Review of the Westant Mini Pickleball Training Balls
As a passionate pickleball player, I’m constantly on the lookout for gear that will elevate my game. Recently, I got my hands on the Westant Mini Pickleball Training Balls, which caught my attention due to their focus on improving skills like hand-eye coordination and sweet spot technique. Given my intermediate skill level and a desire to fine-tune my shooting accuracy, I was eager to see how these small balls could benefit my training sessions.
Hands-On Experience
Unboxing the training balls, I immediately noticed their lightweight and soft design, making them quieter and suitable for indoor play. Measuring at 42mm, they are roughly the size of a ping pong ball but engineered for pickleball techniques. My initial tests on the court focused on volley drills, and I was impressed with how these balls amplified the direction of my shots. If my paddle was even slightly misaligned, the ball would shoot up, emphasizing the need for precision in my technique.
Pros and cons floated around in my mind as I engaged in various drills. I had read from others, such as Kathy Emerson, how these balls bounce well on the paddle’s face, which I found to be true. They were indeed fun for warm-ups, making them an enjoyable start to practice sessions. However, I found myself agreeing with Shermizzle’s insights about their limited bounce when they hit the ground; they tended to not rebound as one would expect from a standard pickleball. This characteristic means they’re better suited for volley training rather than court play.
Versatile Use Cases
These mini balls excelled in controlled environments. I spent time with my family, using them for non-competitive games in our basement. JP from Michigan echoed my sentiments about the gentle feel when striking them, noting how they fostered creativity in practice without much worry about breaking equipment nearby. In that spirit, we enjoyed some lighter ‘mini pickleball’ games, often resulting in fits of laughter.
Interestingly, these practice balls serve a dual purpose. In addition to enhancing my pickleball skills, they became seasonal crafts! One reviewer mentioned using them for ornaments, which sparked a fun project in our household—creating festive decorations for our local pickleball club’s holiday party.
Assessing the Drawbacks
Despite my positive experiences, I did notice some limitations. For instance, I agree with the review by Steve, who pointed out the training balls’ inability to bounce like regular pickleballs making them a tad tricky for traditional practice. Moreover, the feedback from Thos Byk about the balls not providing a true bounce—especially when landing on their holes—rang true during my training sessions. This characteristic could skew training applications, especially for precision-focused players.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Westant Mini Pickleball Training Balls deserve their impressive rating of 4.5 stars. They are well-made, effective training tools that cater to a range of players, from beginners to more seasoned athletes. While they come with limitations in bounce and performance similar to standard pickleballs, their soft and quiet nature makes them an appealing option for indoor practice and unique training sessions.
In conclusion, I recommend these training balls for anyone looking to enhance their skills, especially if you’re willing to adapt your practice methods. They’re a fantastic addition to any player’s gear, providing both skill development and a bit of fun along the way. Whether you’re improving your volley techniques, warming up, or just enjoying a casual game, these mini balls are worth considering!
