Everything You Need to Know About Tennis Balls

When you grab a racket, the ball is the other half of the equation. A good ball can make a rally feel smooth, while a bad one can ruin your rhythm. Below we break down the basics – the kinds of balls you’ll see, how to choose the right one for your game, and simple tricks to keep them in top shape.

Types of Tennis Balls and What They’re Made For

Most tennis balls are made of rubber wrapped in felt. The felt controls spin and speed, while the rubber core determines bounce. Here are the common categories you’ll run into:

• Pressurised balls – Filled with air or nitrogen, they feel lively and bounce high. Ideal for recreational play and club courts. They lose pressure after a few hours, so you’ll notice a softer feel as the match goes on.
• Pressure‑less balls – Made with a solid rubber core that mimics pressure. They stay consistent for months but feel a bit heavier and slower. Perfect for practice, junior players, or anyone who wants a ball that won’t go flat.
• Match‑grade balls – Used in tournaments, these meet strict International Tennis Federation (ITF) standards for size, weight, and bounce. If you’re playing a league or want the same feel as the pros, look for ‘ITF approved’ on the packaging.
• Specialty balls – Some brands offer high‑altitude balls, slower‑bounce balls for beginners, or extra‑fuzzy balls for clay courts. Choose these only if you have a specific need.

How to Pick the Right Ball for Your Game

Choosing a ball isn’t just about brand names. Think about where you play, how often you play, and your skill level.

• Surface matters – Hard courts work well with standard pressurised balls. Clay courts benefit from a slightly softer feel, so many players switch to a ball with a higher felt density. Grass courts need a ball that stays low, so a slightly heavier ball helps.
• Frequency of play – If you hit the courts a few times a week, a can of pressurised balls will be fine. For daily practice, pressure‑less balls save money because you won’t be replacing cans every month.
• Skill level – Beginners often enjoy slower‑bounce balls that give them more reaction time. Advanced players usually prefer the standard bounce that lets them generate spin and pace.

When you’re unsure, pick a well‑known brand that labels its balls as ‘ITF approved.’ That way you know the ball meets official standards.

Simple Care Tips to Lengthen Ball Life

Even the best balls wear out faster if you treat them poorly. Follow these easy steps:

• Store in a cool, dry place – Heat and humidity speed up pressure loss. Keep the can upright and away from direct sunlight.
• Don’t open the can early – Pressurised balls stay fresh longest when sealed. Open the can just before you play and reseal it tightly afterward.
• Separate new from old – Mixing fresh balls with worn ones changes the bounce pattern. Use a fresh can for each session if you can.
• Clean the felt gently – If the ball gets dirty, wipe it with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking it; too much moisture can damage the rubber core.

These habits add a few extra hours of play to each can, saving you money and keeping your matches consistent.

So, the next time you reach for a ball, think about its type, the surface you’re on, and how you’ll store it. A little knowledge goes a long way toward smoother rallies, better practice, and more fun on the court.