How Long Do Pickleball Balls Last?

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Pickleball is an exciting sport that has become increasingly popular over the past few years. It's fun, fast-paced and a great activity for all ages. With its growing popularity, many pickleball players want to know how long their pickleball balls will last. This article dives into the details of how long pickleball balls can be expected to last under various conditions and tips on how to maximize their life expectancy.

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What Factors Affect the Durability of Pickleball Balls?

When it comes to determining how long a pickleball ball will last, there are several factors that can impact its durability.

The type of pickleball ball used can have the biggest effect on its lifespan. Outdoor balls are specifically designed to have a more durable construction and last longer, due to their thicker walls and tougher skin.

On the contrary, indoor balls feature thinner shells and a softer core, which makes them easier to grip while playing but they tend to be less resilient and deteriorate more quickly than outdoor models.

Additionally, the surface friction of the court will also determine how long your balls will last - softer surfaces or courts that feature an abrasive material can wear down pickleballs faster. Finally, temperature changes can impact the durability of your pickleball balls; if you’re using them in hot weather frequently, they won’t last as long as those used in cooler temperatures.

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How Long do Quality Pickleball Balls Last?

With proper care and usage, quality pickleball balls can last between 15-25 hours when used outdoors on a well-maintained court. Indoor pickleballs typically last even longer because the court surface is usually made of harder material, such as wood.

Additionally, if the balls are stored correctly by keeping them away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, their lifetime can be extended even further.

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How Much do Pickleballs Cost?

Pickleballs can be made from different materials, such as plastic or composite, and the price can vary depending on the type of material and the brand.

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In general, you can expect to pay between $1 and $4 for a single pickleball. However, some higher-end pickleballs can cost up to $10 or more each. 

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Pickleballs can be made from either plastic or composite materials. Plastic pickleballs are typically less expensive than composite pickleballs, but they may not be as durable or have the same level of performance.

Here are some general price ranges for plastic and composite pickleballs:

• Plastic pickleballs: $1 to $3 each
• Composite pickleballs: $4 to $10 each

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You can usually purchase pickleballs in bulk, which can help to reduce the cost per ball. Many sporting goods stores and online retailers sell pickleballs, so you may want to shop around to find the best price.

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Different Types of Material Used for Pickleball Balls.

The type of material your pickleball ball is made of can factor in to how long it lasts. High-end balls are often constructed with a hollow core and several layers of plastic, usually one layer of hard plastic, along with three layers of soft plastic and some wool. Medium grade pickleball balls have a two-piece construction with a solid core and one layer each thickness of hard and soft plastic, while lower grade ones are often just solid rubber.

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How often should you get new pickleballs

When your pickleballs start to show signs of wear, it’s best to get new ones. A dimpled surface is an indicator that it’s time for new ones!   Depending on the surface you play on and the amount of use, that could mean exchanging your balls every 15-20 hours. However, some players may find that their balls last longer than this if stored correctly and aren’t used for overly vigorous play. At the end of the day, you know when it’s time to upgrade your pickleball balls!

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Examining Other Factors That Influence Durability and Longevity

In addition to the material your balls are made of, other factors influence their lifespan as well. The environment you play in is important; if you regularly expose your pickleball balls to dirt and dust, they will suffer more damage than those stored indoors at temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Playing on rough surfaces  Also, how frequently you play and use your balls must be taken into account – frequent players may need to replace their balls more often than recreational players.

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Conclusion

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In conclusion, the lifespan of a pickleball depends on several factors, including the material it is made from, the surface it is played on, and the frequency and intensity of play. Plastic pickleballs tend to be less durable than composite pickleballs and may not last as long. However, with proper care and storage, pickleballs can last for several months to a year or more. It is a good idea to inspect your pickleballs regularly and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage. Regularly rotating your pickleballs can also help to extend their lifespan.

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