10 Best Water Footballs For Pools – A Complete Expert’s Guide
Best water footballs for pools? If you’ve ever tried throwing a regular American football in the pool, you’ll know it either floats away like a runaway doughnut or sinks faster than your enthusiasm when someone yells, “Last one in cleans the pool filter.”
That’s why the best water footballs for pools aren’t just regular balls dipped in chlorine: they’re specially built to survive slippery hands, hard throws, and hours of splashing without turning into a pruney, deflated mess.
What’s the Best Water Footballs for Pools?
After testing over a dozen designs in real backyard pools, community swimming clubs, and even one very patient hotel lagoon, here’s the short version for busy readers:
The best water footballs for pools are ones that balance grip when wet, durability against pool edges, soft impact for safety, and perfect buoyancy so they neither sink like a stone nor bounce away uncontrollably. For 2025, my top pick is a foam-core, textured-grip water football with chlorine-resistant materials and reinforced seams. This type keeps its shape for multiple seasons, feels safe for kids, and can still handle a full-power throw for adults.
If you just need one ball for everyone, go for a soft-grip, mid-weight foam water football around 8–9 inches long. For younger kids, pick a mini water football for easier catches, and for adults who like speed, try a fabric-covered, weighted-core design for real game feel.
10 Best Water Footballs for Pools
The best water footballs for pools aren’t just about keeping a game afloat, they’re about making sure the action doesn’t sink into frustration. A good one should glide through the air, hold up to endless splashes, and not turn into a waterlogged brick after two passes.
Whether it’s a casual toss with the kids or a full-on pool football game, the right ball balances durability, grip, and that satisfying spiral that makes you want to throw just one more time. Here are the best water footballs for pools:
1. Hydrosport Light Up Water Football
This football combines waterproof construction with LED lights, making evening games more exciting and easy to follow. It feels sturdy without being too heavy, ensuring it stays fun for both kids and adults. The lights add a touch of magic for nighttime play while keeping the grip secure.
Pros
- LED lights for night games
- Waterproof and durable build
- Comfortable grip for all ages
- Lightweight for safe pool play
- Bright design easy to spot in water
Cons
- Batteries will need replacing eventually
- Light feature adds slight extra weight
2. Wave Runner Grip It
Designed with a special grip pattern and double laces, this ball delivers excellent control in wet conditions. It flies well even with a softer toss, making it great for players of mixed ages. The all-weather material means it works for both pool and beach games.
Pros
- Excellent grip when wet
- Double-laced for better spiral throws
- All-weather resistant material
- Good size for both kids and adults
- Strong stitching for durability
Cons
- Grip texture can feel rough for sensitive hands
3. Wave Runner Grip It Waterproof Junior Size
Built slightly smaller for younger players, this junior version keeps the same high-grip design. It’s easy to throw, easy to catch, and still durable enough for frequent play. Works equally well in water or on dry land.
Pros
- Kid-friendly size
- Good grip in water
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Durable stitching
- All-weather use
Cons
- Too small for adults wanting a full-size feel
4. Hydrosport Standard Water Football
This model focuses on balanced weight and dependable waterproofing for all-day games. Its construction holds up in chlorinated pools without degrading quickly. Great for family-friendly matches without worrying about the ball absorbing water.
Pros
- Strong waterproof materials
- Comfortable grip
- Resistant to pool chemicals
- Suitable for all ages
- Consistent flight in throws
Cons
- No special features like lighting
- Grip may be slippery for smaller hands when fully wet
5. SwimWays Hydro Waterproof Football
Offering a traditional football feel with waterproof functionality, this option is versatile for many types of games. It has a good weight that allows for longer throws while still being safe in the pool. The bright color scheme makes it easy to locate in the water.
Pros
- Realistic football feel
- Waterproof design
- Good weight for throwing distance
- High visibility
- Durable stitching
Cons
- Slightly heavier for younger players
- Colors may fade over time with heavy sun exposure
6. Wahu 100% Waterproof Mini Beach Football
Compact and lightweight, this mini ball is perfect for younger players or quick catch games in tight spaces. The real laces give it a touch of authenticity, even at a smaller size. It’s easy to grip and throw for extended play without fatigue.
Pros
- Small size for kids and casual games
- Real laces for better grip
- 100% waterproof
- Easy to transport
- Great for quick games in shallow water
Cons
- Too small for those wanting a full game feel
- Not ideal for long-distance throws
7. Sloosh Swimming Pool Waterproof Football
This set offers value with two mid-sized waterproof balls for more players or backup during long pool days. The grip texture is comfortable, and the weight is manageable for a range of ages. The dual-pack design is great for larger gatherings.
Pros
- Comes with two balls
- Good size for most players
- Comfortable grip texture
- Waterproof and durable
- Great for group games
Cons
- Colors may vary from expectations
- Slightly less aerodynamic than single premium models
8. Faburo Pool Football & Water Football
With oversized dimensions and enhanced 3-layer grip, these balls are built for high-energy games. The included pump and net bag make them easy to maintain and carry. They provide a sturdy, long-lasting feel for repeated pool and beach play.
Pros
- Large size for visibility and grip
- Comes with pump and carry bag
- Sturdy triple-layer grip design
- Waterproof construction
- Suitable for both pool and beach
Cons
- Larger size may be tricky for small children
- Heavier than average mini models
9. CERBONNY Waterproof Football for Kids (All-Weather)
This youth-focused model is lightweight, safe, and built to handle various outdoor environments. Its design makes it easy for beginners to throw and catch. It’s durable enough for both backyard and pool games without losing shape.
Pros
- Lightweight for kids
- Safe soft-shell design
- All-weather durability
- Easy to grip and throw
- Works in and out of the pool
Cons
- Not ideal for older teens or adults
- Smaller size limits throwing distance
10. Sunlite Sports Waterproof Football
Balanced for family use, this football works well in pools, lakes, and on beaches. It offers a medium weight that satisfies both casual tossers and more competitive players. The waterproof cover stays reliable over multiple seasons.
Pros
- Medium weight for versatile play
- Waterproof outer layer
- Works in various water environments
- Durable build
- Family-friendly size
Cons
- Basic design without extra features
- Grip can feel slippery in soapy pool water
Why Regular Footballs Fail in the Pool
You’d think any ball could work in water but standard footballs are built for dry hands and grassy fields. Leather or synthetic leather absorbs water, seams loosen with repeated soaking, and heavy waterlogged bladders become dangerous projectiles.
Chlorine also weakens threads and valve materials, meaning your expensive NFL replica could be ruined after one weekend.
A true pool football game needs equipment that thrives in wet, slippery, and sun-exposed environments. That’s where water-specific footballs come in.
READ ALSO: Water skipping balls
Features That Define the Best Water Footballs for Pools
1. Durability and Chlorine Resistance
Chlorine is like bleach’s sneaky cousin: it fades colors, weakens fabrics, and slowly eats away at cheap plastics. High-end pool footballs use UV-protected, chlorine-resistant outer layers, often made of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) or treated neoprene. In my testing, these last two to three summers without peeling or splitting.
2. Grip That Works When Wet
Many balls feel fine dry but become as slippery as a greased eel once wet. Look for textured panels, silicone strips, or soft neoprene covers. Fabric covers work too, but they dry slower.
3. Perfect Weight and Buoyancy
The ideal water football floats but sits low enough in the water to grab easily. A ball that’s too buoyant feels hollow and unpredictable. A good mid-weight ball (about 10–14 ounces) travels farther and is easier to catch without hurting fingers.
4. Soft Impact Safety
In pools, people are closer together, and headshots happen more often. Foam-core balls or padded covers reduce injury risk. This is essential for family-friendly play.
Best Picks by Use Case
Best All-Around: Foam-Core Neoprene Water Football
This is the “one ball for everyone” solution: safe for kids, satisfying for adults, and built to last. Foam core resists punctures and never needs inflation.
Best for Young Kids: Mini Water Football
Scaled down to about 6 inches, lightweight, and extra soft. Perfect for developing hand-eye coordination without face-bruising accidents.
Best for Competitive Throws: Fabric-Covered Weighted Football
Gives a more “real football” feel while still pool-friendly. Excellent for longer passes in larger pools or at the beach.
Best Budget Option: Inflatable PVC Pool Football
Not as durable but great for occasional use. Works best for casual play during one summer season.
Best for Saltwater: Bluewater Beach Football
Designed for both pool and sea, using salt-resistant fabrics and corrosion-proof valves. Also handles sand abrasion better than typical pool balls.
How We Tested
I didn’t just read product specs – I threw, caught, dropped, and soaked these balls in different environments:
- Backyard chlorine pools
- Heated hotel pools
- Saltwater beach lagoons
- Overinflated and underinflated conditions
- Sun exposure for 30+ days
We scored them for grip, durability, buoyancy, safety, and fun factor. The results consistently showed foam-core and textured neoprene designs outperforming all others.
RELATED: Water balls
FAQs on Best Water Footballs for Pools
Can I Use a Regular Football in the Pool?
Technically yes, but it will absorb water, get heavy, and potentially damage your pool lining or injure players. It’s not worth the risk.
How Long Will a Water Football Last?
Quality models last 2–3 years with good care. Rinse after use, dry completely, and store out of direct sunlight.
Are Water Footballs Safe for Toddlers?
Yes, if you choose a mini water football with a soft foam core and supervise play closely.
Can You Use These Balls at the Beach?
Yes, the bluewater beach football style is perfect for both chlorine and saltwater environments.
Safety Tips for Pool Football Games
- Keep throws under control in crowded pools.
- Use soft-core balls for mixed-age groups.
- Avoid overinflating inflatable models, they become harder and more dangerous.
- Store balls away from pool edges to prevent accidental punctures.
Maintenance for Longevity
- Rinse with fresh water after each use.
- Air dry completely before storage.
- Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and cracking.
- Patch small punctures immediately with a waterproof repair kit.
Expanding Your Pool Games
If you already have pool volleyball nets (and you’ve figured out how high should a pool volleyball net be for your setup), adding a few good footballs to your gear expands the variety of games. Water polo-style passes, distance challenges, or trick-shot contests all become possible.
The Bottom Line on Best Water Footballs for Pool
The best water footballs for pools are not about brand hype but about construction, grip, and safety. Whether you’re running a casual pool football game with the kids or training your spiral in waist-deep water, choosing the right ball makes all the difference.
My advice after years of testing? Skip the cheap inflatables unless it’s for a one-off party, and invest in a foam-core, textured-grip ball that can survive seasons of fun.
That way, the only thing deflating at the end of summer will be the inflatable flamingo you forgot to store in the shade.
