Things to Consider Before Buying a Basketball
Size
Basketballs come in a wide range of sizes which vary based on your age and experience in the field. There are four most commonly used basketball sizes, each one specific to an age group and gender. Starting from size 4 which is the smallest ball size, circumferencing at 25.5 inches. This ball size is most popular among 5 to 8 years old children when they are learning the basics of ball handling. Size 5 has a circumference of 27.5 inches and is designed to serve smaller hands. The ball standard ball size for women’s championships is 28.5 inches size 6 ball which may also be handled by boys aging 12 years and older. Moving onto the most popular ball size in the game which is the authentic size 7 basketball. The size 7 with a circumference of 29.5 is officially used in all men’s contests including the NBA leagues and is also suitable for boys 15 years old and above.
Weight
The standard size 7 with a 29.5-inch (75cm) circumference weighs about 1.4 pounds (lbs) or 22 ounces (oz). The continuous bouncing wears down the ball over time and can significantly impact the weight of your basketball in a negative way. Most cheap balls lose their weight relatively early on which is why investing in a high-quality basketball that will keep its weight throughout the years, is so important.
Moisture Grip
Whether it’s in the form of rain or sweat, the ball will eventually encounter water. Therefore, it’s important to get hold of a basketball that has a moisture control system pre-installed to avoid slipping out of your hands mid-game. The micro-fiber cover on the ball keeps the sweat away and maintains grip by keeping the prop dry.
Material
Composite (leather): Synthetic leather or composite balls are the most commonly used among players and are known for their durability and leather-like feel. The synthetic nature of the ball allows you to play both indoors and outdoors without ruining the surface of your ball.
Rubber: Along with being much more affordable, these balls also provide the perfect grip and exterior required to play on rough and uneven surfaces. These are the balls utilized by most beginner players due to their excellent control range and incredibly light nature
Durability
Durability is a factor to consider when ball shopping especially if you plan to play outdoors. The ball is exposed to all sorts of elements like moisture, dirt, and rocks, on an outdoor court which can take a negative toll on your ball over time. For this reason, it’s best to use balls with a rubber or synthetic exterior when playing outside as opposed to real leather as they have a much higher tolerance for rough environments and will last you a considerable amount of time before having to purchase a new one.
When should I replace my basketball?
The lifespan of your ball depends on a number of factors including how well it’s taken care of and how frequently it’s used. A rubber basketball will give you approximately six months of regular usage of around two to three hours every day before it starts to wear out and lose its grip. On the other hand, a synthetic or composite leather ball will provide a much lengthier time period of vigorous usage before it has to be replaced. It really comes down to how well the basketball is maintained and looked after, which maximizes its longevity.
Basketball Price Ranges
Sports equipment can be very pricey especially if you’re looking to compete on international grounds with specific requirements. The price ranges can be divided into three sections based on their purpose and durability levels.
Cost-Effective
Any ball being used as a play-time prop isn’t going to cost that much. Most basketballs being used for recreational purposes generally stand under 15 pounds. These balls may serve your purpose as a pass-time object but they’re not feasible if you’re looking to play at a professional level.
Intermediate
Any game played at a local level will require quality basketballs, however, you also want to keep the costs relatively economical. These economical balls will cost around 20 pounds and provide quality that is up to the par for all your club competitions and school ventures.
Expensive
These balls are the ones you’d buy for a professional basketball match. The heavy price tag of approximately 50 pounds accompanies a premium quality ball with top-notch features that will last you years on end while fulfilling all your athletic demands.
How to Maintain a Basketball?
A handful of practices when applied can drastically optimize your balls’ endurance and grit, therefore, provide a longer time frame before your next shop visit. These include regularly washing the orb with warm water as well as maintaining an ideal amount of air inside the ball to avoid losing a dribble (a ball pump comes in handy). Simultaneously, you’ll also want to make sure to shelter your brown ball from all turbulent weather including rain, hail, snow, and even direct sunlight. On that account, a room temperature setting is the most ideal for ball storage to preserve its quality and form.
Basketball FAQ
Q: How to dry a basketball?
A: it’s crucial to not ever abandon your ball in the water as this may lead make your ball heavy and lead to damage over time. To steer clear of this scenario, use a clean cloth or towel to gently pat the ball dry and leave it in a ventilated, preferably warm area, avoiding direct sunlight.
Q: What does the color of my ball mean?
A: The most commonly used color is a rusty orange shade which is also the hue required by most competitive associations. Although there are other colors like yellow, black, and blue available in the market it’s best to check with your coach before buying.
Q: Why is pebbling important?
A: The minuscule dots covering the exterior of the basketball are called pebbles. These are specifically forged to improve grip by increasing the friction to make sure the ball doesn’t slip out of your hands’ mid-game.