Best Basketballs for Outdoor of 2026
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Basketballs for outdoor use are specially designed to withstand the harsh elements of outdoor play. These basketballs are made with durable materials that can handle the rough surface of outdoor courts and maintain their shape and grip even after prolonged use. They are also designed to provide excellent bounce and control, making them ideal for outdoor games and practice sessions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, there's a perfect outdoor basketball for you. So, grab your ball and head to the court for some fun in the sun.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Basketballs for Outdoor
WILSON NCAA Street Shot Basketball
The WILSON NCAA Street Shot Basketball - 29.5" is an official-sized ball suitable for boys age 14 and up, with an extended durability thanks to an internal pressure-lock bladder. Its durable rubber cover allows for both indoor and outdoor play, while Wilson's Total Grip Technology provides enhanced softness and grip. The deeper channels between the panels of the ball allow for more grip points and better ball control when dribbling and shooting.
AND1 Fantom Rubber Basketball
The AND1 Fantom Basketball is a high-quality rubber basketball designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It is regulation size 7 (29.5”) and features an easy-to-palm grip, making it perfect for players of all ages. The deep channel construction enhances ball grip and control, allowing for better dribbling and shooting. This durable basketball is built to withstand wear and tear, ensuring it will last through countless games. Whether you're playing on concrete or hardwood floors, the AND1 Fantom Basketball will brighten up your game and provide hours of fun and excitement. Please note that the basketball comes deflated and a pump is not included.
Wilson NCAA Street Shot Basketball
The Wilson Street Shot Basketball is a versatile basketball suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. With an intermediate size of 28.5 inches, it is ideal for girls aged 12 and up, and boys aged 12-13. The ball features an internal pressure-lock bladder, ensuring long-term durability and air retention, so you don't have to worry about constantly inflating it. Wilson's signature Total Grip Technology provides enhanced softness and grip, allowing more players to palm the ball comfortably. Additionally, the deeper channels between the panels of the ball offer better ball control when dribbling and shooting. With its all-court performance and ultimate grip, the Wilson Street Shot Basketball is a reliable choice for players of all skill levels.
Wilson NBA Authentic Indoor/Outdoor Basketball
The Wilson NBA Basketball offers great performance whether you play indoors or outdoors. Its Dual Depth Technology means the channels are deeper, giving you a better grip and more control during the game. The moisture-wicking cover helps keep the ball dry, so your hands won’t slip, even if you sweat. Thanks to the Ever Bounce system, the ball maintains a consistent bounce with every dribble, making your play more reliable. Plus, the air retention lining keeps the ball inflated longer, so you spend less time pumping it up and more time playing.
Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball
The Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball is an official size and weight basketball, designed for both indoor and outdoor play. It features a Zi/O Tournament composite cover and is shipped inflated and game ready. Customers have praised its good touch on concrete, even bounces, and great value for the money. However, some have noted that the grip is not as good as other brands.
Wilson NBA Authentic Outdoor Basketball
The Wilson NBA Basketball is designed for outdoor play, featuring the official NBA branding that showcases its authenticity. With a unique TACKSKIN cover, this ball provides an exceptional grip, making it easier for you to handle in various weather conditions. Its inflation retention lining ensures that the ball maintains its air pressure for longer, reducing the need for frequent inflations. Additionally, the NBA pro seams enhance the ball's channel construction, catering to player preferences for a better feel and control. This basketball is built to elevate your game, whether you're practicing or playing competitively.
Spalding Street Outdoor Basketball
The Spalding Street Outdoor Basketball is a great choice for outdoor play. It features an official size and weight of size 7, 29.5" and a performance outdoor rubber cover for superior control. It comes deflated, so you'll need to pump it up before use. Customers have praised the ball for its durability and good grip, although some have noted that it can take a while to arrive and may come deflated.
Spalding Zi/O TF Excel Basketball
The Spalding Zi/O TF Excel Basketball is an official size 7, 29.5" ball designed for both indoor and outdoor play. It features a Zi/O Tournament composite cover and foam-backed design for an excellent feel. The basketball is shipped inflated and game-ready, allowing users to start playing right away.
Wilson NBA Forge Basketball Size 6
The Wilson NBA Forge Ball offers a great playing experience for both indoor and outdoor courts. Its Dual Depth Technology provides a deeper channel, giving you a better grip and more control during your game. The PureFeel Cover delivers a professional touch, making the ball feel smooth and responsive for improved performance. Thanks to its special inflation lining, the ball keeps air longer, so you won't have to pump it up as often. Whether you're practicing or playing competitively, this basketball is designed to help you play with confidence and comfort.
AND1 Chaos Rubber Basketball
The AND1 Chaos rubber basketball is an official size ball with easy to palm grip, designed to play anywhere. It features advanced deep channel construction that improves ball grip and control for dribbling and shooting, making it perfect for youth players. This rubber basketball is made from high quality rubber material and built to last and withstand wear and tear. However, it comes deflated, and you need to inflate it using a needle pump (not included).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What kind of basketball is best for outdoors?
Best Outdoor Basketballs. Molten BG3000 Outdoor Basketball.Spalding TF 250 Basketball.Wilson NCAA Replica Outdoor Basketball.Nike Elite Competition Outdoor Basketball.Airball Black & White Outdoor Basketball.Wilson FIBA 3×3 Official Game Basketball.Nike Dominate Outdoor Basketball.Spalding NBA Zi/O Excel Basketball.
2. Can you use NBA ball outdoors?
Indoor basketballs are made from softer materials than basketball made for outdoor use. Therefore, indoor basketballs will wear and tear quicker and are therefore not suited for use outdoors. Outdoor basketball courts are mostly made of concrete flooring.
3. What is the difference between indoor and outdoor basketballs?
That's because indoor balls are made from full-grain leather. The leather gives them better grip and feel. Outdoor basketballs focus less on the feel and grip than on durability. Very few leagues and no professional games are played in the elements, and outdoor balls are made for recreational players.
During our basketball for outdoor research, we found 24 basketball for outdoor products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 157,746 customer reviews through our big data system to write the basketballs for outdoor list. We found that most customers choose basketballs for outdoor with an average price of $27.44.
The basketballs for outdoor are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of basketballs for outdoor, including WILSON, AND1, Spalding. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
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.