Tennis balls are the least evolved equipment on a tennis court. I mean, you will see researches and regular development of tennis rackets, shoes, strings, or even socks, but tennis balls are historically less changed a thing on a court.
Although, young players often find it hard to choose the right ball for them. I suggest you read this detailed blog on best tennis balls to help you choose the right ball for you according to your playing style and the court you are playing on.
A brief history of tennis balls
Earlier, tennis balls were made of only rubber; specifically, three-piece rubber straps joined together in the shape of a ball. Evidently, it wasn’t suitable enough for the game.
The modern-day tennis balls are hollow on their core and pressurized with a gaseous substance. Nowadays, it is made from superior-quality rubber from Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Which brand is the best?
There are several sports equipment manufacturers that make tennis balls. Among them, Head, Wilson, Pro Penn, Dunlop Slazenger, and Bridgestone are the biggest ones.
Among all these brands, probably the most popular ones are Wilson and Penn. I have seen players literally arguing about these two brands. However, in my opinion, it depends on personal choice.
Professional balls are more or less the same, but there are slight differences as well. It takes time to adjust, even with the slight difference. There’s a lot of talking going on about which one is better- Penn or Wilson.
Let’s take a quick dive into this debate and see who is the winner.
Penn vs Wilson Tennis Balls
Both of these companies are giants in terms of tennis equipment. Both of the brands are sponsors and makers of international ATP tour balls. However, I am taking Penn Championship Tennis Ball and Wilson US Open Tennis balls to compare these two brands.
Penn Tennis Balls
The Penn Championship tennis ball is the bestselling tennis ball in America, according to the brand’s claim. These balls are regularly used for high-profile and sometimes international matches. This is a good ball for single use and for players who aren’t too choosy.
It’s not quite as superior quality as the US Open ball mentioned underneath, but it is good for training matches. Generally, I buy these in bulk for practice and small matches.
This ball comes in two different variations, regular duty for soft court surfaces like clay or grass and extra duty for hard court surfaces. The ball is approved by ITF and is also the official tennis ball of the USTA tournaments. With long-lasting durability due to the latest interlocking wool fibers felt that help to retain the bounce. This ball is suitable for tennis players with any skill level.
After opening the tennis ball tin can, these balls won’t be durable enough compared with the US Open balls underneath or the ProPenn balls below.
Wilson Tennis Ball
The Wilson US Open tennis balls come in a 3-ball can and are made out of premium-quality woven felt. The color is a standard tennis ball yellow that’s called Optic Yellow by players. It comes in extra duty and regular duty variants, making it suitable for hard courts.
The USP about this tennis ball is its durability and consistent performance. After their first match, you can put them in your bag, and they will stay in good condition longer than others.
Approved by the ATP and the USTA for matches in the tournament, these balls have a consistent bouncy effect. They are also the official balls for the US Open.
Which ball is better? Who is the winner?
I have discussed a lot about these two balls. Now it’s time I judge the best one.
Both of these balls are made of high-quality felt material. The furry part is a bit less on the Wilson ball, which gives you slight benefit while swinging the ball.
Penn balls last longer than Wilson balls. And these are economically sustainable.
Wilson balls retain their pressure much longer than Penn balls. It gives you extra bounce on grass and hard court.
In an exceptional scenario, Wilson balls are compatible for high-altitude matches, whereas Penn balls lose their accuracy in high-altitude.
On the other hand, Penn balls come with quality interlocking wool fibers.
Wilson balls are not good for clay courts, but Penn balls are suitable for all kinds of courts.
Conclusion
As you can see, both the brands offer impressive balls. And naturally, both lack some features. So, choosing one from these two depends on personal choice and availability.
My favorite one is Wilson US Open Tennis balls. I would advise you to play with both of these balls and choose according to your experience. Give both of them a chance and see which one works better for you.
And do share your experience with us. Did I tell you we love hearing from fellow tennis lovers.
