Are you looking for the best outdoor basketball that can bring your family together?
Nothing unites a family quite like sports, and basketball is a game that everyone, from the littlest dribblers to the most seasoned shooters, can enjoy.
Whether it's a game of HORSE or full-court pickup, having the right basketball is key to making sure everyone has fun.
But to make those family playtimes truly memorable, you need the right equipment. That's why we've taken the time to review and reveal the best outdoor basketballs that cater to all ages and skill levels, from junior phenoms to regulation pros.
We also reviewed some of the options that are available with glow-in-the-dark technology so you can keep playing well into dusk or even watch well after dark! See the BONUS FEATURE at the end of the article.
Get ready to elevate your family's hoop sessions with these top-notch basketballs that promise to deliver durability, performance, and fun for everyone!
But, before we get started with our choices, you may be wondering,
How do you tell if a basketball is indoor or outdoor?
Spalding, Streetball and Outdoor Basketball compared to Spalding Legacy Indoor Basketball
The difference between an indoor and outdoor basketball is all about the material and design. Here's how you can spot the key differences:
- Material: Indoor basketballs are typically made of full-grain leather, which offers a softer feel and requires a break-in period. Outdoor balls, on the other hand, are usually made from rubber or durable composite materials that can withstand rough surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
- Grip: Leather basketballs designed for indoor use have a smoother surface that provides a consistent grip, essential for the polished wooden floors of indoor courts. Outdoor basketballs have a more rugged, pebbled surface to maintain grip on the dustier and more uneven outdoor playing fields.
- Bounce: Indoor basketballs are often more responsive and have a true bounce due to the softer leather surface and the controlled indoor environment. Outdoor basketballs are designed to retain their shape and bounce on harder, outdoor surfaces which can be irregular and harder on the ball.
- Durability: The durability of an outdoor basketball is higher than an indoor ball due to its tough exterior. It's made to resist abrasion and last longer in harsh outdoor conditions.
If you check these key things, for example, you can easily tell if a basketball is meant for indoor or outdoor play. Using the right type of ball for the right environment not only enhances performance but also ensures the longevity of the ball.
Editors Top Pick
The Spalding NBA Zi/O Excel is our top pick for the best outdoor basketball. This ball is made from a composite leather material that is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor play. It also has a micro-textured surface that provides excellent grip and control. Check it out here!
Spalding ZI/O Outdoor Basketball is Available on Amazon!
How Did We Choose The Best Outdoor Basketball?
If you are looking for the best outdoor basketball, you want a ball that will keep you playing in all conditions, right? Let's face it, with extreme weather it's going to be tough to keep you on the court. But it makes sense you would want to wear some waterproof protection for the occasional rainy days or nights when you might be outdoors taking a few shots.
The outdoor basketballs we bought and researched needed to be quality construction, with a comfortable grip, have stood the test of time as far as reviews, and of course, could handle a bit of weather for playing outdoors.
But finding the right outdoor basketball for you and your family can be difficult, because there are SO MANY to choose from. That's where FavReviews comes into action. We find out what's trending, read through thousands of reviews and analyze different products related to outdoor basketballs, to find and shortlist the best of the best for you.
We trust that you'll find your next favorite item from the list we've researched for you below. All of these products have been hand-picked by our editors and we won't recommend something we wouldn't use in our own family. Some may even be items that we already use! We may receive a small compensation if you decide to buy something (that's how we keep the lights on). Some reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
Our team of writers have done some amazing research and we're happy to provide you with the best outdoor basketball in the following categories:
BEST OVERALL - Spalding NBA Zi/O
BEST GLOW IN THE DARK BASKETBALL FOR NIGHT PLAY
SUGGESTED SIZES FOR OUTDOOR BASKETBALLS
Recommended Sizes for Outdoor Basketballs Based on Age.
So what are you waiting for?
Pick up one of these balls today and start dominating your opponents.
Our Top 5 Picks - Both in Junior and Regulation Sizes
Outdoor basketballs are a classic way to bring family and friends together for some quality time outdoors. Whether you're shooting around with your kids in the driveway, or having an all-out pickup game at the court, nothing beats an outdoor basketball for a fun afternoon of play.
But when it comes to choosing the right ball for your needs, there are a lot of options out there.
Below, we review the best outdoor basketballs for family play from junior to regulation sizes and even those that will let you play into dusk and the night.
Read on to find out more about each ball and its unique features!
Spalding NBA Zi/O Excel
Best Overall Basketball
WHY IT's ONE OF OUR FAVS
The Spalding NBA Zi/O Excel is our top pick for the best overall basketball because it performs equally well both indoor outdoor. It's a composite leather basketball that is designed to withstand weather and outdoor play. The ball also has a mico-textured, slightly tacky, surface that provides excellent grip and ball handling control.
Get ready to dunk 'em and trip up your opponents. The composite leather Spalding Zi/O Indoor-Outdoor Basketball has a solid bounce, both at the gym and in the driveway. It's a great choice for indoor and outdoor basketball.
We also like that Spalding basketballs ship inflated and are game ready for you to jump on one of our hoops on your outdoor courts.
FAV FEATURES
Our fav features of this indoor-outdoor basketball include the composite leather material that is durable enough to withstand games outdoors. It bounces well on both indoor and outdoor courts.
The micro-textured surface provides excellent grip and control for you to easily palm the ball.
It is official size and weight, 29.5", size 7 and comes in the traditional Spalding basketball orange.
Your basketball player in the family won't be disappointed with this Spalding NBA, whether looking for indoor balls or outdoor balls.
Wilson NCAA Outdoor Basketball - 3 Sizes
BEST FOR BEGINNER
WHY IT's ONE OF OUR FAVS
The Wilson NCAA Outdoor Basketball is our second pick. It comes in four different models, the MVP, the Street Shot, the Killer Crossover, and Elevate VTX. Each are available in three standard sizes. You can see all four models and sizes in one place here on Amazon, shop now!
We like the Wilson NCAA series for beginners because they have a great reputation. They have stood the test of time and you can purchase the same official quality as a youth, basketball size, or beginner size. So this is a great ball choice for beginners from youth to official adult size.
FAV FEATURES
Looking specifically at the Wilson NCAA MVP ball it's made with a rubber cover construction designed to withstand the elements for outdoor use. These Wilson outdoor balls have an all-surface cover for a consistent bounce and wide channel construction to improve grip and ball control too.
The Wilson NCAA line of Outdoor Basketballs is our top pick for the very best basketball is for beginners because they are at a good price point, they have all the sizes, and styles you will want to show up looking official and ready to play.
This Wilson basketball ships inflated, but you should always be prepared to top up air pressure if necessary.
Molten BG3800 FIBA Approved 2-Tone Design
BEST VALUE
WHY IT's ONE OF OUR FAVS
The Molten BG3800 Series is our third pick for the best outdoor basketball.
This ball is made from a premium synthetic leather material that is designed to withstand the elements.
The ball also has a reinforced butyl bladder that provides excellent air retention.
The ball is FIBA approved and comes in size seven. It has a two-tone design that is easy to see.
FAV FEATURES
The ball is available in a size six, which is the official size for women's basketball. It has excellent air retention and is very durable.
This basketball is also quite affordable, making it a great value for the money.
The Molten BG3800 Series basketball ships deflated, so be prepared to have it inflated when it arrives.
Baden Contender Composite Basketball
BEST ALL-WEATHER OUTDOOR BASKETBALL
WHY IT's ONE OF OUR FAVS
The Baden Contender Composite Basketball is one of our favorites because it can be used both indoors and outdoors.
On one hand, it's a composite leather outdoor basketball that is super durable and weather resistant. On the other hand composite leather basketballs also perform well as an indoor ball. This makes street ball and the Baden Contender a perfect choice for the family that wants to play together whether they're in the driveway or on the court.
Composite balls also have excellent bounce and are very easy to control. We think it's a great choice for both beginners and experienced players alike.
FAV FEATURES
Some of our favorite features include excellent bounce, great durability, and easy control. We also really appreciate the fact that it can be used both indoors and outdoors.
This navy/white model is only available in intermediate and official size. But the Baden Contender comes in three colors, and all three sizes. It's the traditional orange color that is available in junior size.
When you check the price on Amazon Here (or by clicking the image) you will get access to see all three colors available and you will also get to select the correct size.
Nike Baller Basketball Full Size (29.5", Ages 13+)
BEST FOR OUTDOOR COMPETITION
WHY IT's ONE OF OUR FAVS
The Nike Baller Full Size Basketball is our fifth pick for the best outdoor basketball. Designed for outdoor competition, this is a great ball for those who want to be able to play in all kinds of weather conditions. It has an ultra durable cover and excellent bounce.
The Nike Baller Full Size, 29.5" Basketball is made from synthetic rubber blend material and has a Butyl rubber bladder for superior air retention.
The Nike Baller will arrive deflated, in original Nike box and packaging.
BONUS - Best Glow in the Dark Night Basketball
Glow City - Glow in the Dark, Regulation Size Basketball
GlowCity glow in the dark basketball is available on Amazon!
WHY IT's ONE OF OUR FAVS
We love the fact this basketball can provide up to 30 hours of nighttime, lit up play with one battery charge. The ball lights up with the first dribble and will turn itself off after playing!
With over 15,000 very positive Amazon reviews, there isn't another night play basketball that meets the quality standard of this GlowCity basketball.
Official size and weight, size 7, of a regulation basketball, so it feels right during play and will let you play well into dusk or nighttime.
FAV FEATURES
The GlowCity Basketball features two lights. Each glowing basketball keeps the lights safeguarded with a sturdy, water-resistant rubber exterior, so it's perfect for your outdoor or indoor games.
This glow in the dark basketball comes with easy to understand instructions and pre-installed batteries. You simply inflate the ball using a pump and start swishing in the shots. NOTE: The inflating pump is not included.
When it comes to choosing the best outdoor basketball, there are a lot of factors to consider. From size and construction materials to bounce and air retention, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. To make the decision easier, we have compiled some frequently asked questions about outdoor basketballs that will help guide you in finding the perfect one for your family.
What type of basketball is good for outdoors?
There are a few different types of outdoor basketballs that are good for different purposes. If you want a ball that is going to last longer and withstand the elements, then you will want to look for one that is made from synthetic leather or composite leather. These materials are designed to be more durable and weather-resistant.
If you are looking for a ball that you can use for both indoor and outdoor play, then you will want to look for a composite basketball. These balls are made with materials that make them durable and resistant to weather damage.
What size basketball should I get for outdoors?
The appropriate size of of the basketball you need will depend on who will be using it and for what purpose. If you are looking for a ball that can be used by both kids and adults, then you will want to look for a junior size or regulation size basketball. See our size chart in our article "Best Outdoor Basketball".
If you are looking for a ball that is specifically for kids, then you will want to look for a junior-size, 25" size 5 basketball. These balls are smaller and lighter, making them easier for kids to handle.
If you are looking for a ball that is specifically for adults (anyone over the age of 12 really), then you will want to look for an 'official' or regulation-size basketball. These balls are larger (29.5", size 7) and heavier, making them better suited for adult play.
What is the best material for an outdoor basketball?
The best material for an outdoor basketball will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you are looking for a ball that is durable and weather-resistant, then you will want to look for one that is made from synthetic leather or composite leather. These materials are designed to withstand the elements and last longer than other materials on an outdoor court.
If you are looking for a ball that can be used for both outdoor and indoor play, then you will want to look for a composite basketball. These balls are made with materials that make them durable and resistant to weather damage.
What is the best outdoor basketball for night play?
The best outdoor basketball for night play is the WILSON NCAA Outdoor Basketballs. This ball comes in several high-contrast color designs that makes it easier to see in low light conditions. It is also made with an Optima rubber cover with 16 panel construction making it durable and weather-resistant for outdoor play.
Do outdoor basketballs come deflated?
Some outdoor basketballs do come deflated, but not all of them. If you are unsure, it is always best to check the product listing or contact the seller to confirm.
Is a rubber ball better for outdoor basketball?
A rubber ball is not necessarily better for outdoor basketballs, but it is a good option. Rubber balls are generally more durable and can withstand the elements better than other materials. However, they are not as good at absorbing impact as some of the other options.
What makes an outdoor basketball different from an indoor basketball?
The main difference between an outdoor basketball and an indoor basketball is the material. Outdoor basketballs are made from materials that are designed to be more durable and weather-resistant. An indoor basketball is generally made from softer materials that are designed to absorb impact better.
So, there you have it.
Our top five picks for the best outdoor basketball. We hope that this has helped you narrow down your choices and that you will find the perfect basketball for your family. Happy shooting!
And, Happy Shopping!
Your FavReviews Team
P.S. - You may also like our article about the 5 best outdoor Basketball Shoes.
Michelle W.
Deborah Clarke
Deborah Clarke
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