Wilson has been around for more than a century. They originated as a meatpacking company before moving into sports equipment production in 1914. Baseball shoes and tennis racquet strings were their initial items and they’ve since evolved into a major participant in the basketball game.
The Wilson Wave Phenom basketball is their most recent creation, and it comes with a slew of fantastic additional features to improve gameplay. Check out this Wilson Wave basketball review if you’re looking for a new ball for outdoor sports.
- Twenty-four T3 grooves increase ball control in all aspects of the game
- 29.5 is the official size for men's basketball; 28.5 is the official size for women's basketball
- Constructed of micro-fiber and a patented Aqua-Grip composite leather cover
- Cushion Core technology combines low-density sponge rubber with durable butyl rubber for superior softness
- NFHS approved
Wilson Wave Basketball Features
We believe that the Wilson Wave is durable and will last as long as a typical quality indoor/outdoor basketball, based on the features and testing we put it through. The cover is soft, but not to the point where it seems like a basketball designed for indoor use. If you use the ball on a regular basis, we estimate it to last two to three years.
The Wilson Wave basketball is designed for outdoor use and has various unique characteristics that you won’t find in other basketballs. Wilson designed this ball for use on asphalt courts, where conditions may be damp and slick. The rubber grooves on the ball resemble traditional black basketball channels. Wilson altered them a little to make the ball easier to hold on closer examination. The channels are broad enough to accommodate a finger’s breadth. They’re also pebbled, giving them a more rugged appearance.
Wilson’s Wave Triple Threat Technology is sandwiched between those channels. On the surface of each segment of the ball, there are three extra “waves.” They run parallel to the channels, providing even more grip.
Bounce
The constancy of the ball’s bounce is critical in a professional sport like basketball. As a consequence, this ball passes all of the bounce consistency tests with flying colors.
The Wilson Wave Basketball is average in terms of its bounce and consistency. While the ball is reliable and game play was good, we did notice a few inconsistent bounces at times although overall we felt it was fine.
Wilson Wave Basketball’s Durability
This high-quality Wilson Wave basketball has a natural feel and will endure for many seasons. Furthermore, it is not recommended to use this ball regularly on tough outdoor surfaces since its cover, like any other basketball, gradually wears away. Furthermore, if used inside, it has a long lifetime due to the high amount of air retention.
Shape
The Wilson Wave basketball has the right shape for dribbling and shooting thanks to its performance design. Furthermore, you can hold this ball comfortably in your hands thanks to its pebbled outer surface with channels that provide even more grip. The size of the ball’s core is average. Even though it isn’t too big, the ball’s inner air pressure is enough to make it bounce consistently.
In addition, this basketball has a great grip and its design makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. In our opinion, the Wilson Wave has an advantage over other balls due to their bumpy rubber channels that give us increased control. The ball has a long lifespan and, even though its simple design revolutionizes the game of basketball, it’s still easy to control.
Cushion Core Technology
A major selling point of this ball is its innovative cushion core technology. It has a unique construction with two pieces of rubber foam on top of each other. The bottom layer of foam, which is harder, gives the ball extra bounce while the upper layer provides additional cushioning during impacts. As a result, you can shoot from farther away from the hoop with this ball.
The bladder of the Wilson Wave Basketball is made out of rubber, which is standard for most models available on the market today. This particular feature makes it a durable option and an excellent choice for all types of athletes at any level. A notable aspect about Wilson’s balls is that they use the same air bladder in all their models, contrary to other companies that produce products with different bladders for each type of ball.
Color
Wilson Wave Basketball comes in six various colors, so you may choose your favorite one to match your own style.
Budget
Because indoor basketball is softer than outside basketball, the production process is a bit more complicated and needs more costly materials. This ball does sit at the top of its price bracket compared to peers.
Basketball Purchasing Guidance
If you’re serious about your game, you’ll want to be very selective when purchasing a basketball. Even if you’re just a casual weekend player, finding the right ball can make a real difference.
Basketballs are available in a variety of sizes and it’s important to make sure you get the right size ball. Sizes 5, 6, and 7 are the three most popular sizes. The smallest and ideal size for children under the age of nine is size 5. Size 6 balls are often used in women’s leagues. Size 7 balls are often used in men’s leagues.
The kind of material used has an impact on grip and durability. Leather balls are easier to hold, but they must be kept inside. If you want to play outside, a rubber ball is a way to go. The majority of elite teams choose synthetics that can be used both inside and outdoors.
There are a few different kinds of training balls available. Arm strength may be improved by playing with a weighted ball. For novices, marks on the balls might highlight the ideal hand positioning. There are also tech balls that connect to your phone and offer gaming feedback.
Final Thoughts
Wilson Wave basketball is an innovative and unique design. One area it really stands out in is it really does provide a tremendous grip in any condition. The balls in the Wilson line are available in various colors and sizes, so you can choose a ball that matches your personal preference. It is durable and has a consistent bounce.
As mentioned, it is not the cheapest ball when compared against its peers but we found the quality to be high and have always been impressed about the quality of Wilson products.
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