Genuine leather balls are for indoor hardwood only; they need a break-in period and wear out quickly on asphalt. Composite (synthetic leather) balls grip well from day one and come in indoor and indoor-outdoor versions. Rubber balls are the most durable and cheapest for driveways and playgrounds. Match the ball to the surface you play on most.
Choose a basketball rated for the court where you play. Outdoor surfaces can be abrasive, so follow the ball maker’s intended-use label rather than assuming every cover works on every surface.
Side by side
| Label | Intended use | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor-only | Indoor court | Follow the maker’s care and break-in directions |
| Indoor/outdoor | The listed surfaces for that model | Check warranty and intended-surface wording |
| Outdoor-rated | Outdoor court use | Follow inflation, cleaning and storage directions |
Choose by surface
For the differences between leather and composite indoor covers, see indoor ball materials compared. For a ball intended for concrete or asphalt, use the outdoor basketball selection guide.
Care
- Inflate to the pressure printed on the ball, using a needle and gauge.
- Wipe dust and dirt off composite and leather balls.
- Store indoors at room temperature.
Size
Pick the right size before the cover; see the basketball size chart.
Browse basketballs.
Common questions
Can I use an indoor basketball outside?
Leather and indoor-only composite balls wear out quickly on asphalt and concrete. Use an outdoor or indoor-outdoor ball.
Do leather basketballs need breaking in?
Yes. Genuine leather becomes softer and grippier with use on indoor courts.
Are rubber basketballs good?
They are durable and affordable for outdoor courts, though they have less feel and grip than composite.
What do high schools use?
Most use composite or leather indoor game balls approved for their league.