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Looking for the right handball can feel like shopping for the perfect pair of shoes — it’s all about fit, feel, and how it performs when you’re in the heat of the game. Whether you’re a weekend player, a club-level competitor, or buying for a youth team, this guide walks you through the best places to buy handballs in the US, how to choose the right size and grip, and where to find the best deals. Expect practical tips, brand comparisons, and clear buying advice so you end up with a handball that helps, not hinders, your game.
Not all handballs are created equal. The ball’s size, weight, grip material, and bounce all shape how you pass, catch, and shoot. A poor choice can feel like trying to write with a blunt pencil — awkward, imprecise, and frustrating. The right ball becomes an extension of your hand, offering predictable flight, dependable bounce, and comfortable grip. For teams, consistency across practice and match balls reduces surprises and speeds skill development.
When shopping for handballs, you’ll find classic sporting retailers, big-box chains, online marketplaces, and official brand shops. Each type of seller brings different strengths — accessible prices, wide selection, or pro-level items. Below are reliable US options to check first.
Amazon is often the quickest stop for handballs, especially if you want a wide range of brands from budget to pro-level models. The marketplace format means you can compare many options and read dozens of customer reviews in minutes. Fast shipping and easy search filters make Amazon great when you need a replacement ball or extras for practice sessions.
Walmart carries entry-level and mid-tier handballs both online and in many stores. If you’re shopping on a budget or need a ball right away, Walmart’s selection is practical — think basic materials, decent grip, and low prices. It’s a solid choice for beginner teams or casual players who don’t require competition-grade specs.
Dick’s is a go-to for athletes wanting a curated selection and brand-name products. You’ll often find performance handballs from trusted manufacturers, plus knowledgeable staff in-store who can help if you want to feel a ball before buying. Dick’s is especially useful for clubs that want consistent, higher-quality training and match balls.
Academy mixes affordability with a respectable lineup of sports equipment. It’s an ideal middle ground: more specialized than a general retailer but more budget-friendly than boutique suppliers. Look here for training sets and value packs when equipping multiple players without breaking the bank.
Target stocks casual and recreational handballs suitable for backyard games or gym class. While not typically the place for pro competition balls, Target is convenient for impulse buys or grabbing a spare ball for pick-up play. Expect simple materials, easy handling, and friendly prices.
If you’re chasing a discontinued model, a rare pro-level ball, or a used option for a bargain, eBay can be a treasure trove. The auction-style marketplace means you can sometimes score high-end balls for less than retail. Just check seller ratings and photos carefully — authenticity and condition matter with branded handballs.
Buying directly from brands like Select, Hummel, Molten, Mikasa, and Kempa gives you direct access to official match models and the latest releases. Brand shops and specialty retailers focused on handball or indoor sports often have the best selection of competition-grade balls and can advise on technical specs — perfect for teams or competitive players seeking consistency and performance.
National governing body shops, including the official USA Team Handball store or partner outlets, occasionally sell match-spec balls and special edition items. These shops are worth a look if you want equipment that aligns with official competition standards or tournaments.
Choosing the correct size and grip is like selecting a bike frame — get it wrong and everything becomes harder. Size affects how comfortably you can hold and control the ball; grip affects handling, especially when your hands get sweaty in the final minutes of a match.
Handballs are sized by circumference, which matters more than diameter for how the ball fits your hand. Here’s a simple guide using inches so you know what to look for on product pages: youth or mini balls typically have a circumference around 19.7–20.5 inches, women’s or junior adult size commonly ranges from about 21.3–22.0 inches, and the men’s competition size sits near 22.8–23.6 inches. If you’re buying for kids, pick a smaller size so they can comfortably palm and control the ball.
Grip materials vary from tacky synthetic leather to textured rubber. Synthetic leather often offers the best blend of soft feel and predictable bounce for indoor play, while rubber can give extra durability for outdoor use. If you play in humid conditions or sweat a lot, look for balls with an added tacky coating — they help the ball stick to your hand like a little helper during intense plays.
Not every situation needs an elite match ball. Here’s how to match the ball to your needs so you get the best value without sacrificing performance.
Competition balls from Select, Hummel, Molten, and Mikasa are built to tight tolerances for weight, bounce, and grip. They usually feature multi-panel constructions and high-quality covers to deliver consistent flight and handling. Teams that play regularly or at a high level should invest here — think of it as swapping out a delivery truck for a sports car: the upgrade is noticeable on the court.
Training balls are tough and slightly less refined than match balls, designed to stand up to daily drilling and many hands. These are ideal for clubs and schools where durability and cost-per-use matter most. Expect a slight trade-off in tackiness or feel, but massive wins in longevity and value.
If you need extras for warm-ups, clinics, or casual scrimmages, budget handballs from general retailers are fine. They won’t have the exacting conditions of competition models, but they’ll let you practice core skills and keep a rotation of balls for different drills.
A little maintenance goes a long way. Treat your handball like a musical instrument: tune it up now and it’ll sound — and perform — better for longer.
Handballs are sensitive to inflation. Under-inflating makes a ball sluggish and hard to pass accurately; over-inflating makes it too bouncy and difficult to control. Most handballs perform best at roughly 6–9 psi depending on size and manufacturer. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendation printed on the ball or in the product manual — it’s the closest thing to a recipe for the perfect feel.
Keep your handball clean by wiping it down after sessions with a damp cloth and mild soap when needed. Avoid submerging it in water or leaving it in direct sunlight for long stretches; heat can warp materials and fade colors. Store balls indoors at room temperature and rotate them in practice so no single ball gets hammered every day.
Buying smart doesn’t mean skipping quality. It means timing your purchase and knowing where to look. Think of seasonal sales as traffic lights that change in your favor — stop and wait, and you’ll find better prices.
Look for deals at the end of seasons or around big retail events like Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and holiday sales. Back-to-school season is another prime time for discounts, especially for youth sizes and training packs. If you’re not in a rush, set up price alerts on marketplaces to catch sudden drops.
Retailers often bundle training balls with pumps or nets. Specialist shops sometimes offer team discounts if you’re buying multiple balls at once. Keep an eye on clearance sections at brand stores and general retailers — you can frequently find last season’s colorways at steep discounts. And don’t forget marketplaces like eBay for gently used high-end balls at lower prices.
Brands are like instruments: each has its distinctive sound. Knowing their strengths helps you pick a brand that matches your playing style and level.
Select is known for premium match balls with a soft, tacky feel that many pros prefer. Hummel blends tradition with robust designs and strong grip technology. Molten is respected for consistent bounces and durability, often favored for indoor courts. Mikasa produces solid multi-sport performance balls and is a reliable choice for clubs needing consistency across seasons. Try to pick one brand and stick with it for your team if you want uniform feel and performance across players.
Before you click “buy,” run through this short checklist. It’s like a preflight routine for your purchase — quick, methodical, and surprisingly effective.
- Verify size (use the inches guide above). - Check the intended use: indoor match, outdoor practice, or recreational play. - Confirm recommended inflation pressure in psi. - Read recent customer reviews for grip and durability notes. - If buying in bulk, ask the retailer about team discounts or bundle savings. - Look for a pump adapter and needle included or buy one separately — it saves hassle later.
Consistency across practice and match balls reduces adaptation time for players. If you’re a coach, buy a set of identical balls for team training and keep at least one backup per player. Rotate balls during practice to avoid overusing a few and extend the life of your inventory. Finally, encourage players to clean and store personal balls properly — it keeps the whole program running smoother.
Choosing the right handball doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Focus on the right size in inches, a grip material that matches your environment, and a seller that balances price with authenticity. Amazon, Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Target, eBay, and brand or specialty shops each offer strengths for different buyer needs. With a little patience and the tips above — from inflation in psi to seasonal sale timing — you can find a ball that feels like it was made for your hand and your game.
