Do Pickleballs Crack in the Cold?

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Have you ever wondered whether pickleballs can crack in the cold? Pickleballs are known to be durable, but they are made of plastic, which is susceptible to breaking in certain conditions. In this article, we will explore the impact of cold weather on pickleballs and answer the question, do pickleballs crack in the cold?

What are Pickleballs?

Before we dive into the impact of cold weather on pickleballs, let’s first understand what pickleballs are. Pickleballs are plastic balls that are used in the sport of pickleball. Pickleball is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes in it.

How are Pickleballs Made?

Pickleballs are made of a durable plastic material that is designed to withstand the rigors of the game. The plastic is molded into the shape of a ball with small holes drilled into it to reduce wind resistance and provide a more stable flight path. The process involves using high-pressure molding machines to produce a ball that is strong and resilient.

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The Impact of Cold Weather on Pickleballs

Now that we have an understanding of what pickleballs are and how they are made, let’s explore the impact of cold weather on pickleballs.

Do Pickleballs Crack in the Cold?

Pickleballs are made of plastic, which can become brittle in cold temperatures. This makes them more susceptible to cracking or breaking when used in colder weather conditions. According to MassPickleballGuide, pickleballs can crack in the cold outdoors and are used on rough courts. [[1]] However, there are specially designed outdoor pickleballs that have 40 small holes that make their tolerance threshold higher in a cold climate. They are more durable than indoor balls.

How to Avoid Pickleballs from Cracking in the Cold?

To avoid pickleballs from cracking in the cold, it’s important to store them properly. It is recommended to keep pickleballs in a warm and dry place when not in use. Additionally, it is recommended to warm up pickleballs before using them in colder weather. This can be done by storing them in a warm place or using a ball warmer. These precautions can help prevent pickleballs from cracking in the cold.

Are Outdoor Pickleballs Better Suited for Cold Weather?

Yes, outdoor pickleballs are better suited for cold weather. According to PickleballManual, outdoor pickleballs are specially designed with 40 small holes that make their tolerance threshold higher in a cold climate. [[2]] They are more durable than indoor balls and are better suited to handle windy conditions due to the smaller holes. FromuthPickleball also notes that outdoor pickleballs are softer than indoor pickleballs and offer a better experience during cold-weather games. [[3]]

The Best Pickleballs for Cold Weather

Now that we know that outdoor pickleballs are better suited for cold weather, let’s explore some of the best pickleballs for playing in colder temperatures.

CORE Pickleballs

CORE pickleballs are known to crack less in colder temperatures compared to most other balls. This is because they are made with a special plastic that holds up in most conditions. CORE pickleballs are a great option for playing outside in the winter or on chilly mornings. [[4]]

ONIX Fuse G2 Pickleballs

The ONIX Fuse G2 pickleball is another great option for playing in colder weather. These pickleballs are made with exceptional seam welding, which offers greater durability that also resists splitting. They also offer superior balance with strategically placed, precision-drilled holes. These features make them a great option for playing in colder weather. [[5]]

Conclusion

In conclusion, pickleballs can crack in the cold due to the plastic material becoming brittle. However, there are precautions that can be taken to prevent this from happening, such as proper storage and warming up the balls before use. Outdoor pickleballs are also better suited for cold weather conditions due to their design and durability.

When it comes to choosing the best pickleballs for cold weather, CORE pickleballs and ONIX Fuse G2 pickleballs are both excellent options. Both brands are known for their durability and resistance to cracking in cold temperatures.

Remember to take the necessary precautions when playing pickleball in colder weather, and choose the appropriate pickleballs to ensure a fun and enjoyable game.

FAQs

Can indoor pickleballs be used in cold weather?

While indoor pickleballs can be used in cold weather, they are not as durable as outdoor pickleballs and are more likely to crack or break.

Can pickleballs be stored in a garage during the winter?

It’s not recommended to store pickleballs in a garage during the winter, as garages can become very cold and damp, which can cause the balls to crack or become damaged.

Can pickleballs be warmed up in a microwave?

No, pickleballs should not be warmed up in a microwave, as this can cause the plastic to melt and the ball to become deformed.

Can pickleballs be used in the rain?

While pickleballs can be used in the rain, it’s important to note that they may become slick and difficult to grip, which can affect the game.

How long do pickleballs typically last?

The lifespan of a pickleball can vary depending on usage and conditions, but on average, they can last between 3-12 months.

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Avatar Of Kevin K. Shaw

Kevin is a pickleball coach and former professional player. He’s been playing pickleball for over 10 years and has won multiple championships. He’s also the founder of PickleballSpots.com