What To Look For
Using a real baseball in the backyard is a risky proposition that can lead to a neighborhood full of broken windows. Luckily, wiffle ball is a toned-down, slower-paced, backyard-friendly substitute that's just as much fun. The most important choice when setting up the game is deciding what kind of lightweight, plastic ball to play with. There are balls that will move in crazy directions, balls that can simulate more baseball-style pitches and others that will have a more pure movement. The one you choose will shape your game.
Common Pitfalls
Whether you like to play with a ball that moves a lot or prefer a more realistic ball flight, durability is key. Though inexpensive to buy, the right wiffle ball shouldn't be cheap in quality. Cracks and dents are common in some brands. A good wiffle ball shouldn't crack just from contact with the bat.
Where To Buy
Most sporting goods stores carry a variety of wiffle balls. Many times, they can also be found in toy stores and the toy section of drug stores. Of course, they can also be purchased from online retailers as well as Wiffle.com, owned by The Wiffle Ball, Inc.
Cost
Wiffle balls vary in cost depending on the seller and the packaging. Some come three to a set, others can only be purchased with an accompanying bat. For the most part, you shouldn't have to spend more than a $5 to $10 on a single bat and ball or a set of three balls.
Comparison Shopping
The Classic Ball: The ball that has been around for decades is also typically the most durable. Because there are only slits around the top, the opportunity for dents is minimal. Those slits also provide the same effects that the stitches around the baseball accomplish, which make the ball ideal for throwing different pitches with control.
The Hole Ball: This wiffle ball resembles the mini plastic golf balls with many holes all over them. Unlike the classic ball, this ball is prone to dents; however, because there are holes everywhere, they're easy to pop out. The ball is harder to control but can move swiftly and is often made with harder plastic, making hits go farther.
The Solid Ball: This wiffle ball is more like a plastic baseball. It fights wind resistance better so the ball travels farther when hit, giving more of a realistic feel for hitters. Pitching is faster, but also lacks much curve. And if the ball gets dented, you might as well throw it out.
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