What should be taken into account?
While there are more factors beyond this simple list, the following considerations will point you in the right direction and be a good place to start for most. Our selection takes these factors into account.
Size
Different age groups play with smaller balls, including official women’s game balls and official men’s game balls. Here’s a breakdown of what each ball looks like (note: sizes are measured in inches and indicate circumference):
- Size 4 (25.5 inches and 14 oz.) – This is the smallest youth basketball, generally ideal for children ages 5 to 8 and great for boys and girls alike.
- Size 5 (26.5 inches and 17 oz.) – The slightly larger basketball is the second youth basketball size and the standard size for middle school students. Perfect for boys or girls ages 9 to 11.
- Size 6 (28.5 inches and 20 oz.) – This ball is the official game ball size for girls and women ages 12 and up. It is also a great ball for boys ages 12-14.
- Size 7 (29.5 inches and 22 oz.) – This is the official NBA ball size for all boys and men ages 15 and up.
Materials
This may seem obvious to some, but it is still something to consider when shopping. Basketballs come in many different materials, but the most common are synthetic composite balls or real leather. Sometimes you can find rubber ones, which are often good for children.
Cost
As with anything you buy, you need to set a budget. If money is no object, real leather basketballs can cost a few hundred dollars, while composite basketballs can be found at a much more affordable price. Rubber basketballs are usually the most cost-effective, making them an excellent choice.
Playing area
This is what you should consider when buying a basketball – the court you plan to play on most often. Generally, there are indoor hardwood floors and outdoor surfaces made of concrete or asphalt. Most composite balls and rubber basketballs can handle the harsh conditions of the outdoors, while other balls are only suitable for indoor use. Regardless of which ball you choose, make sure the ball is suitable for your playing preferences.
How we selected
The focus of our work at Men’s health is consistent research into all aspects of fitness and wellness, and a good portion of it sometimes falls into the sports category. Our editors have researched and reviewed the best basketballs on the market. Each option on this list was rated based on size, price, bounce and durability, and general intended use. Through constant testing, including multiple games and shooting drills, we were able to compile a solid list of some of the best basketball options on the market, whether you have the money for the NBA’s official game ball or want something more wallet-friendly – our list has something for everyone. Keep scrolling to learn more.
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Best basketball overall
Official Wilson NBA Basketball Game
Yes. Two hundred dollars for a single ball might seem a bit excessive, but if you want the best of the best when it comes to basketballs, you want the official game ball of the NBA – this masterpiece from Wilson. It’s made of genuine leather that feels a little rough and smooth when you first use it. But after you get used to it, it gets more comfortable (and better) over time.
“This is the best ball there is,” says Johnson, who has played with every basketball in the world. “When the NBA switched from Spaulding to Wilson a few years ago, it was a shock to the system. But I think the players have gotten used to this ball now and it feels great.”
Although the price is high, this ball is also very durable, thanks in part to Wilson’s “Ever Bounce” inner bladder, which makes the ball retain air better than others. However, we should note that this ball should only be used for indoor hardwood courts, as the genuine leather can easily get damaged and scuffed when used outdoors.
| composition | Genuine leather |
|---|---|
| Size | 7 – 29.5″ |
| Playing area | Interior |
Best budget basketball
Wilson Wilson NCAA Final Four Edition Basketball
If you’re looking for a better basketball while also being mindful of the cost, this is one of the best budget basketballs you’ll find while still offering the performance of a more expensive choice. This composite basketball is modeled after the NCAA’s official game balls and can be used for both indoor and outdoor games.
“The texture of this ball is slightly different from the official game ball,” says Johnson. “But everything else is the same, from the size to the stitching, which is what I like about Wilson. They give you better control of the ball when you throw it.”
Some may think that a ball under $20 won’t last more than a few weeks, but this ball outlasts the competition and then some. Not only is it incredibly durable, but it also feels and performs like the official game balls thanks to its unique composite material that feels like leather. If you’re a budget-conscious basketball player, this basketball is for you.
| composition | Composite material |
|---|---|
| Size | 6 or 7 – 28.5″ or 29.5″ |
| Playing area | Indoors or outdoors |
The best basketball for indoor and outdoor games
Spalding Zi/O Excel TF basketball for indoor and outdoor use
Disadvantages
- After prolonged use, bladder deformation may develop
- The official ball bounce is missing
Rather than buying a basketball for different occasions, namely indoor or outdoor games, it’s a smart investment to find one that will perform in all conditions. This Zi/O ball from Spalding is one of the best in this regard, essentially serving as a hybrid ball thanks to its high-quality composite leather cover.
“I own a few different basketballs, including this Excel from Spalding,” says Charles Thorp, Fitness & Commerce Editor at Men’s health. “This ball is great for all occasions, whether I’m meeting the guys at the gym or dribbling it to the court across the street. And the price is reasonable, so it’s not a big deal if it gets lost or damaged during an impromptu game.
What really sets this ball apart from others is its internal features as it features a foam backed construction that gives it a good bounce both indoors and, most importantly, on outdoor courts. The slightly tacky feel comes right out of the box and requires minimal break-in time so you can get straight into your training or matches.
| composition | Composite material |
|---|---|
| Size | 6 or 7 – 28.5″ or 29.5″ |
| Playing area | Indoors or outdoors |
Best basketball for international games
Molten Molten GL7X Official FIBA Basketball
In the world of international basketball play, FIBA (International Basketball Federation) is the governing body and this ball is officially recognized by that committee. While you may have noticed a slightly different looking ball at the Olympics, this multi-colored ball is the one the pros use.
“This ball handles really well,” says Johnson, who recently gained a lot of experience with the Molten while preparing some players for the Paris Olympics. “Even though the ball is a size 7, it somehow feels smaller in the hand, so it’s definitely worth a look for people who want to play with people from all over the world.”
These balls do come with a buyer beware note, as counterfeits are quite common. So if you want the official leather ball used during games, this is the one to get – it comes with a guarantee of authenticity. While this leather basketball is a bit of a bigger investment, it’s a great addition to any serious basketball player’s collection.
| composition | Genuine leather |
|---|---|
| Size | 7 – 29.5″ |
| Playing area | Interior |
Best Outdoor Basketball
Spalding Spalding Street Basketball for outdoors
For anyone who loves streetball, this basketball is for you. Nothing fancy, just a rubber basketball that will keep your love of the game alive while standing up to the outdoor elements. Concrete courts and baskets, chain link netting and metal rims, park benches, puddles – no matter what court you play on or near, this ball is built to withstand the toughest conditions.
“In the past, the outdoor basketballs that were sold back then didn’t last more than a few weeks,” says Johnson. “But that’s no longer the case. Big brands like Spalding recognized the need and developed balls that could hold up on the street, where real games are played.”
Aside from the fact that it lasts forever, we also love the nostalgic vibe it brings to those who grew up playing the game. This would have been the ball you played with at school during recess on a beautiful spring day. Pure nostalgia and at a super affordable price too.
| composition | rubber |
|---|---|
| Size | 7 – 29.5″ |
| Playing area | Outdoors |
Charles Thorp is the fitness and trade editor at Men’s Health, where he provides the best product recommendations for fitness equipment, recovery aids, nutritional supplements, and more. After an early career as an athlete, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began co-writing programs with the most respected coaches in the world.
Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train with high-performance athletes from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympians, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about workout programs or equipment, you can find him in the gym or in the great outdoors putting them to the test.
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