Padel Balls vs Tennis Balls: Key Differences Explained (2025)

At first glance, padel balls and tennis balls look almost identical. They're both fuzzy and yellow (usually!), but using the correct ball is crucial for the intended feel and performance of a padel game. While you *can* physically play padel with tennis balls, it changes the dynamics significantly.

This guide breaks down the key differences between official padel balls and standard tennis balls.

1. Internal Pressure: The Biggest Difference

The most significant distinction lies in the internal pressure:

• Padel Balls: Have lower internal pressure (typically 10-11 PSI or 0.68-0.75 Bar).
• Tennis Balls: Have higher internal pressure (around 14 PSI or 0.97 Bar).

Impact on Gameplay:

• Lower pressure makes padel balls slightly softer and slower off the racket and walls.
• This results in a lower, less lively bounce compared to tennis balls.
• The slower speed allows for longer rallies and emphasizes strategy and control, which is characteristic of the padel game.
• Using higher-pressure tennis balls in padel makes the game excessively fast, the bounce too high (especially off walls), and reduces control, making it harder to execute proper padel techniques.

2. Size: A Subtle Variation

While regulated by the International Padel Federation (FIP), padel balls can be slightly different in size compared to ITF-approved tennis balls:

• Padel Balls: Diameter typically between 6.35 cm and 6.77 cm.
• Tennis Balls: Diameter typically between 6.54 cm and 6.86 cm.

Impact on Gameplay:

• Padel balls can be slightly smaller on average, though there's overlap in the official ranges.
• This minor size difference, combined with the lower pressure, contributes to the distinct feel and flight characteristics preferred for padel.

3. Weight and Bounce

The weight ranges are very similar, but the bounce height regulations clearly reflect the pressure difference:

• Weight: Both padel and tennis balls typically weigh between 56.0 and 59.4 grams.
• Bounce (Padel): Must bounce between 135 cm and 145 cm when dropped onto a hard surface from 2.54 meters.
• Bounce (Tennis): Must bounce between 135 cm and 147 cm under similar test conditions (slight potential for higher bounce).

Impact on Gameplay: The regulated lower maximum bounce height for padel balls ensures the game remains playable within the enclosed padel court, especially considering wall interactions.

4. Felt and Durability

The felt used on both types of balls is similar, designed for durability on their respective court surfaces. However, the type of wear might differ due to the different court materials (padel often on artificial grass/sand, tennis on hard courts, clay, or grass).

Why Using the Right Ball Matters

• Game Speed & Control: Padel balls ensure the intended pace and level of control for the sport.
• Bounce Predictability: Consistent, lower bounce makes wall play manageable and strategic.
• Technique Development: Using the correct ball helps develop proper padel-specific shots and timing.
• Injury Prevention: While less direct than shoes, the correct ball contributes to predictable play, potentially reducing awkward movements.

Conclusion: Stick to Padel Balls

While tennis balls might seem like a convenient substitute, they fundamentally change the feel and flow of a padel match, making it faster, bouncier, and harder to control. For the best experience and to develop your skills correctly, always use balls specifically designed and approved for padel.