Image: MomJunction Design Team
Basketball is a challenging and fast-paced sport that kids can benefit from. This game requires kids to play in teams of five and help them learn how to work with teammates to score baskets. The best basketballs for kids would be smaller than the standard ball size. You should choose a ball size depending on the age and size of your child to help them gain training mastery.
Be it practice at home or trying out at the school gym, bring home a good basketball for your little one to practice. In this post, we have listed some of the best-selling options.
Top Picks
9 Best Basketball For Kids
1. Best For Grip: Spalding NBA Street Basketball
This youth size basketball offers excellent grip and control so your kid can gain niche mastery and dominate the basketball court. This is the official game ball for all NBA games. Learn more about this grip-enhancing basketball by watching this review video showcasing a tester’s experience with this classic ball.
Pros
- Durable rubber material cover
- Good grip
- Deep channel design for better control
- Ideal for shooters
- Most suitable as an outdoor ball
Cons
- Inconsistent bounce when played indoors
"The best feature of this ball is its deep channel design, which offers sufficient grip to my little one. It even feels durable and has been used for a few months. While the ball requires occasional re-inflation, it's been a solid choice for casual playing."
2. Best For Indoor Play: Wilson Evolution Game Basketball
You do not have to think much about the quality of this basketball because it has been approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations. This review cum testing video will provide you with added insights about it.
Pros
- Cushion core carcass makes the ball soft to touch
- Evo microfiber composite cover wicks moisture and offers a good grip
- Laid-in composite channel design provides better control
- Most suitable for indoor play
Cons
- Some may have faulty seams
3. Best Noise-Free: SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop 5-Inch Foam Basketball
This mini ball is for your little one who wants to play basketball but is not tall enough to reach the actual hoop. It is a five-inch foam ball that is ideal for indoors.
Pros
- Does not generate much noise
- Ideal option for playing indoors
Cons
- Outer cover flakes off easily
"The foam construction of this ball is much appreciated as it keeps the ball from being noisy. My children have been using the ball for a few months, and it has withstood their rough play. It does have slight grip issues, but on the whole, it has been perfect for the skill levels of my young children."
Spalding NBA Street Basketball Best For Grip | Wilson Evolution Game Basketball Best For Indoor Play | SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop 5-Inch Foam Basketball Best Noise-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Orange | Game Ball | Orange |
| Material | Rubber | Composite | Synthetic |
| Outer Material | Nylon | - | Neoprene |
| Dimensions LxWxH | 10 x 10 x 10 inches | 8.8 x 8.2 x 6.6 inches | 5 x 5 x 5 inches |
| Weight | 1 Pounds | - | 0.1 Kilograms |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 6,677 | 12,270 | 636 |
| Price | $38.36 | $78.44 | $7.99 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best For Outdoors: Mikasa BX1000 Premium Rubber Basketball
Available in the regular orange color, this inflatable basketball is designed for outdoor adventures. It is a regular basketball for beginners that is reasonably priced. Take a look at this review video to learn more about the classic ball and make an informed buying decision.
Pros
- Good option for rookie players
- Rubber material cover offers a good grip
- Suitable for boys as well as girls
- Available in sizes 4 and 5
Cons
- Frequent inflation required for optimum usage
"This ball has been the ideal find for my children's youth league games. Some may find minor cosmetic issues, but it has been durable enough to sustain long practice sessions. Plus, it holds air well and offers nice bounce in indoor and outdoor areas."
Quick tip5. Best For Dribbling: Amazon Basics Basketball
The Amazon Basics PU composite leather ball is suitable for intermediate players looking to improve their game. The durable basketball can withstand the test of time and its unique design provides excellent grip and control for dribbling.
Pros
- Has a microfiber cover for better grip
- Includes an air pump
- Available in different materials and sizes
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Might deflate earlier than expected
- Pump might not be great
"My child loves the grip and feel of this basketball. I had concerns about its durability, but it has been going strong for a few months. Also, the included air pump was a pleasant and welcomed surprise."
6. Best Air Pressure Control: Chance Premium Indoor/Outdoor Basketball
Not sure whether to buy an outdoor basketball or indoor basketball? Go for this playground basketball suitable for indoor and outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Suitable both as an indoor and outdoor ball
- Available in various color combinations
- Deep channels enable good grip and control
- Butyl bladder controls air pressure and maintains a perfect round shape
Cons
- Deflates easily after a few uses
"The first thing that attracted me to this ball was its unique color scheme. Besides, the ball has offered good bounce, and its high-quality components provide consistent performance. While I wish it came with an air pump, I am happy with my purchase."
Do rememberYou should take safety measures seriously and make your child wear snug shoes and a mouth guard while playing basketball to help prevent injuries.
7. Best For Visibility: Omotiya LED Light Up Basketball
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 190 reviews on Amazon.
Omotiya’s light-up basketball is an ideal gift for children who love to play basketball at night, as it has impact-activated LED lights. The quality-tested junior basketball comes pre-installed with batteries and can provide long-lasting fun regardless of the lighting conditions.
Pros
- Comes with a pump and tool for battery replacement
- Has a durable rubber inner tank
- Waterproof material
- Instructional manual included
- Helps improve hand-eye coordination
Cons
- Batteries might need to be replaced at regular intervals
- Air valves might be slightly leaky
"My kids were gifted this glow-in-the-dark basketball, and it's been a hit for nighttime play. The ball was easy to inflate and lit up on every bounce, keeping my kids excited throughout the playtime. Although different from traditional balls, it has been a fun addition to the collection."
8. Best For Training: Baden SkilCoach Shooter’s Rubber Training Basketball
For kids who are new to the game of basketball or want to learn the game, this rubber training basketball can be of great help. The youth basketball is designed to help improve hand positioning and shooting technique, helping your child achieve training mastery.
Pros
- Hand graphics created to suit both left- and right-handed players
- Rubber ball cover makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor games
- Wound core ensures air retention and good bounce
Cons
- Ball loses air quickly
"I got this basketball to teach my child the basics of proper hand placement, and the ball has been serving the purpose well. Its marking got lighter with constant use, but it's been a good starting point for my little one, who is just beginning his learning journey."
Did you know?9. Best Shape Retention: Franklin Sports Junior 27.5-Inch USA Basketball
The red, white, and blue panels of this excellent ball pay tribute to the rich basketball traditions in America. The rich color makes this junior-size ball enticing for children. This widely tested colorful basketball offers good grip and control to help your little basketball player learn quickly.
Pros
- Polyester winding promotes good bounce and perfect shape retention
- Pro width channels enable better control over shots
- High-tack rubber ball cover offers a good grip
Cons
- Lacks durability and loses air within a few days
"I purchased this ball as a birthday gift for my nephew, and he was super impressed with its colors. The size is perfect for his little hands, and the remarkable grip makes maneuvering the ball easy. All in all, it's proven to be a good buy."
How To Choose The Right Basketball For Kids?
Consider the following points while buying a basketball for kids.
- Size and weight: Consider the ball’s size and weight to find a suitable one for your child. If your child is a beginner, consider lightweight basketballs for easy playing. For children aged between nine and 11 years, the ideal basketball size and weight could be 5 and 27.5 inches respectively. For younger kids, you can opt for balls made of foam, which are easy to grip and a lot lighter than other basketballs.
- Durability: Most basketballs are made of rubber, but foam ones are also quite light and suitable for younger children. Check the sturdiness, stitching, firmness, and other factors to ensure long-lasting durability.
- Grip: The basketball’s grip depends on the material it is made of. Choose balls that offer a good grip and conveniently stick to your hands.
- Indoor/outdoor basketball: The choice of kids’ basketball also depends upon where the child is going to play. For instance, indoor balls, when used outside, get damaged as they are not designed for rough surfaces. So, check the specifications and composition to find the right ball.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the type of basketball matter?
Yes, it is important to choose an expert-approved basketball based on the type of court, i.e., indoor or outdoor courts. While full grain, genuine leather balls are ideal for indoors, it is best to invest in a heavy-duty basketball that can survive rough play on the concrete.
2. How do I know if a basketball is of good quality?
Look for features, such as a deep channel design, a rubber cover, yarn or polyester winding, a butyl bladder, and a uniform pebble surface to ensure the quality of a basketball.
3. What basketballs have the best grip?
Basketballs with a deep channel design, a rubber cover, and a uniform pebble surface offer a better grip.
4. How long does a basketball last?
It depends on the durability of the basketball and the material used in the basketball. Basketballs made of leather tend to last longer than rubber basketballs.
5. Does water damage a basketball?
Excessive exposure to water can damage the basketball. However, you can use a damp cloth to clean your basketball.
6. Is basketball safe for kids?
It is always recommended to supervise your child while playing any kind of sport. Look for appropriate-sized balls that are lightweight and offer good grip to ensure the safety of your child.
The Bottom Line
If your child is a sports enthusiast, the right basketball can elevate their playing experience. Playing basketball comes with various benefits, including teaching children team-building skills while improving their hand-eye coordination. But before you go on and buy your child a basketball, ensure it is of the right size and weight, as giving them a smaller or bigger one could hinder their game. Also, ensure the basketball is made from durable materials to last longer. Our top two choices are the Spalding NBA Street Basketball, which offers excellent grip and control, and the Wilson Evolution Game Basketball, which is suitable for indoors and has been approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
Infographic: A Quick Guide To Different Basketball Types
Basketballs are divided into different types depending on where they are used. The play surface helps you choose the basketball you need for the game. We have compiled a list in the infographics below to help you understand the various types. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Why Trust MomJunction?
Our team of writers and reviewers has compiled this list of the best basketballs for your kids with features such as weight, size, and durability. After careful research, we have included best-selling basketballs that are fit for indoor and outdoor games and explained ways to choose a quality ball based on the child’s requirements. Every product offers pros and cons with detailed descriptions to make your buying experience smoother, quicker, and easier.
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