Volleyball (ball)

Volleyball characteristics

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.

Major brands

There are several brands of competitive volleyballs in use, including, but not limited to:

• NIVIA Volleyball
• Tachikara
• Molten
• Wilson
• Mikasa
• Mizuno
• Nike
• Spalding

Most of these brands also make cheaper variations for recreational (non-competitive) use.

Adopted use

• Mikasa makes the official balls of the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball and the CEV - European Volleyball Confederation (beach and indoor).
• Molten makes the official ball of USA Volleyball.
• Molten makes the official ball of NCAA indoor volleyball.
• Wilson makes the official ball of the Association of Volleyball Professionals (beach) and NCAA beach volleyball.

History

In 1895, the initial development of the Volleyball ball was made of a basket bladder according to William G. Morgan, the inventor of Volleyball.