A volleyball is a ball used to play indoor volleyball, beach volleyball, or other less common variations of the sport. Volleyballs are spherical in shape and typically comprise eighteen nearly rectangular panels made from synthetic or genuine leather. These panels are organized into six identical sections, each consisting of three panels. They are carefully wrapped around a bladder to form the complete volleyball. A valve permits the internal air pressure to be adjusted. In a break from the traditional construction, in 2008, the FIVB adopted as its official indoor ball a new Mikasa with dimples and only eight panels for a softer touch and truer flight.[1]
Indoor volleyballs are specifically designed for the indoor version of the sport, while beach volleyballs are tailored for the beach game.
Indoor volleyballs come in either a solid white color or the brightest shade of yellow. They are produced in two variations: a youth version, slightly smaller and lighter than adult volleyballs, and a heavier "medicine ball" type designed for setters to enhance finger strength.
Beach volleyballs are slightly larger than standard indoor balls, featuring a coarser external texture and lower internal pressure. They come in vibrant colors or a solid white option. The earliest volleyballs were crafted using leather panels over a rubber carcass.
| Circumference cm (inches) | Mass grams (ounces) | Internal pressure kgf/cm² (psi) | |
| Standard indoor | 65-67 (25.5-26.5) | 260-280 (9.2-9.9) | 0.3-0.325 (4.3-4.6) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth indoor | 63-65 (25-26) | 260-280 (9.2-9.9) | 0.3 (4.3) |
| Beach | 66-68 (26-27) | 260-280 (9.2-9.9) | 0.175-0.225 (2.5-3.2) |
There are several brands of competitive volleyballs in use, including, but not limited to:
Most of these brands also make cheaper variations for recreational (non-competitive) use.
In 1895, the initial development of the Volleyball ball was made of a basket bladder according to William G. Morgan, the inventor of Volleyball.[2]