How to Choose the Right Netball for Training and Matches

Choosing the right netball can make a big difference to how you train, play and improve on court. 

Whether you are buying your first netball, shopping for your child, coaching a team or preparing for match day, the right ball should feel comfortable, offer good grip and suit the way it will be used. 

In this guide, we explain how to choose the best netball for training, matches, beginners, schools and clubs. 

Why the Right Netball Matters 

A good netball does more than complete a kit bag. It helps players catch cleaner, pass with more control, shoot with confidence and train with better consistency. 

For beginners, the right ball can make basic skills feel easier to learn. For coaches, the right set of balls can make training sessions more efficient. For clubs and schools, durable netballs can deliver better long-term value across multiple sessions every week. 

The best netball depends on: 

At HiProNetball, the focus is not just on selling a ball. It is about helping players, parents, coaches and clubs choose the right equipment for the way they train and play. 

Training Netballs vs Match Netballs 

One of the first decisions is whether to choose a training netball or a match netball. 

Training Netballs 

Training netballs are built for regular use. They are usually designed with durable outer materials that can handle repeated passing, catching, shooting drills and school or club training sessions. 

Many training balls use hard-wearing rubber or synthetic composite outer layers. This helps the ball maintain grip and shape through frequent use, making it a practical option for beginners, coaches, schools and clubs. 

Training netballs are best for: 

The performance benefit is simple: a reliable training ball gives players more consistent touches, while giving coaches equipment that can handle regular sessions. 

Match Netballs 

Match netballs are designed for game situations and match preparation. They often focus more on premium grip, touch and ball feel. 

A match ball may use a higher-quality synthetic leather or premium composite surface to create better handling and control during competitive play. This can help players feel more confident when passing, catching and shooting under pressure. 

Match netballs are best for: 

For regular players, it is useful to train with a durable training ball and keep a quality match ball for game day or match-specific practice. 

 
 
Butyl vs Latex Bladder: Why It Matters 

The bladder is the inner part of the netball that holds air. 

A butyl bladder usually keeps air for longer. This makes it a practical choice for training balls, schools and clubs because the ball needs less frequent inflation and is easier to maintain across regular sessions. 

A latex bladder can offer a softer and more responsive feel. Some players prefer this for match play because it can improve touch and ball response. However, latex can lose air faster and may need more regular inflation. 

As a simple guide: 

Butyl bladder: better for air retention, training and lower maintenance. 
Latex bladder: better for feel, response and match-style performance. 

For most training environments, butyl is the practical choice. For match preparation, a premium performance bladder can give players a better feel on court. 

What Size Netball Do You Need? 

Most standard netballs are Size 5, which is commonly used for senior players, schools, clubs and competitive play. 

For younger players, some coaches or schools may recommend a smaller or lighter ball to help with catching, passing and confidence. This can make skill development easier, especially for beginners still building hand strength and control. 

As a simple guide: 

Size 5 netball: suitable for most senior players, clubs, schools and match play. 
Junior or lighter training ball: useful for younger beginners developing control and confidence. 

Before buying for a junior team, school or league, always check the age group requirements. 

Best Netball for Beginners 

For beginners, the best netball is usually a reliable training ball rather than a premium match ball. 

New players need a ball that is comfortable to catch, easy to grip and durable enough for regular practice. A good beginner ball should help the player build confidence with basic skills such as passing, receiving and shooting. 

Look for a beginner netball with: 

For parents buying a first netball, the best choice is usually a durable training ball that can be used at home, at school and during practice. 

Best Netball for Coaches, Schools and Clubs 

Coaches, schools and clubs should think beyond one ball. A strong training setup can improve the quality of every session. 

More netballs mean more passing, more shooting and more touches on the ball. Instead of players waiting in long lines, coaches can run smaller groups, faster drills and more active sessions. 

For a coach, the netball is not just a ball. It is a productivity tool. 

For team training, consider: 

For clubs and schools, durable training netballs are usually the best investment because they are designed for frequent use and better long-term value. 

Indoor vs Outdoor Netball 

The playing surface should influence the type of netball you choose. 

Outdoor courts create more friction against the ball surface. This can wear down the grip pattern faster, especially if the ball is used regularly on rough or abrasive surfaces. For outdoor training, durability and outer material should be a priority. 

Indoor courts are usually smoother and faster. In this environment, grip consistency and touch become more important because players often move the ball quickly through passing patterns, shooting drills and match play. 

As a simple rule: 

Outdoor use: prioritise durability, strong outer material and long-lasting grip. 
Indoor use: prioritise grip consistency, touch and ball feel. 
Mixed use: choose a durable training netball for regular sessions and keep a match ball for game day. 

This helps players and coaches protect their equipment while still getting the right level of performance from each ball. 

Expert’s Recommended Training Kit 

A complete training kit helps players and coaches get more out of every session. Instead of buying one ball and adding accessories later, it is often better to build a setup that supports real training needs. 

For Individual Players 

A good starter kit includes: 

This gives the player everything needed for practice at home, school or club training. 

For Coaches 

A practical coaching kit includes: 

For a squad of 10 players, 6–10 balls can make a major difference. More balls allow more passing, shooting and small-group drills with less waiting time. 

For Schools and Clubs 

A stronger school or club setup includes: 

This turns equipment into a full training system, helping coaches run smoother, more efficient sessions. 

Quick Netball Buying Checklist 

Before choosing a netball, ask: 

This checklist helps players, parents and coaches choose equipment that fits the real demands of training and match day. 

FAQs About Choosing a Netball 

What is the difference between a training netball and a match netball? 

A training netball is designed for regular practice, drills, schools and club sessions. It usually focuses on durability, grip and value. A match netball is designed for competitive play and usually offers a more premium feel, stronger grip and better touch. 

What is the difference between a butyl bladder and a latex bladder? 

A butyl bladder usually keeps air for longer, making it a practical option for training balls, schools and clubs. A latex bladder can provide a softer, more responsive feel, which some players prefer for match play, but it may need more regular inflation. 

What size netball should I buy? 

Most senior players, schools and clubs use a Size 5 netball. Younger players may use a smaller or lighter ball depending on their age group, school or league requirements. 

How many netballs does a team need for training? 

For a squad of 10 players, 6–10 training netballs is a strong starting point. This gives players more touches on the ball and helps coaches run faster, more efficient drills. 

Should clubs buy training netballs or match netballs? 

Most clubs benefit from both. Training netballs are best for regular sessions because they are durable and practical. Match netballs should be used for games or match preparation where touch, grip and feel are more important. 

Do schools and clubs need a full training kit? 

Yes. A complete training kit with multiple netballs, a carry bag, pump, spare needles and accessories helps schools and clubs stay organised and run better sessions. 

Shop Netballs and Training Kits Online at HiPro Netball 

HiPro Netball helps players, parents, coaches, schools and clubs find quality netball equipment for every level of the game. 

Whether you need one training ball for individual practice, a match ball for game day or a complete training kit for a squad, choosing the right equipment can improve confidence, organisation and performance on court. 

Explore netballs, netball shoes, bags, posts, pumps and accessories online at HiProNetball.com. 

Ready for your next training session or match day? Shop netballs and training equipment online today.