Best Leather Basketballs of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Leather basketballs are a classic and durable choice for basketball enthusiasts. Made from high-quality leather, these basketballs offer superior grip and control on the court. They are designed to withstand the rigors of intense gameplay, while providing a comfortable feel in the hand. Leather basketballs are available in a range of sizes, from youth to professional, and come in a variety of colors to suit any team's style. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, a leather basketball is a great investment for anyone who loves the game.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

AND1 Street Grip Premium Composite Leather Basketball & Pump Cover #TOP 1
AND1 Street Grip Premium Composite Leather Basketball & Pump
ftb score rating icon 9.9
AND1 Hydrogrip Basketball & Pump Cover #TOP 2
AND1 Hydrogrip Basketball & Pump
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Molten MT666 PU Leather Basketball Cover #TOP 3
Molten MT666 PU Leather Basketball
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Leather Basketballs

AND1 Street Grip Premium Composite Leather Basketball & Pump

Orange
Size 7
AND1 Street Grip Premium Composite Leather Basketball & Pump Cover
AND1 Street Grip Premium Composite Leather Basketball & Pump- Official Size 7 (29.5”) Streetball, Made for Indoor and Outdoor Basketball Games (Orange)

The AND1 Street Grip Premium Composite Leather Basketball is an official size 7 (29.5”) ball made for both indoor and outdoor basketball games. It is made of premium composite leather with an easy-to-palm grip, and advanced deep channel construction that improves ball grip and control for dribbling and shooting, making it perfect for youth players. Additionally, it comes in a variety of fun and vibrant multi-color patterns, and a 12" inflation pump is included so that you can inflate it immediately and play right away.

What We Like
Premium composite leather for ultimate grip and control
Deep channel construction for improved ball grip and control
Comes in a variety of fun and vibrant multi-color patterns

AND1 Hydrogrip Basketball & Pump

5A1BK0157J9E2
Orange
Size 7
AND1 Hydrogrip Basketball & Pump Cover
AND1 Hydrogrip Premium Composite Leather Basketball & Pump- Official Size 7 (29.5”) Moisture Wicking Streetball, Made for Indoor and Outdoor Basketball Games (Orange)

The AND1 Hydrogrip Basketball is designed for both indoor and outdoor play, making it a versatile choice for basketball enthusiasts. Its official size and weight ensure a comfortable grip, allowing for better handling during games. Made with premium composite leather, this ball offers excellent durability and control, perfect for players at any level. The deep channel construction enhances grip and makes dribbling and shooting smoother, giving you an edge on the court. Plus, it comes with a convenient pump, so you can inflate it and start playing without delay.

What We Like
Durable composite leather
Enhanced grip for control
Official size and weight
Includes inflation pump
#TOP 3

Molten MT666 PU Leather Basketball

MERAZO
red brown
MT666 SIZE7
Molten MT666 PU Leather Basketball Cover
Molten Basketball MT666, PU Leather Classic 12-Piece Spliced Basketball, Indoor/Outdoor Basketball, Adult Men's, Women's and Youth Training Basketballs

The Molten Basketball MT666 is crafted from high-quality PU leather, ensuring long-lasting durability and a great feel for both indoor and outdoor play. Its classic spliced design promotes balanced weight distribution, enhancing stability and accuracy during your shots. This basketball is versatile, making it ideal for adults, women, and youth training, whether on courts or playgrounds. With an outstanding grip, you'll experience better control when dribbling, passing, or shooting, helping you elevate your game. It's perfect for both practice sessions and competitive matches, allowing you to adapt to various playing conditions.

What We Like
Durable PU leather material
Stable and accurate design
Versatile for all age groups
Excellent grip for control
#TOP 4

KUYOTQ Mini Size 3 Basketball

KUYOTQ 3-Orange-PU
KUYOTQ Mini Size 3 Basketball Cover
KUYOTQ Kids Toddler Size 3(22") Mini Basketball Small Basketball Soft Touch Indoor Outdoor Composite Leather Basketball for Boys Girls Age Under 5 Basketball Gifts (Deflated,Without Pump)

The KUYOTQ Mini Basketball is designed for young players, featuring a classic American style that's perfect for casual games at home or in school gyms. Constructed from high-quality materials, this basketball ensures durability, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. Its mini size (22 inches) is ideal for toddlers, providing a great way for kids to develop their basketball skills while having fun. The ball's soft texture offers excellent grip and responsiveness, enhancing your gameplay experience. Just remember, the ball comes deflated, so you'll need your own pump to get started.

What We Like
Durable construction
Great grip and feel
Perfect for toddlers
Classic American design
#TOP 5

Spalding TF-250 Basketball

74799A
Brown
Spalding TF-250 Basketball Cover
Spalding TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor Basketball 29.5"

The Spalding TF-250 basketball is an all-surface composite leather ball that comes in the official NBA size and weight of 29.5". The ball has a butyl rubber bladder for air retention, ensuring it stays inflated and ready for use. It's perfect for both indoor and outdoor play and is shipped inflated and ready to use right out of the box.

What We Like
Good grip and weight
Durable composite material
Versatile for indoor and outdoor play
#TOP 6

XEDGE 28.5” Size 6 Basketball Set

Purple
Size 6
XEDGE 28.5” Size 6 Basketball Set Cover
XEDGE Basketball 28.5” Size 6 Indoor Outdoor Leather Basketball Set (Purple, Size 6)

The XEDGE Basketball Set is designed for serious players looking for quality and convenience. It comes with a 28.5” basketball, a black carrying bag, two needles, and a pump for easy inflation. The butyl bladder provides excellent air retention, ensuring your ball stays inflated longer. Its nylon winding helps maintain shape, preventing deformation during play. The performance-grade leather absorbs sweat quickly and offers a non-slip grip, enhancing your control. Additionally, the foam carcass makes the ball softer, providing a comfortable feel in your hands. This set is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

What We Like
Includes carrying bag
Quick sweat absorption
Soft and comfortable grip
Durable and shape-retaining
#TOP 7

Spalding React TF-250 Basketball

76820A
Orange
Spalding React TF-250 Basketball Cover
Spalding React TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor Basketball 29.5"

The Spalding React TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor Basketball 29.5" has an all-surface performance composite cover that provides a solid grip for total control, and the Spalding Shooter's Seam is designed for instant ball recognition, exceptional control, and precise accuracy. It is perfect for use in any location, from the driveway to the gym. The ball comes inflated and ready to play.

What We Like
Composite cover for excellent grip and control
Designed for instant ball recognition, exceptional control, and precise accuracy
All-surface play, from the driveway to the gym
#TOP 8

Cannon Sports Composite Leather Basketball

Orange
Cannon Sports Composite Leather Basketball Cover
Cannon Sports Composite Leather Basketball for Team Games, Training & Practice - Official Size 7-29.5" Men's Basketball, Indoor & Outdoor Basketball - Good Grip & Bounce - Pump Included - Orange

The Cannon Sports Basketball is designed for serious players who value performance. Its superior grip allows you to handle the ball with ease, enhancing your control during games and practices. Made with durable composite leather, this basketball is built to last longer than traditional options, giving you a professional feel on any surface. It also offers consistent bounce and feel, ensuring reliable performance rain or shine. Whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, this versatile ball is perfect for all skill levels, making every game enjoyable for everyone.

What We Like
Excellent grip and handling
Durable composite leather
Consistent performance in any weather
Versatile for all skill levels
#TOP 9

CtopoGo 29.5" PU Leather Basketball

Red+ Purple+ White
Size 7
CtopoGo 29.5" PU Leather Basketball Cover
CtopoGo Basketball 29.5" PU Leather Street Basketballs Streetball for Indoor Outdoor Games, Official Size 7 Basketballs Training/Match Basketball (Red+ Purple+ White)

The CtopoGo Basketball is an official size 7 ball, perfect for players over 15 years old, including adults. Its lightweight design and strong grip make it easy to handle during games. Constructed from durable PU material, this ball is suitable for both indoor and outdoor play, ensuring you can practice anywhere. The advanced "full grip" technology enhances your control, making it easier to dribble and shoot. With its impressive durability, this basketball can withstand tough games, keeping its shape and air retention for longer-lasting performance.

What We Like
Official size and lightweight
Durable PU material
Enhanced grip for control
Suitable for indoor and outdoor

PATTONLEX Basketball - Official Size 7 (29.5") - Composite Leather - Indoor/Outdoor Ball for Men(Brown)

PATTONLEX
PTBSKPT7000-101
Brown
29.5"-Adult Size 7
PATTONLEX Basketball - Official Size 7 (29.5") - Composite Leather - Indoor/Outdoor Ball for Men(Brown) Cover
PATTONLEX Basketball - Official Size 7 (29.5") - Composite Leather - Indoor/Outdoor Ball for Men(Brown/Leather)

PATTONLEX Official Size 7 Basketball is a versatile basketball suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. With its premium composite leather cover, this basketball offers a great grip and control for dribbling and shooting. Whether you're playing on a court or in your backyard, this basketball is built to last and withstand wear and tear. It features deep channel construction, providing excellent grip and control. Additionally, this basketball comes with a pump, needle, and net pocket, making it easy to inflate and take with you wherever you go. Get ready to hit the court and enjoy the game with the PATTONLEX Official Size 7 Basketball.

What We Like
Official Size 7
Premium Composite Leather
Durable and Long-lasting
Buying Guide Image

Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best Leather Basketballs

Introduction

Leather basketballs are a staple of the sport, offering a classic look and superior grip compared to synthetic materials. However, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing a leather basketball, so you can make an informed decision and get the ball that best suits your needs.

Material and Construction

One of the first things to consider when choosing a leather basketball is the material and construction. Leather is a durable and long-lasting material, but not all leather is created equal. Look for balls made of full-grain leather, which is the highest quality and most durable type of leather. Full-grain leather is made from the top layer of the hide and has not been sanded or buffed to remove imperfections, which gives it a natural texture and superior grip.

Another important factor to consider is the construction of the ball. Look for balls that are hand-stitched, as this allows for a more precise and durable seam. Hand-stitching also allows for better control of the ball, as the laces are evenly distributed and do not interfere with the surface of the ball.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the ball are also important factors to consider. Basketballs come in different sizes, ranging from size 5 (for kids and beginners) to size 7 (for adults and professional players). Size 5 balls are typically 25.5 inches in circumference and weigh around 14 ounces, while size 7 balls are typically 29.5 inches in circumference and weigh around 22 ounces.

It is important to choose a ball that is the right size and weight for your skill level and playing style. For example, a smaller and lighter ball may be easier to handle and control for a beginner, while a larger and heavier ball may be better suited for a more advanced player who wants to develop their strength and stamina.

Brand and Price

Another factor to consider when choosing a leather basketball is the brand and price. There are many reputable brands on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits. Some popular options include Spalding, Wilson, and Molten.

It is important to do your research and compare the different brands to find the one that offers the best combination of quality, performance, and value for money. Keep in mind that the price of a basketball can vary widely, from around $20 to $100 or more, depending on the brand and quality. It is important to find a ball that fits within your budget, but also offers the features and performance you need.

Conclusion

Choosing the right leather basketball can enhance your performance and enjoyment of the game. By considering the material and construction, size and weight, brand and price, you can find the ball that is right for you and your playing style. With a high-quality leather basketball, you can take your game to the next level and enjoy the classic look and feel of the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does NBA use leather basketballs?

Yes, the NBA uses leather basketballs for their official games. These basketballs are made with genuine leather, which may require some breaking in. If you're used to playing with a composite ball, which is made of synthetic material that feels like leather, the genuine leather basketball may feel different initially.

2. Are leather basketballs better than rubber basketballs?

Leather basketballs are preferred by professional leagues because they are the softest and most comfortable to play with. Over time, the leather basketballs season and become even softer. However, they are also more expensive and should only be used on indoor court surfaces. Rubber basketballs, on the other hand, are more durable and suitable for outdoor use.

3. Can you use a leather basketball outdoors?

It is not recommended to use a leather basketball outdoors. Leather basketballs are designed for indoor use as they are more delicate and prone to splitting or cracking on rough outdoor courts. On the other hand, outdoor basketballs are specifically designed to withstand the rough surfaces and conditions of outdoor play. It is generally safe to use an outdoor basketball indoors.

Editor's Notes

During our leather basketball research, we found 24 leather basketball products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 39,773 customer reviews through our big data system to write the leather basketballs list. We found that most customers choose leather basketballs with an average price of $27.51.

The leather basketballs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of leather basketballs, including AND1, MERAZO, KUYOTQ, Spalding, XEDGE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.