Differences Between Outdoor vs. Indoor Pickleball

If you’re considering joining a country club, chances are that pickleball is either part of the mix or something you will want to explore. This post examines the differences between outdoor and indoor pickleball to help you decide which option would be best for your needs, as both have unique benefits.

From court types to equipment considerations, this comprehensive overview covers everything from playing styles to rules so that by the end, you know exactly what each version entails and can decide where to play.

What Is the Difference in the Design of the Balls for Indoor and Outdoor Pickleball?

The biggest difference between indoor and outdoor Pickleball is the ball itself. The ball is designed to fit the environment in which it is used. 

Outdoor Pickleballs need to be able to withstand the heat, humidity, and changing weather conditions. In contrast, indoor Pickleballs are specifically designed for climate-controlled environments.

Outdoor Pickleball Characteristics

• Outdoor pickleballs have 40 closely packed holes, which offer more robustness when playing in windy conditions.
• Outdoor pickleballs’ diameter is roughly .282-inches, and the balls typically weigh more than indoor pickleball.
• Outdoor pickleballs are also harder than indoor pickleball, as the materials and construction thickness used in creating specific balls affects the weight and playing speed.

Indoor Pickleball Characteristics

• Indoor pickleball balls feature 26 wider holes, making them lighter and easier to control when playing indoors.
• On average, the holes of indoor pickleball measure .43-inches in diameter, which is 40% larger than outdoor pickleball holes.
• Indoor pickleballs are made of a softer plastic for a lightweight profile that makes them more prone to drag.
• They also tend to be more durable as they typically use softer plastics than the hard plastics used for outdoor pickleballs.

Outdoor vs. Indoor Pickleball: Which Is Better?

Each variation has its own set of challenges and benefits. Outdoor balls are usually larger and heavier to ensure they travel further in windy conditions but bounce slightly slower. The challenge is that the ball requires more power and control, so it doesn’t travel too far.

Indoor balls are typically smaller and lighter than outdoor balls, allowing them to move faster. This means indoor players must be able to move quickly, and the ball requires more precision since it won’t travel as far. In this way, indoor pickleball can be a more technical game than outdoor pickleball.

Whichever You Prefer, the Club at ArrowCreek Has It!

When choosing between indoor and outdoor pickleball, consider your environment and your intentions for playing. Outdoor courts are often designed with windy conditions in mind, while indoor courts provide more controlled settings but lack the challenge of windy conditions.

The Club at ArrowCreek in Reno, Nevada, has indoor courts for you to enjoy! With various playing options, friendly staff, and a beautiful setting, The Club is the perfect place to play pickleball. So come on out and let the club make your pickleball experience one to remember.