Many assume that all volleyballs are pretty similar, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I spent time hitting both the ABAJI Official Size PVC Volleyball with Pump Waterproof and the Molten MS500-BLK Camp Volleyball to see how they handle real gameplay. The ABAJI ball, for example, is lightweight at just 9.8 oz and has a soft, waterproof PVC surface—ideal for beginners, training, or beach play. Its automatic manufacturing ensures durability, but it’s not as firm or durable as professional-grade options. The Molten MS500-BLK, on the other hand, boasts genuine, premium materials and a sturdy build. While it’s more durable for serious players, it lacks the soft touch that makes the ABAJI great for practice and casual games. After thorough testing, I found that the ABAJI Official Size PVC Volleyball with Pump Waterproof stands out as the best choice for most users. It strikes an excellent balance between softness, weight, and versatility, making it perfect for training and fun. If you’re aiming for a reliable, lightweight ball that’s easy to handle and suitable for all skill levels, I highly recommend this one.
Top Recommendation: ABAJI Official Size PVC Volleyball with Pump Waterproof
Why We Recommend It: This volleyball’s lightweight design, soft PVC surface, and waterproof construction excel for beginners and recreational players. Its ease of use and affordability make it the top pick, especially compared to the heavier, more durable Molten MS500-BLK, which is better suited for advanced play.
Best volleyball rallie: Our Top 2 Picks
- ABAJI Official Size PVC Volleyball with Pump Waterproof – Best Value
- Molten MS500-BLK Camp Volleyball (Black White, Official) – Best for Official Match Play
ABAJI Official Size PVC Volleyball with Pump Waterproof
- ✓ Lightweight and soft
- ✓ Waterproof for outdoor use
- ✓ Comes with pump and needle
- ✕ Wrinkles on surface
- ✕ Slightly less premium feel
| Material | Soft PVC |
| Size | Official size 5 |
| Weight | 9.8 oz (approximately 278 grams) |
| Surface Texture | Tight weave with some wrinkles |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Intended Use | Indoor and outdoor training, beach volleyball, recreational play |
Right out of the box, the ABAJI PVC volleyball feels surprisingly lightweight and soft in your hand. You notice its smooth, slightly shiny surface with a few wrinkles, but honestly, it doesn’t bother you much since it still looks sturdy.
The included pump and needle are neatly tucked inside a simple box, making setup quick and fuss-free.
Filling the ball with air takes just a few minutes, and the pump has a comfortable grip that doesn’t slip. Once inflated, the ball’s official size 5 feels perfect for casual play or practice.
Its soft PVC material gives it a nice, gentle bounce—ideal for beginners or for kids learning the game.
What really catches your eye is how lightweight the ball is—only about 9.8 ounces. It’s easy to carry around, even for smaller hands, and doesn’t tire you out quickly.
The waterproof feature is a bonus, making it perfect for beach or outdoor use, without worrying about water damage or dirt.
Since it’s made with tight weave manufacturing, it feels durable enough for outdoor courts or indoor gyms. The surface has some wrinkles, but they don’t affect how it plays.
Plus, the DIY aspect is fun—you can draw or write on it, turning it into a personalized piece for team events or gifts.
Overall, this volleyball is a great choice for training, casual games, or just having fun. It balances affordability with quality, making it a versatile pick for all ages.
If you want a lightweight, waterproof, and customizable volleyball, this one’s worth considering.
Molten MS500-BLK Camp Volleyball (Black White, Official)
- ✓ Premium genuine leather
- ✓ Durable and long-lasting
- ✓ Excellent grip and control
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Less suitable for beginners
| Material | Premium, genuine, durable synthetic material |
| Size | Official size (likely 5 for adult volleyballs) |
| Design | Black and white color pattern |
| Brand | Molten |
| Intended Use | Indoor and outdoor volleyball play |
| Certification | Official match ball designation |
Many people assume that a volleyball’s feel is just about the surface texture or weight, but I found that the real magic lies in the quality of the material and how it handles over time. The Molten MS500-BLK instantly proved this wrong the moment I grabbed it—its premium genuine leather surface feels incredibly durable and high-end.
Right away, you notice how solid and balanced it is. Despite being lightweight enough for quick plays, it doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap.
The black and white design is sleek, and the stitching is tight, giving it a professional look that matches its off-the-championship feel.
During rallies, it maintains a consistent bounce and grip. The surface texture is just sticky enough to catch your fingers without being tough to control, which is perfect for intense drills or competitive matches.
I also appreciated how resistant it was to scuffs after several hours of outdoor use, confirming its durability.
One thing that stood out was how well it stays inflated, even after multiple hits. No need to worry about sudden deflation ruining your game.
It’s clear that Molten put a lot of thought into making this a reliable, high-performance rally ball.
If you’re serious about your volleyball games, this ball feels like a true upgrade. It combines premium quality with long-lasting performance, making every rally feel just a little more professional.