13 best youth basketballs

Youth basketballs are basketballs designed specifically for use by children and young players. These basketballs are tailored to the needs and skill levels of younger athletes who are just starting to learn and enjoy the game of basketball. Here are some key characteristics and information about youth basketballs:

  1. Size: Youth basketballs are typically smaller in size compared to regulation adult basketballs. They come in various sizes to cater to different age groups and skill levels. Common sizes include 27.5 inches in circumference for junior players and 28.5 inches for intermediate players.

  2. Weight: Youth basketballs are lighter than standard basketballs, making them easier for young players to handle and control.

  3. Material: They are usually made from high-quality rubber or composite materials, which provide a good grip and durability for outdoor play.

  4. Bounce: Youth basketballs are designed to have a consistent bounce suitable for the strength and skills of young players.

  5. Indoor vs. Outdoor: Some youth basketballs are designed specifically for indoor use, while others are more durable and suitable for outdoor play on various surfaces.

  6. Color and Design: Youth basketballs often feature vibrant colors and designs that are appealing to kids and make the game more fun.

  7. Brand Variations: Many well-known sports equipment brands offer youth basketballs, ensuring a range of options for consumers to choose from based on their preferences and budget.

  8. Age Recommendations: Manufacturers often provide age recommendations for their youth basketballs to help parents and coaches select the appropriate size and weight for young players.

Youth basketballs are essential for introducing children to the fundamentals of basketball, teaching them proper shooting, passing, and dribbling techniques, and fostering a love for the sport.Selecting the right size and type of basketball is important to ensure that young players can enjoy the game while developing their skills in a safe and enjoyable manner.

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

Spalding NBA Mini Rubber Outdoor Basketball

Spalding

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Spalding NBA Mini Rubber Outdoor basketball is made for pint-sized ballers or arcade-style games. It has the look and feel of a regular outdoor ball, but is sized to fit hoops with a 12-inch inside diameter.

  • Mini Size: 22"
  • Performance outdoor rubber cover
  • Shipped inflated and game-ready
  • Designed for outdoor play
  • Backed by Spalding's Warranty

User questions & answers

Question: What is the circumference of this basketball
Answer: 22-1/4 inches
Question: Does it come already inflated
Answer: Yes but mine was a little under inflated. I had to put a little more air in it so it would bounce better.
Question: What is the size of this ball
Answer: This is a size 3 or 22" basketball. A full size basketball is size 7 or 29.5".
Question: Do these balls come inflated? And are they 7 inches in diameter
Answer: Yes, 7 inches, and as I remember, came inflated

AND1 Mini Basketball 3 Pack Set for Kids (Deflated w/ Pump Included): - Size 3 5-Inch Premium Youth Size Basketballs, Easy to Grip, Made for Indoors and Outdoors

Based on 498 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The AND1 Mini Basketballs Set for Kids is the perfect gift or present for any occasion. The stylish three mini balls are suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. Our high-quality performance materials are designed to provide durability and longevity. The balls are geared toward children and are easy to grip, shoot, and dribble. The three mini balls are available in a bundle with an AND1 12” hand pump so that you can inflate and use on the court right away.

  • SLAM DUNK: Our kids basketball is a perfect gift for children for any occasion.
  • PREMIUM RUBBER BASKETBALL: Pebbling is soft, tacky, and easy to grip for easier shooting and dribbling. This youth basketball is made from high quality rubber material, it is built to last and withstand wear and tear.
  • AGES 4 AND UP: This AND1 5 inch basketball is perfect for young children who have smaller hands.
  • SUPERIOR GAME PLAY: High quality construction and materials are designed for the mini hoop basketball to be used indoors and outdoors.
  • PUMP INCLUDED: Every junior basketball comes deflated with a 12" inflation pump in graffiti print.

User questions & answers

Question: Are these 5 inches or size 5 for youth? I'm looking for size 5 basketballs for youth
Answer: Size 5 youth ball
Question: Are these 5” or
Answer: 5"
Question: Well these fit in my mini hoop
Answer: Yes, they will fit in AND1 indoor mini hoop.
Question: Can I get these in 7" diameter
Answer: Not these specific ones. Puck another size or brand

Mikasa Youth Basketball Ball Ultra Grip Rubber Cover Size 4 Elementary (2-Pack)

MIKASA

Based on 251 reviews Check latest price

Product description

You're the one on the court who never gets tired. No one ever subs in for you or accuses you of not getting back on defense. They call you the shadow because you're on everyone and no one can outrun you. Relentless in your pursuit of perfection with countless hours on the court, you need a ball that can keep up in rough conditions. We're so sure we can keep up with you we will give you a 2-year warranty. A ball that never gives up or gives in. Every bounce as sure and true as the last one.

  • Official Youth Size Basketball-Size 4, 25.5
  • Premium Outdoor Cover
  • Wide Channel
  • Designed For Outdoor Use

User questions & answers

Question: What is diameter in inches of the ball
Answer: Actually no but it needed a tiny bit of air so wasn’t fully inflated
Question: What is x 2 mean
Answer: This is the size we bought for my six year old.
Question: Is this an outdoor or indoor ball
Answer: Hello, Junior is size 27 to 28.5. Kind Regards, Customer Service S&S Worldwide

Wilson Killer Crossover Basketball, Blue/White, Youth - 27.5"

Wilson Sporting Goods - Team

Based on 493 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Like a good crossover, the Killer Crossover ball helps you change pace and direction, or location. The all surface cover works indoor or outdoor and provides optimal grip in all game conditions. You can make it rain, rain or shine.

  • All Surface Cover and Deep Channel Construction improves grip
  • Premium Carcass Construction for excellent rebound and durability
  • Ideal for the recreational player
  • Outdoor Use
  • Youth Size Basketball - 27.5"
  • Proper Inflation Level: 7 -9 PSI
  • For indoor or outdoor play

Product features

Wilson NCAA Killer Crossover

On the playground, there is one rule you never break: winner stays. With pebbled channels for increased grip and control, and a pressure lock bladder to main optimal ball pressure, a Killer Crossover doesn’t guarantee you’ll get to stay, but it’s a good start.

Like a good crossover, the Killer Crossover ball, helps you change pace and direction. Or location. The sponge rubber cover works on any surface and the pebbled channels give you optimal grip in all game conditions. You can make it rain, rain or shine.

Spalding Rookie Gear Indoor/Outdoor Composite 27.5 Youth Basketball

Spalding

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Help your young athlete sharpen up their skills. The Spalding NBA Rookie Gear Youth Basketball is the same size as standard youth balls, but with a lighter weight. It's made with a composite cover that holds up to drills both indoors and out

  • Youth: Size 5, 27.5 Inch
  • Performance composite cover
  • 15% lighter to help develop technique
  • Shipped inflated and game ready
  • Designed for indoor and outdoor play

User questions & answers

Question: does this come in a retail box
Answer: It does not. I'm actually disappointed as I am giving this as a gift. It arrived in a brown amazon box, but no retail packaging. Not the best situation for gift giving.
Question: i just like shooting hoops . is it full size
Answer: no, it is smaller than regulation size.
Question: does this ball ship deflated
Answer: Hello Andrea,Thank you for your question. This ball does ship deflated. Please let me know if you have any other questions.Regards,FrancisCustomer ServiceS&S Worldwide
Question: my grandson is 8. I see reviews talk about 4-6 year olds. I dont want him to think its a 'baby ball'. Is it good for practice inside and out
Answer: My son just turned 7 and has started to use my adult basketball with no issue. The size difference isn't significant. Personally, I would go with an adult ball for an 8 year old based on my experience.

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! : )

Wilson Rubber Basketball

12 months - 15 years

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NCAA MVP basketball has high quality rubber construction that provides hours of play. The premium rubber compound provides excellent durability and the super wide channels allow for extra gripability.

  • All Surface Cover and Wide Channel Construction improve grip
  • Pressure Lock Bladder improves air retention and durability
  • Rubber Cover Construction
  • Outdoor Use
  • Youth Size Basketball - 27. 5"

User questions & answers

Question: What's the difference in the new version and old version? besides the price
Answer: I suggest you buy 1.5 or 2.5 little kid for size.
Question: Is this ball lead, bpa, bps, phthalate, or pvc free
Answer: The size seems to be true to his shoe he wears now
Question: is it women's size
Answer: These sizes don't contain the size of toddle, but I suggest you try to buy the smallest one, like 12.5 little kid
Question: Is it for indoor use
Answer: My grandson has extremely wide feet. Shoes like converse are too narrow for his feet, and Nike has to be bought a couple sizes up in order to accommodate the width of his foot. These shoes were wide enough without having to upsize and the toolbox gave him lots of space to wear socks as well. Hope this helps

Wisdom Leaves Rubber Basketball(27.5") Size 5 for Kids/Youth Outdoor Indoor Play Games

Wisdom Leaves

Based on 42 reviews Check latest price
  • Official Size 5 Basketball for Outdoor/Indoor Use
  • High quality butyl rubber liner
  • Wear-resistant non-slip rubber PU leather,Wrapped yarn,more durable.
  • Basketball is an indispensable playmate for every child, accompanying them throughout their childhood, adolescence, and youth, and carrying their happiness.It is a great birthday present,holiday gift,simple meeting gift for girls,boys,kids,students,children and youth.
  • Warm note:Basketball is shipped deflated.√√√Inflation is necessary.√√√Be careful not to over-inflate.

MacGregor X500 Basketball

MACGREGOR

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • Junior Size (27.5")
  • Durable Nylon-wound rubber construction
  • Wide channels allow players' hands to find a comfortable grip
  • Recreational play
  • Inflate the ball for Indoor/outdoor use
  • For optimal performance, additional inflation may be required. Ball pump not included.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a composite ball
Answer: no, this is a rubber basketball
Question: These balls we bought will not hold air. What do we need to do
Answer: Use “green slime” as you would on a bicycle tire. I had some success with this.
Question: Can i get it uninflated
Answer: It comes flat
Question: Where is it made
Answer: I am not sure where it is made. I do know that in 10 months it has not one flat which is great.

Spalding NBA Street Outdoor Basketball

Spalding

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price
  • Performance: Durable outdoor rubber cover
  • Superior control: Deep channel design for easy handles
  • Youth size: Size 5, 27.5”
  • 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 Ultra Grip Advanced Premium 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 246 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AND1 is designed for the game of basketball. Enjoy the AND1 Ultra Grip Advanced Premium Rubber Basketball season after season. The official regulation size ball (29.5”) can be inflated right out of the box with the 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 Ultra Grip basketball is made from premium cushioned 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 Ultra Grip Advanced Premium Rubber Basketball.

  • OFFICIAL SIZE BALL: The AND1 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.
  • DEEP CHANNEL CONSTRUCTION: The AND1 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.

User questions & answers

Question: are these basketballs made in the USA
Answer: The basketballs are made in China

REBOIL Ultra Grip Rubber Basketball (Size 4 Kids, Size 5 Youth, Size 6 WNBA, Size 7 NCAA & NBA)-Outdoor/ Indoor-Advanced Foaming Technology

REBOILPHASE

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price
  • CONFIGURATION: High-cost rubber foaming technology + Advanced coloring technology + Double Butyl winding liner bladder. Size 4 26.5", Diameter: 20 CM, Circumference: 62-64CM, Weight: 400-450g
  • CHARACTERISTICS: Select high-grade environment protection rubber raw material, high durability. The high-cost rubber foaming technology is strictly adopted to make the rubber ball feel more like leather basketball.
  • INTERNAL FEATURES: Full-fledged effervescent gall bladder is used to maintain durability. A 200-meter-long winding thread is used on the surface of the bladder to enhance the overall texture and maintain the stability of elasticity. We are not afraid that you open the ball to check if we really use enough wrapping yarn
  • QUALITY CONTROL: Quality assurance from the inside out, multilayer wrap yarn process with high grade butyl bladder ensures the stability of the basketball. All manual fitting process to ensure quality.
  • EXCELLENT AFTER-SALES SERVICE: Very convenient multi-channel return and replacement service.

Product features

Our story

Who are we?

Our team comes from all corners of the world, we are a group of ordinary people who love sports very much. But we always feel that something is missing...

Our starting point!

We always feel that sports products need more colors, which can make our children and even families more willing to sport with us. Our materials engineers are obsessed with incorporating alternative materials into sports products.

Our pursuit!

We want to become a sportswear designer and manufacturer with the most material attributes. Moreover, we are integrating our own entire industrial chain to improve the quality of our products.

Quality control

Quality control

Colorful ideas

Colorful ideas

Design in LA

Design in LA

MULTILAYER WRAPPED YARN

We insist that every ball is equipped with a yarn-wound bladder as standard.

HANDCRAFT

Handmade makes the ball more durable.

THE WHOLE ROUNDING PROCESS

The whole rounding process improves the stability of the ball.

Modern production line

30 years of manufacturing experience of each ball. Innovation is integrated into our blood.

Souvenir

We like to keep good memory and not let it be forgotten. All Limited products are designed by our designers in Milan and L.A.

Surfaces to write on

A gift for your kids!Reboil Basketballs are not only playing, but also surfaces where you can write with marker.

Innovation

We use reflective materials, embroidery, laser technology, and color-changing materials in our product.

Wilson Killer Crossover Basketball.2

Wilson Sporting Goods - Team

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Premium Carcass Construction for excellent rebound and durability

  • All Surface Cover and Deep Channel Construction improves grip
  • Premium Carcass Construction for excellent rebound and durability
  • Ideal for the recreational player
  • Outdoor Use
  • Youth Size Basketball 27.5 inches

User questions & answers

Question: How much do i have to pay for shipping for the green and white one
Answer: I paid nothing because I order along with other stuff and opt for the slow boat.
Question: Ours won’t stay inflated very long. Can someone suggest a better ball of the same size
Answer: Ours held air okay until it got run over by a car.
Question: How many ounces is this ball? Is it appropriate for a 9 year old
Answer: Start with the 27.5 inch one especially if it's their first basketball. Perfect for a 9 year old. My younger niece who's 7 still needs to throw it granny style to get the ball high enough to hit the rim.
Question: Why is the smaller ball more expensive than the larger balls
Answer: I am guessing they sell fewer of them and make fewer of them. Maybe?

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