If you’ve ever picked up a pickleball for the first time, one question probably came to mind right away: why does it have holes?

At first glance, it might look like a simple design choice but those holes actually play a huge role in how the game is played. From how the ball flies through the air to how it bounces on the court, every detail is carefully designed to create a fun, balanced, and easy-to-learn sport.

It All Starts with Better Control and Consistency

Pickleballs are made with small holes to control how fast they move and how they react during rallies. Unlike tennis balls, which are heavier and bounce higher, pickleballs are lighter and travel at a more controlled speed.

Those holes help reduce air resistance, allowing the ball to move more smoothly and predictably. This makes it easier for players to aim their shots, control placement, and stay in longer rallies especially for beginners.

At the same time, the design still allows for fast-paced exchanges, which keeps the game exciting for more advanced players.

Indoor vs Outdoor Pickleballs: What’s the Difference?

Not all pickleballs are the same. In fact, the number and size of the holes depend on where you’re playing.

Indoor pickleballs have 26 larger holes. These create a softer feel, slower speed, and higher bounce perfect for controlled play inside a gym.
Outdoor pickleballs have 40 smaller holes. These are designed to handle wind, making the ball travel faster with a lower, more stable bounce.

This simple difference helps players adjust their game depending on the environment, whether they’re playing casually indoors or in more competitive outdoor matches.

A Design That Evolved Over Time

Pickleball didn’t always have the high-performance balls we see today. When the sport started in 1965, players used modified plastic balls similar to Wiffle balls.

As the game grew, better equipment was needed. Over time, manufacturers improved the design, changing the number of holes, the materials, and the structure of the ball to make it more durable and consistent.

Today’s pickleballs follow official standards:

Weight: around 0.78 to 0.93 ounces

Diameter: about 2.87 to 2.97 inches

Holes: 26 to 40, depending on the type

These standards ensure that every game feels consistent, whether you’re playing for fun or in a tournament.

How the Holes Affect Gameplay

The holes in a pickleball don’t just change how it looks—they directly impact how the game feels.

They help the ball fly straighter, making shots more predictable and easier to control. They also affect how much spin you can put on the ball, allowing players to use topspin, backspin, or slice shots more effectively.

Because pickleballs are lightweight and have a lower bounce, the game becomes more about strategy and placement rather than power. Players focus on accuracy, timing, and quick reactions instead of hitting as hard as possible.

Built for Durability and Performance

Modern pickleballs are made from strong plastic materials like polypropylene or polyethylene. This allows them to handle repeated hits without breaking or losing their shape.

Outdoor balls are usually slightly harder to handle rough surfaces like concrete, while indoor balls are softer for smoother courts. Many brands are also starting to explore eco-friendly materials to make the sport more sustainable.

Why This Design Makes Pickleball So Popular

At the end of the day, the holes in a pickleball are a big reason why the sport is so easy to learn and fun to play.

They slow the game down just enough for beginners to keep up, while still allowing skilled players to add speed, spin, and strategy. The result is a sport that feels accessible to everyone, no matter their age or skill level.

From casual games with friends to competitive matches, every rally is shaped by this simple but smart design.

A Small Detail That Changes Everything

What looks like a simple plastic ball is actually the result of years of design and innovation. Those small holes make a big difference, helping create a game that’s balanced, exciting, and easy to enjoy.

So the next time you step onto the court, take a closer look at the ball. You’ll realize it’s not just part of the game, it’s one of the main reasons pickleball plays the way it does.