplay and precision on the court.

Price: US$54.99

Key Features

  1. Swirl Design: The MVA200’s innovative eight-panel swirl design expands the surface area in contact with the ball, enhancing gameplay accuracy and grip. This feature is particularly beneficial for advanced players seeking optimal performance.
  2. Dimpled Microfiber Material: The volleyball’s dimpled microfiber material creates turbulence in the air, allowing the ball to travel smoothly through the atmosphere. This aerodynamic advantage increases serving techniques and contributes to a more predictable trajectory during gameplay.
  3. Eye-catching Color Pattern: The MVA200 features a distinct blue and yellow color pattern. This combination is scientifically proven to be quickly recognized by the human eye, enabling players to react faster and make split-second decisions on the court.

Pros

  • Setter-Friendly Grip: The MVA200 offers an easy grip for setters, facilitating precise ball placement and enhancing their ability to execute strategic plays.
  • Advanced Serving Potential: The dimpled surface of the ball contributes to specialized serving techniques, allowing skilled servers to generate controlled spin and unpredictable movement.
  • Advanced Player Performance: Geared towards advanced players, the MVA200 pushes athletes to refine their skills and adapt to its unique characteristics, resulting in improved overall play.

Cons

  • Adjustment Period: Some players may find that transitioning to the MVA200 requires an adjustment period. Its hardness and potential for shanking may initially pose challenges, especially for less experienced players.
  • Limited Color Options: The MVA200 is only available in the blue and yellow color pattern, which may not appeal to those seeking more variety in their volleyball aesthetics.

In my experience, the Mikasa MVA200 is a remarkable volleyball that caters to the needs of advanced players seeking exceptional performance. While it may require some initial adjustment, once players adapt to its unique characteristics, their overall play is likely to be advanced.

Tachikara Sensi-Tec SV5WSC Review

The Tachikara Sensi-Tec SV5WSC volleyball is a great choice if you prefer a soft and comfortable touch during gameplay. Whether you’re playing, setting, or hitting, this ball’s softness allows for better precision and reduces the risk of discomfort or bruising on your arms.

Price: US$52.98

Key Features

  1. Sensi-Tec Composite Leather: The colored composite leather construction of the ball provides a soft and tactile feel, enhancing the overall playing experience.
  2. Patented Loose Bladder Construction (LBC™): The loose bladder construction method used in this volleyball promotes better ball grip, allowing for more precise passes, sets, and hits.
  3. Suitable for All Ages: Designed for play by both youth and adult players, the SV5WSC is versatile and can be used in various settings, from recreational leagues to competitive competitions.
  4. Durable Micro-Fiber Composite Leather: The micro-fiber composite leather cover on the outside of the ball offers exceptional durability, ensuring it withstands rigorous play and maintains its shape for extended periods.
  5. Wide Range of Colors: With a variety of color options available, you can choose a volleyball that matches your team’s colors or personal preference.

Pros

  • Soft and Gentle Touch: The Sensi-Tec SV5WSC volleyball’s soft feel makes it enjoyable to handle, reducing strain on your arms and providing a more comfortable playing experience.
  • Excellent Durability: This ball is built to last with its high-quality materials, including the micro-fiber composite leather cover. It can withstand frequent use and remains in good condition for a long time.
  • Versatile for All Ages: Whether you’re a youth player or an adult, the SV5WSC is suitable for all age groups, making it a versatile option for various volleyball settings.
  • Affordable Pricing: Despite its high-quality construction and performance, this volleyball is offered at a very affordable price point.

Cons

  • Limited Grip: While the softness of the ball is an advantage, some players may find that it lacks the same level of grip as other volleyballs, particularly during intense gameplay or in slippery conditions.

In my experience, the Tachikara SV5WSC Sensi-Tec volleyball is an excellent choice for those seeking a soft and durable competition ball. Its affordable price makes it an attractive option for players of all levels.

Wilson K1 Silver Review

When it comes to indoor volleyball, the Wilson K1 Silver is my go-to choice for unlocking my full potential on the court. It’s designed with pro-level specifications, offering an authentic playing experience that brings out the best in me.

Price: US$54.95

Here’s why I love its key features:

Key Features

  1. Pro-Level Size and Weight: The K1 Silver volleyball matches the specifications used by professionals, ensuring an authentic playing experience.
  2. Composite Leather Cover: The composite leather cover offers a softer feel, making it suitable for intense training sessions or younger players who prefer a gentler impact.
  3. Durable Construction: I rely on the K1 volleyball’s durable construction to withstand the demands of my rigorous play. Even with heavy use, it maintains its shape and integrity, ensuring that I can focus on my performance.
  4. Straight Flight Path: When hit, the ball flies straight, allowing for more accurate and precise shots.
  5. Affordable Cost: The Wilson K1 Silver volleyball offers excellent quality and performance at an affordable price point. It’s a smart investment that delivers tremendous value.

Now, let’s talk about the pros and cons of the Wilson K1 Silver:

Pros

  • Enables players to hit the ball with maximum power and kinetic energy for stronger kills.
  • Suitable for both professional and non professional players, with the silver model being particularly well-suited for younger or less experienced players.
  • Durable construction maintains shape and performance over time.
  • Soft on the arms, allowing players to be aggressive without causing discomfort or pain.

Cons

  • Limited information is available on specific features beyond size, weight, and cover material.
  • May not offer the same level of advanced features found in higher-end volleyball models.

In my experience, the Wilson K1 Silver volleyball is a reliable and durable choice for indoor gameplay. It provides a good bounce and stays in shape even with rigorous use.

Tachikara Institutional Quality Composite Review

The Tachikara Institutional Quality Composite volleyball offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

Made with high-quality materials, this volleyball provides a soft and consistent touch, making it suitable for recreational games and practice sessions.

Price: US$28.76

Let’s delve into its notable features:

Key Features

  1. Woven-Fiber Composite: The ‘V100’ composite construction of the ball ensures durability and longevity, allowing for extended use.
  2. Cotton Reinforcement: The volleyball features cotton reinforcement, enhancing its softness and providing a consistent touch during gameplay.
  3. Single Unit Construction: The ball is designed with single unit construction, reducing the risk of seams splitting and improving overall durability.
  4. Butyl Bladder: The butyl bladder inside the ball offers reliable air retention, ensuring that the ball maintains its shape and pressure during play.
  5. Variety of Colors: The Tachikara Institutional Composite volleyball is available in several color options, including an all-white variant, allowing for personalization and easy visibility on the court.

What I Love

  • Soft and Gentle on Arms: The ball’s softness makes it comfortable to pass and handle, reducing the risk of discomfort or pain during extended practice sessions.
  • Good Air Retention: The butyl bladder helps the ball retain air well, minimizing the need for frequent reinflation during play or practice.
  • Suitable for Team Warm-ups and Practice: The Tachikara Institutional Composite volleyball is an excellent choice for team warm-ups and practice drills, providing consistent performance.
  • Budget-Friendly: Priced under thirty dollars, this volleyball offers good quality and value for its affordability.

Take Note

  • Not Recommended for Official Games: While suitable for recreational play and practice, this volleyball may not meet the standards required for official matches.
  • Some Reports of Lower Quality: A few reviews mention that this volleyball appears to be made with slightly cheaper materials compared to higher-end models like the SV-5WSC. However, considering the price point, the quality is considered adequate.

In my experience, the Tachikara Institutional Quality Composite volleyball serves as a reliable practice ball. Its softness and good air retention make it comfortable to use during extended training sessions. While it may not be the top choice for official games, it is an excellent option for recreational play, warm-ups, and practice drills.

Outdoor Best Volleyballs

Wilson AVP Soft Play Review

The Wilson AVP Soft Play volleyball is an excellent choice for beginners who want to enjoy the sport without feeling intimidated. With its soft, sponge-backed leather feel, this ball makes learning the game a breeze, while still providing a great playing experience.

Price: US$16.95

Let’s dive into its key features, pros, and cons:

Key Features

  1. Soft, Sponge-Backed Leather Feel: The Wilson AVP Soft Play volleyball is designed to take the intimidation out of learning the game. Its soft, sponge-backed outer layer provides a comfortable grip and reduces the fear of impact, allowing beginners to enjoy the sport with confidence.
  2. Machine Sewn Construction with Synthetic Leather Cover: The ball features a machine-sewn construction with a synthetic leather cover, making it durable and capable of withstanding extensive use. This ensures that the ball holds up well, even during intense gameplay.
  3. Butyl Rubber Bladder: Equipped with a butyl rubber bladder, the Wilson AVP Soft Play volleyball offers excellent air and shape retention. You can count on this ball to maintain its optimal performance, even after multiple uses.

Pros

  • Great budget option: The Wilson AVP Soft Play volleyball provides excellent value for its price. It offers durability and performance that exceeds expectations, making it a cost-effective choice for beginners.
  • Versatile for indoor and outdoor play: Whether you’re playing indoors or enjoying a game on the seaside, this ball is suitable for various playing environments. Its versatility allows you to have fun wherever you choose to play.
  • Durable construction: Many reviews highlight the ball’s durability, considering its affordable price. You can rely on the Wilson AVP Soft Play volleyball to withstand regular use without needing frequent replacements.

Cons

  • Not an official volleyball: It’s important to note that this ball is not an official volleyball. While it may not meet the exact specifications required for professional games, it still provides an enjoyable playing experience for recreational purposes.
  • May require occasional inflation: Some users mention that the ball may need to be aired up occasionally. It’s recommended to keep an air pump handy to ensure optimal inflation before each play session.

Overall, the Wilson AVP Soft Play volleyball is an excellent choice for beginners looking to dive into the sport.

Wilson AVP Official Game Volleyball Review

The Wilson AVP Volleyball is the official ball of the AVP tour, the largest professional outdoor volleyball tour in the United States.

Wilson is known for actively listening to player feedback and incorporating their requests into their gear.

Price: US$79.99

The newly released Wilson AVP outdoor volleyball ball showcases the following key features:

Key Features

  1. Increased Visibility and Spin Detection: The volleyball features better graphics that improve visibility and make it easier to detect the spin of the ball during play.
  2. Durable Microfiber Composite Leather Cover: The premium microfiber composite leather cover offers exceptional resistance to dirt and moisture, ensuring the ball stays clean and maintains its performance even in challenging conditions.
  3. Hand-Sewn Construction: With an 18-panel, hand-sewn construction, this volleyball increases hand precision and a secure grip. It also offers improved resistance against wind, allowing for more accurate and stable flight.
  4. Optimal Bounce and Responsiveness: The Performance Elastomer Bladder ensures optimal bounce and responsiveness, enabling players to have better grip and precision in their shots and passes.

Pros

  • Impressive design with better graphics for better spin detection during serve receive.
  • Premium microfiber composite leather cover that maintains weight and grip while resisting dirt and moisture.
  • 18-panel, hand-sewn construction for improved hand grip and wind resistance.
  • Responsive Performance Elastomer Bladder for a nice bounce and easier grip during rallies.
  • Excellent durability, lasting multiple seasons of intense use.

Cons

  • Variations in quality based on manufacturing location. Bowls made in China have great quality, while those made in Vietnam can be of lesser quality.
  • Vietnamese-made bowls may have a hard and glossy texture, resembling plastic and leading to slippery sets and discomfort during play.

10. Mikasa VLS300 Champ – Best for Outdoor 2024

Mikasa VLS300 Champ Review

The Mikasa VLS300 Champ is our top pick for seaside volleyball enthusiasts.

As the official game ball of the FIVB and a staple in the Olympic seaside volleyball competition, it embodies higher quality and performance.

This volleyball features reinforced panels that help maintain its spherical shape and ensure durability, making it suitable for intense outdoor play.

Price: US$49.95

Let’s explore the Champ’s key attributes:

Key Features

  1. Official seaside volleyball: The VLS300 Champ is the official seaside volleyball of the FIVB and is used in the Olympics, meeting the highest standards of the sport for optimal performance in seaside play.
  2. Durable and Water-Resistant: With its supple, water-resistant cover, the VLS300 maintains its shape and performance even in wet conditions, making it ideal for seaside volleyball near water or in damp weather.
  3. Soft Touch and Advanced Grip: The VLS300 offers a soft touch and improved grip, enhancing player comfort and grip. Its textured surface contributes to precise setting and hitting techniques, ensuring more accurate and effective play.

Pros

  • Excellent Water Resistance: The VLS300’s water-resistant cover ensures that it doesn’t absorb water, making it easier to handle and play with on wet days. This feature reduces the weight of the ball and minimizes the strain on players’ shoulders during serving and hitting.
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: The reinforced panels and high-quality materials used in the VLS300 make it exceptionally durable, and capable of withstanding the demands of seaside volleyball. Even after extensive play in the grass and sand, the ball maintains its new-like appearance and texture.
  • Increased Visibility: The vibrant yellow and blue color combination of the VLS300 ensures high visibility in various conditions. This feature allows players to anticipate and react to the ball more effectively, enhancing overall gameplay.

Cons

  • Additional Inflation Required: Some users have reported that the VLS300 may require additional inflation upon purchase or during use. It is recommended to have a ball pump readily available to maintain optimal air pressure.

In my experience, the Mikasa VLS300 Champ is an exceptional outdoor volleyball that delivers an outstanding playing experience. Its status as the official game ball of the FIVB and its use in the Olympics attest to its higher quality and performance.

Final Verdict?

Having tested and reviewed the 10 best volleyballs for indoor and outdoor play, I can confidently say that each ball offers its own set of advantages and considerations.

From the high-performance Molten FLISTATEC V5M5000 FIVB to the Mikasa VLS300 Champ Volleyball, there is a volleyball for every player’s skill level and preference.

Consider factors such as ball construction, durability, grip, and price when selecting the best volleyball for your game.

With the right ball in your hands, you’ll be ready to elevate your volleyball skills and enjoy the game to the fullest by pairing it with the best volleyball shoes.

What are the best shoes for volleyball?

Volleyball shoes are essential equipment for a volleyball player. The shoes that you wear during volleyball can make or break your performance. They are not that expensive and they offer stability and grip on the volleyball court. Furthermore, to ankle support, these shoes provide great comfort and security during the match.

Look at our recommendations for the best volleyball shoes in 2024.

Volleyball Equipment, How-Tos & Info

ABOUT US

About Herin Brandone

I have been playing volleyball for over 15 years. We created this website after struggling to find volleyball shoes that provide support, traction, and comfort for hours of play. My goal is to empower you with valuable insights, practical tips, and engaging content that will elevate your volleyball experience.

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