Best Volleyballs: As you probably know, each volleyball league and competition have different rules, and each may use other volleyball. That will depend on what level of competition is organized. The highest levels will require equipment and volleyballs that FIVB approves. From my professional experience, I tried different balls, so I got a pretty good overview of the main differences and which volleyball performs the best. If you want to get one for yourself to train at home, you may consider a different (cheaper) model.
There will also be a massive difference if you play beach or indoor volleyball. If you don’t know already, beach and indoor volleyball balls differ significantly. Beach Volleyballs are a bit lighter and bigger in size.
Learn more about those and view my best volleyball balls list to help you buy the right one for your demands. Read on.
The 3 best indoor volleyballs
#1. Mikasa V200W
First on our list is the official ball of FIVB and CEV world’s best volleyball indoor competitions, the Mikasa V200W. The model is also used in most national competitions, and it is not a question of why we put it first on our list. The V200W volleyball has a specially designed aerodynamic design, which helps with ball control and defense.
The difference is felt mainly on float serve, which, compared with her predecesor Mikasa MVA 200, is much easier to receive. The goal of the updated pattern was to make it more visible not only to referees but to fans as well. When receiving jump serve, this ball is harder to control, in our opinion, and what we were able to experience when playing. Interestingly, the ball felt a bit heavier compared to Mikasa MVA 200, but it didn’t make much difference with the setting.
Mikasa V200W
- Ball Control:
- Design:
- Materials:
Rating
8.4/10
BUY AT ALL VOLLEYBALL
#2. Molten FLISTATEC
For our second place, we chose the volleyball from the molten brand. Approved by FIVB Molten FLISTATEC Official ball of the USA national team and NCAA college volleyball league is the second-best indoor ball you can get your hands on. Some professional leagues in Europe are using the Molten FLISTATEC as well. The design reminds us a bit of the old Mikasa MVA200 but feels differently. The ball is a bit harder to control than other balls, making it harder to receive.
Jump spin and strong float serve can cause more damage. The ball features unique Flight Stability Technology, which helps to improve grip, control, and consistency during play. This technology is achieved by controlling the air disturbance around the ball by placing hexagon-shaped designs on the ball’s surface. The ball has a rigid synthetic material and a soft microfiber layer. That makes it durable and easy to grip. The ball also has a new surface that helps players control their shots better.
Molten FLISTATEC Volleyball has a composite leather cover that fuses with a thread-woven lower layer to create a better feel. A secure Nylon wound layer is also added so that the construction achieves a perfect soft touch. Definitely a ball considering if you plan to play volleyball more seriously and on a higher level.
Molten FLISTATEC
- Ball Control:
- Design:
- Materials:
Rating
8/10
BUY AT ALL VOLLEYBALL
#3. Gala Pro Line BV 5591S
The third ball on our list is from the Brand GALA, model BV 5591S. You’ve probably never heard of that volleyball; however, it is used in some decent professional leagues, specifically Chech Republic and Hungary. Before, it was used in Slovenia as well, but it got changed for Mikasa years ago. Gala feels different from Mikasa V200W and is a bit harder to control. Serves are harder to receive while playing defense as well. It is also more bouncy, so it will bounce more when you spike the ball.
The official ball colorway is in blue and white, and in our opinion, the company did an excellent job of reinventing old volleyball models, which looked outdated. The price is similar to other professional balls, so if you prefer the colorway and want to train ball control more, feel free to get your hands on one of these. You will not be disappointed.
Gala Pro Line BV 5591S
- Ball Control:
- Design:
- Materials:
Rating
7.6/10
The 3 best beach volleyballs
#1. Mikasa VLS300
First things first, beach volleyball balls are entirely different than the balls for indoor volleyball. They are lighter and much easier to control. First on our list of the best volleyballs is the Mikasa VLS300. It features technology that helps with handling and controlling the ball. Covered with ten panels made from quality materials that are strong and very durable, so it will not retain water..
The grip is fantastic even in any weather condition, which is crucial because beach volleyball can also be played in the rain. It is the official ball of the FIVB beach volleyball competitions, so it’s meant for players who are serious about playing. The design and pattern of panels is not typical for volleyball, but it looks and feels good.
Mikasa VLS300
#2. Wilson OPTX AVP
The second volleyball ball on our list is from the Wilson brand, used in the official AVP tournament. The Wilson OPTX AVP ball has a new design that uses a strategic colour variation to make it easier to see how the ball is spinning. That makes it easier to read the game and react to where it is going. The VST (visual spin technology) helps to enhance this ability. The vibrant colour palette and optic flow graphics make it easier to track the ball in all the different environments where beach volleyball is played.
Wilson OPTX AVP Official Beach Volleyball is very popular in the US and if we look at the reviews people think it’s great, and they gave it high marks. If you’re looking for a new beach volleyball ball, the Wilson OPTX AVP ball might be a good choice. However, you need to know that it is among the most expensive volleyballs on the market. If money is not a problem, feel free to pick one up!
Mikasa V200W
#3. Molten BV5000 Elite
The second volleyball ball on our list is the Molten BV5000 Elite. Molten uses very premium materials, hand stitched polyurethane cover, which will help with the ball’s durability. The panels feel soft, so you will not feel pain when doing the forearm passes. It is easy to control and can be easily played even in bad weather conditions. Being FIVB-approved, it is also the official ball of the USA Volleyball Federation. With a traditional panel pattern, you will get a classic-looking volleyball that can be used in the highest competitions reaching all official playing standards. Being among cheaper models, it might be the best choice depends on your budget.
Molten BV5000 Elite
Conclusion
That will be all for my best volleyballs list. Mikasa volleyball balls are the easiest first and the best choice; however, there are some great other choices as well. All the balls I put on my list are of the highest quality and played with in the highest level competitions. It doesn’t matter which one you choose; the most important thing is that you will enjoy playing for countless hours with it. If you have any questions regarding volleyballs, feel free to leave it in the comment section down below!
This article provides affiliate links to the website, All Volleyball, but we are not being sponsored in any way. I might get a small commission from each purchase you make through our links, and I will keep trying our best to produce as quality content as possible and expand our community.
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