How to Choose the Right Volleyball

Choosing the right volleyball can make a significant difference to player development, confidence and overall enjoyment of the game. While most volleyballs are the same size, the weight, cover material and construction all play an important role in determining which volleyball is best suited to different ages and skill levels. 

Beginner Volleyballs 

Lighter volleyballs are better suited to younger players and beginners as they are easier to control and less intimidating to use. 

For beginners, volleyballs coated in soft foam are ideal. Learning volleyball involves frequent contact with the forearms, and a softer ball helps minimise discomfort while players develop fundamental skills such as passing, serving and setting.  

The HART Polaris Volleyball is an excellent example, weighing just 160g to 180g. Featuring super-soft EVA foam panels, it reduces the impact on players' forearms and hands while helping build confidence and proper technique. The Polaris is also the official weight and size for Kids Volleyball and Spikezone programs. 

Cellular rubber volleyballs are designed with a spongy, cushioned core and an ultra-tacky textured finish. They provide a pain-free, "no-sting" feel upon contact, making them highly accessible for beginners, schools, and recreational play. They also offer excellent, all-weather durability and a reliable grip. See: HART Celestial Volleyball 

Intermediate Volleyballs 

As players progress, synthetic leather volleyballs become a popular choice. These balls have a firmer feel and offer improved control and more consistent ball flight, making them well suited to school, club and recreational play. See: HART Club Volleyball  

Advanced & Competition Volleyballs 

For advanced players and competitive matches, polyurethane (PU) volleyballs offer the highest level of performance. PU is considered the premium cover material for volleyballs, combining a soft touch with the feel and responsiveness of genuine leather. 

Pairing a microfibre backing with a PU outer cover upgrades a volleyball's performance by boosting its softness, grip, shape retention and overall longevity. This premium construction method bridges the gap between synthetic affordability and the natural feel of genuine leather. 

Thes volleyballs deliver excellent grip and control, making it the preferred choice for competitive matches and tournament play. 

See: HART Swirl 7000 Volleyball, HART Tournament Volleyball, HART IV300 Volleyball, HART ST-100. 

Laminated V Stitched 

Laminated volleyballs are generally regarded as the highest quality option. Their panels are bonded directly to the inner lining, creating a smooth surface with no visible seams. This construction produces a more consistent flight path, improved touch and a professional feel, making laminated balls the standard choice for high-level competition.  

Machine-stitched volleyballs, on the other hand, feature visible stitching between the panels and are typically used for training, school and recreational play. They are durable, affordable and commonly made from tough PVC materials that stand up well to regular use. 

Beach Volleyball 

Beach volleyballs are specifically designed for outdoor play. 

Key differences include: 

• Slightly larger overall size  
• Coarser, textured surface to prevent sand sticking  
• Water resistant 
• Lower inflation pressure  
• Softer feel during play  
• Better suited to windy outdoor conditions  
• Because they are less inflated, beach volleyballs don't bounce as much and can feel heavier during play. 

Modified Volleyballs 

Modified volleyballs are specifically designed to help younger children develop confidence and fundamental volleyball skills in a safe and enjoyable environment. By using softer and lighter balls, players can focus on learning proper techniques without the fear of discomfort when contacting the ball. These volleyballs are ideal for schools, junior development programs and introductory volleyball activities. 

• Foam Volleyballs 
• Softest option available  
• Lightweight and easy to control  
• Ideal for younger children  
• Focused on participation, safety and skill development 
• See: HART Foam Volleyball

PVC Volleyballs 

• Soft and safe feel for beginner players  
• Spongy construction reduces impact on hands and forearms 
• More closely resembles a traditional volleyball  
• Durable for regular school use  
• Great for building confidence and coordination 
• Ideal for introductory volleyball programs and PE classes 
• See: HART Softi Volleyball, HART Hero Volleyball, HART Mini Fluro Volleyball. 

Rubber Volleyballs 

• Soft feel for increased player comfort  
• Realistic flight and bounce similar to a standard volleyball  
• Helps players develop correct passing, setting and serving techniques  
• Durable rubber construction for long-lasting performance  
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use  
• Cost-effective option for schools and clubs  
• Suitable for players progressing from modified volleyballs to standard volleyballs 
• See: HART Rubber Volleyball, HART Spike Volleyball