One of the things that I have noticed when playing padel regularly is that padel balls start bouncing a little flat long before the fuzzy outer layer of the ball shows any wear at all.
On average padel balls last 2 to 3 weeks or 4-5 matches. However, certain factors can affect the lifespan of padel balls such as weather conditions, temperature, how hard players hit, and whether the balls are filled with Nitrogen or compressed air.
Let’s break down the factors that affect how long padel balls last and what you can do to make your padel balls last longer.
How Long Do Padel Tennis Balls Last?
Padel balls typically last a couple of weeks or 4-5 matches on average; however, certain factors can affect their lifespans. These include the condition of the court, how hard players hit, and what substance fills the balls.
Padel tennis balls are filled with either nitrogen gas or air as I covered in my post here on what gas fills padel balls. A nitrogen-filled ball will feel brand new, while one inflated with air will feel like it has been used after just a short time. A nitrogen-filled ball costs more than the air-filled option; however, it lasts longer, so in the end, it’s worth paying a little extra for the nitrogen option.
Why Are Padel Tennis Balls Sold In Pressurized Containers?
Padel balls can sit on the store shelf for weeks or months before being purchased. The pressurized containers keep them fresh and help give a better bounce – popping satisfyingly every time you open a new container.
But, it is best not to go opening cans willy nilly! It’s best to wait until you are about to use them, so they last as long as possible. As soon as you open them, they start to use their freshness. So unless you intend to play right away, leave them safely sealed in their canister.
How To Tell When A Padel Ball Is “Dead”
A few simple tests will help you determine if a padel ball needs replacement. First, squeeze the ball. It should be firm and not squishy. Next, bounce the ball. If it doesn’t bounce very high, set it aside and open a new can of balls.
If you still don’t know if the ball is dead, get your racquet and take a swing at it. If it feels heavy and has a dull sound when you hit it, it’s time to play with a different ball.
I have a whole article on how you can tell if a padel ball is good here on World Padel Insider. Go and give that article a look as well.
Can You Increase The Lifespan Of A Padel Ball?
Why stop playing just because your padel balls are flat? Don’t throw away those deflated balls just yet; you may not realize there is an easy way to increase their lifespan.
The Pascal Box (available from Amazon Spain) is a pressurized container that re-inflates padel balls. It gives the ball a lifespan of over 30 matches instead of the usual 4-5 matches. With this tool, you’ll throw a ball away because the felt is gone, not because it is flat.
This tool is a must-have for those who play padel regularly or have children who enjoy the sport. It doesn’t cost much, and it’ll save your wallet in the long run.
How To Store Padel Balls
Storing your padel balls in the wrong place could cause them to lose air quickly. It’s best to keep them in an area that is cool, dark, and dry. Make sure the storage place doesn’t have large temperature fluctuations – around 70 degrees Fahrenheit is best. Storing them in your garage or car isn’t the best idea because of the significant temperature variations.
Make sure you keep them sealed in the canister as long as possible. As soon as you pop open the can, the balls will slowly start to leak air and lose their bounce.