13 best outdoor basketballs

Outdoor basketballs are specifically designed for use on outdoor courts, which are typically made of concrete or asphalt. These basketballs differ from indoor basketballs in a few key ways to withstand the harsher conditions of outdoor play:

  1. Material: Outdoor basketballs are made of more durable materials to withstand the rough surfaces of outdoor courts.They often have a rubber cover, which is tougher and more resistant to wear and tear than the leather or composite leather covers of indoor basketballs.

  2. Texture: The texture of outdoor basketballs is different from indoor basketballs. They typically have deeper and more pronounced pebbling or dimples on the surface. This helps with grip and control on outdoor courts, where dust and moisture can accumulate.

  3. Weight and Size: Outdoor basketballs are typically the same size and weight as indoor basketballs. The official size for both indoor and outdoor basketballs is size 7, which has a circumference of 29.5 inches (75 cm) and a weight of 22 ounces (624 grams).

  4. Inflation Pressure: The recommended inflation pressure for outdoor basketballs is usually the same as for indoor basketballs, which is around 7.5 to 8.5 pounds per square inch (psi). Proper inflation is essential for optimal bounce and performance.

  5. Durability: Outdoor basketballs are designed to be more durable to withstand the elements. They should resist damage from exposure to sun, rain, and temperature fluctuations better than indoor basketballs.

  6. Cost: Outdoor basketballs are generally more affordable than their indoor counterparts due to the use of less expensive materials.

  7. Brand Variety: Several well-known sports equipment brands produce outdoor basketballs. Popular brands like Spalding, Wilson, Nike, and Molten offer a range of outdoor basketball options to choose from, each with its own unique features and design.

  8. Color: Outdoor basketballs often come in brighter and more visible colors to make them easier to spot on outdoor courts, especially in lower light conditions.

  9. Grip: The grip on outdoor basketballs is important for dribbling and shooting. The deeper pebbling on the surface and the rubber material contribute to a better grip, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

  10. Use: While outdoor basketballs are designed for outdoor courts, they can also be used indoors. However, indoor basketballs are not suitable for outdoor use because their softer leather or composite covers can get damaged quickly on rough outdoor surfaces.

In summary, outdoor basketballs are tailored for play on outdoor courts and are constructed with durability and grip in mind to withstand the conditions of these surfaces. They are made of rubber, have a textured surface, and come in various brands and colors to cater to different player preferences.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best outdoor basketballs on the market
  

Spalding NBA Street Outdoor Basketball

Spalding

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Street Outdoor Basketball, Size 5, 27.5in

  • Performance: Durable outdoor rubber cover
  • Superior control: Deep channel design for easy handles
  • Official size: Size 7, 29.5”
  • Inflation: Shipped inflated and we recommend 8 PSI

User questions & answers

Question: Does the air come out really easy
Answer: I think she got it in early September and takes it to school everyday for recess and so far no problems with air ...
Question: does it have good grip
Answer: well, it's a basketball. these types of balls typically do not have hands attached, so, no, it does not have good grip.
Question: is it rubber or leather
Answer: Rubber
Question: does it come inflated
Answer: Purchased 03/12/19 and DID NOT come inflated. Didn't have any packaging. Just came in a plastic bag. Good thing I had a pump and needle, otherwise, I'd be annoyed.

AND1 Fantom Rubber Basketball & Pump- Official Size Streetball, Made for Indoor and Outdoor Basketball Games

AND1

Based on 108 reviews Check latest price
  • OFFICIAL SIZE BALL: The AND1 Fantom full size basketball is regulation size 7 (29. 5”) and weight with easy to palm grip.
  • BRIGHTEN UP YOUR GAME ANYWHERE: The colorful indoor outdoor basketball is designed to play anywhere. You can easily hustle on concrete or hardwood floors.
  • DEEP CHANNEL CONSTRUCTION: The AND1 Fantom grip basketball has advanced deep channel construction that improves ball grip and control for dribbling and shooting, perfect for youth players.
  • DURABILITY: This rubber basketball is made from high quality rubber material, AND1 basketball street ball is built to last and withstand wear and tear.
  • PUMP INCLUDED: Every 29.5 basketball comes deflated with a 12" inflation pump in graffiti print.

Light Up Basketball-Uses Two High Bright LED's (Official Size and Weight)

13 years and up

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price
  • OFFICIAL LIGHT UP BASKETBALL: Our Ball Uses Two Hi-Bright LEDS Rather than One LED. This allows the entire ball to illuminate with fire like Glow.
  • IMPACT ACTIVATED: works while playing with it, Entire Ball Illuminates from the inside creating a really bright glowing basketball then shuts off automatically when not in use.
  • DURABLE: Our Basketballs are well made and perfect for night games. You will be amazed how much fun you will have with this Ball playing at night.
  • BATTERIES INCLUDED: Ready for use, just fill it up with air and prepare to be amazed. With the two LED's pre-installed you will be ready to play. Batteries are also Replaceable for continued use.
  • FIRST CLASS CUSTOMER SERVICE: GlowCity strives to provide the best customer service to our customers. We provide a 60-day hassle free repair/replace guarantee on all our products.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a ball that spins on your finger well
Answer: It feels just like a normal basketball with exception that it lights up. I don't know if the balance of it is as perfect on one finger when compared, since it has batteries inside. But dribbles , spins and sounds and feels just like normal
Question: Does the ball arrive inflated
Answer: It does not. But is simple to inflate and loads of fun to play with in the dark.Actually has good bounce back.
Question: does it glow all the time or just when it bounces from the floor? does it continue to glow as it is in the air
Answer: this ball is wonderful! It glows when you play with it - it only turns off when it is not moving for a period of time. it does glow in the air and its very bright. I'm thinking of buying other light up balls form this company for Christmas presents.
Question: Is it heavier than a normal basketball? Guessing its adult size- is it Too big for a 7 year old
Answer: No it is not heavier and is standard adult size. But I think perfectly fine for a 7 yr old. My nieces are 7 & 8 and they play with it just fine and love it! Hope that helps! : )

Spalding NBA Zi/O Excel Basketball

Spalding

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Always be ready for the hustle on the hardwood or concrete with the Spalding NBA Zi/O Excel Basketball. Spalding’s exclusive Zi/O composite cover material is fully Pebbled for a solid grip and has a traditional channel design. The tacky feel and foam backing provide you with a good grip during behind the back passes or twisting lay-ups. This basketball has the same size and weight as the NBA official game ball and it ships inflated and game ready out of the box, so you can start hooping in no time. Lay it up, and lay it down, with the Spalding NBA Zi/O Excel Basketball.

The Spalding 64-497 Zi/O Excel is a pure example of everything an indoor/outdoor basketball should be. The official ball of the NBA, it meets all stringent official size and weight specifications. The composite leather construction features the addition of a foam backing under the full ball pebbling to make handling even more precise. The deep channel design is 30 percent deeper for even better grip and dribble control. The ball has an official size of 29.5 inches.

Brand Story

About Spalding

A Division of Russell Brands, LLC, Spalding is the largest basketball equipment supplier in the world, and America's first baseball company. Spalding is the official basketball of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), the official backboard of the NBA and NCAA, the official baseball of the Little League World Series, the official volleyball of the King of the Beach Volleyball Tour and of the "Pro Beach Series" and the official football of Pop Warner. In addition to being a leading producer and marketer of basketballs, footballs, volleyballs and soccer balls, Spalding produces softballs under the Dudley brand. The SPALDING and DUDLEY trademarks are owned by Russell Brands, LLC.

Buying Guide

spalding basketball size guide

Basketball Buying Guide





There are core sizes for basketballs: Size 5, Size 6 and Size 7.

The size you require depends on the age of the player concerned and also the sex of the player.

A size 5 basketball, is designed for players up to age 9. The ball has a circumference of 27.75" and weighs approximately 18oz.

A size 6 basketball, is designed for players between the ages of 9 to 12. This is also the ball specified for Women. The ball has a circumference of 28.5" and weighs approximately 20oz.

A size 7 basketball, is designed for all male players, 13 years and above. The ball has a circumference of 29.5" and weighs 22oz.







  • Official NBA size and weight: Size 7, 29.5 inches
  • Zi/O Tournament composite cover
  • Foam backed design for excellent feel
  • Shipped inflated and game ready
  • Designed for indoor and outdoor play
  • Indoor/outdoor composite leather basketball
  • Deep channel design for better dribble control

User questions & answers

Question: Hello, You can tell me if they send it the ball inflated or not. Thank you
Answer: Hello and thank you for contacting Dazadi.com. The ball does come fully inflated. Please let us know if you have any other questions!
Question: Zi/o vs zi/o excel
Answer: zi/o excel. I have the zi/o excel myself and I would recommend it to every basketball player, for it is not only good looking, but it feels better and is really good indoor/outdoor
Question: What does composite leather mean
Answer: Composite leather means it's made from leather fibers. I think it's analogous to wood particle board. The feel is pretty tacky; feels less synthetic and more like true leather.
Question: What's the difference between the Zi/O Excel Basketball and the Zi/O Basketball
Answer: The excel is supposed to be more for outdoor. But they both play the same. Have to say though this ball while it says outdoor will lose its grip in a month or two. For street ball it picks up dirt like crazy and you will lose your handles on almost anything but a simple layup. Personally trying the Nike elite ball at dicks. For 30ish bucks I hear good things. Had a chance to play the grooves on the Nike ball facilitates better shooting and handling

Senston Basketball 29.5" Outdoor Indoor Mens Basketball Ball Official Size 7 Basketballs

Senston

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • ✔ HIGH QUALITY: Rubber basketball. 100% eco-friendly natural and synthetic rubber. Rubber cover developed to withstand both indoor and outdoor play
  • ✔ OFFICIAL SIZE: Size 7, 29.5 inches. Size 7 Basketball is the most commonly used size in basketball matches worldwide
  • ✔ DIFFERENT COLOR FOR CHOICE: Colorful design, bright and colorful basketballs, which meets the young's fashion style, professional design for you
  • ✔ PACKAGE INCLUDING: 1 X HIGH GRADE BASKETBALL BALL; 1 X PUMP; 1 X NEEDLE
  • ✔ CUSTOMER SERVICE: If you have any problems after the purchase, you can feel free to contact us in any time.

User questions & answers

Question: Where is the needle located? it did not come with needle or a net. how do i got those 2 items
Answer: It comes with a needle and pump, mine did anyway! No net!

Product features

Senston Rubber Basketball Ball

Molten BG3800 Series, Indoor/Outdoor Basketball, FIBA Approved, Size 7, 2- Tone Design, Model: B7G3800

Molten

Based on 235 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Molten introduces the new BG-Series, as the official basketball of FIBA. As one of the top basketball brands worldwide, Molten continues to create superior quality basketballs with the latest innovative technology.

  • FIBA Approved
  • Official 12 panel, 2-tone design
  • Indoor/Outdoor synthetic cover
  • Butyl Bladder
  • 1 year , Ships deflated

User questions & answers

Question: Is it size
Answer: Yes . It’s NBA official size and weight . The 7 means NBA size. The womens ball is size 6.
Question: El balón es para jugar afuera
Answer: Si, esta balon es principalment para uso afura, outdoor, pero tambien se puede usar en duela.
Question: Is this ball original
Answer: Yes

Product features

Introducing the Molten BG Series

Molten is proud to have our BG-Series showcased as the Official Game Ball of the FIBA Basketball World Cups. As one of the top basketball brands worldwide, Molten continues to create superior quality basketballs with the latest innovative technology.

The new surface texture offers the ideal grip that improves ball control when in contact with sweat or moisture. The sleek design of the BG-Series allows for optimum performance, ultimately enhancing the way the game is played.

Spalding NBA Street Phantom Outdoor Basketball

Spalding

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Take your love of the game outdoors with the Spalding NBA Street Phantom Basketball. Built for concrete courts and asphalt arenas, this outdoor ball has a durable sponge rubber construction equipped to handle weeks of Sundays at the park. The sponge rubber design gives it a softer feel than your average outdoor ball and provides a superior level of grip making it easier to palm. Its deep channels help you get your fingers aligned without a thought, so you can fully focus on your quick release over your defender and the ball ripping the net. Play like you mean it with the Spalding NBA Street Phantom Basketball.

  • Official NBA size and weight: Size 7, 29.5 inches
  • High performance rubber cover with Soft Grip Technology
  • Sponge rubber design
  • Shipped inflated and game ready
  • Designed for outdoor play

User questions & answers

Question: leather or rubber
Answer: Rubber
Question: Is the ball come pre inflated or i need to inflate it
Answer: It does come pre reinflated. In fact, ours has yet to need air despite playing with it for two months consistently.
Question: Will I become a professional basketball player if I buy this
Answer: Sure practice 8 hours a day and put the work in. 👊
Question: Were any animal products used to make this basketball
Answer: It's made from the coarse skin of Bojangles himself, the one-eyed, three legged pit bull who always wears an eye patch and often uses a prosthetic leg. It's ok, though, because his skin quickly grows back because he's part lizard illuminati. Carefully, crafted by Andrei Chikatilo himself. So he play basketball and wrestle. "Vwaht is big deal? Hail Nimrod be gone Lucifina, but come back later ok...

Chance Premium Rubber Outdoor / Indoor Basketball (Size 5 Kids & Youth, 6 WNBA Womens, 7 Mens NCAA & NBA Basketball) (Size 27.5, 28.5, 29.5)

Chance

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • PREMIUM QUALITY: Excellent performance for outdoor basketball play but can be used Indoor. Our Premium rubber material, not leather provides an extra strong hold + durability on any outdoor or indoor basketball court.
  • PERFECT GRIP: Aggressive pebble pattern & deep channels for ultimate grip and control on our 27.5", 28.5" & 29.5" basketballs. BALLS DO NOT COME INFLATED.
  • OPTIMAL PRESSURE: Butyl bladder locks in air for optimal ball pressure and shape retention for a consistent bounce throughout your game (ball comes deflated, air pump and inflation needle NOT included)
  • SPECS: Size 5 youth basketball 27.5" (Kids, Junior, Girls, Boys) Size 6 womens basketball, wnba official basketball 28.5" - Size 7 mens basketball 29.5". For indoor outdoor, black-top, concrete, practice & playground courts.
  • BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: Absolute 100% risk free purchase. Don't LOVE our size 5, 6 & 7 basketballs? Simply return it! Your Kids basketball highschool, ARC, WNBA, College or even the NBA dreams is our priority.

User questions & answers

Question: does this come with a pump
Answer: No pump comes with it!
Question: When are you getting size 5? I teach elementary and would like a variety so I can interest all of my students
Answer: Hi Michelle, We'll have size 5 back in stock before the end of June. Thanks for your patience, and stay tuned!
Question: When will you make a size
Answer: We do not have plans to make a size 4 at this time.
Question: Where are they manufactured at
Answer: Our sporting balls are produced in Vietnam.

Spalding NBA Zi/O Indoor-Outdoor 29.5" Basketball

Spalding

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ready to splash through nets and trip up defenders. The Spalding NBA Zi/O Excel Indoor-Outdoor Basketball is foam-backed for a solid bounce, both at the gym and in the driveway. The Zi/O Tournament composite cover is soft and slightly tacky, making the ball easy to palm. Shipped Inflated and game ready.

  • Official NBA size and weight: Size 7, 29.5 inch
  • Zi/O Tournament composite cover
  • Foam backed design for excellent feel
  • Designed for indoor and outdoor play
  • Shipped inflated and game ready

Wilson Sporting Goods NCAA

Wilson Sporting Goods

Product description

Whether you're playing in The Final Four or lunchtime pick-up, the ball matters. There is no other ball that can offer the Final Four quality and craftsmanship at a price no fan would argue with. This ball features the same patented technologies that you find on the NCAA Official Game Ball. A moisture absorbing cover is specially designed for indoor/outdoor play combined with Laid In Channels and our Cushion Core, make this ball a favorite of competitive players everywhere.

  • Whether you're playing in The Final Four or lunchtime pick-up, the ball matters. There is no other ball that can offer the Final Four quality and craftsmanship at a price no fan would argue with. This ball features the same patented technologies that you find on the NCAA Official Game Ball. A moisture absorbing cover is specially designed for indoor/outdoor play combined with Laid In Channels and our Cushion Core, make this ball a favorite of competitive players everywhere.
  • Replica of the NCAA Game Ball
  • Moisture absorbing material offers superior grip ability designed for indoor/outdoor play
  • Laid in composite channels provides a 100 percentage composite cover
  • The soft feel of the balls' cushion core carcass gives you more confidence to take a shot because it rolls off your fingertips just right every time
  • Indoor / outdoor use
  • Official size basketball 29.5 inches
  • Proper inflation level: 7 9 psi

User questions & answers

Question: Does this ball come packaged and ready to give as a gift
Answer: Yes, it was aired up ready to go.
Question: Can you play this outside
Answer: According to the description it is an indoor/outdoor basketball. My grandson uses it outdoors.
Question: It says the size is 29". Does that mean it is 29.5 or 28.5? It is very confusing. I am assuming it is 28.5 as the picture of the bball has
Answer: You pick the size under “Style Name” locates under the basketball image
Question: how good is the ball in scale 1-10 indoors
Answer: 5. Much better choices for indoor. The replica ball is not the same as the official ball which is great. The Evolution is also much better. The Elite is also a better ball.

Product features

Wilson Basketball

From the chain link fences of neighborhood blacktops to the hallowed halls of college ball's most prestigious programs, Wilson is intertwined with the very DNA of the game. In the hands of more players than any other, we both define and are defined by the culture. Always innovating for the future, and always staying true to the heritage. This is our game - this is Wilson Basketball.

AND1 Xcelerate Rubber Basketball (Inflated) OR (Deflated w/Pump Included): Official Regulation Size 7 (29.5”) Streetball, Made for Indoor and Outdoor Basketball Games

AND1

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AND1 is designed for the game of basketball. Enjoy the AND1 Xcelerate Rubber Basketball season after season. The game ready official NBA size ball (29.5”) can be inflated right out of the box with the available bundle with 12” hand pump. Whether you’re playing a pickup game at the park, going 1v1 at the gym, or practicing your free throw shots in your driveway, this basketball is made for playing with indoors and outdoors. The AND1 Xcelerate basketball is made from high quality rubber material and is designed to withstand wear and tear. This basketball is a great choice for casual basketball players or competitive athletes of all levels. It is a slam dunk gift for kids, teens, and adults alike. It’s time to take your game to the next level with AND1’s Xcelerate Rubber Basketball.

  • OFFICIAL SIZE BALL: The AND1 Xcelerate full size basketball is regulation size 7 (29. 5”) and weight with easy to palm grip.
  • PLAY ANYWHERE: Our indoor outdoor basketball can be used to play anywhere.
  • FLAT CHANNEL CONSTRUCTION: The AND1 Xcelerate grip basketball has enhanced pebbling that improves ball grip and control for dribbling and shooting, perfect for youth players.
  • DURABILITY: This rubber basketball is made from high quality rubber material, AND1 basketball is built to last and withstand wear and tear.
  • PUMP INCLUDED: Every 29.5 basketball comes deflated with a 12" inflation pump in graffiti print.

User questions & answers

Question: Where is the needle for the pump
Answer: It's located inside the package, separate from the pump.
Question: can this ball be used in swimming pool
Answer: Although it is not made for the pool, there is no reason why not.
Question: The needle on my pump broke on day 1. I want to buy replacements but I need to know if this is a standard size pump
Answer: Yes, this is a standard sized needle.

Spalding NBA Marble Series Outdoor Basketball

Spalding

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Made for players who create their own lane, The Spalding NBA Marble Series Outdoor Basketball shakes free from convention with a unique marble print. Aside from the durable outdoor cover and embossed logos, no two balls in the series are the same.

  • Youth size and weight: Size 5, 27.5”
  • Outdoor rubber cover
  • Allover Spalding color-infused graphics
  • Shipped inflated and game-ready
  • Designed for outdoor play

Spalding NBA Indoor/Outdoor Official Size Replica Game Ball (Official Size 7 (29.5") Bundle)

Spalding

Based on 342 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Spalding NBA Game Ball Series, Replica Indoor / Outdoor Basketball, Premium Composite Cover, Official Size and Weight. Spalding has been the Official Game Ball of the NBA since 1983. Adam Silver Commissioner.

  • 29.5" Game Ball with 6" pump
  • Replica of the official game ball of the NBA
  • For both indoor & outdoor play
  • Durable composite leather construction for better feel and durability
  • Needle located inside Built-in needle storage on handle

User questions & answers

Question: Do you ship this ball to the Philippines inflated
Answer: The ball arrived defleated so I don't think they will inflate it but you can easily do so yourself
Question: Tis will be a Gift! Does this Ball come already inflated and in a box
Answer: This comes deflated with a pump

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