Balls

An indoor volleyball is firmer, slightly heavier and inflated to a higher pressure for fast, accurate play in the gym. A beach volleyball is a bit larger, softer and lower in pressure so it floats more in the wind, and it has a water-resistant cover made for sun, sand and moisture. Leading brands include Mikasa, Wilson and Baden.

You can, but it isn't ideal. A beach ball feels slow and floaty in the gym, and an indoor ball's leather or microfiber cover wears quickly on rough surfaces and in wet sand. For backyard games, parks and camps, an indoor/outdoor ball like the Mikasa Indoor/Outdoor Volleyball or the Baden Match Point is a durable, affordable option. Browse all volleyballs.

Almost all volleyballs are size 5, the official size for teens and adults. What changes for younger players is the weight: kids and beginners do better with a lighter ball, like the Nike All Court Lite, or a soft training volleyball that's easier on the arms. Most school and club teams move to a regulation-weight indoor volleyball in their early teens. Check your league's rules for the required ball.

Training volleyballs and trainers help players build skills faster. Weighted setting balls strengthen hands and wrists, tethered balls with elastic cords let you practice serving and spiking alone, and passing trainers teach a proper platform. Popular picks include the SKLZ Setting Trainer and Bump-N-Pass Trainer and the Mikasa V300W training ball with elastic cords. Shop all volleyball training gear.

Mikasa makes the official FIVB indoor and beach balls and the VQ200W-CAN competition ball. Baden is known for soft-touch composite balls like the Perfection series, Wilson makes the OPTX AVP beach balls, and Nike and Mizuno round out the lineup. The best choice depends on your league, level and playing surface. Browse all volleyballs.

Inflate to the pressure printed near the valve, usually about 4.3 to 4.6 psi for indoor balls and lower, about 2.5 to 3.2 psi, for beach balls. Moisten the needle before inserting it to protect the valve, and check the pressure with a gauge. Wipe the ball clean after use, keep it out of extreme heat or cold, and don't sit or kick it. A volleyball bag keeps it protected on the way to practice.