An official indoor volleyball is 65 to 67 cm around, weighs 260 to 280 g and is inflated to 0.30 to 0.325 kg/cm². A beach ball weighs the same but is 66 to 68 cm around and inflated softer, to 0.175 to 0.225 kg/cm². Youth and training balls are often lighter so young players can pass and set with good technique. Buy the ball your league approves for games, and inflate it to the pressure printed on the ball.
A volleyball is a regulated piece of equipment. These are the FIVB specifications.
Official specs
| Indoor | Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Circumference | 65 to 67 cm | 66 to 68 cm |
| Weight | 260 to 280 g | 260 to 280 g |
| Pressure | 0.30 to 0.325 kg/cm² | 0.175 to 0.225 kg/cm² |
Youth and training balls
Lightweight youth balls give young players another option; exact formats depend on the program. USA Volleyball’s simplified youth rules describe an adult-size ball made from lighter materials for kids under 12. See our youth volleyball ball guide before choosing for a club or league.
Cover and construction
- Laminated (glued) panels: consistent touch, used for most match balls.
- Stitched panels: durable for recreation and outdoor play.
- Microfiber composite covers: soft touch and grip indoors.
- Water-resistant covers: help beach balls handle sand and wet days.
Care
Keep balls out of hot cars, wipe them clean, and check pressure with a gauge before games.
Related: indoor vs beach volleyball and volleyball training aids.
Common questions
What size volleyball do kids use?
Kids use the same size ball, often in a lighter version. Many youth programs use lightweight balls for younger ages; check your club's rules.
How much air should a volleyball have?
Use the pressure printed on the ball, measured with a needle gauge. Indoor balls take more pressure than beach balls.
Stitched or glued volleyball?
Match balls are usually glued (laminated) for a consistent surface. Machine-stitched balls are common for recreation and outdoor use.