Basketballs come in several sizes. Playing with the right size helps with dribbling, passing, and shooting, especially for young players.

Which size based on age?

Standard club sizes (FFBB categories):

💡 Summary: Size 5 for children up to 10 years old, size 6 for 11-12 year olds and for girls and women, size 7 for boys from 13 years old and men.

Differences between sizes

Sizes 6 and 7: FIBA official regulation dimensions.

Indoor or outdoor?

• Indoor (gym, parquet): leather or composite balls, better touch and grip. Avoid on asphalt, as it wears them out very quickly.
• Outdoor (playground, asphalt): rubber balls, more resistant to wear.
• Indoor / outdoor: versatile balls, a good compromise if you play everywhere.

Properly inflating your ball

• Respect the pressure indicated on the ball, near the valve. It is usually between 0.5 and 0.6 bar (about 7 to 9 PSI).
• The bounce test: drop the ball from about 1.80m high (eye level). When properly inflated, it should bounce back to between 1.20m and 1.40m, or about hip height. This is the official FIBA rule.
• Use a moistened needle (a drop of water is enough) to avoid damaging the valve.
• Do not overinflate: a ball that is too hard bounces too much, is hard to control, and wears out faster.
• A ball loses some air over time: check the pressure regularly.

Maintenance

• Clean with a slightly damp cloth, without harsh products.
• Store at room temperature: not in a car in direct sunlight or outdoors in winter.
• Do not sit on it or kick it: it can become deformed.