Although you can play water volleyball with a variety of different types of balls, from beach balls to basketballs, and soccer balls to volleyballs, your best bet is to get a purpose-built water volleyball ball. Most other types of balls (for example, soccer balls and traditional indoor volleyballs) are not waterproof and will become saturated with water over time.
A good water volleyball is always waterproof. It will be able to withstand the rigors of chlorinated pool water or lake water. Most balls are coated with vinyl or plastic to make them waterproof. Some water volleyball balls have a soft coating on the outside to make the ball easier to grip and less painful when the ball hits bare skin (like an open palm or someone unlucky enough to get hit with a spiked ball). Water volleyballs are often brightly colored to make them easier to see in the water.
Water volleyball balls are usually larger and heavier than traditional volleyball balls, which makes them easier to keep afloat in the water. The extra weight also makes them more challenging to hit, which can make for more exciting games. Water volleyball balls are typically inflated to a lower pressure than regular volleyballs, which makes them softer and easier to grip.
Water volleyball is a fun and challenging game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. It is a great way to stay cool in the summer heat and can be a great workout. If you are looking for a new and exciting game to play in the water, consider water volleyball.
Choosing the Right Water Volleyball Ball
When selecting a water volleyball ball, consider the following features:
Size and Weight: Look for balls that are slightly larger than standard volleyballs, usually around 9-10 inches in diameter. The extra size and weight help the ball perform better in water conditions.
Material Durability: High-quality water volleyball balls use marine-grade materials that resist degradation from sun exposure, chlorine, and salt water. Premium options often feature multi-layer construction with reinforced seams.
Grip Texture: The best water volleyball balls have a textured surface that provides optimal grip even when wet. This texture helps players maintain control during serves, sets, and spikes.
Inflation System: Some water volleyball balls come with special valves that make inflation easier and prevent water from entering the ball. Look for balls with secure, waterproof valve systems.
Popular Brands and Models
Several manufacturers specialize in water sports equipment and offer water volleyball balls designed for different playing conditions:
Mikasa Aqua Rally Serie A: Known for excellent durability and consistent performance in both pool and open water environments.
SwimWays Coop Watervolley: Features a soft-touch exterior that reduces impact on players’ hands while maintaining good bounce characteristics.
Runleaps Water Volleyball: Popular for its highly visible colors and balanced weight distribution that helps with consistent play.
Game Variations and Rules
Water volleyball can be adapted based on your playing environment:
Pool Volleyball: Typically played in the shallow end of swimming pools with a net stretched across. Standard rules apply but with allowances for movement in water.
Deep Water Volleyball: Played in deeper water where players must tread water continuously. This variation provides an intense workout and tests both volleyball skills and aquatic endurance.
Beach-to-Water Volleyball: A hybrid game where players move between sand and shallow water, adding an interesting dynamic to traditional beach volleyball.
Maintenance and Care
To extend the life of your water volleyball ball:
- Rinse with fresh water after use in chlorinated pools or salt water
- Allow to dry completely before storage to prevent mildew
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Maintain proper inflation levels as recommended by the manufacturer
- Check regularly for signs of wear or damage to the outer coating
Water volleyball is a fun and challenging game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. It is a great way to stay cool in the summer heat and can be a great workout. If you are looking for a new and exciting game to play in the water, consider water volleyball. With the right equipment, particularly a quality water volleyball ball designed specifically for aquatic play, you’ll enjoy hours of splashing fun and competitive action.