5 Best Water Polo Balls - Sept. 2026

BEST OF THE BEST

KAP7

Size 5 HydroGrip Water Polo Ball

KAP7 balls are considered the go-to choice for both elite and amateur water polo players.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

Official NCAA men's water polo game ball.
Water reactant grip for control.
Hand buffed for added grip.
Uses experience and proprietary technology to develop the HydroGrip ball.
Long-lasting.
Offers a great grip.

CONS

Loses a little air.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

Mikasa Sports

Competition Men's Water Polo Ball

A standard-sized ball many teams use for play and practice.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

NFHS approved.
Maximum grip buffing.
Size 5.
Easy to grip when wet.
Holds air well.
Good for practicing at home.
Just like the ones many teams use to practice.

CONS

Ball can be damaged by leaving it in the water for long periods, so be sure to take it out when you're done.

Mikasa Sports

Competition Women's Water Polo Ball

A good choice for women and middle school age children, since it's slightly smaller.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

NFHS approved.
Buffed for maximum grip.
Size 4.
Good for practice.
Also good for younger players, since it's smaller than a men's ball.

CONS

Ball can be damaged by leaving it in the water for long periods, so be sure to take it out when you're done.

Mikasa Sports

Youth Unisex Mikasa Splashball Water Polo Balls

This fun-colored ball is intended for smaller children to use for splashball, a simpler version of water polo.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

Designed for ages 8 and under.
Buffed for maximum grip.
Size 1.
Perfect for pre-teens with smaller hands.
Very grippy surface when wet.

CONS

Very small.
For older elementary or middle school children, consider a larger size.

Tachikara

Official Size Water Polo Ball

Deep-set seams give you a better hold on this ball.

Check Price Check Price

PROS

Sold and shipped deflated.
Hydro-Tec surface creates a unique ribbed texture for stronger grip.
Deep set seams for a better hold.
Yarn wound for durability.
Official size and weight.

CONS

Ships deflated, so be sure you have a pump on hand.

Why trust BestReviews?

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews

How We Tested

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

Click here for testing insights

First Reviewed

October 09, 2021

Models
considered

Hours
researched

Written by Ade Hennis

Updated October 2021

Water polo balls are designed for both amateur and expert players. Polo balls are available for individuals of all ages as well. They often include a ribbed texture to help you maintain a firm, comfortable grip at all times. Water polo balls may feature deep seams and a treated cover. Additionally, polo balls typically come in a variety of colors and sizes. Each polo ball is intended for use during games and practices. Polo balls are generally constructed from rubber, and as such, will maintain their appearance for an extended period of time. Various balls are sold with a manufacturer's warranty.

Best Water Polo Balls

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Shop Similar Products Get the best products related to our top picks