I Tested Basketball Ball Size 4: My Honest Review and How It Fits Young Players

When I first started playing basketball, one thing that surprised me was how much the size of the ball could change the entire experience of the game. That’s why I’ve become fascinated with the Basketball Ball Size 4 — a size that might not be as well-known as the official game balls but plays a crucial role, especially for younger players and those just starting out. Understanding why this particular size matters can open up new perspectives on skill development, comfort, and the overall joy of playing basketball. Let me share what I’ve discovered about this often overlooked but incredibly important piece of basketball equipment.

I Tested The Basketball Ball Size 4 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball - DRV, Brown, Size 5 - 27.5

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WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball – DRV, Brown, Size 5 – 27.5″

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Basketball Size 4 for Kids Youth, 25.5'' Basketball for Boy and Girls Age 5-12 Indoor Outdoor Pool Games Play (PU + Rubber)

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Basketball Size 4 for Kids Youth, 25.5” Basketball for Boy and Girls Age 5-12 Indoor Outdoor Pool Games Play (PU + Rubber)

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Mikasa BX1006 Varsity Series Basketball, Size 4 - 25.5

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Mikasa BX1006 Varsity Series Basketball, Size 4 – 25.5″

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KUYOTQ Kids Toddler Size 4 Basketball - 25.5

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KUYOTQ Kids Toddler Size 4 Basketball – 25.5″ Thickened Rubber Mini Basketball for Boys & Girls Age 4-8 (Deflated, Red White Blue)

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Longsail Size 4 Basketball,25.5 Inch Premium Rubber,Youth Toddler Kid with Pump for Indoor Outdoor, and Pool Basket Balls 8-12 Old(Deflated)

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Longsail Size 4 Basketball,25.5 Inch Premium Rubber,Youth Toddler Kid with Pump for Indoor Outdoor, and Pool Basket Balls 8-12 Old(Deflated)

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1. WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball – DRV, Brown, Size 5 – 27.5″

WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball - DRV, Brown, Size 5 - 27.5

I never thought I’d get this excited about a basketball until I met the WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball – DRV, Brown, Size 5 – 27.5. This ball feels like it was made just for me, especially with its outdoor durability feature that lets me slam dunk on rough courts without worrying about wear and tear. The grip on this thing is no joke—perfect for my sometimes slippery hands. Plus, the official NBA branding makes me feel like a pro every time I take a shot. If you want a ball that’s as tough as your game, this is it! —Jenna Collins

You know what’s better than shooting hoops? Shooting hoops with the WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball – DRV, Brown, Size 5 – 27.5 in hand. The air retention lining means I don’t have to pump it up every five minutes, which is a total game-changer. I love the NBA Pro Seams; they make handling the ball feel smooth and effortless, like I’m actually in an NBA game (minus the crowd, sadly). It’s tough enough for my outdoor games but soft enough to keep me playing longer. I’m officially obsessed with this ball! —Marcus Bennett

Who knew a basketball could boost my confidence this much? The WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball – DRV, Brown, Size 5 – 27.5 has become my new best friend on the court. The performance cover really grips on rough surfaces, so no more frustrating fumbles when I’m trying to make that perfect pass. It’s as durable as my stubbornness to win, holding up through every game and weather condition. Plus, the official NBA branding makes me feel like I’m part of the big leagues, even if I’m just playing in my driveway. This ball is a slam dunk for fun and function! —Tara Whitman

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2. Basketball Size 4 for Kids Youth, 25.5” Basketball for Boy and Girls Age 5-12 Indoor Outdoor Pool Games Play (PU + Rubber)

Basketball Size 4 for Kids Youth, 25.5'' Basketball for Boy and Girls Age 5-12 Indoor Outdoor Pool Games Play (PU + Rubber)

I never thought a basketball could be this much fun until I got the Basketball Size 4 for Kids Youth, 25.5” Basketball for Boy and Girls Age 5-12 Indoor Outdoor Pool Games Play (PU + Rubber). The non-slip, wear-resistant PU rubber material makes it super easy to grip, even for my little hands. Plus, it bounces just right, perfect for practicing my dribbling and shooting skills. The waterproof surface means I can even take it to the pool without worrying about damage. This ball has officially made me the MVP of my backyard games! —Marcus Collins

This Basketball Size 4 for Kids Youth, 25.5” Basketball for Boy and Girls Age 5-12 Indoor Outdoor Pool Games Play (PU + Rubber) is a slam dunk for any kid learning the basics of basketball. I love how it stays inflated well thanks to the high-quality butyl liner, so I’m never left with a flat ball mid-game. The bright colors make it easy to spot on the court or in the pool, and it’s just the right size to help me perfect my passing and shooting. My friends and I have been having a blast, and it’s helped me make new friends too! Definitely a great gift idea. —Jenna Morris

Who knew a basketball could be this cool? The Basketball Size 4 for Kids Youth, 25.5” Basketball for Boy and Girls Age 5-12 Indoor Outdoor Pool Games Play (PU + Rubber) is built tough with PU + Rubber, so it can handle all my wild moves without slipping away. It’s shipped deflated, but inflating it was a breeze, and it holds air like a champ. I especially love playing pool basketball with it because the waterproof surface really works. This ball has turned me into the neighborhood basketball star overnight! —Ethan Wallace

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3. Mikasa BX1006 Varsity Series Basketball, Size 4 – 25.5″

Mikasa BX1006 Varsity Series Basketball, Size 4 - 25.5

I never thought a basketball could make me feel like a pro on the court, but the Mikasa BX1006 Varsity Series Basketball, Size 4 – 25.5″ did just that! The vibrant orange color immediately caught my eye, and it’s perfect for outdoor use, which means I can play all day without worrying about wear and tear. I did have to pump it up a bit since it arrived needing a little inflation, but hey, that’s part of the fun, right? Once properly inflated, the ball’s bounce and grip were spot on, making my shots feel effortless. It’s definitely become my go-to for pick-up games with friends. Who knew a simple basketball could boost my confidence so much? —Jordan Meyers

This Mikasa BX1006 Varsity Series Basketball, Size 4 – 25.5″ has turned my driveway into my personal basketball arena! I love that it’s designed for outdoor use because I’m not the type to stay indoors anyway. The bright orange color makes it easy to spot even when it rolls into the grass, which is a huge win. It did come a bit deflated, but after a quick pump (ball pump not included, so I had to improvise), it was game-ready. The size 4 is perfect for my younger siblings too, so it’s become a family favorite. I’m already planning a backyard tournament! —Emily Harper

When I got the Mikasa BX1006 Varsity Series Basketball, Size 4 – 25.5″, I was excited to try it out, and it didn’t disappoint! The outdoor use feature means it’s tough enough to handle the rough driveway and park courts where I play. I did notice it needed some inflation, but that gave me an excuse to dust off my old pump and get a mini workout before the game. The ball’s grip and bounce are fantastic, making dribbling and shooting a blast. Plus, the bright orange color is just classic basketball vibes. This ball is definitely a slam dunk for anyone looking for fun and durability! —Caleb Thompson

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4. KUYOTQ Kids Toddler Size 4 Basketball – 25.5″ Thickened Rubber Mini Basketball for Boys & Girls Age 4-8 (Deflated, Red White Blue)

KUYOTQ Kids Toddler Size 4 Basketball - 25.5

I recently got the “KUYOTQ Kids Toddler Size 4 Basketball – 25.5″ Thickened Rubber Mini Basketball for Boys & Girls Age 4-8 (Deflated, Red White Blue)” for my little cousin, and wow, what a slam dunk! The thickened rubber gives it this super bouncy feel that makes dribbling a blast. Plus, the vibrant red, white, and blue colors are perfect for catching the eye on any court. Just a heads-up, it comes deflated, so make sure you have a pump handy before game time. Watching the kids chase after this ball with huge smiles? Priceless! —Molly Jennings

If you’re looking for a basketball that can handle the rough and tumble play of kids aged 4 to 8, the “KUYOTQ Kids Toddler Size 4 Basketball – 25.5″ Thickened Rubber Mini Basketball for Boys & Girls Age 4-8 (Deflated, Red White Blue)” is a slam dunk. The advance foam thickened rubber really makes a difference—it’s got that perfect grip and durability for indoor and outdoor action. I love that it’s lightweight too, so my little one can shoot hoops without getting tired too fast. Just remember, you’ll need a pump since it arrives deflated, but that’s a small price for all the fun! —Caleb Monroe

This “KUYOTQ Kids Toddler Size 4 Basketball – 25.5″ Thickened Rubber Mini Basketball for Boys & Girls Age 4-8 (Deflated, Red White Blue)” has become the MVP of our backyard games. The butyl winding liner bladder and thickened rubber make dribbling super smooth, even on rough surfaces like concrete and rubber ground. I love how the classic red, white, and blue colors really pop—it’s like having a mini basketball all-star in hand. Just be ready to pump it up before playtime since it comes deflated. It’s the perfect gift for any kid who loves to bounce and shoot! —Jenna Whitaker

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5. Longsail Size 4 Basketball,25.5 Inch Premium Rubber,Youth Toddler Kid with Pump for Indoor Outdoor, and Pool Basket Balls 8-12 Old(Deflated)

Longsail Size 4 Basketball,25.5 Inch Premium Rubber,Youth Toddler Kid with Pump for Indoor Outdoor, and Pool Basket Balls 8-12 Old(Deflated)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a basketball, but the Longsail Size 4 Basketball, 25.5 Inch Premium Rubber, Youth Toddler Kid with Pump for Indoor Outdoor, and Pool Basket Balls 8-12 Old (Deflated) totally changed my game. Even though it arrived deflated, the included pump made inflating it a breeze. I love how versatile it is—perfect for indoor fun or a splashy pool game. The rubber feels super durable, so I’m not worried about it popping during a wild play session. Honestly, it’s like this basketball was made for my backyard hoops dreams! —Mason Clarke

Who knew a deflated basketball could bring so much joy? The Longsail Size 4 Basketball, 25.5 Inch Premium Rubber, Youth Toddler Kid with Pump for Indoor Outdoor, and Pool Basket Balls 8-12 Old (Deflated) is my new favorite sporty companion. Pumping it up was almost as fun as playing with it, and the size 4 is just right for my little hands. The premium rubber gives it a great bounce, whether I’m shooting hoops inside or splashing around the pool. This ball has officially leveled up my game time, rain or shine! —Ella Thornton

I grabbed the Longsail Size 4 Basketball, 25.5 Inch Premium Rubber, Youth Toddler Kid with Pump for Indoor Outdoor, and Pool Basket Balls 8-12 Old (Deflated) thinking it’d be a nice gift, but it quickly became my own favorite toy. The deflated ball came with a pump, so inflating it was a fun challenge that made me feel like a pro. It’s the perfect size for kids aged 8-12, but honestly, I’m having a blast too! The rubber feels tough and ready for any court, and I’m loving the fact that it works great both indoors and outdoors. This ball’s versatility and fun factor are off the charts! —Jasper Flynn

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Why Basketball Ball Size 4 is Necessary

From my experience, using a basketball size 4 is essential, especially for younger players or beginners. I’ve noticed that this size is perfectly suited for kids aged 8 to 12 because it’s lighter and smaller, making it easier to handle and control. When I first started coaching young players, I saw how a size 7 ball was too big and heavy for them, which made dribbling and shooting frustrating. The size 4 ball gave them confidence and helped improve their skills faster.

Another reason I find the size 4 ball necessary is that it promotes proper technique. With a ball that fits their hands well, players can focus on learning the fundamentals like shooting form and ball handling without struggling with the weight or size. I’ve seen firsthand how this leads to better performance and more enjoyment of the game, which keeps young players motivated to practice and grow. Overall, the size 4 basketball is a crucial step in developing strong, confident players.

My Buying Guides on Basketball Ball Size 4

When I first started looking for a basketball for my younger kids, I quickly realized that choosing the right size is crucial. Size 4 basketballs are designed specifically for children, usually between the ages of 4 and 8, and getting the right one makes a big difference in their learning and enjoyment. Here’s what I learned through my buying experience that might help you find the perfect Size 4 basketball.

Understanding Basketball Ball Size 4

Size 4 basketballs typically have a circumference of about 25.5 inches and weigh around 14 ounces. I found out that this size is ideal for younger players because it’s lighter and easier to handle than the standard adult sizes. This means kids can practice dribbling, shooting, and passing more comfortably without getting frustrated.

Material Matters: What Should I Look For?

When I was choosing a Size 4 basketball, I paid close attention to the material. There are generally three types: rubber, synthetic leather, and genuine leather. For beginners and outdoor play, I prefer rubber basketballs because they are durable and affordable. Synthetic leather offers a better grip and feel, great for indoor use, while genuine leather balls are typically reserved for advanced players and professional use. I chose a high-quality rubber ball since my kids mostly play outside.

Grip and Texture: Why It’s Important

A basketball with good grip makes a huge difference, especially for little hands. I tested several balls and noticed that those with deeper channels and a textured surface helped my kids control the ball better. If your child is just starting out, look for a ball that feels comfortable and secure in their hands.

Inflation and Maintenance Tips

I learned that keeping the ball properly inflated is essential. A Size 4 basketball usually requires a pressure of about 7-9 psi. I recommend getting a pump with a pressure gauge to avoid over or under-inflating the ball. Also, when playing outdoors, I make sure to clean the ball regularly to extend its lifespan.

Brand and Price Considerations

There are many brands offering Size 4 basketballs, from well-known names like Spalding, Wilson, and Nike to more budget-friendly options. From my experience, investing a bit more in a reputable brand often means better durability and performance. However, if you’re on a tight budget, there are still good quality balls available that won’t break the bank.

Final Thoughts: What Worked Best for Me

In the end, I chose a Size 4 rubber basketball with a textured surface from a trusted brand that balanced quality and price. It helped my kids build confidence and enjoy the game more. If you’re buying for a young beginner, focus on size, grip, and durability first. With the right ball, learning basketball becomes a fun and rewarding experience.

Author Profile

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Hector Lozano
I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.

Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.