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Molly Cranna
Some of the balls at the 2016 Summer Olympics push the limits, with pumped-up tech and jazzy paint jobs. But don’t worry: They’re all still round.
1. Mikasa MVA 200 Indoor Volleyball | $70
Festooned with dimples and vibrant colors, this official game ball looks more fit for a mini-golf course than a volleyball court. But the pockmarks and bright hues serve a purpose: Dimples increase turbulence and decrease air resistance, making flight paths more predictable. On the defensive end, the contrasting stripes help players judge the ball’s spin.
2. Adidas Errejota 2016 Official FIFA Match Ball | $160
The Errejota soccer ball has the same six-panel design as World Cup 2014’s psychedelic Brazuca but with a fresh new look. The colors pay tribute to the host country, while “Errejota” is a Portuguese acronymic shout-out to Rio de Janeiro. Looks aside, matching the Brazuca’s much-lauded performance is the ball’s main gooooooooal.
3. Molten 2016 FIBA Special Edition Basketball | $140
Compared with the buttoned-up NBA rock, Molten’s Olympic basketball has added flair. A remix of the FIBA game ball used around the world, the all-leather orb is accented with Brazil’s colors. That will make for some extra splash whenever Klay Thompson drains a three.
