Pickleball balls: indoor vs outdoor, specs and Australian prices

Indoor and outdoor balls look almost the same but play differently. Here is the difference, and what to buy.

What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleballs?

The hole counts above come from Rebel Sport's indoor vs outdoor guide and the product names. The rulebook (rule 3.C.1) only says the larger-hole ball is customarily used indoors and the smaller-hole ball outdoors, and that all approved balls are acceptable for indoor or outdoor play. So an outdoor ball indoors is not illegal, it is just not the custom.

What are the official pickleball ball specifications?

USA Pickleball's Equipment Standards Manual sets the test standards for approved balls. The copy I could access is the 2021 edition, so newer editions may differ slightly:

The 2026 rulebook adds that a ball must be one uniform colour (colours may vary), must carry a manufacturer or supplier name or logo, and must be made of durable material moulded with a smooth surface.

How much do pickleball balls cost in Australia?

Prices I read on Australian retailer pages in November 2026:

Bulk packs bring the per-ball cost down. JOOLA Australia listed the HC-40 in a 12-pack for $49.95 and a 100-pack for $339.95, and the outdoor Primo in a 20-pack for $69.95 and a 100-pack for $299.95.

Which ball should I buy?

1. Ask your club first. Pickleball Australia's seniors FAQ notes that venues provide balls for organised sessions, so you may not need your own.
2. Playing outside on a council court or driveway? Buy an outdoor ball with smaller holes.
3. Playing in a school gym or sports hall? An indoor ball is the custom.
4. Want a tournament-grade ball? The rulebook says the full list of approved balls is on the USA Pickleball website. Tournaments specify their official ball in the event information.

Do pickleball balls crack?

They can. The rulebook covers it: if a ball breaks or cracks during a rally, play continues to the end of the rally, and the rally is replayed only if all players agree the broken ball affected it. A ball that has gone soft does not earn a replay. Swap balls between games if one looks damaged.

Ball colour

The rulebook allows any single uniform colour, and also asks players to avoid clothing that closely matches the ball colour. Pick a ball colour that stands out against your court surface and surroundings.